Overview
Take a trip to Cartagena on your Colombia Vacation
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most incredible old towns in the Western Hemisphere, Cartagena is a large port city on the northern coast of Colombia, a must-visit on Colombia vacations.
Spanish conqueror Pedro de Heredia founded the city in 1533 on the site of the Carib Indian settlement of Calamari. It grew to become a major port in the Caribbean and was viewed as the gateway to South America. This caused the city to garner a great deal of attention from pirates forcing the Spanish to build up a series of forts around the town.
Cartagena continued to flourish and during colonial times, it was the most important location in the Spanish empire outside of Spain and was influential in Colombia’s history. It was one of the first places to declare independence from Spain leading the way for other cities throughout the country. The city has continued to expand and is the country’s largest port making Cartagena a major industrial centre.
While the city has modernized, the old walled town has changed very little over the years. In 1984, UNESCO named the city a World Heritage Site for having the most extensive fortifications in South America. Rich in history and romance, Cartagena is considered Colombia’s top honeymoon destination. It also provides excellent opportunities to enjoy nearby coral reefs and beaches as well as water sports activities like swimming, snorkelling, surfing, sailing and more on Colombia vacations.
While the city has modernized, the old walled town has changed very little over the years. In 1984, UNESCO named the city a World Heritage Site for having the most extensive fortifications in South America. Rich in history and romance, Cartagena is considered Colombia’s top honeymoon destination. It also provides excellent opportunities to enjoy nearby coral reefs and beaches as well as water sports activities like swimming, snorkelling, surfing, sailing and more on Colombia vacations.
At a Glance
Languages
SpanishCurrency
Colombian Peso (COP)What do the experts say?
Turkey is a vast country and home to many diverse communities. Therefore, there are many local traditions that showcase their distinct origins. Among many, one fascinating event in Turkey that visitors should witness is the ceremony of Whirling Dervishes in Cappadocia.
Few places layer ancient civilizations quite like Turkey. From the ruins of Ephesus, the legendary city of Troy, and the underground cities of Cappadocia, to the Byzantine and Ottoman grandeur of Istanbul - it's a living museum. Walking through the Hagia Sophia or along the ancient walls of Constantinople is like stepping into a history book.
Turkish cuisine is seriously underrated globally. From a simple simit on the street to a full meze spread and a sizzling kebab, every meal is an experience. And of course, Turkish tea and baklava are daily rituals you don’t want to miss.
One hidden gem is the Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado. Sand dunes against the backdrop of the Rockies, with sand sledding, hiking, and amazing night skies.
Te Maeva Nui is the Cook Islands' biggest annual cultural celebration, held every August to mark the anniversary of the nation's self-governance. The festival features colorful parades, traditional music and dance, handicrafts, and local food. It’s a vibrant showcase of the islands’ heritage and community spirit. Attending Te Maeva Nui gives travelers a unique chance to see the culture come alive and connect with locals in a joyful, festive setting
Cartagena is always a popular destination while...
cartagena colombia vacation
Cartagena is always a popular photo opportunity...
cartagena vacation
Travel Stories
Get Inspired About Your Trip to Colombia
Unlock more with your Newsletter membership
Discover Goway Travel Protection Plans that offer a peace of mind by helping protect your travel investment, belongings, and most importantly you!Exclusive Savings
Insider Contests
Trending Guides
