Cartagena on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

Discover the vibrant charm of Cartagena without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Cartagena, Spain is a hidden gem that is perfect for those on a limited budget. There are plenty of affordable accommodations, such as hostels and budget hotels, as well as delicious street food options. Visitors can explore the historic attractions, such as the Roman Theatre and the beautiful beaches, without breaking the bank.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Old Town

  • Check into Hotel San Diego, a charming budget hotel in the heart of the walled city
  • Take a stroll through the colorful streets of the Old Town and soak in the history and architecture
  • Stop by the Palace of the Inquisition for a glimpse into the city's dark past
  • Grab a bite at the La Cocina de Socorro, a local spot serving up amazing seafood
  • Sip on a mojito at Cafe del Mar while watching the stunning sunset over the ocean
Day 2

Island Hopping Adventure

  • Book a day trip to the idyllic Isla del Encanto and enjoy snorkeling in the crystal clear waters
  • Take a boat to the Rosario Islands for some beach-hopping and relaxation
  • Try the famous Colombian ceviche at Restaurante San Pedro de Majagua
  • Catch the sunset on your way back to Cartagena
Day 3

Conquering the Castle

  • Visit the San Felipe Castle, a colossal fortress offering panoramic views of the city
  • Wander through the tunnels and learn about the castle's history
  • Have lunch at Maria, a trendy restaurant within the castle walls
  • Walk the ramparts to see the city from a different perspective
  • Enjoy an evening stroll through the colorful and lively Getsemani neighborhood
Day 4

Market and Cooking Class

  • Start off the day at the bustling Mercado de Bazurto and experience the local market culture
  • Join a cooking class at Ikaro, where you'll learn to prepare traditional Colombian dishes
  • Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a delicious lunch
  • Take a relaxing walk along the beach of Bocagrande
  • Watch the sunset while sipping a cocktail at Alquimico, a trendy rooftop bar in the center of the Old Town
Day 5

Last Minute Sightseeing and Farewell

  • Visit the Museum of Gold to discover Colombia's rich indigenous history
  • Take a walk through the colorful streets of the Manga neighborhood and admire its colonial houses
  • Have a farewell meal at La Vitrola, a traditional restaurant serving up classic Colombian cuisine
  • Take home some souvenirs from the local markets
  • Bid Cartagena goodbye with a final sunset stroll along the old city walls.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Cartagena, Spain by plane is to fly into Murcia-San Javier Airport and take a bus, taxi or car to Cartagena

Car

The best way to get to Cartagena, Spain by car is to take the A-7 highway from Malaga or the AP-7 from Barcelona. The journey should take approximately 5 hours from Malaga and 7 hours from Barcelona

Train

Although there is no direct train to Cartagena, you can take a high-speed train from Madrid to Murcia and then take a bus, taxi or car to Cartagena

Boat

Although there are no direct boats to Cartagena, you can take a ferry from Algeria to the nearby city of Almeria and then take a bus, taxi, or car to Cartagena.

Bus

You can take a bus from Madrid, Malaga, or Alicante to Cartagena. The bus station in Cartagena is Estacion de Autobuses de Cartagena

Destination

Cartagena

Welcome to a city where the colors are so vibrant, even the buildings seem to be in a permanent state of celebration. Get ready to dance, eat and explore your way through this sunny paradise.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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Cartagena, Spain: A Family-Friendly Adventure for All Ages

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