Cartagena Old Town

Cartagena is the jewel of Colombia's Caribbean coast, a romantic and beautifully preserved colonial city whose UNESCO old town is enclosed by mighty stone ramparts. Within them lies a maze of narrow cobbled streets lined with brightly painted houses draped in bougainvillea, grand churches, shady plazas and the great Castillo San Felipe fortress. Steeped in the history of the Spanish Main and pirates, it is enchanting to wander, especially in the warm evening air.

What to look for

• The walled old town - the cobbled streets of painted, flower-draped houses.
• The city walls - the ramparts, lovely to walk at sunset.
• Castillo San Felipe - the great hilltop Spanish fortress.
• Getsemani - the trendy, colourful former working-class quarter.

When to go

December to April, the dry season, for the best weather; the old town is at its most magical strolling in the cooler evenings, as the Caribbean days are hot and humid. The city is lively year-round with festivals and nightlife.

Before you go

It is hot and very humid, so the old town is best enjoyed in the early morning and evening. It has become popular and touristy, with persistent street vendors, and prices in the walled city are high. Like any city, take normal care with valuables, especially at night and outside the tourist core. Its beauty and atmosphere, though, are captivating.

Nearby

The Rosario Islands, the beaches and the mud volcano of Totumo are nearby.