473km (294 miles) NW of Medellín, 658km (409 miles) NW of Bogotá
Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the Venice of Colombia, with one of the most impressive old towns in the Western Hemisphere. With just the right mix of sun, sand, and colonial charm, it's likely to be the highlight of your trip. Cartagena's tourism infrastructure is more developed than anywhere else in the country, so unlike most Colombian destinations, it's a pretty easy place to travel. A walk through Cartagena's inner walled city feels a bit like stepping onto the set of a 16th-century telenovela, complete with cobblestone streets and grandiose balconies overflowing with flowers.
Whether you come to Cartagena to splurge on its many fine hotels and restaurants, to explore its 500 years of history, or to sunbathe on its popular beaches, you'll discover an enchanting place you're unlikely to forget. As Colombia's top honeymoon destination, the city is full of romance, five-star hotels, and excellent dining options.
Note: One of the unpleasant effects of Cartagena's distinction as the tourism capital of Colombia is the presence of persistent beach vendors and Old Town serenaders who can't seem to take "no" for an answer. And saying you don't speak Spanish won't help -- these guys seem to speak any language, as long as they're selling you something. The best way to avoid unwanted solicitations or serenades is to say no firmly and definitely avoid eye contact. If you make eye contact, resign yourself to buying a necklace or two or accepting a serenade.
