Guías 2 de noviembre de 2026

Cartagena Itinerary: 7 or 10 Days (2026 Day-by-Day Plan)

How to spend 7 or 10 days in Cartagena: the walled city, Getsemaní, Rosario Islands, Palenque, the mud volcano and Tayrona, day by day.

How many days do you need in Cartagena?

Seven days in Cartagena gives you the walled city, Getsemaní, San Felipe Castle, a Rosario Islands day and trips to San Basilio de Palenque and the Totumo mud volcano. With 10 days, add Barú or the San Bernardo Islands, or continue to Santa Marta and Tayrona Park. Book walking tours directly with certified local guides on GuiME.

Book a local guide →

Short answer: 4–5 days covers Cartagena itself; 7 or 10 days lets you add islands, culture and the Caribbean coast. Here is a day-by-day plan with a local guide's tips.

Cartagena in 7 days

Day 1 — The walled city

Walk the Ciudad Amurallada: Plaza Santo Domingo, the Clock Tower, the Cathedral and the flower-covered balconies. Watch the sunset from the city walls. A walking tour with a local guide gives you the stories behind every corner.

Day 2 — Getsemaní

Explore Getsemaní, the bohemian neighborhood of street art, Plaza de la Trinidad and live music at night.

Day 3 — San Felipe Castle and La Popa

Visit San Felipe de Barajas Castle, the largest Spanish fortress in the Americas, then go up to the La Popa convent for the best view over the city.

Day 4 — Rosario Islands

Take a boat to the Rosario Islands: turquoise water, snorkeling and a beach day. Book with a reputable operator and confirm what is included.

Day 5 — San Basilio de Palenque

Visit San Basilio de Palenque, about an hour away: the first free town of the Americas, recognized by UNESCO for its culture, music and language.

Day 6 — Totumo mud volcano and La Boquilla

Float in the Totumo mud volcano, then have fresh fish and coconut rice by the sea in La Boquilla.

Day 7 — Food and markets

Do a food tour: arepa de huevo, ceviche, cocadas, tropical fruits and a visit to the Bazurto market with a local.

Cartagena in 10 days: add these

Days 8–9 — Barú or the San Bernardo Islands: sleep by the beach on Playa Blanca or in the quieter San Bernardo archipelago.
Day 10 — Santa Marta and Tayrona: or extend north to Santa Marta (about 4 hours) for Tayrona National Park.