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 luxurious hotel is just minutes away from the Clock Tower and Convention Center—perfect for both business and leisure travelers. Indulge in spa treatments, take a dip in the pool, or join a yoga class while the kids are entertained with professional childcare services. The cozy rooms feature free WiFi, and you can unwind with a cocktail at the poolside bar. Wake up to a complimentary full breakfast every morning—pure bliss!


This boutique hotel is a hidden gem in Cartagena! Just a few steps away from the Clock Tower and the Convention Center, the location couldn’t be better. Enjoy two outdoor pools, spa treatments, a steam room, and a fitness center to unwind after a day of exploring. Rooms feature minibars and espresso machines, plus plush bedding for ultimate comfort—it’s like a home away from home! Start your day with a complimentary European breakfast and savor delicious meals at their on-site restaurant. Perfect for couples and families alike!














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

Absolutely stunning from start to finish! The moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm atmosphere and thoughtful touches that made me feel right at home. Located just steps away from the historic Old Town, it’s incredibly convenient for exploring the city on foot. The room was immaculate, beautifully decorated with local art and modern comforts—especially the cozy bed that guaranteed a restful night. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly, attentive service. Breakfast was a highlight—fresh, delicious, and full of authentic Colombian flavors. Every detail reflects care and passion. This place truly delivers an unforgettable experience. I’ll definitely be returning and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Cartagena.

Absolutely stunning! From the moment I arrived, the staff greeted me with a delicious local fruit and made me feel right at home. The hostel is immaculate—every floor feels like an art installation, from the ground level to the rooftop hot tub. The food and drinks were fresh, flavorful, and served quickly. I especially loved the rooftop area—it’s perfect for relaxing or just soaking in the vibes. The team was attentive without being overbearing, and when I checked out at 11 AM, they kindly let me leave my things behind so I could continue enjoying the facilities. They even handed me a traditional local sweet from their café as a farewell gift—such a thoughtful touch. Honestly, I’d give this place 10 out of 10, but if I could go lower, I’d still be giving it 10. It’s more than a hostel—it’s an experience. If you’re in Cartagena, don’t miss it.

The stay was absolutely wonderful overall—perfect location right by the beach, peaceful and convenient for exploring Cartagena. The property was clean, well-maintained, and had a lovely tropical vibe. Mauricio’s hospitality truly stood out—he was attentive, friendly, and went above and beyond to make sure we felt at home. The only minor issue was the mattress being a bit too firm for our comfort, which slightly affected our sleep quality. However, that didn’t take away from the excellent experience. Every other detail was spot-on, and the value for money was outstanding. I’d definitely book again and highly recommend this rental to anyone looking for a relaxing getaway in Cartagena.

Staying at Casa Movida Hostel was an absolute highlight of my trip to Cartagena! The location is perfect—right in the heart of the city, just a short walk from all the main attractions and bustling local spots. The hostel itself is clean, vibrant, and full of charm, with a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The staff are incredibly friendly and always ready to help, whether it’s giving travel tips or organizing fun local tours. My room was simple but comfortable, with a cozy bed and good lighting—ideal for a restful night after a day of exploring. I especially loved the shared lounge area, where I met fellow travelers and even joined a spontaneous city walk. It’s not just a place to sleep—it’s a real experience. If you’re visiting Cartagena, this is the spot to stay. Highly recommended!

The Santa Alejandría Hotel exceeded my expectations! The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, and the location is perfect—right in the heart of Cartagena, making it easy to explore on foot or by public transit. The only minor issue was that my room was undergoing some renovations during check-in, and the shower had a bit of water overflow due to a plumbing issue. However, the team responded quickly and resolved it with great professionalism. Despite this small hiccup, the overall experience was outstanding—clean rooms, excellent service, and unbeatable value. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to fellow travelers.

Staying at Akel House Hotel was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from vibrant bars, local eateries, and the heart of Cartagena’s old town. The room itself is simple but impeccably clean, with excellent air conditioning that kept things cool and comfortable all night. The bed was surprisingly cozy, making for a restful sleep. Staff were friendly and always ready to help, whether it was recommending nearby spots or handling check-in smoothly. It’s rare to find such a welcoming atmosphere combined with practical comfort. I’d gladly return in a heartbeat and highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting Cartagena.

Hotel El Viajero Centro is a fantastic choice for a relaxed stay in Cartagena. The location is ideal—just a short walk from the city center, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and local gems within easy reach. The apartment-style rooms come with a fully equipped kitchen, which made cooking simple and convenient during our trip. The only small upgrade I’d suggest would be adding a good sandwich maker or toaster, but otherwise, everything worked well. Staff were friendly and attentive, and my belongings were kept secure throughout the stay. The neighborhood is peaceful and quiet, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. This place is especially great for couples or families looking for comfort and convenience. Highly recommend! It’s a hidden gem worth checking out.

Staying at Casa Natyrouss was an absolute delight! The hosts were incredibly warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home. The neighborhood is safe and quiet, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Everything we needed—restaurants, shops, attractions—was just a short walk away, so we didn’t need to rely on transportation much. It’s such a convenient and charming location that truly enhances the experience. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Cartagena looking for comfort, hospitality, and easy access to the city’s best spots. Would definitely stay here again!

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.
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