Things to Do in Cartagena Colombia

Cartagena is one of the most beautiful cities in Colombia, famous for its colonial streets, Caribbean beaches, historic buildings, delicious food, and lively atmosphere. From the Walled City and Getsemani to the Rosario Islands, museums, nightlife, and local cuisine, Cartagena offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler. This easy travel guide explores the best things to do in this magical South American destination.

Where Is Cartagena?

Cartagena is a historic coastal city in Colombia founded by the Spanish in 1533. Known for its colorful Old Town, Caribbean beaches, colonial architecture, and famous forts like Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, the city attracts millions of visitors each year with its rich history, culture, and vibrant atmosphere.

What You’ll Find in This Guide to the Top Things to Do in Cartagena

This guide covers everything travelers need to know about visiting Cartagena, including famous attractions, hidden gems, beaches, nightlife, local food, shopping streets, and island tours. More than just a beach destination, Cartagena is a city filled with history, culture, music, art, and colorful colonial architecture.

How to Get Around Cartagena

Walking is one of the best ways to explore Cartagena, especially the Old Town and Getsemani with their colorful streets and plazas. Travelers can also use taxis, ride apps, bike tours, and horse-drawn carriages for easy transportation, while boats are popular for visiting nearby islands.

Cartagena has many exciting places to visit. Some travelers come for the beaches while others love the history and culture. The city combines old colonial charm with modern Caribbean energy.

You can spend your mornings exploring churches and museums, your afternoons relaxing near the ocean, and your evenings enjoying live music and local food.

The old town is the heart of Cartagena. It is surrounded by historic walls and filled with colorful colonial buildings. Every corner feels like a postcard.

1. Visit the Emerald Museum

The Emerald Museum in Cartagena is one of the city’s most interesting attractions. Colombia is famous for producing some of the highest-quality emeralds in the world, and Cartagena played an important role in the emerald trade during colonial times.

At the museum, visitors can see beautiful emerald stones, learn about the history of emerald mining, and explore a replica mine that shows how miners worked underground. The museum is located in Bocagrande and is easy to visit from the Old Town. Travelers can also buy emerald and gold jewelry from the museum shop if they want a special souvenir from Cartagena.

2. Visit Abaco Cafe y Libros

Abaco Cafe y Libros is a charming bookstore and coffee shop located inside Cartagena’s Old Town. It is a peaceful place where visitors can relax, drink Colombian coffee, and enjoy reading books.

The bookstore is famous for its cozy atmosphere, tall shelves filled with books, and beautiful interior design. Many travelers love spending quiet mornings here before exploring the city.

The shop also offers books in English and works by famous Colombian writer Gabriel Garcia Marquez, making it a favorite place for book lovers visiting Cartagena.

3. Spot the Sloths in Parque Centenario

Parque Centenario is a popular green park in Cartagena where locals and tourists come to relax and enjoy nature. The park was created in 1911 to celebrate Colombia’s independence from Spain.

The most famous attraction here is the chance to see wild sloths and tamarin monkeys living in the trees. Many visitors love spotting these animals in the middle of the city, making the park a fun and unique place to visit in Cartagena.

4. Take a Walking Tour of Cartagena

One of the best ways to understand Cartagena is by joining a walking tour. Local guides explain the city’s history, culture, architecture, and traditions. Walking tours also help visitors learn about pirates, colonial times, and the importance of Cartagena in South American history.

Many travelers begin their trip with a walking tour because it helps them feel comfortable in the city. During the tour, you can see churches, plazas, museums, balconies covered with flowers, and hidden streets.

5. Wander the Magical Walled City

The famous Walled City of Cartagena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The walls were built centuries ago to protect the city from pirates and attacks.

Today, the walled city is one of the most visited places in Colombia. Cobblestone streets, bright flowers, colorful houses, and beautiful balconies create a magical atmosphere. Walking slowly through the old streets is one of the best experiences in Cartagena. Every building tells a story from the colonial period.

6. Explore the Old Town

The old town is full of life from morning until night. Travelers can enjoy cafes, restaurants, plazas, art galleries, churches, and local shops. Many visitors love taking photos because almost every street looks beautiful. Yellow buildings, blue windows, green plants, and old wooden doors make the city very photogenic. The old town is also a great place to buy souvenirs and handmade products.

7. Visit the Clock Tower

The famous Clock Tower is one of the most recognized landmarks in Cartagena. It stands at the main entrance of the old city. The bright yellow structure looks especially beautiful during sunset. Many people meet here before exploring the city.

Around the Clock Tower, you can find street performers, musicians, fruit sellers, and local snacks.

8. Plaza de los Coches

Plaza de los Coches is one of the busiest squares in Cartagena. During colonial times, this area was used for trading goods and even slaves.

Today, it is full of energy and visitors. Small candy shops sell traditional Colombian sweets, and musicians often perform in the square. The plaza is surrounded by historic buildings and restaurants.

9. Plaza Santo Domingo

Plaza Santo Domingo is another beautiful square in Cartagena. It is famous for outdoor restaurants, lively nightlife, and local art. Travelers enjoy sitting here in the evening while listening to music and watching people walk around. The famous sculpture by Fernando Botero is also located in this plaza.

10. Visit Iglesia de Santo Domingo

Iglesia de Santo Domingo is one of the oldest churches in Cartagena. The church has beautiful architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.

Inside, visitors can admire old religious art and historic decorations. The church area becomes very lively during the evening because of nearby restaurants and cafes.

11.  Visit the Cathedral of Cartagena

The Cathedral of Cartagena is one of the most important religious buildings in the city. Its large dome rises above the old streets.

The cathedral has elegant colonial architecture and a calm interior. Many travelers stop here to admire the history and beauty of the building.

12. Santuario de San Pedro Claver

This historic church and monastery honors San Pedro Claver, who helped enslaved people during colonial times.

The building includes a church, museum, and peaceful courtyard. Visitors can learn about the difficult history of slavery in Cartagena while exploring this important place.

13. Walk Along the Cartagena Walls

The old stone walls around Cartagena are one of the city’s most famous attractions. Walking on top of the walls offers amazing views of the ocean and city. Sunset is the best time to visit because the sky turns orange and pink over the Caribbean Sea. Many people buy drinks or snacks and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere while watching the sunset.

14. Enjoy Sunset at Cafe del Mar

Cafe del Mar is one of the most famous sunset spots in Cartagena. It sits directly on the old city walls. Travelers visit for music, ocean views, and relaxing vibes. Watching the sunset here is considered one of the top experiences in Cartagena.

The sea breeze and golden sky create a perfect evening atmosphere.

15. Explore Getsemani

Getsemani is one of the most colorful and artistic neighborhoods in Cartagena. In the past, it was a working-class area, but today it is famous for street art, music, food, and nightlife.

The streets are decorated with murals, hanging flags, flowers, and creative artwork.Many travelers say Getsemani feels more local and authentic than the old town.

16. Visit Callejon Angosto

Callejon Angosto is one of the most photographed streets in Getsemani. Colorful umbrellas and decorations hang above the narrow street. The area is full of cafes, bars, and local shops. It becomes especially lively during the evening.

17. Plaza de la Trinidad

Plaza de la Trinidad is the social center of Getsemani. During the night, locals and tourists gather here to enjoy music, dancing, food, and entertainment.

Street performers often entertain visitors, creating a fun and energetic atmosphere. This plaza is perfect for travelers who want to experience Cartagena’s local culture.

18. Discover Street Art in Getsemani

Getsemani is famous for its incredible street art. Murals cover many walls and tell stories about Cartagena’s culture and history.

Walking through the neighborhood feels like visiting an open-air art gallery. Photographers especially love this area because every corner is colorful and unique.

19. Visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas

Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is the largest fortress built by the Spanish in South America. The massive stone fort was built to protect Cartagena from attacks. Visitors can explore tunnels, walls, staircases, and lookout points.

From the top, you can enjoy beautiful views of the city. This fortress is one of the most important historical attractions in Colombia.

20. Visit Convento de la Popa

Convento de la Popa sits on top of the highest hill in Cartagena. From here, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city, ocean, and surrounding neighborhoods.

The convent itself is peaceful and beautiful, with colorful flowers and religious art.Many travelers visit during the morning because the weather is cooler.

21. Explore the Museums of Cartagena

Cartagena has several interesting museums where visitors can learn about history, culture, and art. Museo del Oro displays gold objects from indigenous cultures. The Palace of the Inquisition explains the dark history of the Spanish Inquisition. Museums are a great option during hot afternoons.

22. Visit the Palace of the Inquisition

The Palace of the Inquisition is one of the most historic buildings in Cartagena. During colonial times, people accused of crimes or witchcraft were judged here. Today, the museum displays old torture devices, historical documents, and colonial artifacts. The building itself is also architecturally beautiful.

23. Explore Museo del Oro

Museo del Oro focuses on indigenous history and gold artifacts from Colombia. Visitors can learn about native communities that lived in the region long before the Spanish arrived. The museum is small but very interesting.

24. Relax in Plaza Bolivar

Plaza Bolivar is a peaceful square filled with trees and benches. Travelers often rest here during hot afternoons because the trees provide shade. Street musicians sometimes perform in the plaza, creating a relaxing atmosphere.

25. Visit Las Bovedas

Las Bovedas was once used as prison cells and military storage rooms. Today, it is a shopping area where visitors can buy souvenirs, art, handmade bags, jewelry, and Colombian products. The colorful shops attract many tourists.

Food is a very important part of Cartagena’s culture. Travelers can enjoy seafood, tropical fruits, fried snacks, rice dishes, and fresh juices. Some popular dishes include coconut rice, fried fish, arepas, ceviche, and empanadas. Street food is also very common in Cartagena.

Eat Colombian and Caribbean Food

Trying Colombian and Caribbean food is one of the best experiences in Cartagena. The city is known for fresh seafood, coconut rice, tropical flavors, and traditional dishes that blend local spices with Caribbean influences.

26. Eat Fresh Seafood

Because Cartagena sits beside the Caribbean Sea, seafood is very popular. Many restaurants serve fish, shrimp, lobster, octopus, and ceviche. Fresh seafood with coconut rice and fried plantains is one of the most traditional meals in Cartagena.

27. Try Colombian Coffee

Colombia is famous for coffee, and Cartagena has many beautiful cafes. Travelers can enjoy strong Colombian coffee while relaxing in colorful courtyards. Many cafes also serve desserts and local pastries.

Época Café is one of the most popular coffee shops in Cartagena. Located in the Old Town, it is the perfect place to relax with fresh Colombian coffee after exploring the city. Many visitors love its cozy atmosphere and delicious iced cappuccinos.

Where to Get Coffee in Cartagena

Cartagena has many cozy cafes where travelers can relax and enjoy fresh Colombian coffee.

i) Black Cat Cafe

Black Cat Cafe is a great place for breakfast and coffee. Visitors love the friendly cats, relaxing atmosphere, and delicious mora crepes. It is also a nice spot to escape the heat and enjoy a quiet break.

ii) Cafe Mural

Cafe Mural is one of the most popular coffee shops in Cartagena. The cafe is known for high-quality Colombian coffee and tasty desserts like the famous Enyucado cake.

iii) Stepping Stone Cafe

Stepping Stone Cafe is a favorite place for healthy breakfasts, fresh coffee, and avocado toast.

iv) Abaco Books and Coffee

Abaco Books and Coffee combines a bookstore with a cozy cafe. Travelers enjoy reading books while drinking coffee in the cool and peaceful atmosphere.

v) Folklore Colombian Cafe

Located in the Old Town, Folklore Colombian Cafe is known for great coffee, comfortable seating, and fast WiFi.

28. Taste Tropical Fruits

Street vendors sell many tropical fruits in Cartagena. Mango, papaya, pineapple, guava, passion fruit, and coconut are very popular. Fresh fruit juices help visitors stay cool in the warm weather.

29. Have an Affordable Spa Day

Enjoying a spa day in Cartagena is a great way to relax during your trip. The city has many affordable spas where visitors can enjoy massages, facials, and wellness treatments at reasonable prices.

A relaxing 60-minute massage usually costs around $45 to $55, which is much cheaper than in many countries like the United States. Many travelers visit places like Rosi Spa Medicinal for popular treatments such as lymphatic drainage massages after long days of sightseeing and beach activities.

30. Visit Mercado Bazurto

Mercado Bazurto is Cartagena’s biggest local market. The market feels busy, loud, colorful, and full of energy. Visitors can find seafood, fruits, spices, local food, and everyday products. This market offers a more authentic look at local life.

31. Learn How to Salsa

Learning salsa dancing is one of the most fun things to do in Cartagena. Music and dancing are a big part of Colombian culture, and the city has many lively salsa clubs where visitors can enjoy the nightlife.

Popular places like Cafe Havana in Getsemani and Donde Fidel in the city center are famous for live music and dancing late into the night. Beginners can also join salsa classes with professional instructors before heading to the clubs.

Whether you travel alone, with friends, or as a couple, salsa dancing is a great way to experience the energy and culture of Cartagena.

32. Spend the Afternoon at a Parrot Sanctuary

Located near Cartagena, Loros Wildlife Sanctuary is a special place where rescued parrots, macaws, sloths, and monkeys are cared for. Visitors can help feed animals, plant trees, and learn about wildlife conservation while exploring the beautiful natural reserve.

33. Relax on Cartagena Beaches

Cartagena has several beaches where travelers can relax under the sun. Some beaches are busy and lively while others are peaceful and quiet. The warm Caribbean weather makes beach days enjoyable throughout the year.

Bora Bora Beach Club in the Rosario Islands is one of the most popular beach clubs near Cartagena. Visitors enjoy beautiful ocean views, music, drinks, and relaxing beach beds. A day pass usually costs around $85 per person and includes round-trip boat transportation and a welcome drink.

Although many travelers enjoy the experience, some feel the beach club is expensive for what is included. The boat ride from Cartagena takes around 45 minutes each way.

34. Take a Full-Day Island Tour

A full-day island tour is one of the most exciting activities in Cartagena. Many tours include visits to several islands, beach clubs, swimming spots, music, and drinks. Some party boat tours cost around $150 per person plus extra marina fees. Travelers can enjoy island hopping, Caribbean views, and lively music while exploring places like the Rosario Islands and Cholon Island.

35. Visit Volcan Totumo

Volcan Totumo is a famous mud volcano located about one hour from Cartagena. Visitors float in warm natural mud that many people believe has relaxing benefits for the skin. After the mud bath, travelers wash off in a nearby lagoon. Half-day tours to the volcano are very popular with tourists visiting Cartagena.

36. Tour the San Felipe Castle

San Felipe Castle is one of Cartagena’s most important historic attractions. The fortress was built in the 16th century to protect the city from pirates and attacks. Tickets cost around 33,000 COP ($8), and visitors can explore tunnels, walls, and lookout points with amazing views of Cartagena and the Caribbean Sea.

Restaurant	Description
Di Silvio Trattoria	Famous for delicious pizza and pasta, this restaurant is one of the best Italian food spots in Cartagena.
ColombItalia	A popular street food place known for tasty grilled arepas and quick local snacks.
Ganesha Indian Restaurant	Perfect for travelers looking for spicy Indian curries and flavorful Asian food.
Saint Roque	Serves unique Indonesian fusion dishes in a friendly atmosphere, and part of the profits support charity work.

38. Enjoy a Rum and Chocolate Tasting

A rum and chocolate tasting is one of the most unique experiences in Cartagena. Rum is very popular in Colombia, and many tasting tours pair local rum with delicious handmade chocolate.

Visitors can learn about Colombian rum, taste different flavors, and enjoy how perfectly the chocolate complements the drink. It is a fun and relaxing activity for food and drink lovers visiting Cartagena.

39. Visit Bocagrande

Bocagrande is the modern part of Cartagena. Tall buildings, hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers line the coast. The beach here is easy to access and popular with tourists. Many travelers stay in Bocagrande because it has modern hotels and ocean views.

40. Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca is one of the most famous beach near Cartagena. White sand and turquoise water attract visitors from around the world. The beach is located on Baru Island and can be reached by boat or car. Many travelers spend a full day here swimming, relaxing, and eating seafood.

41. Visit the Rosario Islands

The Rosario Islands are a beautiful group of Caribbean islands near Cartagena. Crystal-clear water, coral reefs, and white beaches make this area perfect for relaxing. Many travelers take boat tours to the islands. The Rosario Islands are one of the top day trips from Cartagena.

42. Go Snorkeling in the Rosario Islands

The Rosario Islands are known for snorkeling and marine life. Visitors can see colorful fish, coral reefs, and clear blue water. Snorkeling tours are very popular because the water is calm and beautiful.

43. Enjoy Island Hopping

Island hopping is a favorite activity near Cartagena. Travelers visit several islands in one day, stopping at beaches, restaurants, and snorkeling areas. Every island has a different atmosphere. Some are peaceful while others are more lively.

44. Visit Isla Grande

Isla Grande is one of the largest islands in the Rosario Islands. The island is known for nature, calm beaches, and eco-hotels. Many travelers stay overnight to enjoy the peaceful environment.

45. Experience Cartagena Nightlife

Cartagena becomes very lively after sunset. Music fills the streets, and many bars and clubs stay open late. Travelers can enjoy salsa, reggaeton, live bands, rooftop bars, and dance clubs.

46. Visit Rooftop Bars

Rooftop bars are very popular in Cartagena because they offer amazing city views.  Watching the sunset from a rooftop while enjoying music and drinks is a memorable experience. Many rooftops overlook the old town and Caribbean Sea.

47. Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

Horse-drawn carriages move through the old streets during the evening. This romantic activity allows visitors to see the city lights and historic buildings. Many couples enjoy carriage rides after dinner.

48. Shop for Souvenirs

Cartagena has many small shops selling handmade products. Travelers can buy hats, bags, jewelry, art, coffee, and colorful clothing. Local crafts make great gifts and memories from the trip.

49. Visit Local Art Galleries

The city has many art galleries featuring Colombian artists. Travelers can see paintings, sculptures, photography, and modern art. Art galleries are especially common inside the old town. If you want to explore new things visit new orleans.

UNESCO recognized Cartagena because of its historic walls, colonial architecture, and cultural importance. The city preserves many original buildings from the colonial period. Walking through Cartagena feels like traveling back in time.

Best Time to Visit Cartagena

Cartagena has a warm tropical climate all year. December to April is the driest and most popular season for tourists, with hot and humid weather, so light clothing is recommended

What to Wear in Cartagena

Light clothes are best because Cartagena is very warm. Comfortable shoes are important because many streets are made of stone. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats are also useful.

Safety Tips for Cartagena

Like many tourist cities, visitors should stay aware of their surroundings. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep important belongings safe. Using trusted transportation and staying in popular areas helps travelers feel comfortable. Many visitors enjoy Cartagena safely every year.

Common Tourist Scams to Avoid

Some street vendors may charge very high prices if visitors do not ask first. It is always smart to confirm prices before buying food, souvenirs, or services. Many travelers recommend politely saying no to unwanted offers.

Cartagena offers many types of accommodation for different travelers. Some people prefer historic streets and colonial buildings, while others enjoy modern hotels near the beach. Every area in Cartagena has a different atmosphere and experience.

i) Stay in the Old Town

The Old Town of Cartagena is one of the best places to stay for first-time visitors. This area is full of colorful streets, historic buildings, beautiful plazas, restaurants, and cafes. Travelers who love history and photography usually enjoy staying here. Walking through the old town during the evening feels magical because of the lights, music, and colonial atmosphere.

ii) Stay in Getsemani

Getsemani is popular with younger travelers, backpackers, and solo visitors. The neighborhood is known for its street art, nightlife, live music, and local culture. Many hostels, cafes, and budget hotels are located here. Getsemani feels lively and creative, especially during the evening when people gather in the plazas and streets.

iii) Stay in Bocagrande

Bocagrande is the modern part of Cartagena. This area has tall buildings, shopping centers, restaurants, and hotels facing the beach. Travelers who want modern comfort, ocean views, and easy beach access often choose Bocagrande. Many luxury hotels and apartments are located in this area.

Many luxury travelers stay inside Cartagena’s Walled City, where restored colonial mansions have become elegant boutique hotels with rooftop pools, courtyards, spas, and fine dining. These hotels offer a romantic and luxurious way to experience the city’s historic charm.

Budget Travel in Cartagena

Backpackers and budget travelers can find affordable hostels and guesthouses. Getsemani is especially popular for cheaper accommodation. Street food and local transportation also help visitors save money.

Day Trips from Cartagena

Many amazing places can be visited from Cartagena. Popular day trips include the Rosario Islands, Baru Island, mud volcanoes, and nearby beaches. Boat tours are one of the most common activities.

Visit the Totumo Mud Volcano

The Totumo Mud Volcano is a unique attraction near Cartagena. Visitors float inside warm mud before washing off in a nearby lagoon. Many travelers describe the experience as funny and relaxing.

Cartagena for Couples

Cartagena is one of the most romantic cities in South America. Couples enjoy sunset dinners, carriage rides, rooftop bars, and beautiful hotels. The city’s colonial atmosphere creates a perfect romantic setting.

Cartagena for Families

Families can also enjoy Cartagena. Children often love beaches, boat tours, plazas, and colorful streets. Many family-friendly hotels and restaurants are available.

Cartagena for Solo Travelers

Solo travelers often enjoy Cartagena because it is social and lively. Walking tours, hostels, cafes, and group boat tours make it easy to meet people. Getsemani is especially popular among solo travelers.

Cartagena for Food Lovers

Food lovers can explore traditional Colombian dishes, Caribbean seafood, local markets, and modern restaurants. Many restaurants combine local flavors with international cooking styles. Street snacks are also an important part of the city’s food culture.

Cartagena for Photographers

Cartagena is one of the most photogenic cities in Latin America. Colorful walls, flower-covered balconies, churches, and sunsets create endless photography opportunities. Early morning is often the best time for peaceful photos.

Cartagena Culture and Local Life

Music, dancing, art, and community are deeply connected to Cartagena culture. People often gather in plazas during the evening to enjoy conversation and music. Local traditions remain very important.

Festivals and Celebrations in Cartagena

Cartagena hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year. Music events, film festivals, and religious celebrations attract both locals and visitors. The city becomes especially energetic during festival periods.

Why Travelers Love Cartagena

Travelers love Cartagena because it combines history, beaches, culture, food, and nightlife in one destination. Some visitors come for relaxation while others come for adventure and exploration. The city offers unforgettable experiences for almost every type of traveler.

Authentic Traveler Reviews About Cartagena

• “Cartagena feels like walking inside a colorful movie scene.”
• “The sunsets from the city walls were the most beautiful part of my trip.”
• “I loved exploring Getsemani because every street was full of art and music.”
• “The Rosario Islands had the clearest water I saw in Colombia.”
• “The old town looked magical during the evening lights.”

Cartagena is one of the most exciting destinations in Colombia and all of South America. The city combines colonial beauty, Caribbean beaches, rich culture, delicious food, and unforgettable sunsets. Visitors can spend their days exploring colorful streets, relaxing on islands, learning about history, tasting local food, and dancing to live music.

Whether you love photography, history, beaches, food, or nightlife, Cartagena offers something special. The magical atmosphere of the old city, the energy of Getsemani, and the beauty of the Caribbean Sea make Cartagena a destination that travelers remember forever. If you are planning a trip to Colombia, Cartagena deserves a place at the top of your travel list.

i. What are the best things to do in Cartagena?

The best things include exploring the Old Town, Getsemani, Rosario Islands, San Felipe Castle, beaches, and local food spots.

ii. Is Cartagena worth visiting?

Yes, Cartagena is very popular because of its history, colorful streets, Caribbean beaches, and vibrant culture.

iii. How many days do I need in Cartagena?

Most travelers spend 3 to 5 days to enjoy the main attractions and nearby islands.

iv. What is the most famous place in Cartagena?

The most famous place is the Walled City of Cartagena, known for its historic charm and colorful buildings.

v. Are the Rosario Islands worth visiting?

Yes, the Rosario Islands are very popular for clear water, beaches, snorkeling, and island tours.

vi. Is Cartagena safe for tourists?

Yes, Cartagena is generally safe in tourist areas, but visitors should still stay alert and avoid risky areas at night.

vii. What is Getsemani known for?

Getsemani is known for street art, nightlife, local culture, and budget-friendly stays.

viii. What food should I try in Cartagena?

You should try seafood, coconut rice, fried fish, empanadas, arepas, and fresh tropical juices.

ix. When is the best time to visit Cartagena?

The best time is December to April, when the weather is dry and sunny.

x. Can I do day trips from Cartagena?

Yes, popular day trips include the Rosario Islands, Playa Blanca, Volcan Totumo, and island tours.