Bars & Nightlife Centro Historico

Ranked number 8 in the World's 50 Best Bars for both 2024 and 2025, and named World's Best Bar at the 2024 Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards, Alquímico is not just the best bar in Cartagena — it's one of the best bars on the planet, and it happens to be here. Housed in a 19th-century mansion on Calle del Colegio, the building alone stops people at the entrance: high ceilings, a grand staircase, an open central courtyard, and three floors each with their own distinct identity.

Beach Clubs Beyond the City

Blue Apple Beach is one of those “must‑visit” escapes when you’re in Cartagena. Just a quick boat ride away, it gives you the feeling of being far removed from the city without the long trek to the Rosario Islands. Spend the day however you like: grab a spot by the pool where the animators keep the party going with music and dancing, or settle into the quieter beach area for a more laid‑back vibe. The food is tasty, the drinks keep flowing, and the whole place has a stylish, social energy that feels both welcoming and fun. Day passes include transport and use of the facilities, and lunch making it an easy day trip, but if your schedule allows, staying the night is well worth it. It’s one of the best ways to escape Cartagena’s heat and see a different side of the Caribbean coast—all without spending an hour on a boat.

Bars & Nightlife Centro Historico

The classic cocktail bar of Cartagena, and one that has set the benchmark since opening in 2013. El Barón sits right on Plaza San Pedro Claver with outdoor seating facing one of the most beautiful churches in the Walled City. The cocktails are among the best in the city, built around classic techniques with local Colombian ingredients and a rotating seasonal menu. Come in the evening, not the day — it's an outdoor bar and the daytime heat makes it a very different experience. On most weekend nights, a Michael Jackson impersonator will show up with a full posse of backup dancers and commit completely to the performance. It's as good as it sounds.

Activities Centro Historico

For decades, horse-drawn carriages were one of the signature ways to explore Cartagena's Walled City. Under Mayor Dumek Turbay and a coalition of animal rights groups, all 120 horses have been retired and replaced with a fleet of fully electric carriages that look almost identical to the originals — same old-timey colonial aesthetic, zero emissions, and no animals involved. It's a genuinely thoughtful initiative and a great way to see the city.

Beach Clubs Beyond the City

Eteka Beach Club is the closest island escape from Cartagena. It's a quick 10‑minute boat ride from Bocagrande but couldn't feel like more of an escape. The property feels like you’ve landed on a remote, tropical island (think Bali vibes) thanks to its towering palm trees, thatched‑roof bar, and relaxed, peaceful atmosphere. This is a place to sip tropical cocktails, savor incredible food (the fried fish is legendary), and unplug for the day. A day pass includes lunch, a welcome cocktail, and the boat transfer, making it a simple and relaxing getaway. The focus here is on chill, grown‑up vibes—no kids allowed—so it’s perfect for couples or friends looking for something low‑key. While the beach doesn’t always have crystal‑clear water due to its northern Tierra Bomba location, it’s still a beautiful spot to recharge and refresh away from the city and the heat of the Caribbean.

Beach Clubs Beyond the City

Fénix Beach is a trendy and vibrant escape just 15 minutes by boat from Cartagena, departing from the Muelle de la Bodeguita. During the day, it offers a perfect mix of relaxation and fun with poolside lounging, great cocktails, and group activities set to an international music mix. At night, it turns romantic and enchanting, with the city skyline glowing across the bay. Day passes include several options and upgrades, but staying overnight is highly recommended since rooms are more affordable than other beach clubs and the nighttime vibe is beautiful. The northern location means the ocean water isn’t always crystal clear, but the overall experience makes it well worth visiting.

Beach Clubs Beyond the City

The boat ride is just 15 minutes, but somehow it feels like you’ve crossed an ocean. Maybe it’s the color of the water—it isn’t quite Rosario Islands turquoise, but it’s close enough that you stop caring about the difference the moment you step onto the sand. Makani feels quiet in a way Cartagena never does, like someone turned down the city’s volume knob. The staff greet you like they’ve been waiting for you all morning, and within minutes you’ve got a drink in hand and a place to settle in.