Créé par Emilie, le 7 mai 2026
Votre guide Ryo
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The city of Cartagena (Carthage) in Spanish, is one of the most visited cities in southern Spain. The first thing you should know about it is that it has a close past with the sea, and this is particularly felt in the various museums and sites you may visit (which we can't wait to present to you in this ranking ^^). Rich in history and culture, it has been the place of residence of many passing peoples, who subsequently left an artistic imprint of their passage. By the way, here's a fun fact: strongly coveted by the Romans as well as the Carthaginians, the city owes its current name to the Latin name Cartago Nova. Interesting, isn't it? Without further ado, discover the six flagship activities to do once in Cartagena.
What to do in Cartagena?
1. A boat excursion to the Rosario Islands
Category: €€/Unique/Sporty
Description: Yes, we're starting strong. But after all, you're on vacation in one of the most beautiful countries and in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, so why not think big! Cartagena is geographically well situated, since it is located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia? Yes, you read that right "Caribbean". This means that sublime beaches with fine sand and turquoise water await you. One of the most frequent and most appreciated boat excursions by tourists is undoubtedly that of the Rosario Islands. A true paradise just a short hour from Cartagena, the waters surrounding the islands have been preserved and shelter marine life that is absolutely magnificent to visit...In depth. With an experienced guide, equip yourself with your masks and snorkels to dive into a world of a thousand and one wonders. For a very affordable price, lunch, drinks and equipment will be provided, jump at the chance!
2. The Castle of San Felipe
Category: €/Cultural
Description: After your trip on the waters, how about setting foot on dry land and going to one of the most famous places in Cartagena? The castle of San Felipe is a true little marvel for those who enter it: architecture fans, you will be thrilled. This immense edifice came to life about 500 years ago, in 1536. And since then, it has not stopped arousing admiration and respect from its visitors. The fortress was intended to protect the city from the various possible attacks of the time: and it worked! Cartagena was attacked several times over the centuries, as in 1794, when it was defended against nearly 23,000 British soldiers accompanied by 6 ships, against only 3,000 soldiers on Cartagena's side. And the building served as an important shield that helped preserve the city and its inhabitants. The little extra? You will have a sublime view of the city once inside!
3. A mud bath at El Totumo
Category: €/Unique
Description: There are classic activities like visiting museums, and others that can very clearly be qualified as unique: the mud bath at El Totumo is the perfect example. For a few hours, leave the city aside to go...To the top of a volcano. Excursions to El Totumo are certainly among the most coveted by the inhabitants and tourists of Cartagena. It must be said that floating and getting massaged while bathing in mud is not a luxury that is given to everyone! Many ignore it or still tend to despise it, but mud baths provide an almost instant effect on the skin: the regenerating virtues of the earth are unprecedented. It is also one of the most effective cures there is, and works as a natural analgesic. Certainly, it may seem strange at first to dive into this mass of mud, but once you are completely in it you will quickly find it relaxing.
4. The visit to the Museo del Oro Zenu
Category: Free/Cultural
Description: Open every day of the week except Monday, the Museo del Oro Zenu is an ideal place for a "chill" but instructive outing. It offers close to 902 archaeological objects, made from gold, ceramics, and silver. It is a small collection certainly, but don't they say that quality should be favored over quantity? And know dear friends that what you will discover inside these walls is absolutely magnificent. The place is actually focused on the history, lifestyle, customs and traditions of the indigenous people. You will see beautiful pieces and from time to time, there are temporary exhibitions on for example reproductions of sounds of the "pipos" of the time. Additional info to take into account: in addition to being free, the museum has air conditioning, which will allow you to escape a little from the heat of Cartagena, especially if you travel in summer.
5. The visit to the old town and tasting the gastronomy
Category: €€/Cultural/Gastronomy
Description: The visit to Cartagena necessarily passes through its old town. Between the pretty cobblestone streets and the marina, it's a whole rich heritage that is presented. One of the buildings you absolutely must visit is that of the town hall which is described as "a jewel of modernist architecture from the early 20th century". Strolling in the old town is a bit like walking for free in an open-air museum. From time to time, you can stop and sit on a bench, or eat a local specialty in one of the many restaurants in the city. Because yes, vacations are also symbols of "culinary discoveries". Cartagena swarms with stands where the smell of dishes does not take long to wander around the city to reach your nostrils and thus put all your senses in turmoil...How about a delicious gazpacho? Or a good paella for lunch?
6. The Roman Theatre Museum
Category: €/Cultural
Description: The Romans are among the peoples who left a deep imprint in the city of Cartagena. That's why we strongly advise you to go to the Roman Theatre Museum. The place proudly exhibits the pieces found during the excavations carried out in the Roman theatre, a place built between the 5th and 1st century BC, and which therefore has many things to teach us...If you are passionate about mythology, if you attach great importance to art in general and if you are curious at heart, no doubt you are in the right place! The Roman theatre being able to accommodate up to 6000 people (yes it has nothing to envy to the classic theatres we know today ^^) you will feel comfortable there and will be able to walk around. Don't miss the archive and study rooms which constitute THE highlight of the place!