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El Centro Artesano pulses with Cartagena’s creative soul! Step inside this colorful marketplace and discover handmade treasures: hand-woven hats, intricately carved wood sculptures, and vibrant ceramics that scream local pride. Try your hand at weaving or painting, and maybe even chat with an artist crafting their next masterpiece. It’s not just shopping—it’s a cultural conversation, where every piece carries a story, and you leave with more than souvenirs… you take home a piece of Cartagena’s heart.
This 4.5-star rated resort is perfect for both families and business travelers! Kids will love the 4 outdoor pools and water slides, while adults can unwind at the spa or relax in one of the 6 hot tubs. Just a 10-minute drive from Boca Grande Beach and San Felipe Castle, the location couldn't be better. Enjoy 24-hour room service or dine with a view at the poolside restaurant. Business travelers will appreciate the 24-hour business center and 13 meeting rooms. With so many amenities, it's the ultimate getaway for work and play!
Everything you need to know about El Centro Artesano
Near El Centro Artesano in Cartagena, Hotel de la Catedral stands out as a top choice—this boutique hotel blends colonial architecture with modern comforts. Just a 5-minute walk from the arts center, its rooms feature traditional Mallorcan tile floors and private balconies offering views of the Cathedral's spire. The hotel provides complimentary guided tours to nearby artisan markets and Andean cultural exhibitions, immersing guests in authentic Colombian craftsmanship.
Another excellent option is Casa de la Abuela, housed in a restored historic building. Each room is themed around indigenous motifs from different regions, and the property includes an courtyard café serving local Cartagena coffee and handmade chocolate. Guests enjoy a deep connection to the creative cultural ecosystem surrounding El Centro Artesano.
Getting to El Centro Artesano from downtown Cartagena is highly convenient. Take a local microbus or taxi, both reaching the site in just 10–15 minutes. For a scenic route, walk east along Avenida Galápago, passing through the Puerta del Reloj (Clock Gate), where you’ll encounter 16th-century Spanish colonial architecture and vibrant street art murals. Additionally, shared e-scooter and bike rentals have multiple stations nearby, ideal for leisurely exploration. Located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the center is easily accessible without long travel—perfect for immersing yourself in the rich Latin American artistic atmosphere right from the city core.
Near El Centro Artesano, visitors can engage in several unique cultural experiences: First, join daily hands-on workshops learning to craft traditional Colombian ceramics and colorful glass beads under guidance from local artisans. Second, attend Andean music nights held in open-air plazas, featuring live performances by indigenous musicians accompanied by Cartagena-inspired street food. Additionally, weekend artisan fairs showcase intangible heritage like wood carvings, textiles, and batik fabrics. Many experiences include bilingual guides who share the historical and symbolic significance behind each piece. These activities transform tourists into active participants in cultural preservation, fostering deeper connection beyond passive observation.
Yes, several hotels near El Centro Artesano provide exclusive art-guided experiences. For instance, Hotel de la Catedral offers the "Artistic Threads Tour," led by curators who guide guests through over 20 independent studios—including goldsmith workshops, natural dye labs, and stone carving spaces—with opportunities for direct dialogue with creators. Another option, Casa de la Abuela, hosts the "Cultural Conversation Afternoon Tea" in its garden, featuring live painting demonstrations and indigenous storytelling sessions paired with local coffee and handmade pastries. These services are bookable via the hotel front desk or website, emphasizing deep cultural immersion and local creative engagement, transforming stays into meaningful artistic journeys rather than mere overnight accommodations.
Hotel San Pedro Claver is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from El Centro Artesano in the heart of Cartagena’s historic walled city. This colonial-style boutique hotel blends authentic Caribbean charm with modern amenities, featuring handcrafted wooden furnishings, traditional Mochica murals, and a tranquil courtyard garden. Guests enjoy easy access to artisan markets, Spanish colonial architecture, and scenic waterfront promenades—perfect for immersing in the rich Caribbean cultural experience.
Getting to El Centro Artesano from Old Town Cartagena is highly convenient. Most accommodations lie within a 10-minute walk along streets like Calle de la Trinidad or Calle del Rosario, offering views of colonial-era architecture and street performers. For those preferring not to walk, local taxis cost only $2–3, or visitors can use the Bike Cartagena bike-sharing system, with stations throughout the walled city. Cycling provides an eco-friendly and immersive way to explore the vibrant rhythms of daily life in this historic Caribbean hub.
Near El Centro Artesano, guests can join hands-on workshops such as crafting traditional Mochila bags or coral bead jewelry, taught by local artisans. Every Saturday features a lively night market with over 50 stalls showcasing Caribbean embroidery, ceramics, and natural dye textiles. Visitors can also book guided tours to nearby Castillo San Felipe, exploring its defensive history and colonial-era military strategies. These experiences blend artistry, heritage, and interactive learning for a truly immersive cultural journey.
Most boutique hotels near El Centro Artesano do not provide fixed free shuttles, but select properties like Hotel La Casona and Hostería Las Palmas offer complimentary electric minibus transfers to the arts center and major attractions upon request, with two daily departures. Guests are advised to inquire in advance and confirm if services include guided tours or discount vouchers. Additionally, many hotels partner with local tour operators who provide door-to-door pickup, allowing flexible and enriched travel planning for a seamless and enriching experience.
Starting from El Centro Artesano, it’s a 15-minute walk to Castillo San Felipe, a key colonial fortress now housing a national museum. Combine this with the Cartagena Metro for quick access to Catedral de Santa María la Blanca and Plaza de la Aduana. For deeper exploration, rent an electric bicycle and ride along the seaside promenade, passing Castillo de San Luis and the Old Port, enjoying sea breezes and layered histories. All major sites feature Chinese-language signage, making them accessible for international travelers seeking self-guided discovery.
Hotel Casa de las Páginas is ideal for families, offering a kids’ playroom, hands-on workshops like pottery painting and paper umbrella crafting, plus crib rentals and child-friendly meals. The hotel features a secure courtyard and is steps away from the children’s market and storytime theater. With weekly themed storytelling events and proximity to El Centro Artesano, young guests can explore art and culture safely. Family packages including entry tickets and guided tours are available, making it a perfect choice for parents seeking enriching, child-centered experiences in Cartagena.
See what other travelers say about El Centro Artesano
Staying at the Hilton Cartagena was an absolute delight, especially with kids in tow. The atmosphere is perfect for families—calm, welcoming, and full of kid-friendly spaces. We loved the dedicated game room, the sparkling pool, and the private beach access where the little ones could splash around safely. The on-site restaurant truly stood out—better than many local eateries we’ve tried, with delicious food and generous portions. Every staff member went above and beyond to make us feel welcome, from check-in to checkout. It’s rare to find such seamless service in a resort setting. Everything was thoughtfully arranged, making our trip stress-free and memorable. If you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway with top-notch amenities and warm hospitality, this hotel is a must-visit.
My partner and I had an absolutely wonderful time staying at the Nacar Hotel Cartagena. From the moment we arrived, everything felt seamless and welcoming. Our room was spacious, impeccably clean, and beautifully designed—perfect for relaxing after a day exploring the city. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel at home, with genuine warmth and attention to detail. They were always ready to help, whether it was recommending local spots or arranging transportation. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from the historic old town and the beach. We truly felt cared for throughout our stay, and the overall atmosphere was elegant yet relaxed. This hotel offers exceptional value and charm. We’re already planning our return visit!
The room was fantastic and the surroundings were just as impressive. I was really grateful for the early check-in, which was arranged due to my illness—something the staff handled with great empathy and flexibility. The hotel is well located, clean, and comfortable, making it a perfect base for exploring Cartagena. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed, from the welcoming atmosphere to the attentive service. It’s clear this property takes pride in guest comfort. I’d absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the area.
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.
Staying at HMC Palenque Casa Hotel by HMC was an absolute delight. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from the heart of Cartagena, making it super easy to explore the city on foot. I especially loved the cocktail recommendations from Daniel Salazar—he knows his craft! Every drink was perfectly balanced, refreshing, and full of flavor. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a lovely mix of local charm and modern comfort. Staff went above and beyond with their hospitality—friendly, attentive, and always smiling. From check-in to checkout, every interaction felt genuine and personal. This place truly delivers on comfort, service, and character. I’d recommend it 100% to anyone visiting Cartagena. A standout stay!
Hotel Casa Andrea in Bocagrande, Cartagena, offers an unbeatable location and excellent value for money. The hotel is just steps away from the beach, restaurants, shops, and 24-hour supermarkets—everything you need is within easy reach. I was especially impressed by the room layout; the space is flexible and well-designed, making it perfect for families or groups who want to customize their setup. The staff went above and beyond with their warm and attentive service, making us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. Despite being in a lively tourist area, the neighborhood remains peaceful and safe. With a solid 8/10 rating, this place truly delivers on comfort, convenience, and charm. If you're visiting Cartagena, this is definitely a top choice for a stress-free, enjoyable stay.
Staying at Juna Hotel Boutique in Cartagena was an absolute delight from start to finish. The staff were incredibly warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home the moment we arrived. The hotel’s interior has a unique, artistic charm with a peaceful, elegant vibe that stands out among other places we’ve stayed in. It’s perfectly located just a short walk from the historic Old Town—great for exploring on foot, and public transport is super convenient nearby. Our room was spotless, beautifully designed, and had everything we needed, including a comfy bed that made for a restful night's sleep. What really impressed us was how much value we got for the price—luxury vibes without the luxury price tag. If you're visiting Cartagena, this is a must-try. I’ll definitely be recommending it to friends and returning myself.
The hotel was absolutely fantastic—every single detail exceeded my expectations. From the moment I arrived, the staff were warm and welcoming, offering helpful tips about local attractions. My room was spacious, impeccably clean, and had a modern, inviting vibe with excellent air conditioning—perfect for the tropical climate. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and I slept like a baby throughout the night. I especially appreciated the complimentary breakfast, which included fresh fruit, local pastries, and coffee that tasted just like what you’d find in a neighborhood café. Location-wise, it’s within walking distance of major sights and public transit, making exploration super easy. Overall, this place delivers an outstanding experience with great value. I’ll definitely be back—highly recommend!
To be honest, I never actually stayed at this hotel as a guest—I was staying across the street at another property that didn’t quite live up to expectations. Still, I kept finding myself drawn to San Pedro Suite Hotel just to take in its inviting and mysterious entrance. Once inside, I explained to the staff that I was only curious about the place, and they welcomed me with open arms. They even let me enjoy their rooftop hot tub and magical swimming pool—completely free of charge. I ended up booking some spa treatments, which were absolutely worth it. The manager was incredibly warm and engaging—we talked late into the night, sharing stories and laughter. We stayed in touch for a while after, but life took us in different directions. Still, that one visit left such a lasting impression that I now dream of returning to Cartagena—not just for the city, but specifically for a romantic getaway at this hidden gem. It’s not just a hotel; it’s an experience.
The service at Hotel Amoek is exceptional—friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming from the moment you arrive. Every staff member goes the extra mile to make your stay comfortable and memorable. The location is fantastic, just a short walk from the historic old town and nearby metro access makes exploring the city effortless. Rooms are clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed with modern comforts. It's rare to find such a high level of hospitality and value in one place. I couldn't recommend this hotel more—it’s a true gem in Cartagena.
I wouldn't recommend this property. While the location in Cartagena is convenient—close to downtown and easy to get around by public transit—the actual condition of the apartment was far from what we expected. The unit felt dirty and poorly maintained, with visible dust and grime in corners and crevices. To our horror, there were cockroaches everywhere—under the sink, in the kitchen, even near the bed. The appliances shown in the photos didn’t work at all: the air conditioner was broken, the stove wouldn’t ignite, and the fridge barely cooled. It’s clear the listing photos are misleading. We ended up spending more time fixing issues than enjoying our stay. For a better experience, I’d suggest looking elsewhere—there are definitely much cleaner, more reliable options in the area.
Playa Norte Hotel is a great choice if you're looking for a quiet, comfortable stay just outside the city center. While it's a bit farther from downtown Cartagena, the location offers peace and relaxation without being too isolated. The nearby market is super convenient for grabbing fresh groceries or local snacks—no need to travel far. Getting into the city is easy via taxi or public transit, making it a good balance between tranquility and accessibility. Overall, a solid option with excellent value.
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