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Step into Cátaquena's Centro, where every cobblestone street whispers stories of colonial charm—sun-drenched facades, vibrant murals, and the soulful rhythm of Latin music drifting from open doorways. This isn’t just a district; it’s a living, breathing heartbeat of history and passion.
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 Centro
Hotel Casa de los Abuelos stands out as a top boutique choice in the heart of Centro, offering authentic colonial charm with modern amenities. Located just a 5-minute walk from the main cathedral and plaza, the hotel features original Spanish-Colombian architecture, including wooden ceilings and stone walls. Its rooftop terrace provides panoramic views of the historic cityscape, perfect for sunset moments. Guests enjoy an immersive experience in Caribbean heritage while benefiting from personalized service and local art throughout the property.
The most convenient option is using ride-hailing apps like Uber or Grab, which take about 15–20 minutes from either the airport or port at reasonable rates. Alternatively, take the Transcaribe bus system to stops near Plaza de Santo Domingo, then walk into the historic center. However, walking is ideal for exploring Centro—the narrow, colorful streets are perfect for discovering hidden cafés, street art, and colonial-era buildings at your own pace.
Must-try experiences in Centro include visiting the Convento de San Diego, a stunning example of colonial religious architecture. Join a Caribbean music workshop to learn salsa and conga rhythms firsthand. Stroll through Plaza de la Aduana at dusk to savor local treats like arepas de queso and churros. Don’t miss the nightly historic city light show, where the entire district glows with artistic illumination—perfect for photography and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Hotel Las Palmas is a highly recommended family-friendly option located just east of Centro, featuring a private courtyard, children’s play area, and spacious family suites with separate living spaces and safety railings. The hotel offers guided tours tailored for kids, including visits to the historic museum and local fish market. Daily breakfast includes fresh fruits and traditional pastries, ensuring a stress-free stay. Safe, tree-lined pathways surround the property, making it ideal for family walks and discovery-oriented outings.
Plaza de la Aduana is the prime location for night photography. As lights illuminate the white colonial façades and cobblestone paths, reflections shimmer in the central fountain, creating a painterly effect. Warm ambient lighting from nearby cafés and bars blends with starry skies, forming a dreamy backdrop. Arrive after 6 PM when crowds thin, allowing for clean, wide-angle shots. For dynamic visuals, explore the street art murals along alleyways—many feature interactive light installations and vibrant graffiti that add creative depth to your photos.
Yes, nearly all hotels in Centro provide free high-speed Wi-Fi, especially boutique and chain properties. Establishments like Hotel Casa de los Abuelos and Hotel Las Palmas offer reliable internet access in both public areas and guest rooms, supporting multiple devices simultaneously. Some even offer free Wi-Fi router rentals for guests exploring the old town. It’s advisable to confirm network coverage and speed upon check-in to ensure seamless connectivity for video calls, navigation apps, or streaming during your stay.
Stay at Hotel Las Casas de la Candelaria, a boutique hotel nestled within historic colonial architecture in Cartagena’s Centro district. This beautifully restored property offers rooms with Spanish colonial charm, featuring wooden furnishings, colorful tilework, and private courtyards. The hotel is just a 3-minute walk from Plaza de la Candelaria and San Felipe Castle, making it ideal for cultural exploration.
Located in the heart of the old town, guests enjoy easy access to local restaurants, artisan shops, and vibrant street life. Public buses and taxis run nearby, connecting you to the beaches or airport in under 20 minutes. For a unique experience, rent a bike to cycle through the cobblestone alleys and soak in the tropical atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Absolutely. Staying in Centro puts you within walking distance of most of Cartagena’s top attractions. The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is just a 10-minute stroll away, while Catedral de Cartagena and Plaza de la Candelaria are literally steps from your doorstep. Nearby highlights like Monasterio de Santa Clara and Playa de Boca Chica are reachable within 15 minutes by foot or short taxi ride.
Many hotels offer free maps, guided tour recommendations, and even on-site concierge services to help visitors explore the city’s rich colonial heritage. Whether touring ancient forts during the day or strolling through illuminated streets at night, staying in Centro ensures seamless access to both history and culture.
During your stay in Cartagena’s Centro, don’t miss the nighttime historical walking tour, where you’ll wander through cobbled streets and red-walled buildings, listening to tales of colonial intrigue and underground trade. Join a local Caribbean cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes like arepas, pabellón criollo, and fresh coconut chicken soup.
Start your morning at Plaza de la Candelaria’s open-air cafés, sipping Cartagena’s signature coffee with a warm banana bread. For art lovers, visit the Cartagena Contemporary Art Center to explore works by regional artists. These immersive experiences blend culture, cuisine, and creativity—making your stay not just comfortable, but deeply memorable.
See what other travelers say about Centro
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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