"Cartagena boasts a walled old city with colorful buildings and lively squares. Enjoy Caribbean beaches and the vibrant local culture." - Anne Olivia Bauso
Anne Olivia Bauso
Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the
"A beautiful coastal city in Colombia known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning colonial architecture." - Nneya Richards
Nneya Richards
Nneya Richards is a New York City-based fashion and travel writer and public speaker. She is a frequent contributor to publications including Condé Nast Traveler, Vogue, and PopSugar, and
"Castillo San Felipe de Barajas A short walk from the city sits imposing Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, covering almost the whole of San Lázaro Hill, 135 feet above sea level. The castillo bit is something of a misnomer, as the structure is not technically a castle but a fort; it happens to be one of the most impressive the Spanish ever built, resisting a number of land and sea attacks. Allegedly its tunnel system was engineered so that the slightest sound anywhere within it would reverberate a warning of approaching danger or attempted escape. Audio guides, available in English, Spanish, and other languages, recount the full story. The castle also happens to be one of the best spots in the city from which to watch the sunset. By Travesías"
Very cool old fort that has a lot of history. It also has a great view of the city. Fair warning bring water as there are no vendors at the fort. You also have to run a very confusing gauntlet to get tickets. Vendors are aggressive at the beginning but there are none inside.
Flo Herbert
Google
Amazing views of the whole city. Was quiet when we went so very peaceful & picturesque. Learning about Cartagena rich history was an added bonus. No need to buy tickets in advance & is worth the price to explore the vast fort and tunnels too!
Lubomir Zitta
Google
Absolutely worth the climb—Castillo de San Felipe is Cartagena’s crown jewel. From the eerie underground tunnels to panoramic views of the city, the structure impresses at every level. Bring water, sunscreen, and go early to beat the heat. A must-see on any Cartagena itinerary!
Christopher Bentley (Chris Bentley)
Google
We walked here from the cruise terminal. Island Princess. There were lots of Police, felt very safe. They were very approachable. Bring local money or credit card for entry. It was well worth the visit and the views were amazing.
Yashiv R
Google
Great views and walking experience here. The top of the fort to the claustrophobic stairways all have great photo locations. Do beware of heat if you go in the midday hours.
Mich _t
Google
Cartagena's emblematic historical monument. Personally, without a guide, I find it of little interest. There are directions, though. The walk takes in the castle and an empty tunnel, but there are no museum-type rooms. Bring an umbrella or parasol, depending on the weather, as the monument is essentially open-air. Worth doing anyway.
Frederick Schroeder
Google
Feels surreal to be able to visit this impressive and well-preserved fort mere blocks outside of the walled city! Enjoy fabulous views, explore some seriously creepy and claustrophobic tunnels- just make sure to bring sunscreen and a hat! Didn't feel a tour was necessary as there was plenty of signage scattered around.
Bill Saks
Google
This fort is very imposing and its history is fascinating. The fort is built on a large hill and started as just a small one at the top in the 1600s. Most of the building was in the mid-1700s and covered much of the rest of the hill. I recommend climbing (slowly, because of the elevation and heat) to the top where the most printed information is (in Spanish and English), and then walking around the rest of it. There are also great views from there. It was built with lots of lookouts but also tunnels. I was a little scared as I went through an unlit one with a low ceiling, using my phone flashlight. The men's room was in another tunnel and was clean and well lit, however.