96 hours in one of the most colorful cities in South America – the most perfect way to spend a vacation. Cartagena hands down is one of my favorite places that I’ve been to so far and for good reason. There’s so much history, art, and culture here – like seriously, you’ll never run out of things to do! Some travelers wonder is 96 hours enough time to see and explore the majority of Cartagena and I’d say yes! This 96-hour itinerary is ideal for travelers who want a mix of culture, adventure, relaxation, and nightlife.

Plus, this itinerary includes the must-do local tradition of touching the famous butt of La Gertrudis statue—a fun way to bring good luck and ensure you’ll return to Cartagena again soon. So get ready to explore, experience, and maybe even guarantee a return visit! This day-by-day itinerary will help you experience the best of Cartagena, Colombia and has everything you need for a memorable vacation—and it’s one you’ll definitely want to bookmark for your trip.

96 Hours Left

A day of ocean views, historic streets, and iconic sips.

Morning: Breakfast at La Magnolia Rooftop

Start your trip with a delicious breakfast or brunch at La Magnolia Rooftop. With gorgeous views of Cartagena and a laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect spot to ease into your adventure. Known for their rooftop brunches, cozy seating, and lounge pool – it’s a great place to fuel up before a day of exploration.

Midday: Wander Through the Old Walled City

Join a free walking tour or a Cartagena street food tour, which usually meets at the iconic El Reloj de Torres (the Clock Tower). These tours take you through the historic Walled City while diving into Cartagena’s rich past, food culture, and Afro-Caribbean roots. You can stop and take a photo with the Palenquera ladies who are considered to be Afro-Colombian royalty. You’ll learn about the history of Cartagena, La Fortaleza, visit the plaza where you can take pictures with pigeons on your head.

With vibrant pastel buildings, centuries-old forts like Castillo San Felipe del Morro, and charming local boutiques and art galleries, there’s so much to explore. It’s the perfect way to soak in the culture, snap some unforgettable photos, and truly get a feel for the heart of the Cartagena on your first day.

Afternoon: Music and Drinks at Matiz Restaurant and Bar

By now, after exploring a bit of the city — you’ve mustered up an appetite and what better way to enjoy the rest of your afternoon by enjoying some food and a few drinks with some live music at Matiz Restaurant and Bar. It’s a cute little restaurant located right in the heart of Cartagena.

Evening: Explore Getsemaní

Head to Getsemaní, Cartagena’s most vibrant neighborhood, for an evening full of entertainment, there’s plenty of art, shopping, music and dancing that you’ll find here in this area. There are streets filled with street art, music, and local stories. Afterward, enjoy dinner at one of the mini restaurants they have to offer. Explain the significance of Getsemaní here.

Night: Music & Mojitos at Cafe Havana

If you’re looking for nightlife in Cartagena, staying in Getsemaní is the best option since you’re already here for dinner. A wonderful way to end your first night in Cartagena is in Café Havana, a legendary salsa club featuring live bands and dancers.

It’s open from 8 PM to 3 AM—perfect for dancing the night away. There is a cover fee of $10 USD per person. It does get packed in there so it’s a tight place but the vibes are amazing. We loved it so much, we went back here twice!

72 Hours Left

A day full of beach vibes, salsa or bomba moves and magical waters.

Morning & Afternoon: A Day San Basilio De Palenque

Embark on a full-day tour to San Basilio de Palenque, the first free Black town in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Book with Everything Cartagena for a smooth experience. This all-day cultural tour includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and lunch. You’ll spend time with locals, learn their language (Palenquero), explore their traditions, and taste Afro-Caribbean cuisine. Expect this tour to last about 8 hours total.

Enjoy dishes like coconut French toast with rum caramel, buttermilk pancakes topped with mixed fruits and vanilla whipped cream, and a fresh fruit bowl. For a savory start, try the salmon benedict or the egg whites frittata with goat cheese, arugula, and cherry heirloom tomatoes. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to linger, but there’s still one more day of island adventure ahead.

Evening & Night: Dinner, Sunset, and Dancing at El Mirador Rooftop

After returning, take time to relax—perhaps by the pool or with a quick nap. Then head to El Mirador, one of Cartagena’s chicest rooftops with direct views of the ocean and San Pedro Claver Church. As the sun sets, enjoy fresh ceviche, grilled seafood, and a chilled glass of wine while the DJ sets the tone for a mellow, upscale evening. Hang out here for salsa and bachata dancing under the stars before calling it a night.

48 Hours Left

A day full of beach vibes, salsa or bomba moves and magical waters.

Morning: Bruch with a View at Townhouse Cartagena

Start your day with breakfast or brunch at Townhouse Cartagena, a funky, boutique hotel in the heart of the Walled City. Known for its playful decor, rooftop bar, and central location, it’s a favorite among travelers who love design, cocktails, and culture. Head straight to the rooftop for a drink with a view. With colorful daybeds, a plunge pool, and panoramic cityscapes, this is your front-row seat to Cartagena’s skyline.

Midday: Shopping, Performances & Emerald Treasures

Spend your afternoon shopping in Cartagena’s boutiques. Stroll through the Walled City to discover unique local fashion, jewelry, and art. Cartagena has everything from contemporary Colombian designers to luxe Colombian fashion, Calle del Santisimo (handmade bags, art, and colorful finds). Also be sure to checkout the Emerald Museums as Cartagena is fmaous for its emeralds.

These museums off tours and shopping opportunities as well. additoinally, one of th ebest souvenirs you can bring home are Colombia’s iconic Wayuu bags that are handmade by Indigenous women. After you’ve done some shopping, be sure to head over to Bolivar park where you can a live Mapale performance. Mapale is a colombian folk dance where the dancers imitate a fish moving before your next acitivity.

Early Evening: Totumo Mud Volcano Tour

Take a private tour with Everything Cartagena to the Totumo Mud Volcano. This natural wonder offers a therapeutic mud bath experience and peaceful sunset views. It’s best to go in the late afternoon when it’s less crowded and not too hot. You’ll soak, relax, and rinse off while watching the sun dip behind the horizon.

Late Evening: Dinner & Dancing at El Trendi Rooftop

Return to your hotel, shower, and rest. Then walk to El Trendi Rooftop, a modern rooftop bar with an artsy twist and Cartagena’s younger local crowd. This is where the cool kids go to enjoy music, food, and Caribbean breezes.

Late Night: Salsa or Bar Hop in Getsemaní

If you’re still up for more, head out for some late-night dancing or bar hopping in Getsemaní. The streets are alive with rhythms, energy, and endless options.

24 Hours Left

A day full of beach vibes, salsa or bomba moves and magical waters.

Morning & Afternoon: Pa’ue Beach Lounge & Rosario Islands Tour

Spend your last day relaxing in paradise at the Pa’ue beach lounge that also offers a tour of the rosario islands. By booking with everything Cartagena, you can enjoy a day pass there where you can kayak, eat lunch included, enjoy a day by the beach, get a massage. They even offer a tour that takes you to the rosario islands where you can see Pablo Escobar’s hideout. This is a full day tour that covers your morning and afternoon.

Once youre back and shower, then get ready to spend your final night for evening dinner at Sophia Hotel Restaurant and bar that has a beautiful rooftop view overlooking the city of Cartagena. A great way to end the night. 

Evening: Dinner at Sophia Restaurant and Bar

For your first night, ease into Cartagena’s culinary scene with dinner at Matiz, a romantic and elegant spot known for blending Colombian flavors with international flair. Think octopus carpaccio, steak with truffle butter, and tropical cocktails under soft candlelight. It’s the perfect start to your getaway.

Need more planning tips for visiting Cartagena,, check out my Colombia Travel Guide. It’s packed with everything you need to plan the perfect trip—from where to stay to what to do all over the island.