Hotel Filters
IHG Group Hotels Near Baluarte La Merced
Stand atop Baluarte La Merced and soak in panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea meeting ancient city walls. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky ignites in golden-orange hues—pure magic. Built in the 16th century, this fortress isn’t just history—it’s a front-row seat to Cartagena’s most breathtaking moments.
Holiday Inn Express Cartagena Manga
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Baluarte La Merced
Top choices near Baluarte La Merced include Hotel Las Palmas and Casa de la Candelaria. The former offers elegantly restored rooms in a historic building, just a 5-minute walk from the fortress, with private guided tours available. The latter is a charming 18th-century colonial boutique hotel featuring a rooftop terrace ideal for stargazing over the harbor and city walls.
Both properties are within walking distance of Plaza de los Coches and Castillo San Felipe, offering excellent access to Cartagena’s historic core. Don’t miss the evening light tour along the ramparts, which brings the Spanish colonial military past vividly to life. For a local touch, enjoy traditional hot chocolate at a hidden courtyard café tucked in the old town’s alleyways.
From Baluarte La Merced, most key attractions are within a 10-minute walk: head east along Calle Blanca to reach Plaza de los Coches, home to Iglesia de Santa Isabel and the Cartagena City Hall. Walking west leads to Castillo San Felipe and the Naval Museum in about 10 minutes.
For Bocagrande or the port area, take a short taxi ride (3–5 minutes) or rent an electric scooter—ideal for navigating the colorful colonial streets lined with coral-hued walls and red-tiled roofs. Some areas also offer free shuttle buses, especially convenient for travelers with luggage.
Enhance your experience by joining a guided walking tour led by local historians, who reveal insights into the fortress system and Cartagena’s role in the colonial trade network, adding rich context to your visit.
Near Baluarte La Merced, must-try experiences include the nightlight tour along the fortifications, where dramatic lighting recreates 16th-century defensive battles. Another highlight is a traditional pottery workshop in the La Plata district, where you can learn indigenous Colombian techniques and craft your own souvenir.
Visit the city walls at sunrise for breathtaking views as the sun rises over the Caribbean Sea, casting golden hues across the stone ramparts and water. For food lovers, stop by a street stall in the market alley to taste local delicacies like arequipe (caramelized milk spread) and fresh coconut water.
These immersive activities offer authentic connections to Cartagena’s heritage, showcasing its strategic importance and vibrant cultural identity throughout history.
Stay at Hotel Las Américas, located just a 5-minute walk from Baluarte La Merced within Cartagena's historic walled city. This colonial-style hotel blends heritage charm with modern comforts, featuring ornate stone walls, lush balconies, and panoramic views of the fortress walls. Guests enjoy easy access to traditional markets, authentic Caribbean restaurants serving dishes like "arepas" and "sancocho", and vibrant local culture.
The hotel offers free parking, Wi-Fi, and is an ideal base for exploring Cartagena’s Old Town. For a memorable experience, visit Baluarte La Merced at sunrise to witness the Atlantic Ocean stretching beyond the ancient ramparts—where history meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Reaching Baluarte La Merced from downtown Cartagena is easy—walk or take a local bus. The 15-minute walk along the route toward San Felipe Castle offers scenic views of historic buildings and cozy street cafés, immersing you in the city’s atmosphere. Alternatively, catch a city bus (e.g., routes 20 or 47) at Plaza de la Aduana, ride for about 8 minutes, and disembark at the "Baluarte La Merced" stop—just a short stroll from the entrance.
Visit early in the day to avoid midday heat, and combine your trip with nearby attractions like the Cartagena Museum and Plaza de la Inquisición for a full cultural experience. Its excellent accessibility makes it a must-visit landmark for any traveler.
Near Baluarte La Merced, immerse yourself in unforgettable local experiences: jog along the historic city walls at dawn, feeling the sea breeze sweep across the battlements; join a guided nighttime walking tour revealing tales of colonial defense strategies and hidden tunnels; or enjoy freshly made coconut candy and warm chocolate at the square in front of Iglesia de Santa María.
Weekends often feature open-air concerts and traditional folk dance performances showcasing vibrant Caribbean culture. For a hands-on memory, book a ceramics workshop to learn how to craft traditional clay pots—an authentic way to connect with Cartagena’s heritage. These experiences go beyond sightseeing, letting you live the history of this iconic fortress.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about Baluarte La Merced
Holiday Inn Express Cartagena Manga
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.
Hotel Ayenda Casa Cano 1805
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.
Fuerte Santori
Staying at Fuerte Santori was a great choice during my visit to Cartagena. The hotel is conveniently located just a short walk from the city center, making it easy to explore the historic district and nearby attractions. The rooms were clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with a nice balance between modern amenities and local charm. I especially appreciated the proximity to a lovely little restaurant—just a few minutes away—perfect for a relaxed dinner after a day of sightseeing. The staff were friendly and helpful, and overall, the experience was excellent. With an 8.5 rating, this place definitely lives up to its reputation. I’d definitely stay here again on my next trip to Cartagena.
Hotel Ibiza Cartagena
My 5-star rating goes to Ms. Alcira, the front desk staff—thank you so much for your genuine kindness and warm hospitality! Your attention to detail and willingness to help without expecting anything in return made a huge difference. It's clear the hotel owner is truly lucky to have someone like you on their team. While the hotel itself is great, it’s your exceptional service that truly stands out and made our stay unforgettable. I’ll definitely be back just to experience your wonderful attitude again!
Hotel Atuchi
Staying at Hotel Atuchi was a solid choice if you're just passing through Cartagena and need quick access to the airport. The location is excellent—right near the airport, making early morning departures stress-free. There are plenty of nearby restaurants and eateries, so dinner or a late-night snack isn’t an issue. That said, the hotel does get noisy—traffic and street sounds carry into the rooms, which might affect light sleepers. The mattresses are on the firm side, not the most comfortable for a full night’s rest. Still, for a quick stopover or layover, it's perfectly functional. The room comes with air conditioning and a private bathroom, both working well. Clean, simple, and practical—ideal for travelers who prioritize convenience over luxury. If you’re only here for a short stay and want to avoid long commutes, this place delivers good value for money.
Hotel Ayenda Cartagena Blue 1804
Absolutely outstanding experience! The Hotel Ayenda Cartagena Blue 1804 is a hidden gem in the heart of Cartagena. From the moment I arrived, the staff were warm, helpful, and genuinely passionate about making guests feel at home. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the historic district, with restaurants, cafes, and local markets all within easy reach. The dorm rooms are clean, well-ventilated, and equipped with quality bedding that made for a restful night’s sleep. What really stood out was the vibe—the shared spaces are spacious and inviting, especially the rooftop terrace where I enjoyed sunset views while sipping a cold drink. They even offered free coffee and snacks, which added such a nice touch. The value for money is unbeatable, and the overall atmosphere feels safe, friendly, and full of energy. If you're visiting Cartagena on a budget but still want comfort and character, this place is a must-book. I’ll definitely be back.
Casa Crespo
Staying at Casa Crespo was an absolute delight from start to finish. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, attentive service—every interaction felt personal and genuine. The location is perfect, just a short walk from the historic city center and surrounded by great local restaurants and attractions. It’s clear that every detail has been thought out, making it ideal for both solo travelers and families. I highly recommend this gem if you're visiting Cartagena—it truly delivers on comfort, charm, and value.
Hotel Sol Del Este
Our stay at Hotel Sol Del Este in Cartagena didn’t meet expectations. The air conditioning in the room was ineffective—even on maximum setting, it never felt cool enough, making it uncomfortable, especially during the hot evenings. We had to ask twice for towels, and despite being a couple, only one towel was initially provided. The bed was very uncomfortable—too firm and lacking proper support, which disrupted our sleep quality. To make things worse, there was only one electrical outlet in the entire room, which made charging devices a real challenge, particularly with multiple gadgets. While the staff were polite, the service responsiveness could be improved. Overall, the room didn’t deliver value for money, and we’d recommend looking elsewhere if comfort and convenience are priorities.
Casa del Puerto Hostel & Suites
Staying at Casa del Puerto Hostel & Suites in Cartagena was a pleasant surprise, especially considering the variety of hostels available in different neighborhoods like El Centro or Getsemani. Located near Manga, this place offers a unique charm with solid facilities—especially the pool area, where comfy loungers and a relaxed vibe make it perfect for unwinding. My room wasn’t quite what I expected, but it was clean and private, with an internal bathroom. One downside: no towels provided—just a heads-up if you’re planning to stay. The hostel is connected to other hostels offering group chats and activities, though I didn’t experience any during my visit—maybe timing or season affects that. The poolside bar was a highlight: great drink prices, laid-back music, inflatable mats, and decent food options, although it closes earlier than expected. Breakfast was included and surprisingly good—fresh fruit, juice, coffee, and delicious pancakes that stood out. Right around the corner is Verona Pizza, absolutely fantastic, just a short walk from Getsemani. Plus, there are supermarkets nearby, making daily needs super convenient. While it didn’t blow me away completely, the overall experience was solid, friendly staff, good location, and excellent value. Definitely recommendable for travelers looking for a relaxed yet central base.
Casa Torices Real 12
Staying at Casa Torices Real 12 was an absolute highlight of my first few days in Colombia. Its prime location sits right between the airport and the walled city, making both easily walkable—but definitely grab a taxi or bus if it’s hot out. The neighborhood is vibrant, with local markets just steps away, and there’s a small kitchenette by the pool for those who want to whip up their own meals. Diana, Jesus, and John were exceptional hosts—warm, welcoming, and always ready to help with tips on getting around or planning activities. I loved the international vibe here; I met some amazing travelers from all over the world during my stay. It felt like home away from home, and the whole experience was truly unforgettable.
Hotel Isla Capri
This has officially become my favorite place to stay in Cartagena—definitely won’t be going anywhere else. The staff went above and beyond in the most genuine way. I mentioned casually that I wasn’t fully comfortable with my room’s view, hoping for something better, and instead of brushing it off, they upgraded me to a suite at no extra cost. That kind of hospitality is rare! Breakfast was outstanding—fresh, delicious, and well-prepared. Everyone from housekeeping to front desk was warm, attentive, and always smiling. The entire property felt spotless and beautifully maintained. From start to finish, every detail was perfect. If you’re visiting Cartagena, this hotel deserves your full attention—it’s truly exceptional.
Casa Allure
Casa Allure is perfectly located just a short walk from the city center and close to the port area, making it super convenient for exploring Cartagena. If you're looking for a budget-friendly stay without compromising on comfort, this place is an excellent choice. The rooms are clean, well-ventilated with air conditioning, and feature private bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi works reliably throughout the property, and they offer a delicious breakfast option at a very reasonable price. I was genuinely impressed by how much value you get for the rate—great location, spotless rooms, and friendly staff. Definitely a top pick for travelers who want quality without the high cost.
Other Destinations You Might Like
Explore more amazing destinations