3-Day Cartagena Itinerary: The Perfect Weekend Trip

Got a long weekend? Cartagena is one of those rare destinations where three days is enough to experience the highlights, discover a couple of hidden corners, and still feel like you had a real vacation — not a sprint.

This itinerary balances iconic sights with local flavor so you leave feeling satisfied, not exhausted.

Before You Go: Quick Facts

Detail	Info
Best time to visit	December to April (dry season)
Currency	Colombian Peso (COP)
Language	Spanish
3-day budget (mid-range)	$210
Climate	Tropical with constant heat and humidity, rainy season from May to November

Day 1: Arrive, Settle In & First Impressions

Morning

Arrive in Cartagena and head to your accommodation in the Old Town (Centro) — colonial plazas, churches, and boutique hotels neighborhood — the best base for a short trip thanks to its central location and walkability. Drop your bags and grab a quick breakfast or brunch at a local cafe.

Afternoon

Start with Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada), Cartagena's most iconic landmark. Arriving in the early afternoon means you avoid the morning rush while the light is still excellent for photography. Budget about 2 hours here to explore fully.

After that, walk to Getsemaní neighborhood — it is close enough to reach on foot and offers a completely different experience. The contrast between these two sites captures the essence of Cartagena.

Evening

Head to the Bocagrande — modern high-rise beach strip with hotels district for dinner. This is where locals go, and the prices reflect it. Order Arepas de Huevo — fried corn patties stuffed with egg — it is the signature dish of Cartagena and the perfect way to begin your culinary journey.

Day 1 budget estimate: $63

Day 2: Deep Dive Into Cartagena

Morning

Rise early and head to San Pedro Claver Church before the crowds arrive. The first hour after opening is golden — fewer visitors, better light, and a more contemplative atmosphere.

Grab a mid-morning coffee in the Manga — island neighborhood with Republican-era mansions area and people-watch for a while. Sometimes the best travel moments are unplanned.

Afternoon

After lunch, explore Castillo San Felipe de Barajas. This is one of Cartagena's cultural gems and deserves at least 90 minutes of your time. If you are feeling adventurous, detour to Getsemaní street art — murals covering entire blocks with social commentary nearby — most tourists walk right past it.

Next, stroll through the San Diego — quiet residential corner of the walled city neighborhood. Try Bandeja Paisa — hearty platter with beans, rice, plantain, avocado, and chorizo from a street vendor — it costs a fraction of what restaurants charge and tastes just as good (arguably better).

Evening

Tonight is your splurge dinner. Find a well-reviewed restaurant in the Old Town (Centro) — colonial plazas, churches, and boutique hotels area and order Cocadas — coconut candy in various flavors from palenquera street vendors. A mid-range dinner with drinks will run about $21 per person.

After dinner, take an evening walk — Cartagena has a completely different energy after dark. Getsemaní — Café Havana salsa bar and surrounding street parties

Day 2 budget estimate: $77

Day 3: Hidden Gems & Farewell

Morning

Use your final morning to see what most tourists miss. Head to Mercado Bazurto — authentic local market with no tourist polish — a spot that rewards early risers with quiet beauty and authentic Cartagena charm.

Pick up souvenirs at Las Bóvedas — souvenir shops in former prison cells within the walls. Skip the airport gift shops — the markup is brutal and the selection is generic.

Late Morning / Early Afternoon

End your trip with a leisurely brunch featuring Ceviche de Camarón — shrimp ceviche with lime and coconut milk sold from carts and a final coffee. Take a last photo from Colorful colonial facades with bougainvillea in the Old Town before heading to the airport.

Day 3 budget estimate: $56

3-Day Budget Summary

Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation (3 nights)	$26	$74	$264
Food (3 days)	$23	$63	$198
Activities	$15	$42	$132
Transport	$11	$32	$66
Total	$75	$210	$660

Pro Tips for a 3-Day Trip

1. Stay central. With only three days, commuting from the outskirts wastes precious hours. Old Town (Centro) — colonial plazas, churches, and boutique hotels is your best bet.
2. Pack light. A carry-on means no baggage claim wait — you gain 30–45 minutes on arrival.
3. Pre-book the big attractions. Skip-the-line tickets for Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada) can save you an hour of queuing.
4. Eat one meal at a market. Faster, cheaper, and more authentic than a sit-down restaurant.
5. Do not over-schedule. Two or three activities per day is plenty. Leave room for serendipity.

Is 3 Days Enough for Cartagena?

Three days will not cover everything, but it will cover enough to give you a genuine feel for the city. You will hit the highlights, eat the essential dishes, and — if you follow this itinerary — discover at least one spot that makes you feel like a local. For most travelers, that is the sweet spot.

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