2 nights, 3 days
Cartagena 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)
A 3-day route through Cartagena grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.
Distances are straight-line, so actual transit times will differ. Feel free to reorder the stops. · Updated August 15, 2026
The whole route at a glance
Map and place data © OpenStreetMap contributors Lines are straight connections, not actual routes.
DAY 1
Around Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas · Castles & palaces·Views & landmarks
Directions in Google Maps-
MorningCastillo de San Felipe de Barajas
Castles & palaces
This fortress stands on San Lázaro Hill in Cartagena, Colombia. Built in 1639 as a strategic stronghold defending the city, it bears traces of battles fought among European powers.
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After lunchPuerta del Reloj, Cartagena
Views & landmarks · 1.2 km from the previous stop
This gate in Cartagena's old town once served as the main entrance to the walled city. Topped by an iconic clock tower, it's a downtown landmark linking Independence Square and Plaza de los Coches.
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AfternoonIglesia de San Pedro Claver, Cartagena
Temples & religious sites · 0.2 km from the previous stop
A Catholic church located in Cartagena. It's a peaceful place to stop by for a quiet look while exploring the city.
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EveningCartagena Cathedral, Colombia
Temples & religious sites · 0.2 km from the previous stop
Located in the heart of Cartagena's old town in Colombia, this cathedral is among the oldest bishopric churches in the Americas. Dedicated to Saint Catherine, it's a great stop while strolling through the old city.
DAY 2
Around Tierra Bomba Island · Nature·Castles & palaces
Directions in Google Maps-
MorningTierra Bomba Island
Nature
An island off the coast of Cartagena, home to a small community of about 9,000 people. It's close to the city center, making it an easy boat trip for a short getaway.
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After lunchCastle of San Luis de Bocachica
Castles & palaces · 3.9 km from the previous stop
A fortress built by Spain in the 17th century to defend the coast of Cartagena, it's a great place to walk while soaking in centuries of history. After being damaged in an 18th-century war, Fort San Fernando was later built on the same site.
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AfternoonCartagena Bay
Nature · 7.6 km from the previous stop
This bay lies off the coast of Cartagena on Colombia's Caribbean coast. It connects to the Ciénaga de la Virgen lagoon to the north and Barbacoas Bay to the south, offering scenic coastal views.
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EveningTeatro Heredia
Culture & venues · 7.2 km from the previous stop
This historic theater in Cartagena's old town is a cultural venue that hosts performances and festivals. Visitors can admire its elegant historic architecture while enjoying a show.
DAY 3
Around Ciénaga de la Virgen · Nature
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All dayCiénaga de la Virgen
Nature
A vast lagoon on the outskirts of Cartagena, with striking scenery shaped by its mangrove wetlands. It offers a glimpse of untouched nature quite different from the city center.
Where to stay for this itinerary
Around Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, the anchor of day one. Staying here keeps your first day's travel shortest.
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San Felicin Hostel
0.3 km
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Getsemaní Cartagena
0.6 km
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Casa Isabel
0.6 km
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Casa Cielo
0.7 km
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Scalia di Mare
0.7 km
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Hostal Casa Villa Colonial
0.7 km
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Tours & tickets for this itinerary
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