Cartagena's walled Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of colorful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and Caribbean charm. Rafael Núñez International Airport is just 20 minutes from the historic center.

About Cartagena City Center

Cartagena de Indias is one of South America\'s most captivating cities. The walled Old City (Ciudad Amurallada) is a masterpiece of colonial Spanish architecture, with pastel-painted buildings dripping with bougainvillea, wooden balconies overlooking narrow streets, and grand plazas anchored by centuries-old churches. The Clock Tower Gate (Torre del Reloj) marks the main entrance, opening onto Plaza de los Coches, once the site of the city\'s slave market.

Within the walls, the neighborhoods of San Diego and Santo Domingo buzz with boutique hotels, rooftop bars, and upscale Colombian restaurants. Getsemaní, just outside the walls, has transformed from a working-class barrio into the city\'s coolest neighborhood with street art, salsa bars, and hostels. Cartagena\'s Caribbean coast offers the beaches of Bocagrande\'s high-rise district and boat trips to the Rosario Islands, a pristine archipelago of coral reefs. The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, the largest Spanish fortress in the Americas, overlooks the entire city.

Nearby Landmarks

Castillo San Felipe de Barajas Clock Tower Gate San Pedro Claver Church Getsemaní Bocagrande Beach

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost Varies by traffic
Time 20-40 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Exit Rafael Núñez Airport and take a taxi from the official stand.
2. Fare to the walled Old City: COP 15,000–25,000 (15–20 min).
3. Taxis are not metered—agree on the fare before departure.
4. Alternatively, use inDriver or DiDi ride-hailing apps for transparent pricing.
5. No public bus runs directly from the airport to the Old City.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi Varies by traffic 20-40 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Taxis and ride-hailing (inDriver, DiDi) are available 24/7. A taxi from the airport to the Old City at night costs COP 20,000–35,000. The Old City's nightlife runs late—bars and clubs in Getsemaní and the walled city stay open until 3:00 AM or later. Walking within the walled city after midnight is generally safe due to the constant activity and police presence.

Luggage Tips

The Old City has cobblestone streets that are challenging for wheeled luggage. If your hotel is deep within the walled city, a taxi will drop you at the nearest gate—you may need to walk 2–5 minutes on stones. Pack with this in mind or arrange porter service through your hotel. Luggage storage is available at the airport.

Accessibility

The walled Old City has narrow sidewalks, cobblestone streets, and colonial buildings with steps—wheelchair access is very limited. Bocagrande's modern high-rise area is more accessible with flat sidewalks. Castillo San Felipe has a ramp to the main entrance. The airport is fully accessible. Taxis are the best option for mobility-impaired travelers.