Want to taste Cartagena’s soul? Join the EMEkitchen Cooking Class! In a local home kitchen, learn to craft authentic Colombian dishes—from spice blends to slow-roasted meats—each bite bursting with regional flavor. Savor your own creation with a chilled coconut drink, and let the warmth of tradition wrap around you like a hug.

Nestled in the heart of Cartagena, this boutique hotel is just steps away from the Clock Tower and a short 7-minute walk to the Convention Center. Unwind at the full-service spa with rejuvenating treatments, take a dip in the outdoor pool, or relax in the sauna. Indulge in local and international cuisine at Costa Restaurant, or sip cocktails by the poolside bar. Start your day with a free cooked-to-order breakfast. Business travelers will appreciate the 24-hour business center and airport shuttle, while the plush bedding with Egyptian cotton linens ensures a restful stay.


















Everything you need to know about EMEkitchen Cooking Class
Casa de la Rueda is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from EMEkitchen Cooking Class in the heart of Old Town Cartagena. This boutique hotel blends colonial-era architecture with modern comforts, featuring rooms adorned with authentic Andean decorative elements. Guests enjoy complimentary breakfast and private guided tours. Some rooms offer stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, allowing you to savor sunset moments after a hands-on cooking class, fully immersed in Colombia’s vibrant culinary culture.
Most hotels in Old Town Cartagena are within a 10- to 15-minute walk to EMEkitchen Cooking Class, passing by vibrant colonial buildings and lively streets—perfect for soaking in local atmosphere. Taxis take only about 5 minutes, costing roughly $3–$5 USD. Alternatively, electric bike rentals offer a scenic route along the seaside promenade, providing views of the Caribbean Sea and historic landmarks. HopeGoo a guided tour in advance often includes transportation, ensuring a seamless and stress-free journey.
Beyond the cooking class, highly recommended are night market tours through Old Town Cartagena, sampling street favorites like arepa de huevo and ajiaco. Consider a one-day trip to a Caribbean fishing village, witnessing traditional hand-crafted fishing techniques and enjoying fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants. For culture lovers, book a Spanish colonial architecture photography tour, capturing the iconic red rooftops and arched doorways bathed in golden light. These immersive activities deepen your understanding of Cartagena’s daily life and rich heritage.
Yes, many boutique hotels in Old Town Cartagena provide exceptional dining. For instance, Casa de la Rueda features a rooftop restaurant serving creative dishes blending Mediterranean and Colombian flavors, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner available. The menu emphasizes fresh local ingredients—seafood, yuca, and native herbs—paired with house-made chili sauces. Some hotels also offer private cooking workshops, allowing guests to prepare meals under expert guidance, complementing the EMEkitchen experience. Many collaborate directly with local markets, ensuring traceable, sustainable sourcing and a commitment to eco-conscious cuisine.
Casa de la Catedral Hotel is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from the EMEkitchen Cooking Class in Old Town Cartagena. This historic boutique property blends colonial architecture with modern comforts, featuring rooms adorned with traditional Colombian murals and private balconies overlooking cobbled streets. Guests enjoy complimentary breakfast with local specialties like arepas and fresh tropical fruits. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring nearby markets, waterfront promenades, and authentic culinary experiences after class.
Yes, transportation is highly convenient. The EMEkitchen Cooking Class is located in the heart of Cartagena’s Old Town, near Castillo San Felipe and Plaza de la Catedral, with multiple bus routes and easy taxi access. From major hotel zones, a taxi ride takes only about 10 minutes. On-site parking is available, and the area is pedestrian-friendly, perfect for combining with guided bike tours or riverside walks. Using a mobile map app is recommended to ensure punctuality and seamless navigation.
At EMEkitchen Cooking Class, you’ll dive into authentic Caribbean-Colombian flavors, mastering dishes like Bandeja Paisa, coconut red bean rice, and traditional arepas. Led by local chefs, the class uses fresh ingredients sourced from the local market, revealing secrets like the use of ají amarillo chili paste and finely chopped cilantro. After cooking, you’ll savor your creations and receive a recipe booklet and a spice kit as keepsakes. This immersive experience goes beyond cooking—it connects you to the region’s history, culture, and community through food.
Near the EMEkitchen Cooking Class, must-visit attractions include Castillo San Felipe de Barajas (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Plaza de la Catedral (colonial architecture hub), and the Cartagena Seawall Promenade (scenic coastal walkway). A 10-minute walk leads to Mercado de la Cruz, where you can find fresh seafood, handmade crafts, and local snacks. For a cultural extension, visit Iglesia de Santa Rosa de Lima to admire religious art and tranquil ambiance. These sites form a seamless cultural loop—perfect for extending your journey after class and deepening your understanding of Cartagena’s rich heritage.
The class features hands-on preparation of three classic Colombian dishes: first, mastering Bandeja Paisa with proper broth technique and spice blending; then crafting traditional arepas, learning precise flour-to-water ratios; finally, preparing coconut red bean rice, balancing sweet and savory notes. Each dish is demonstrated by instructors before participants work in small groups, using provided personal kitchen kits and following strict hygiene protocols. At the end, you enjoy your creations and take home a custom recipe card and a local spice gift box, preserving your culinary journey.
Staying in Old Town Cartagena offers the advantage of immediate access and zero transit costs, ideal for short stays. The EMEkitchen Cooking Class is within walking distance, allowing you to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of colorful colonial buildings, narrow alleys, and lively street life en route. Local cafés and street food stalls are abundant for quick bites. Evenings offer scenic strolls along the seawall promenade, with live music and sunset views—making the cooking class a central part of a rich, immersive urban experience.
See what other travelers say about EMEkitchen Cooking Class

The staff at this hotel went above and beyond to make me feel truly welcome—warm, genuinely friendly, and attentive in the best way. From the moment I arrived, I felt like I was being welcomed into a family rather than just checking into a place to stay. The atmosphere is so cozy and personal, it’s impossible not to relax and unwind. Every detail reflects care and thoughtfulness, making the entire experience unforgettable. This isn’t just a hotel—it’s a home away from home. I’d absolutely come back and recommend it to anyone looking for authenticity and heartfelt hospitality.

Staying at Hotel Barahona Cartagena was an absolute delight from start to finish. The location in Bocagrande is unbeatable—walkable to beaches, restaurants, and local shops, with easy access to public transit. The architecture seamlessly blends modern design with nature, featuring large windows that flood the rooms with natural light and offer serene views of lush greenery. It instantly creates a peaceful, calming atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a busy day. The room itself was clean, spacious, and well-appointed, offering excellent value for money. But what truly stood out wasn’t just the comfort or the setting—it was the genuine warmth and hospitality of the staff. They went above and beyond to make us feel welcome, always with a smile and ready to help. This isn’t just a hotel; it’s a place where you genuinely feel at home. I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Cartagena looking for a quiet retreat with charm, comfort, and heartfelt service.

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.

My stay at Hotel Playa Club was absolutely wonderful. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the vibrant city center and surrounded by great restaurants and local shops. The room was clean, spacious, and well-maintained, with all the essentials I needed for a comfortable trip. The staff went above and beyond to make me feel welcome and were always happy to help. What stood out most was how friendly and personal the service felt—like staying at a home away from home. With such a great location, excellent value, and warm hospitality, this hotel is definitely a top choice for anyone visiting Cartagena. I’d stay here again in a heartbeat.

I couldn't be happier with my stay at Hotel Baluarte Boutique in Cartagena. From the moment I arrived, the staff went above and beyond to make me feel welcome—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help with recommendations or local tips. The breakfast was delicious and well-prepared, adding a lovely touch to each morning. I stayed for two weeks, and every single day was smooth and secure—no incidents whatsoever. The hotel feels safe and well-managed, and the location is perfect for exploring the city on foot or by public transit. I’m truly grateful for the exceptional service and would highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting Cartagena. It’s not just a place to sleep—it’s a memorable experience.

The room was comfortable and well-maintained, but what truly stood out was the location—right in the heart of the historic walled city. Every convenience you could want is just steps away: lively bars, authentic restaurants, bustling markets, and charming cobblestone streets. I loved waking up to the vibrant energy of Cartagena’s old town without needing to travel far. The staff were friendly, the atmosphere was welcoming, and the value for money was excellent. This place feels like a hidden gem—perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying modern comfort. I’d definitely stay here again.

Staying at Hotel San Roque in Cartagena was an absolute delight, especially considering the price. The location is perfect—just a short walk to the historic city center, beaches, and all the local restaurants and shops. I’d definitely return here on my next trip to Cartagena. The front desk staff, especially the lady who greeted us, was incredibly kind and helpful. She went out of her way to assist with recommendations and even helped with our booking changes. It’s clear that personal service is valued here. The hotel itself is clean, comfortable, and full of charm. If you're looking for a great mix of value, convenience, and warm hospitality in Cartagena, this place is a top pick.

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!
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