Sunday, November 8, 2026. Cartagena is the easiest first stop in Colombia for Americans: nonstop flights from Miami take under three hours, the old town is walkable, and the Caribbean islands are an hour away by boat. Here is a realistic 4-day plan, which neighborhood fits your style, and what a couple actually spends in dollars.
The 4-day plan at a glance
| Day | Morning | Afternoon & evening |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive; check in; walk through the Clock Tower gate | Sunset on the city walls (free), dinner in the old town |
| 2 | Castillo San Felipe (go at 7–8 a.m. to beat the heat) | Getsemaní street art and Plaza de la Trinidad at night |
| 3 | Boat tour to the Rosario Islands and Playa Blanca | Back by late afternoon; rooftop drinks |
| 4 | Choose: San Basilio de Palenque, the Totumo mud volcano or La Boquilla beach | Departure or a last seafood dinner |
Day 1–2: the walled city, the fortress and Getsemaní
The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and best explored on foot early or late in the day, since midday temperatures often top 90°F. The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, Spain’s largest fortress in the Americas, opens daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Non-resident foreigners pay the full rate of COP 38,000; kids 6 to 13 pay COP 16,000, according to El Universal.
Getsemaní, just outside the walls, is where Cartagena feels most alive: murals, string flags, street food and live music in Plaza de la Trinidad after dark.
Day 3: the islands
Boats leave in the morning from the La Bodeguita pier. A typical tour combines the Rosario Islands coral reserve with Playa Blanca on Barú and costs COP 120,000–350,000 per person, roughly US$37–108, per Triviantes. A port tax is usually charged at the pier, so ask whether it is included.
Planning your trip to Cartagena de Indias?
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Day 4: culture or mud
San Basilio de Palenque, about two hours away, was founded by people who escaped slavery and is recognized by UNESCO for its cultural heritage; go with a local guide. The Totumo mud volcano is a quirky half-day trip where you float in warm mud. For an easy beach day without a boat, head to La Boquilla, north of the city.
Where to stay: old town, Getsemaní or Bocagrande?
| Neighborhood | Vibe | Price | Best for | Heads-up |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old town (Centro) | Colonial, romantic, walkable | $$$ | First-timers, couples | Priciest; some streets are loud at night |
| Getsemaní | Artsy, lively, great food | $$ | Younger travelers, foodies | Weekend noise until late |
| Bocagrande | High-rises on the beach | $$ | Families, pool lovers | Taxi to the old town |
| Crespo | Quiet, residential, near the airport | $ | Budget, early flights | Few attractions nearby |
What a couple spends in 4 days, in dollars
| Expense (for two) | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel, 3 nights | $165 | $325 | $740 |
| Food and drinks | $200 | $370 | $740 |
| Castillo San Felipe (2) | $24 | $24 | $24 |
| Rosario Islands tour (2) | $93 | $155 | $215 |
| Taxis and airport | $50 | $75 | $155 |
| Day 4 excursion (2) | $75 | $110 | $185 |
| Total, excl. flights | $607 | $1,059 | $2,059 |
Assumes a double room at about US$55, US$110 and US$250 per night. Add roughly US$720 to US$1,030 for two round-trip tickets from Miami, according to Momondo. Mid-December to mid-January and Holy Week are the most expensive dates.
The strong peso: why Cartagena costs more in 2026
The Colombian peso has gained about 15% against the dollar this year, from roughly 3,790 pesos per dollar in January to about 3,240 in November. Hotels and tours priced in pesos therefore cost noticeably more in dollars than they did a year ago. Before you exchange money, check the Colombian peso today.
Practical tips for U.S. travelers
- Taxis don’t use meters: they charge by zone, so agree on the fare first or use a ride app.
- Beach vendors: confirm prices for massages, drinks or seafood before saying yes.
- Cash vs. cards: cards work in most hotels and restaurants; carry pesos for boats and tips.
- Tipping: restaurants often add a suggested 10% service charge, which is voluntary.
- Heat: plan indoor or shaded breaks between noon and 3 p.m.
Heading to the islands too? See our guide to the best beaches in Colombia. Bolsa al Día reports; we don’t recommend. Prices are estimates and change with the season.
FAQ
Is 4 days enough for Cartagena?
Yes. Four days covers the old town, the Castillo San Felipe, Getsemaní and a full day on the islands, with one extra day for Palenque, the mud volcano or the beach.
How much does a 4-day trip to Cartagena cost for two?
Our estimate is about US$600 to US$2,060 for two people excluding flights, plus roughly US$720 to US$1,030 for round-trip tickets from Miami.
Where should I stay in Cartagena?
The old town for first-timers who want to walk everywhere, Getsemaní for atmosphere and value, and Bocagrande for families who want a beach and a pool.
How much is the Castillo San Felipe ticket for foreigners?
COP 38,000 in 2026, about US$12. Children 6 to 13 pay COP 16,000.
When is the best time to visit Cartagena?
Mid-January through March offers dry weather and lower prices. Avoid Holy Week and the second half of December if you want to save.
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