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.

This adults-only boutique hotel is located in the heart of Cartagena, just a 15-minute walk from the Clock Tower and Convention Center. Treat yourself at the luxurious spa with massages, body treatments, and facials. Enjoy free WiFi, a hair salon, and 24-hour concierge service. Unwind at the poolside bar or savor in-room dining. The rooms feature iPod docks, minibars, and satellite TV for ultimate comfort. With airport shuttle service available, your stay will be seamless and relaxing.



















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

I absolutely loved my stay at Hotel Aguamarina Boutique! The decor is stunning—every corner feels like a work of art. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, genuine hospitality; they made me feel right at home. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable—just a short walk from the historic district and all the best spots in Cartagena. The rooftop pool is pure magic—perfect for soaking in the breathtaking sunset views. And the lifeguard? Absolutely the best in the world—he’s not just attentive, but also super friendly and encouraging. I left feeling refreshed, inspired, and already planning my next visit. This hotel truly delivers on every level.

This hotel is absolutely fantastic! I explored the walled city of Cartagena thoroughly on foot and couldn’t find another accommodation with a better location. The architecture and interior design are stunning—so much character and charm. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the shower provided excellent water pressure and consistent temperature. The staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful, especially Kevin, who went above and beyond to make our stay special. Cleanliness was top-notch throughout, and the pool area was perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. I didn’t get to try the dinner or spa services, but the breakfast was already outstanding—freshly prepared, thoughtfully served, and full of care. My only small suggestion: some of the fruits were a bit overripe for my taste; perhaps slightly greener pineapple would be better, but that’s just personal preference. Overall, this stay exceeded all expectations. I’d absolutely return and highly recommend it to friends. Honestly, I’m already missing it!

Staying at this boutique hotel in the heart of Cartagena's old town was an absolute delight. The hotel itself feels like a living piece of history—charming, elegant, and full of local character. It’s perfectly located for exploring the historic district; everything is within walking distance. The atmosphere is peaceful and the rooms are spacious, clean, and comfortable—exactly what you want after a day of sightseeing. The staff went above and beyond with their warm hospitality and professionalism. From check-in to checkout, every interaction was smooth and welcoming. The attention to detail and high standard of service truly made the experience memorable. If you're looking for a stylish, authentic stay in Cartagena, this is a top choice. I’d definitely return and recommend it to anyone visiting.

Staying at Hotel Casa Don Luis by Faranda Boutique was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—right in the heart of Cartagena’s historic district, making it easy to explore all the charming streets and attractions on foot. The hotel itself has a beautiful European-inspired charm with elegant details throughout the property. The breakfast was outstanding—fresh local ingredients, delicious pastries, fresh juices, and perfectly brewed coffee. Staff were friendly, attentive, and always ready to help. It felt more like staying in a private boutique home than a typical hotel. With such great value and a truly memorable experience, I’d definitely return and recommend this gem to any traveler visiting Cartagena.

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!

The service throughout the hotel was exceptional—every staff member, from front desk to housekeeping, went above and beyond with warmth and professionalism. The facilities are top-notch: modern, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed with local charm. Our room was spacious, clean, and incredibly comfortable. Located just a short walk from the historic district, we had easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions. It’s rare to find such a perfect blend of comfort, hospitality, and location. I’d highly recommend this boutique gem to anyone visiting Cartagena—100% would stay again.

The hotel was a wonderful experience overall—clean, well-maintained, and the room we stayed in was spacious, cool, and very comfortable. The breakfast was excellent: generous portions, varied options, and delicious flavors. The staff were attentive and friendly, especially the ladies working in the restaurant—they went out of their way to make us feel welcome. The pool was large, clean, and perfect for relaxing by. While it’s located in an industrial area, a bit removed from the main tourist zone, this actually worked well for us since we were looking for a quieter, more peaceful stay away from the crowds. It was still easily accessible by public transport and taxi. We felt completely at ease throughout our visit and would definitely return. Highly recommended for travelers seeking comfort, good service, and a calm atmosphere.

Staying at Hotel Bahia Cartagena was an absolute delight! The beds were incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night's sleep. The staff were warm and welcoming, going out of their way to make us feel at home. The food was delicious—fresh, flavorful, and well-prepared. I especially appreciated how close we were to shopping centers, so grabbing souvenirs or essentials was a breeze. The location is perfect—close enough to the city center for easy access, yet quiet enough to enjoy a peaceful stay. Everything about this hotel exceeded my expectations. If you're visiting Cartagena and want a blend of comfort, great service, and convenience, this is the place to book. Highly recommended!

A fantastic stay at Hotel Blue Concept! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the historic city center, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and local charm nearby. The room was clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed, offering a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. What stood out most was the incredible value for money—luxury feels within reach without breaking the bank. I’d definitely recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Cartagena. It’s more than just a place to sleep—it’s a great base for exploring the city.

This hotel is perfect for being right in the heart of Cartagena. The location is unbeatable—steps away from all the main attractions, and having breakfast included makes it even better. The area is quiet and peaceful, with no noise or disturbances, which really enhances the comfort of your stay. The only minor downside is the hot water issue, but considering the price point, it's a small trade-off. Overall, everything about this place is excellent—clean rooms, friendly staff, and an amazing central spot. It truly feels like a perfect choice for travelers who want convenience, value, and a relaxed vibe. I’d definitely stay here again.

An absolutely fantastic stay from start to finish! Patio de Getsemani is perfectly located in the heart of Cartagena’s historic district—walking distance to cobblestone streets, local markets, and vibrant plazas. The moment you step into the courtyard, you’re greeted by a serene atmosphere with lush greenery and traditional architecture that truly captures the soul of the city. Our room was clean, spacious, and beautifully decorated with authentic touches. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome, offering helpful tips on where to eat and explore. Best part? It's quiet yet central—perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. If you're looking for a charming, well-located hotel that delivers on comfort and character, this is it. 10/10 would book again!

The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the heart of Cartagena’s historic district, with plenty of restaurants and attractions nearby. The rooms are spotless, well-maintained, and incredibly comfortable. The staff goes above and beyond with friendly, attentive service. Everything about this place feels thoughtfully designed, making it a standout choice for travelers who value both convenience and quality. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Cartagena.
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