The BEST Hotels in Cartagena (by neighborhood and price point!)

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Ah, Cartagena. Located right on the Caribbean sea, this beautiful coastal city in Colombia is one of my favorites! After almost 2 weeks in Colombia’s wet, cool mountainous climate, the warmth and sunshine of Cartagena was very welcomed. Aside from the warm weather and glittering turquoise sea, this city is packed to the brim with charm and history. You simply can’t visit Colombia without a stop in Cartagena to experience firsthand the original colonial buildings, the Caribbean flair, and the beautiful Rosario Islands. But where to stay in Cartagena for your first trip? Because of the distinct neighborhoods in Cartagena, where you choose to stay can make a huge impact on your stay.

Woman walking towards colonial buildings in the walled portion of Cartagena, Colombia

In this article, I’m sharing the best neighborhoods to stay in Cartagena, which neighborhood you should choose, and the best hotels in each of the major neighborhoods. Keep reading to find the perfect place to stay in Cartagena!

Table of Contents

Best neighborhoods in Cartagena

Woman posing in front of a cerulean colonial style door with a white washed building and gorgeous bougainvillea over top in the historical old city of Cartagena

Cartagena is located on the northeastern tip of Colombia right along the Caribbean sea. The city is famous for its beautiful walled portion, also called the Old City, that dates back to the Spanish occupation. Everywhere you look, you’ll see the colonial architecture, with many being the original buildings or very similar design. You can enjoy the unique culture with its Caribbean flair, delicious seafood, and some of the best bars in the world. And I’d be remiss not to mention the gorgeous blue waters and Islas del Rosario that can be reached by boat!

Where to stay in cartagena

There are three major areas that tourists typically stay in:

Centro Historico, or the walled portion of the city,
Getsemani, the hip, trendy neighborhood, or
Bocagrande, the luxe beachy area that gives more of a big city vibe.

For a first time visitor, I highly recommend staying within the walled portion of the city–it’s just an experience like no other! You’ll be within walking distance to most of the major tourist sites and a short stroll from some of the best restaurants in the city. Getsemani is typically a bit more affordable and has lots of nightlife and art if that is more your vibe. On our trip, we didn’t wander into Bocagrande but it looked like a smaller version of Miami–more trendy, more expensive, and right on the beach.

I’ve divided this article up into each of the major neighborhoods with hotels that can be booked using points. This list includes everything from a no frills hotel to luxury stays.

Centro Historico

Beautiful arches on white colonial style building with a view of the palm tree dotted courtyard within the historical walled center of Cartagena

Luxury

Casa San Agustin

If you are looking for one of the most luxurious hotels in all of Cartagena, you’ve found it at Casa San Agustin. It’s located in the prime spot within the walled city and oozes glamor and luxury. Casa San Agustin has the most beautiful architecture and the pool is one you can guarantee you’ll see in pictures when researching Cartagena! They also have an amazing restaurant called Alta, which you absolutely need to try even if you’re not staying at Casa San Agustin!

Movich Hotel

This Hyatt hotel is a luxury stay with the perfect location within the walled portion of the city. The Movich is a boutique property that is a part of Hyatt’s Small Luxury Hotels of the World Program. It’s bookable with points as a Category 4 property–which means you’ll get incredible value for your stay but also a reasonable rate if you’re paying with cash. The beautiful Movich hotel also has one of the best rooftop bars in the whole city–many tourists go here for drinks at sunset even if they’re not staying here!

Sofitel Legend Santa Clara

Sofitel Legends Santa Clara Hotel patio and restaurant in Cartagena — Photo via Accor

The Sofitel Legend Santa Clara is a 5-star luxury hotel and it is absolutely jaw dropping. It is a part of Accor’s program, so you can book it using ALL Accor points also! This hotel has a huge pool, beautiful design, and tropical inspired rooms. There’s a colonial style restaurant on site and it’s in an amazing location near some of the best restaurants in Cartagena!

Ananda Boutique Hotel

The Ananda Boutique Hotel is a small hotel in an excellent location. The rooms look absolutely beautiful and I’ve heard the service is fantastic. The rooftop pool will be the perfect place to escape the heat and humidity of Cartagena during your visit.

Mid-range

Hotel Don Pedro de Heredia

Hotel Don Pedro de Heredia is a trendy boutique hotel located in the city center of Cartagena. The rooms are clean and functional, breakfast is included, and there’s a dreamy pool!

Voila Centro Historico by Huespuedi

The modern Voilá Center Historico hotel in the city center has drool-worthy decor. The rooms are each unique and you’ll want to lounge on the picturesque patio all day. Enjoy views of the city from the rooftop pool. All of the reviews mention the lovely staff and clean bathrooms, what more could you want?

Budget

The Clock Hostel & Suites

We passed the Clock Hostel & Suites no less than 10 times so you know the location is central and fantastic. Every time we passed by, I heard music and the decor was fabulous enough that this place definitely stuck in my mind! This budget hostel looks like it will definitely give you more value you than you paid for!

Stays you can book with Points & Miles

Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena (Accor)

Movich (Hyatt)

This Hyatt hotel is a luxury stay with the perfect location within the walled portion of the city. The Movich is a boutique property that is a part of Hyatt’s Small Luxury Hotels of the World Program. It’s bookable with points as a Category 4 property–which means you’ll get incredible value for your stay. This beautiful hotel also has one of the best rooftop bars in the whole city–many tourists go here for drinks at sunset even if they’re not staying here!

Nacar Hotel Cartagena (Hilton)

The Nacar Hotel is near to the city center and is a part of Hilton’s Curio Collection. While the location isn’t within the walls, it is within walking distance! The design on the inside is fresh, bright, and modern but they’ve managed to preserve the beautiful historic brick and colonial design on the outside. The rooftop pool area will give you beautiful views of Cartagena’s historic buildings within the walled city.

Getsemani

Getsemani has become much more popular over the years. This neighborhood is right across the street from the Old City and has a trendier artsy vibe. In the Getsemani area, you’ll find vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars and restaurants. There’s also amazing restaurants, like the top ranked Celele, and everywhere you look there are murals and artwork on the walls.