Discover the hidden charm of Baluarte de la Merced—where intricate arches meet quiet pathways through centuries-old stone. Wander its shadowed corridors as evening light dances across weathered walls, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. This quiet fortress isn’t just a relic—it’s a sanctuary for peace, inspiration, and quiet reflection.

This is the perfect getaway for families and friends! Kids will love the water park and children's club, while adults can relax by the outdoor pools or try mini golf. Enjoy garden views at the seaside restaurant or unwind with cocktails at the poolside bars. Business travelers will appreciate the well-equipped conference center. Rejuvenate with spa treatments and Turkish baths, or take advantage of laundry services for added convenience. With its prime location near beaches and attractions, it’s ideal for both leisure and work!

This 4.5-star rated resort is perfect for both families and business travelers! Kids will love the 4 outdoor pools and water slides, while adults can unwind at the spa or relax in one of the 6 hot tubs. Just a 10-minute drive from Boca Grande Beach and San Felipe Castle, the location couldn't be better. Enjoy 24-hour room service or dine with a view at the poolside restaurant. Business travelers will appreciate the 24-hour business center and 13 meeting rooms. With so many amenities, it's the ultimate getaway for work and play!

This hotel is a fantastic choice, boasting an ideal location and featuring a kids’ pool and children’s meals, making it perfect for families! Relax with a spa massage or hit the fitness center to unwind. Enjoy convenient airport transfers and luggage storage. Need to host an event? Their meeting spaces and wedding services have you covered. As a 2024 award-winning hotel, it ensures a memorable and comfortable stay for every guest!

This family-friendly yet business-savvy hotel is a gem! Just steps from Boca Grande Beach, it offers free WiFi and 24-hour airport shuttle for ultimate convenience. Unwind at the full-service spa with massages, or soak in one of 3 hot tubs. Kids will love the dedicated children's pool and play areas, while professionals can utilize the convention center and meeting rooms. Cap off your day with cocktails at the poolside bar or gourmet dining with ocean views at the rooftop restaurant. With Turkish baths, fitness center, and on-site medical services, every need is covered!

Perfect for both families and business travelers! Just steps from La Boquilla Beach, this art-deco gem features 5 outdoor pools with water slides for kids, while adults unwind at the spa or tennis courts. Enjoy cocktails at the poolside bar or 24/7 room service in stylish rooms. With a kids' club, game room, and business center, every need is covered. Don't miss the lavish breakfast buffet and convenient shuttle service—making your Cartagena getaway effortlessly luxurious.

This hotel in Bocagrande, Cartagena is the perfect getaway! Just steps from the beach, it features a private pool and kids' club, ideal for families. Relax at the spa center with massages or try water sports like parasailing and surfing. Enjoy 24-hour room service and three on-site restaurants. Business travelers will appreciate the conference center and free WiFi. Whether for family fun or a romantic escape, this is the ultimate choice!

This hotel is the perfect choice for both families and business travelers! Located in Bocagrande, Cartagena, it's just a 15-minute drive from popular attractions and the convention center. Enjoy the private beach and outdoor pool, with dedicated kids' playground and children's pool for family fun. Unwind at the spa with massages and body treatments. The on-site restaurant serves delicious Caribbean cuisine, and the poolside bar is ideal for relaxation. Business amenities include a convention center and business center, making it a top pick for work trips!

This hotel is a perfect choice for both families and business travelers! Located in Marvella, Cartagena, just 5 minutes from San Felipe de Barajas Castle and Marbella Beach, the location couldn't be better. With two outdoor pools and a free water park, kids will have endless fun at the children's club and game room, while parents can relax with a spa massage or enjoy a drink at the poolside bar. The restaurant serves international cuisine with stunning ocean views—pure bliss! Business travelers will appreciate the 24-hour business center and 5 meeting rooms. Plus, rooms feature private balconies for those perfect breezy evenings. A dream getaway!


This hotel is the perfect choice for both families and business travelers! Located in the prime area of Cartagena, just 10 minutes from the Clock Tower and Plaza de los Coches, it offers a private beach for you to enjoy the sun and sea breeze. The outdoor pool and kids' pool ensure fun for the little ones, while adults can relax at the seaside restaurant with a stunning pool view. Business amenities are top-notch, including a conference hall and business center, plus 24-hour front desk service. The rooms are elegantly decorated with free WiFi, satellite TV, and a minibar, ensuring a comfortable stay. Whether for a family vacation or a business trip, this is the place to be!

Looking for a relaxing and convenient stay in Cartagena? This is your perfect choice! Just a 3-minute walk to Bocagrande Beach, with an outdoor pool and kids' pool, ideal for family trips or romantic getaways. Enjoy free WiFi and complimentary breakfast, along with a 24-hour business center and fitness center to meet all your needs. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, featuring LED TVs and premium bedding, plus a spa for ultimate relaxation. Whether for business or leisure, this is your ideal stay!









Everything you need to know about Baluarte de la Merced
Hotel del Prado is a top choice near Baluarte de la Merced, located just a 5-minute walk from this historic fortress. This boutique hotel blends colonial architecture with modern comforts, featuring rooms with traditional Spanish arches and stone courtyards. Some suites offer panoramic views of the old city walls and the Caribbean Sea.
Another excellent option is Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas Hotel, situated within the expansive fortress complex. Though slightly farther, it provides an immersive historical experience with its authentic military architecture and guided tours of the defensive system.
Both properties offer free Wi-Fi, 24-hour concierge service, and easy access to nearby restaurants, cultural events, and scenic waterfront promenades—perfect for guests seeking authenticity and convenience while exploring Baluarte de la Merced.
The easiest way is a 15-minute walk from the historic center through Plaza de Santa Cruz and Fort San Felipe, offering scenic views of colonial-era facades and tropical gardens. For a quicker option, take a red taxi (taxis rojos) or use Uber—just a 5-minute ride costing $3–5 USD.
Several local buses, such as Line 109, stop near the site, making it accessible for budget travelers. It’s best to visit in the afternoon to avoid midday heat and enjoy stunning sunset views over the fortress walls and Caribbean Sea.
The route is safe, well-traveled, and often included in half-day heritage tours with expert guides who provide insightful commentary on Cartagena’s defensive history and urban evolution.
One of the most unique experiences is the Nocturnal Light Tour, led by certified historians, which explores the fortress’s ancient ramparts and hidden underground tunnels, revealing secrets of Spain’s colonial defense system. These guided walks often include dramatic lighting effects that enhance the historical atmosphere.
Every Saturday evening, live music performances featuring traditional salsa and Andean folk music take place on the fortress grounds, creating a vibrant, festive ambiance that draws both locals and international visitors.
Visitors can also join pottery workshops where they learn indigenous techniques used in Cartagena’s early ceramic art, crafting personalized souvenirs on-site. All activities are held at secure, officially approved venues and offer multilingual support.
HopeGoo in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons when demand is high.
Yes, several hotels near Baluarte de la Merced, including Hotel del Prado and Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas Hotel, offer professional guided tour services. On-site concierges can arrange private or group walking tours focusing on the area’s military history, architectural design, and colonial-era significance.
Tours cover topics such as Spanish colonial defense systems, fortification engineering, and key historical battles, often enhanced with 3D models and authentic artifacts. Some exclusive itineraries include access to underground tunnels and artillery platforms, available only to hotel guests with special permits.
All tours are offered in English, Spanish, and Mandarin, with wireless earpiece systems for clear audio. Advance HopeGoo is strongly recommended to secure preferred times and experienced guides.
Hotel Santa Clara, housed in a 17th-century convent, is a top choice near Baluarte de la Merced. Its elegant rooms blend colonial architecture with modern comfort, some offering views of the historic fortifications. The hotel provides guided tours to nearby Spanish colonial sites, enriching your understanding of Cartagena’s military past. Located just a 5-minute walk from the landmark, it ensures easy access and an immersive historical experience.
Head to La Casona de la Merced, a hidden gem nestled in Old Town alleys, renowned for its fusion of Andean flavors and Caribbean ingredients. Their signature dish, spiced grilled fish with cassava mash, paired with local chili sauce, captures Cartagena’s culinary identity. Housed in an 18th-century building, the restaurant offers a refined atmosphere perfect for savoring local culture. Just a 6-minute walk from Baluarte de la Merced, it’s a must-visit for food lovers seeking authenticity.
From downtown Cartagena, take a local electric motoconcho or rent a shared e-bike—both take about 10 minutes to reach Baluarte de la Merced. Alternatively, walk along Calle de la Cruz, turning east through two narrow streets to arrive directly at this well-preserved Spanish colonial fortification. Clear signage guides visitors, and many hotels offer complimentary shuttles. Visit in the morning to avoid midday heat and enjoy optimal lighting for viewing the intricate stone masonry and historical details.
Join the nighttime theatrical tour hosted by the Cartagena Historical Society, held in the plaza adjacent to Baluarte de la Merced. Featuring light shows, live music, and historical reenactments, it vividly brings to life the 16th-century Spanish guard patrols. Additionally, weekend traditional pottery workshops allow visitors to craft authentic Caribbean-style ceramics, learning about indigenous heritage. These immersive activities deepen your connection to the landmark while creating lasting memories.
See what other travelers say about Baluarte de la Merced

This stunning beachfront hotel is an absolute gem. Right on the shore, it offers a wide, clean stretch of sand and warm, inviting water perfect for swimming. One of the highlights? You can enjoy the pools at the neighboring property—great for families with kids. The staff are incredibly friendly and welcoming, making your stay feel personal and comfortable. Dining options across the property deliver delicious meals with excellent quality and variety. Plus, getting to the historic city center is just a short taxi ride away—convenient and hassle-free. Whether you're here for relaxation, family fun, or a romantic getaway, this place hits all the right notes. It truly feels like paradise, and I’d definitely return.

Staying at the Hilton Cartagena was an absolute delight, especially with kids in tow. The atmosphere is perfect for families—calm, welcoming, and full of kid-friendly spaces. We loved the dedicated game room, the sparkling pool, and the private beach access where the little ones could splash around safely. The on-site restaurant truly stood out—better than many local eateries we’ve tried, with delicious food and generous portions. Every staff member went above and beyond to make us feel welcome, from check-in to checkout. It’s rare to find such seamless service in a resort setting. Everything was thoughtfully arranged, making our trip stress-free and memorable. If you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway with top-notch amenities and warm hospitality, this hotel is a must-visit.

Staying at Hyatt Regency Cartagena was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the historic Old Town and Boca Grande, making it super easy to explore the city’s charm. The property itself feels luxurious and well-maintained, with a stunning pool area that’s perfect for relaxing under the Caribbean sun. Our room was spacious, clean, and quiet—ideal for a peaceful night’s sleep. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. From the moment we arrived to the moment we checked out, everything felt seamless and thoughtfully designed. Highly recommend this gem for anyone visiting Cartagena!

Staying at Estelar Cartagena de Indias was an absolutely wonderful experience. The staff went above and beyond with their hospitality—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help. The rooms were spotless, well-maintained, and incredibly comfortable. What stood out most was how mindful they were of every little detail, anticipating needs before we even asked. It felt less like a hotel stay and more like being welcomed into a home. The location is convenient, the atmosphere is relaxing, and the overall quality is outstanding. I’d definitely come back and recommend this place to anyone visiting Cartagena.

The Americas Torre Del Mar is a fantastic choice for travelers looking for space and sea views. The rooms are spacious with large balconies overlooking the ocean—perfect for relaxing in the morning light. While the hotel doesn’t have a private beach, it’s just steps away from a public stretch where you can swim and enjoy the waves. To secure a lounge chair and umbrella, there’s a small fee of 30,000 COP—reasonable enough, but be prepared for frequent vendors walking by selling drinks and snacks; this was the only minor downside. Everything else about the stay was excellent: the pool area is beautiful, well-maintained, and perfect for families or groups. Breakfast was satisfying and varied, offering a good start to the day. Overall, the hotel delivers great value, especially for those traveling with kids or friends. It’s clean, welcoming, and offers an ideal balance of comfort and convenience. Highly recommended.

Staying at Hotel Almirante in Cartagena was an absolute delight. The location couldn’t be better—just across the street from key attractions, making it super convenient to explore on foot or by public transit. The rooms were spotless, consistently cleaned, and always well-stocked with essentials. I appreciated the gym, even though the equipment was a bit dated—still effective for a solid workout. The staff went above and beyond with their friendliness and helpfulness; they made me feel welcome from the moment I arrived. From local tips to seamless check-in, every interaction was positive. This hotel delivers exceptional value and comfort—10/10, would recommend without hesitation.

Staying at Radisson Cartagena Ocean Pavillion was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—just a 10-minute walk to the exhibition venue, making it incredibly convenient for business travelers or event attendees. The oceanfront pool area is stunning, with views of the Caribbean Sea that make every moment feel like a vacation. Our suite was spacious, bright, and impeccably clean—every detail felt thoughtfully designed. And the highlight? The charcoal-grilled steak. Rich, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, it’s one of the best meals I’ve had at a hotel. The service was attentive without being intrusive, and the overall vibe is relaxed yet upscale. If you're visiting Cartagena, this is definitely a top pick—great value, great comfort, and unforgettable experiences.

The breakfast was excellent—plenty of fresh options and delicious flavors, perfect for starting the day. The pool area is serene and beautifully maintained, with clear water and plenty of shade, making it ideal for relaxing under the sun. Located just a short walk from the historic district, it's super convenient to explore Cartagena on foot or by public transit. Great value for the quality, and I'd definitely return.

The Hotel Dann completely exceeded my expectations. From the moment I arrived, the staff greeted me with warm hospitality and made me feel right at home. The cleanliness, breakfast quality, à la carte dining, and overall service were all exceptional. Every detail was thoughtfully taken care of, making our vacation truly unforgettable. This hotel is a standout choice and highly recommended for anyone visiting Cartagena.

The stay was absolutely fantastic overall—just one minor note: a guest was dining topless in the restaurant, which was a bit unexpected but didn’t affect the experience at all. The hotel itself is excellent, with a great location right near Bocagrande’s beachfront and easy access to local attractions. Breakfast was outstanding—fresh, varied, and well-prepared. The staff were friendly, helpful, and always smiling. It’s clear they take pride in their service. I’d definitely recommend this place to anyone visiting Cartagena. A perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and value.

Staying at the Sonesta Hotel Cartagena was a fantastic experience. While it's located near Las Américas, it's not right next to it—still, walking distance is manageable and convenient. The hotel has a supermarket right across the street, which is super handy for grabbing essentials. The view from the room is absolutely stunning, with beautiful glimpses of the sea and the city skyline—perfect for sunrise or sunset moments. Cleanliness is top-notch; every corner felt spotless, and the staff clearly takes pride in maintaining high standards. It’s rare to find such a well-maintained hotel in this area. Overall, the location, comfort, and attention to detail make this a standout choice. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Cartagena.

Everything was perfect! The location is incredibly convenient—just a short metro ride away, with plenty of authentic local eateries nearby. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the room was spotless and comfortable. Excellent value for money. I’d definitely stay here again!
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