Half the reason Cartagena is Colombia's top tourist destination is because of its vibrant nightlife. Cartagena's party scene is well developed with something for everyone -- whether you want to sip cocktails on the beach, salsa dance Caribbean-style, or jam to '80s rock. Much of the nightlife is centered on Calle del Arsenal, in the Getsemaní neighborhood, though there are also several party options in the inner walled city.
Mr. Babilla, Calle Arsenal no. 9B-137 (tel. 5/664-8616; daily 8pm-4am), plays crossover music and is by far Cartagena's most famous nightclub. The eclectic decorations, tasty cocktails, and party-hard atmosphere bring in Colombia's cream of the crop and a large foreign clientele. La Carbonera, Av. del Arsenal no. 9A-47 (tel. 5/664-6237; daily 9pm-4am), another popular nightclub in the Getsemaní neighborhood, plays a little bit of everything.
Café Havana, Calle Media Luna and Calle del Guerrero (tel. 315/690-2566; daily 7pm-4am), in the Getsemaní neighborhood, is dedicated to Cuban music. This place also offers decent sandwiches and light fare, and it's one of the more atmospheric places in town. There is often live music and the clientele tends to be foreigners.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
