Choosing where to stay in Cartagena shapes your whole trip. The three neighborhoods most visitors consider — the walled Old Town, artsy Getsemaní and beachfront Bocagrande — are only minutes apart, but they feel like different cities. Here’s how to pick.
The Old Town (Centro Histórico)
Inside the colonial walls you’ll find cobblestone streets, flower-draped balconies and grand plazas. Many hotels are restored colonial mansions with courtyards and rooftop pools.
- Best for: first-time visitors, couples, anyone who wants to walk everywhere.
- Vibe: romantic, historic, polished.
- Budget: generally the most expensive area.
- Watch out for: busy streets in high season and some noise near popular plazas at night.
For a little more calm inside the walls, look at the San Diego area in the northern part of the Old Town.
Getsemaní
Just outside the walls, Getsemaní is the city’s creative, bohemian neighborhood. Colorful murals cover the walls, umbrellas and flags hang over the streets, and Plaza de la Trinidad fills with locals and travelers every evening.
- Best for: younger travelers, foodies, nightlife lovers and budget-conscious visitors.
- Vibe: lively, local, artsy.
- Budget: a wide range, from hostels to stylish boutique hotels.
- Watch out for: music late into the night on weekends — ask for a room away from the street if you’re a light sleeper.
It’s an easy walk from Getsemaní into the Old Town, so you get the best of both.
Bocagrande
Bocagrande is Cartagena’s modern side: a peninsula of high-rise hotels and apartments with a long city beach, shopping and plenty of restaurants. It’s a short taxi ride from the Old Town.
- Best for: families, longer stays, travelers who want ocean views and big-hotel amenities.
- Vibe: urban beach resort.
- Budget: often better value for larger rooms and apartments.
- Watch out for: the city beach is fine for a stroll and sunset, but for postcard-blue water you’ll still want a Rosario Islands day trip.
Quick comparison
| Old Town | Getsemaní | Bocagrande | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atmosphere | Historic & romantic | Artsy & lively | Modern & beachy |
| Walkability | Excellent | Excellent | Taxi to the Old Town |
| Price | $$$ | $–$$ | $$ |
| Nightlife | Bars & rooftops | Street life & salsa | Hotel bars & casinos |
Our take
On a short first trip, stay in the Old Town or Getsemaní so you can explore on foot morning and night. If you’re traveling with kids or staying a week or more, Bocagrande’s space and value are hard to beat.
Wherever you stay, the city’s best experiences are close by. Browse our top things to do in Cartagena.