Featured Hotels Near Plaza Colón

Hotel Casa San Carlos, located just a 5-minute walk from Plaza Colón, is a top choice offering colonial-era charm with handcrafted mosaics and stone fireplaces. This restored 18th-century mansion provides free guided tours to nearby landmarks like San Felipe Castle and Iglesia de Jesús, while guests can enjoy local Cartagena cocktails at open-air cafés along the plaza.

Another excellent option is Hotel Las Casas de la Plaza, featuring a vibrant Caribbean-style courtyard, century-old wooden balconies, and prime access to the historic district. The hotel offers convenient connections to Cartagena Airport, just a 15-minute drive away, making it ideal for travelers seeking both comfort and cultural immersion.

Near Plaza Colón, explore Old Town Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, through daily 3 PM historical walking tours led by local guides showcasing Spanish colonial architecture, including San Felipe Fortress and Iglesia de Jesús. Visit the Mercado de San Diego for authentic flavors like Bandeja de Mariscos (seafood platter) and handmade coconut ice cream.

In the evening, enjoy live performances of traditional Caribbean music—such as cumbia and palo de agua—at open-air stages around the plaza, offering an immersive taste of South American rhythms and culture.

The most convenient option from Cartagena Airport to Plaza Colón is pre-booked airport transfers or hotel shuttle services, taking about 15 minutes and costing $10–$15 USD. Public transportation includes the red city bus Linea 42, departing outside the terminal and stopping at the central station, followed by a 10-minute walk.

Ride-hailing apps like Uber and DiDi are also reliable, with fares ranging from $12–$18 USD and drivers typically fluent in English and Spanish. Avoid unofficial taxis to ensure safety and fair pricing. Landmarks such as the white-column fountain and the shadow of San Felipe Fortress make the plaza easy to locate upon arrival.