Best Areas and Hotels to Stay in Cartagena de Indias

Are you planning a trip to Cartagena de Indias but still unsure about the best areas to stay? Look no further! In this guide, we will explore the most recommended neighborhoods, providing you with a selection of quality hotels and hostels that won’t break the bank. Get ready for an unforgettable experience! 😉

By the way, check out 25 must-see attractions and activities in Cartagena de Indias to ensure you don’t miss a thing!

What are the accommodation costs in Cartagena de Indias? Prices vary by location, but anticipate around €35-45 for a double room in a boutique hotel and approximately €10-15 for a bed in a trendy hostel.

Exploring the Historic Center: The Walled City

Staying in the Walled City is undoubtedly the best choice for travelers who seek convenience and have limited time to explore Cartagena. However, this comes at a premium; accommodations in this area tend to be more expensive. That said, with a little luck, you can still uncover some excellent last-minute deals.

Fun Fact: The Walled City of Cartagena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The best way to explore it is by joining a free tour like this one (it's free; just leave a tip at the end of the tour).

Recommended Hotels:

• Hotel Don Pedro De Heredia
• Casa India Catalina
• Hotel Boutique At the Park

San Diego: A Tranquil Retreat

The northernmost part of the old town is known as the San Diego neighborhood. It’s an ideal place to stay, just a few minutes’ walk from the bustling heart of Cartagena, but in a significantly quieter area while still maintaining a lively vibe.

Accommodations here are a bit more exclusive, as this area was once home to the most distinguished colonial houses. If your budget allows, this neighborhood comes highly recommended.

Recommended Hotels:

• Maloka Boutique Hostel
• Hotel Casa la Tablada
• Casa Del Curato

Getsemaní: The Vibrant Neighborhood

Getsemaní is where we stayed, and we fell in love with its alternative and vibrant atmosphere. The streets are picturesque, adorned with street art, and there are small squares where people gather at the end of the day to chat and enjoy a drink.

The heart of this neighborhood is the Plaza de la Trinidad, a beautifully lively spot that captures the essence of the area. It's just a short walk from the historic center, and accommodations are generally less expensive. Here, you can find options ranging from backpacker hostels to boutique hotels, making it one of the best areas to stay in Cartagena de Indias.

Additionally, there's a free tour available to explore Getsemaní, which you can check out here.

Recommended Hotels:

• Casa Pizarro Hotel Boutique
• Casa Relax B&B
• Hotel Casa Mara

La Matuna: Between the Historic and Modern

This neighborhood lies between the Center and Getsemaní, stretching from the famous Muelle de los Pegasos to the charming Carrera 10, a street filled with small bars, restaurants, local travel agencies, and backpacker accommodations. It also features the Parque del Centenario, which we found to be somewhat neglected and a bit unsafe at night.

While it may not be our favorite area for accommodation in Cartagena de Indias, if you find a charming hotel or hostel in Carrera 10, it could be just the right fit.

Recommended Hotels:

• Akel House Hotel
• Hotel Boutique La Artilleria
• Casa Ebano 967

Bocagrande and El Laguito: Luxury by the Sea

Bocagrande is the stretch of land extending to the south of the city center, renowned for being the most modern and luxurious area in Cartagena. Here, you will find shopping malls, cinemas, and upscale restaurants, amid towering skyscrapers lining the seafront, and major chain hotels, particularly in the area known as El Laguito. Notable mentions include the Hyatt Regency Cartagena, the Hilton Cartagena, and the Hotel Caribe By Faranda Grand (which is truly amazing!).

However, it's located about 4 km from the center, so you may need to rely on taxis for your travels. This area boasts a beautiful waterfront promenade, but beware that the beaches aren’t spectacular. For a better beach day, consider visiting La Boquilla or, even better, take a trip to Playa Blanca on Barú Island.

We recommend this area for those seeking large, luxurious hotels with all the amenities, perfect for travelers looking to indulge themselves. Bocagrande is also the area with the most tourist accommodations, making it a great option if you plan to stay for several days or if you typically use Airbnb, as renting an apartment with a kitchen can provide more flexibility. The quality-to-price ratio here tends to be better than in other parts of the city.

Whether you choose to stay in Bocagrande or not, be sure to set aside some time to experience its nightlife.

Recommended Hotels:

• Oz Hotel Luxury
• Hampton by Hilton Cartagena
• Hotel Blue Concept

Top Hostels in Cartagena

Are you the type of traveler who loves hopping from hostel to hostel, meeting people from around the globe and sharing experiences? Are you traveling on a budget and looking to save some cash by sharing a dorm? Here are a few recommended hostels in Cartagena:

• The Clock Hostel & Suites
• Casa Del Pozo Boutique Hostel
• LuKa Cartagena Hostel
• Santuario Hostel Cartagena

To help you navigate your stay, here’s a map highlighting the best areas to stay in Cartagena de Indias along with the locations of the recommended hotels and hostels:

These are our recommendations for the best areas to stay in Cartagena de Indias. What’s your favorite? We can’t wait to return, and yes, we would probably choose to stay in Getsemaní again! 😉 Enjoy your trip!

Follow our daily adventures in Colombia on our Instagram stories.

Affordable Accommodation in Paris II: Hostels