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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 hotel is your dream destination! With its elegant and luxurious design, extra-large beds, and comfortable air conditioning, you'll enjoy a restful stay every night. The Jardín Restaurant serves sustainable cuisine made with fresh ingredients, while El Caustro offers a charming outdoor space to unwind. Relax at the spa center or by the poolside bar. Whether for business or family trips, the hotel’s meeting rooms, fitness center, and childcare services cater to all your needs. Don’t miss out!
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!
This boutique hotel is a true paradise for travelers! Nestled in the heart of Cartagena, it's just a short walk to the Clock Tower and Convention Center. Relax by the pool, or head to Boca Grande Beach for surfing and snorkeling—with complimentary beach shuttle service. Unwind at the poolside bar or indulge in a spa massage. The rooms are luxurious, featuring Egyptian cotton sheets and premium toiletries, plus free WiFi. Start your day with a complimentary local breakfast—pure perfection! Whether for a romantic getaway or family vacation, this spot has it all!
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!
Nestled in Cartagena's heart just steps from the Clock Tower, this colonial boutique gem dazzles with a 4.5-star rating. Unwind at the poolside bar after exploring nearby San Felipe Castle, or pamper yourself with spa treatments and yoga sessions. Families adore the babysitting service and picnic area, while business travelers benefit from 2 meeting rooms and limo transfers. Rooms feature Egyptian cotton linens and rain showers, paired with perks like free breakfast and airport shuttles. Want adrenaline? Try kayaking or surfing arranged by the concierge!
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
Staying at the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena was an absolute delight. As one of only three luxury hotels in the city and the largest among them, it truly feels like stepping into living history. The garden featured in the photo is lush with tropical greenery, surrounded by weathered columns and ancient stone walls—perfect for a peaceful breakfast in the morning sun. I’d heard great things from fellow travelers online, and being an Accor member, I decided to book here. From the start, the service was warm, professional, and genuinely attentive. What surprised me most? They handed me a welcome gift—a generous bag of Colombian coffee! Such a thoughtful touch that made my stay feel extra special. I also happened to witness several wedding celebrations during my visit—families in full formal attire gathering in the courtyard, capturing memories against this stunning backdrop. That final photo had me laughing out loud. This hotel isn’t just about luxury—it’s about soul, heritage, and unforgettable moments.
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.
Staying at Leones de Alba Hotel Boutique was an absolute delight from start to finish. The personal attention led by Keyla was nothing short of exceptional—warm, thoughtful, and genuinely caring. The hotel itself is stunning, with incredible facilities and a beautifully curated ambiance. My room was a masterpiece of design and detail, reflecting the passion and dedication this boutique property pours into every guest experience. Every corner tells a story, and it’s clear they truly value hospitality. From the moment I arrived to the moment I left, I felt welcomed and pampered. This wasn’t just a stay—it was an unforgettable journey. I’d return in a heartbeat, and I already recommend it to everyone I meet.
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.
This boutique hotel is absolutely perfect! Located right in the heart of the historic district of Cartagena, it's within walking distance of everything you'd want to explore. The room had excellent soundproofing, and the air conditioning worked flawlessly—no issues at all. The overall experience was top-notch, from the charming atmosphere to the attentive service. It's clear that attention to detail matters here. I highly recommend this gem for anyone visiting Cartagena—it's a standout choice with incredible value.
Staying at Hotel Casa Don Luis by Faranda Boutique was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—right in the heart of Cartagena’s historic district, making it easy to explore all the charming streets and attractions on foot. The hotel itself has a beautiful European-inspired charm with elegant details throughout the property. The breakfast was outstanding—fresh local ingredients, delicious pastries, fresh juices, and perfectly brewed coffee. Staff were friendly, attentive, and always ready to help. It felt more like staying in a private boutique home than a typical hotel. With such great value and a truly memorable experience, I’d definitely return and recommend this gem to any traveler visiting Cartagena.
Absolutely amazing! The food was out of this world—way better than we expected. We came to Cartagena looking for trendy restaurants with a buzz, and stumbled upon this hidden gem. The fried plantain chips were fresh, crispy, and served right when we ordered—perfect start to the meal. And the seafood pasta? Rich, flavorful, and packed with bold local taste. If you love authentic, well-seasoned dishes, this is your spot. What made it even more special was the cooking class they offer—hands-on, fun, and a great way to connect with other travelers. Super welcoming staff, great vibe, and easy access by public transit. A must-visit for any food lover in Cartagena!
The stay was absolutely wonderful overall—perfect location right by the beach, peaceful and convenient for exploring Cartagena. The property was clean, well-maintained, and had a lovely tropical vibe. Mauricio’s hospitality truly stood out—he was attentive, friendly, and went above and beyond to make sure we felt at home. The only minor issue was the mattress being a bit too firm for our comfort, which slightly affected our sleep quality. However, that didn’t take away from the excellent experience. Every other detail was spot-on, and the value for money was outstanding. I’d definitely book again and highly recommend this rental to anyone looking for a relaxing getaway in Cartagena.
The Hotel Buenos Aires in Cartagena is absolutely fantastic! Located just a short walk from the heart of the city, it’s incredibly convenient for exploring the colonial area and nearby beaches. The room was spotless, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep—plus the air conditioning worked perfectly, which was a lifesaver during the hot days. The staff were genuinely welcoming and helpful, even offering a small welcome gift upon check-in. It’s rare to find such great value with this level of service and comfort. I’d highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Cartagena—it truly stands out.
Staying at Hotel Santa Cecilia B&B exceeded all our expectations! From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel welcome—especially Dirce and Francisco, who went above and beyond with their warm hospitality. The room was spotless, with impeccable cleanliness throughout. One common complaint among Brazilian travelers is inconsistent hot water, but we had no issues at all—both the shower and sink provided steady, reliable hot water. Location-wise, it couldn’t have been better. We were steps away from the historic center, the clock tower, and the port, which are key departure points for tours. We didn’t need a taxi once during our entire stay—everything was within walking distance, making it incredibly convenient. The area is full of great restaurants and local charm. If you’re looking for a comfortable, well-located, and thoughtfully run guesthouse in Cartagena, this place is a must-book.
The location is excellent—super convenient for getting around, and the apartment was spotless and well-maintained. We loved the quiet, comfortable vibe and appreciated the friendly staff throughout our stay. It’s a great value for the price, and we’d definitely book again if we’re ever back in Cartagena.
The service at this hotel was exceptional, and the amenities were top-notch. The view of the fortress is absolutely stunning—worth every penny. Located in a fantastic spot for dining, there are plenty of great restaurants nearby, making it easy to find a perfect dinner place. I truly enjoyed my stay and would highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Cartagena.
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