Casa La Merced by Mustique

Cartagena, known since the imperial era as Cartagena de Indias, is a city and one of the major ports on the northern coast of Colombia in the Caribbean Coast Region, along the Caribbean Sea. Cartagena's past role as a link in the route to the West Indies provides it with important historical value for world exploration and preservation of heritage from the great commercial maritime routes. As a former Spanish colony, it was a key port for the export of Bolivian silver to Spain and for the import of enslaved Africans under the asiento system. It was defensible against pirate attacks in the Caribbean. The city's strategic location between the Magdalena and Sinú rivers also gave it easy access to the interior of New Granada and made it a main port for trade between Spain and its overseas empire, establishing its importance by the early 1540s.

Cartagena de Indias is a city that has it all: from its well-preserved colonial architecture to its vibrant nightlife, this city is a true gem that you cannot miss. Walking through the streets of the old town, you will feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Spanish colonial era. The city's fortifications, built in the 16th century, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an impressive example of colonial military architecture.

But Cartagena is not just about history. Its beaches are some of the most beautiful in Colombia, and you can enjoy the Caribbean sea while sipping on a refreshing drink or tasting some of the local seafood. The Bocagrande neighborhood is one of the most popular tourist destinations, with its luxury hotels and high-end restaurants.