How to explore Cartagena without getting scammed or overheated: A backpackers ultimate guide to the city
Cartagena might be one of Colombia’s most iconic cities, but it’s also one of the most expensive, especially if you’re trying to travel on a backpacker budget. Between rooftop bars, beach vendors charging for chairs, and Old Town restaurants with tourist prices, it’s easy to blow through your pesos fast if you’re not careful.
But don’t stress — with a little strategy (and some local tips), it’s totally possible to enjoy Cartagena’s charm without emptying your wallet. I spent five days exploring the city’s colourful streets, dancing in Getsemaní, and chasing sunsets on a budget, and I still had an amazing time. Here’s how to soak up the best of Cartagena — from the Old Town to the coast — without overspending.
Plaza del Reloj
Accommodation
The first, and easiest, way to save money when planning your trip to Cartagena is to skip the hotel and stay in a hostel instead. Hotels in Cartagena are EASILY 200$ a night, and most of the hostels there are just as nice, if not better in terms of amenities. That being said, make sure you do your research too! I use hostelworld religiously when searching for and booking hostels, because their platform has real reviews from travellers (meaning they can't be manipulated like on private sites), so you know you're getting accurate information. I stayed at Viajero Cartagena Getsemani, and would totally recommend it, or their sister location - Viajero Cartagena Centro. Los Patios is also a really nice hostel, with good reviews and prices.
Food
The Carribean coast has - in my opinion- the most amazing food in colombia. The mix of Latin and Caribbean vibes is truly a match made in heaven. CArtagena is no exception, and absolutely delivers in the culinary department. There are places where you can get the most amazing local food, but they often get overshadowed by the overpriced rooftop bars and tourism-centered restaurants in the city centre. Here's a list of my favourite spots in the city, with a rating for both quality and cost:
Cafe De La Mañana: 8/10 cost: $
A cute cafe in the heart of the old town of Cartagena, perfect for breakfast or brunch. They offer smoothie bowls, eggs, toast, breakfast sandwiches, etc. Super reasonable pricing, and the food is delicious.
Restauraunte Fuerte de San Sebastien: 8/10 cost: $$
This restaurant offers a beautiful patio overlooking the marina and a gorgeous view of the Bocagrande skyline. The food is to die for, but it lost a few points for affordability. It wasn't outrageously expensive by my standards, but by Colombian standards, this place was definitely pricey.
Terazza Municipal: 7/10 cost: $
This place is kind of like an outdoor food court; it was very hipster and felt like I stepped out of Colombia and into Brooklyn. That sounds like a criticism, but outside of lacking a touch of authenticity in the vibe, the food was honestly amazing, and the views were gorgeous.
Ola Boquilla: 10/10 cost: $
This was 100% my favourite restaurant in Cartagena. They offer traditional food, great drinks, and a gorgeous view of the sunset over the beach. It is a little way out of the old town where I was staying, but it's definitely worth a visit if you find yourself in La Boquilla.
If youre in the mood for a rooftop bar, but dont want to break the bank, I would recommend you make a visit to Viajero Getsemani (even if you arent staying there!). The rooftop is beautiful with the patio overlooking the Bocagrande skyline, the drinks are reasonably priced and delicious, and its a great place to meet fellow travellers!
Avoiding the pushy souvenir vendors and “helpful locals”
Of all the cities I visited in Colombia, Cartagena was 100% the worst for these things. Whether it's salesmen with trays of bracelets and sunglasses, or locals trying to give you directions - in exchange for a tip, it's important to be aware and know what to say to respectfully but firmly say no. Do not engage more than you have to; a simple “No, Gracias” will go a long way, repeat it if you have to, and keep walking. Generally, this will work, but sometimes people are pushy.
I had one man follow me because I wouldn't give him a tip for directions I didn't ask for. I told him no, and he followed me. I didn't feel unsafe, he was just very persistent. So I kept walking, ignored him, and after a couple of minutes, he gave up. An important thing to remember is that while it's annoying to be badgered by someone trying to sell you things or give you an impromptu tour or directions, they are people, and you need to remember to be respectful. These people probably don't want to be standing in the hot sun selling bracelets all day, but their circumstances have landed them there, and for many, it's their main source of income. It's fine to say no, but be kind, not rude.
It’s not going to be possible to avoid this altogether while still taking in the best sights in the city, but you can be prepared! Here's a list of the biggest “hotspots”:
Parque Centenario
Plaza de los Coches
Plaza del Reloj
Baluarte de Santo Domingo
Playa de Bocagrande
Ciudad Murallada
Beaches
Cartagena has some absolutely beautiful beaches, and I highly recommend that you check out at least one while youre visiting the city. That being said, some are better than others. All of the beaches in Bocagrande are swamped, both with tourists and people trying to get their money, which doesnt make for a very relaxing environment. Additionally, some beaches have tents and chairs, which arent necessary but are for rent (at ridiculously high prices). If you choose not to use these, expect to have to sit far far away from them, which sucks because theyre generally on the nicest parts of the beach, or be hounded by salesmen trying to get you to come pay. I recommend taking a day trip to La Boquilla, an area of the city with a gorgeous beach, Playa los Moros, which is much larger, quieter, and relaxing.
The Rosario Islands
One of, if not the biggest, tourist attrication/activity in Cartagena is boat tours to the Rosario islands. If you are considering booking one of these excursions, I HIGHLY encourage you to read into the reviews first. Unfortunately, due to overtourism, the islands have stopped being a quiet sanctuary and instead turned into an overrun party central for drunk tourists. The boats are often in disrepair, you have to wait excessive times to be able to dock due to the sheer amount of boats on the islands everyday, the beaches are packed, and you have to pay for a nice spot, and the prices for everything are jacked up tremendously to get as much money from the tourists as they can. Its incredibly unfortunate, because these islands are beautiful, but I can honestly say if you are trying to save money, these trips are simply not worth the price tag.
Surviving the heat
Cartagena is HOT. And I do not say that lightly. I went in the beginning of their winter, and temperatures were still reaching 40 with the humidex. It is absolutely necessary that you keep yourself hydrated, and protected from the high UV while you explore the city. I recommend that you pickup a reusable water bottle with a filter, like my lifestraw water bottle, because it is an absolute life (and money) saver. The tap water is not potable in Cartagena, and bottled water at $3 a pop gets expensive. This waterbottle will filter the tap water and make it drinkable, saving you A LOT of money in the long run, and keeping you hydrated wherever you go
Check it out here: Lifestraw
If you opt to buy bottled water, make sure you purchase from a local shop or grocery store whenever possible to avoid the outrageous prices offered by the vendors in tourist areas.
Plaza de Bolivar
Cartagena might be a little pricier than other cities in Colombia, but it’s 100% possible to enjoy everything it has to offer without spending a fortune. From wandering the colorful streets of Getsemaní to finding budget-friendly eats and hidden beaches, this city still delivers for travelers looking to keep things affordable.
If you’re smart about where you spend (and where you don’t), Cartagena can be just as rewarding for budget backpackers as it is for luxury vacationers. Stick to local spots, pick your splurges carefully, and don’t be afraid to explore beyond the touristy areas — that’s where the real gems are hiding anyway.
