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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!
Looking for an unforgettable getaway in Cartagena? This hotel is your perfect choice! Just steps away from Boca Grande Beach and a short 3-minute walk to Nao Commercial Center, it offers convenience and luxury. Relax in 3 outdoor pools and 2 hot tubs, or pamper yourself with spa treatments and a fitness center. Traveling with kids? Enjoy the children's playground and game room, plus babysitting services for a worry-free stay. With 4 restaurants serving international cuisine and 24-hour room service, you'll never go hungry. Unwind at the beachfront bar or one of the 2 poolside bars. Business travelers will appreciate the business center and meeting rooms. Don't miss out on this amazing experience!
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 boutique hotel is perfectly located in Cartagena's city center, just 15 minutes' walk from the Clock Tower and Convention Center. Unwind at the outdoor pool, spa with massages, or hot tub. Food lovers can savor Caribbean cuisine at the on-site restaurant or enjoy room service. Traveling with kids? The game room and children's meals will keep them happy! Plus, 24-hour airport shuttle makes transfers a breeze. Rooms feature iPod docks and minibars for ultimate comfort.
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 this hotel was an absolute highlight of my trip to Cartagena! The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk from the historic Old Town, the bustling waterfront, and all the best local restaurants. I loved how easy it was to explore the city on foot, and the nearby metro stop made getting around even simpler. The room was spacious, modern, and spotless, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The staff went above and beyond—they even upgraded me to a better room without any extra charge, which was such a nice surprise. Clean, well-maintained, and great value for money, this place truly stands out. I’d definitely stay here again if I return to 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.
Hotel Casa Quero offers a perfect balance of convenience and tranquility. Located just steps away from great restaurants and lively entertainment spots, it’s easy to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Cartagena without being overwhelmed by noise or crowds. The neighborhood is lively but not too busy—ideal for travelers who want to be in the heart of the action while still enjoying a peaceful retreat at night. The hotel itself has a charming, authentic vibe with local touches throughout, making it feel like a true home away from home. Highly recommend for anyone seeking both comfort and culture in a central yet relaxed setting.
The service at this hotel was excellent, and the location is perfect—just a short walk from great restaurants and local attractions. The only downside was that the elevator got stuck once, and despite pressing the emergency call button, there was no immediate response. We had to wait a few minutes before staff came to assist. However, this minor issue didn’t take away from the overall great experience. The staff were friendly, the room was clean and comfortable, and the value for money was outstanding. I’d definitely stay here again.
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!
Everything was perfect! The staff went above and beyond with their warm and attentive service—always smiling, ready to help, and making us feel truly welcome. Our room was spacious, clean, and incredibly comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night's sleep. Located just steps away from the vibrant city center, it’s easy to explore Cartagena’s historic sites, beaches, and local restaurants. The all-inclusive package offered great value, with delicious meals and drinks included. Whether you're here for relaxation or adventure, this hotel delivers on every level. Highly recommend for an unforgettable getaway!
Hotel Casa Gloria Boutique is an absolute gem in Cartagena. The location is perfect—everything you need is within walking distance, so there's no need to rely on transportation at all. From charming local restaurants to vibrant streets and historic sites, it’s all just steps away. The staff couldn’t be more welcoming or attentive—genuine, warm, and always going the extra mile. The room was spotless, with a clean, fresh feel throughout. Breakfast was exceptional—fresh, delicious, and offered a variety of options to suit every taste. What truly stands out is the small rooftop pool; after a long, hot day exploring the city, diving in felt like pure bliss. The rooftop jacuzzi is another highlight—serene, beautifully designed, and perfect for unwinding under the stars. The atmosphere feels intimate and family-like, making it easy to relax and feel at home. We stayed for eight nights, and every moment was memorable. This isn’t just a hotel—it’s a retreat that leaves you wanting to return again and again. I’d come back a thousand times without hesitation.
Staying at Hotel Ayenda Casa Cano 1805 was a perfect experience from start to finish. The place is immaculately clean, and the front desk staff were welcoming and efficient. What stood out most was how close it is to the airport—just a 2-block walk, making early departures stress-free. It’s exactly what we were looking for: a quiet, comfortable stay with great value. Highly recommend this gem in Cartagena if you want convenience without sacrificing quality.
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