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Step into Baluarte de San Jose, where colonial drama and ocean breezes collide! This historic fortress perched on Cartagena’s ancient walls isn’t just a relic—it’s your front-row seat to jaw-dropping Caribbean vistas. Feel the morning sun kiss weathered red bricks, each whispering tales of Spanish empire glory. Climb the watchtower for panoramic views where turquoise waves meet endless sky—seagulls even seem to applaud your moment.
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!
Everything you need to know about Baluarte de San Jose
Hotel Casa de la Candelaria is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from Baluarte de San Jose, nestled in the heart of Cartagena’s historic Old Town. This boutique hotel blends colonial architecture with modern comforts, featuring rooms with traditional mosaic floors and private balconies offering views of the fortress and the Caribbean Sea.
Guests enjoy exclusive discounts on nighttime guided tours of the fortress, providing deep insights into its 17th-century military history. Another excellent option is Hotel Las Palmas, whose rooftop terrace overlooks the fortress and ocean, perfect for sunset views and evening cocktails. Both hotels are within walking distance of key historical sites, ensuring easy access to Cartagena’s rich cultural attractions.
Traveling from Cartagena’s city center to Baluarte de San Jose is convenient via the free city bus (Cartagena Bus) or by taxi/ride-hailing apps like Uber or DiDi. Take the "Old Town Loop" route and disembark at the "Plaza Santo Domingo" stop—just a 3-minute walk to the fortress.
Taxis cost around $2–4 USD and take about 10 minutes. On-site parking is available, but we recommend exploring on foot or via electric scooter to avoid traffic and fully immerse in the colonial charm of the old town. Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to major attractions—check in advance for availability.
One standout experience is the weekly "Fortress Light & Shadow Theater" held every Saturday evening, combining storytelling with immersive projections to reenact 17th-century battles between Spanish defenders and foreign invaders. Free entry with prior registration.
You can also join a colonial-era costume photo workshop, where guests dress in 18th-century attire and pose against the fortress walls, receiving digital photos as keepsakes. Daily morning historical walking tours, led by certified guides, explore the fortress’s architectural design and strategic importance.
Local restaurants like La Bodeguita del Pueblo offer limited-time "Fortress Dinner Combos" with live Caribbean music, creating a truly immersive historical atmosphere.
Baluarte de San Jose is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with last entry at 5:30 PM. Admission costs COP 15,000 (~$3.5 USD), with half-price tickets available for students upon presentation of valid ID.
Audio guides are available for rent at COP 3,000 per hour, offering bilingual commentary. We recommend visiting early to avoid midday heat and peak crowds. The fortress features a café and souvenir shop selling limited-edition maps and hand-painted postcards.
For a deeper experience, book a private guided tour (~$25 USD), including access to restricted areas and a dedicated guide. Credit card payments are accepted on-site, making it convenient for international visitors.
Here’s a recommended one-day itinerary:
The entire itinerary is walkable and ideal for couples or families. Many hotels offer free maps and ticket HopeGoo assistance—ask in advance for convenience.
See what other travelers say about Baluarte de San Jose
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.
Absolutely loved my stay at Hotel Monterrey! The location is unbeatable—super walkable to both nightlife spots and major tourist attractions. The view from the rooms is stunning, and the building itself has been beautifully restored with elegant decor that really shows attention to detail. Everything was spotless, the staff were friendly and attentive, and the breakfast was fresh and made to order—delicious! Even though the restaurant is currently undergoing renovation, the food still tasted great. The elevator works perfectly, the neighborhood feels safe, and the hot showers with strong water pressure are a real plus. Plus, the bed was incredibly comfortable—perfect for a restful night’s sleep. Overall, this place offers a fantastic mix of charm, comfort, and convenience. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Cartagena!
My stay at Hotel Rilux Cartagena was absolutely fantastic! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the historic city center and surrounded by great restaurants, shops, and attractions. The hotel itself is clean, well-maintained, and offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout our visit, making us feel right at home. The room was spacious, quiet, and equipped with everything we needed for a comfortable stay. I highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Cartagena—it’s a true gem with excellent value. I’ll definitely be coming back.
Staying at Holiday Inn Express Cartagena Manga was an excellent choice for my trip to Cartagena. The hotel is conveniently located near the cargo port, making it easy to access if you're traveling for business or just exploring the area. The facilities are modern and well-maintained, with spotless cleanliness throughout the property. My room was spacious, comfortable, and perfectly set up for a relaxing stay. The breakfast was fantastic—varied, fresh, and delicious, with both local flavors and international options. Staff were incredibly friendly, professional, and attentive, going above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect. From check-in to check-out, the service was outstanding. This place truly delivers great value for money and deserves every bit of its high rating. I’ll definitely be returning and highly recommend it to fellow travelers.
Staying at Cartagena Royal Hotel Boutique was an absolute highlight of my trip to Cartagena. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the historic old town, with easy access to local attractions and public transit. The room was clean, spacious, and beautifully designed with a mix of modern comfort and traditional charm. I slept like a baby thanks to the cozy bed and quiet atmosphere. What really stood out was the staff—they were warm, attentive, and genuinely made me feel welcome. From check-in to checkout, every interaction was smooth and friendly. The food was exceptional too—breakfast had fresh local flavors, and dinner was well-prepared with great attention to detail. It’s rare to find such a high level of service and quality in one place. This hotel earns every single point on the rating scale. If you’re visiting Cartagena, this is definitely the place to stay.
Absolutely wonderful stay! From check-in to checkout, the service was consistently warm and welcoming. I especially want to highlight Eme, our housekeeper—so friendly, attentive, and genuinely caring. Her smile and thoughtful touches made a big difference in our experience. The hotel is well-located, quiet, and clean, with a great vibe throughout. It’s clear they prioritize guest comfort and hospitality. Would definitely return and recommend it to anyone visiting Cartagena.
The property is absolutely beautiful, with a charming, authentic vibe that really captures the spirit of Cartagena. The staff are incredibly warm and welcoming—always ready to help with anything you need. The only thing to note is the check-in process: there's no on-site personnel, so you'll need to coordinate your arrival in advance. Just make sure to communicate ahead of time to avoid any delays upon arrival. Despite that small detail, the overall experience was fantastic—great location, excellent value, and a cozy, inviting atmosphere. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Cartagena.
Staying at Hotel Caribbean Cartagena felt like being in paradise. The location is perfect—just a 12-minute drive to the historic center and only 20 minutes from the airport, with zero traffic hassles. The hotel offers excellent value for money, with spacious, comfortable rooms and stunning sea views. Service was top-notch throughout our stay. One small note: there was a faint smell of smoke during the weekend, likely due to nearby boats passing close to the coast—nothing disruptive, just something to be aware of. The neighborhood, El Laguito, has a few local shops, pharmacies, currency exchange offices, and casual eateries. For the best restaurants, you’ll need to venture a bit further, so having a ride booked via the platform is helpful. Overall, this hotel delivers an outstanding balance of comfort, convenience, and affordability—highly recommend for travelers looking for a relaxed yet well-connected stay in Cartagena.
Staying at Casa Be Getsemaní was a unique experience—perfect if you're looking for more than just a place to sleep. Located in the heart of Cartagena, it's super convenient for exploring the old town, and the vibe is lively and authentic. The rooms surround an outdoor courtyard with a restaurant, so there’s some background music, which might not be ideal if you’re seeking total quiet. However, the atmosphere is part of the charm—feels like staying in a local family home rather than a hotel. Check-in took a bit longer than expected, but the staff were friendly and helpful. Overall, the stay was fantastic, and I’d highly recommend it for travelers who appreciate character, culture, and a warm, welcoming environment.
Staying at Hotel Boutique la Artilleria was an absolute delight. Located right in the heart of Getsemani, it's perfectly positioned for exploring all the charming streets and tourist spots on foot—no need to rely on transport. Despite being in a bustling area, the hotel is surprisingly quiet and peaceful, making it easy to rest and unwind. The neighborhood feels safe and welcoming too. The breakfast was incredible—fresh, varied, and delicious every single day. And the staff? Absolutely fantastic, especially Pedro at reception who went above and beyond with his warm hospitality. This place truly delivers on everything it promises. If you're visiting Cartagena, this is a must-book. Highly recommended!
Staying at Casa Villa Colonial was an absolute highlight of our trip to Cartagena. Nestled in the heart of Getsemani, this charming little boutique hotel offers a perfect blend of local charm and comfort. The owner, Martha, greeted us with warm hospitality—her kindness and helpfulness made us feel right at home. We stayed as a couple for 11 days in January 2024, and every moment was enjoyable. The breakfast was generous and delicious, featuring fresh local flavors that set the tone for each day. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from cobblestone streets, vibrant cafes, and historic sites. What stood out most was the excellent value for money. It’s clear this place is run with love and attention to detail. If you’re looking for an authentic, cozy, and well-located stay in Cartagena, this is it. Highly recommended.
Staying at Zana Hotel Boutique in Cartagena was an absolutely delightful experience. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city’s main attractions and easily accessible by public transit. The room was spotless, spacious, and incredibly comfortable, making it easy to relax after a day of exploring. Breakfast was exceptional—fresh, well-prepared, and offered a great variety. I especially loved the rooftop terrace: peaceful, beautifully designed, and equipped with a fridge where guests can store their own food and drinks—ideal for a little self-catering moment. The Wi-Fi connection was strong and reliable throughout my stay. The staff were warm, attentive, and always ready to help—Neva, Hailyng, Margarita, and Adys made me feel right at home. Their genuine hospitality truly stood out. Everything about this place felt thoughtfully curated. I’d highly recommend it and wouldn’t hesitate to return.
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