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What to do in Cartagena beyond the walled city

Cartagena de Indias is much more than its iconic walled city. While the historic centre is a treasure trove of architectural and cultural, there is a Cartagena is revealed beyond its walls: vibrant, authentic and full of contrasts.

If you are planning a trip and want to live a more complete experience, we invite you to discover the Cartagena from a different view:

1. Gethsemane: art, history and tradition

Located just minutes from the historic centre, Gethsemane is a neighborhood that retains the popular soul of Cartagena. Its streets, decorated with street art and colourful murals, invite you to walk, without hurry.

You can also enjoy the Trinity Square at dusk, a coffee on a terrace or local of a spontaneous musical experience in its corners.

2. Islands of the Rosario and Baru: a refuge from the Caribbean

If you are looking for disconnection and nature, the Islas del Rosario and Baru are ideal destinations to enjoy a full day. There you will find crystal clear waters, reefs for snorkeling, and open spaces perfect to relax in front of the sea.

In Mustique, we will be happy to arrange according to your preferences your experience. In addition, we could book a tour of the islands on one of our boats.

3. Cerro de La Popa: from the top of the city

The Cerro de La Popa is the highest point in Cartagena and offers one of the best panoramic views of the city. At the top is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Candelariaa site full of religious history and spirituality that is worth getting to know.

4. Nozzle: connection with nature and local roots

Only 20 minutes from the old town, The Nozzle is a community of fishing tradition that offers experiences of responsible tourism. There you can explore the mangroves by canoe, guided by members of the community, while learning about their culture and the natural environment.

Continue reading «Qué hacer en Cartagena más allá de la ciudad amurallada»
Experiences

Walking Tour por el Centro Histórico de Cartagena: Un Viaje en el Tiempo

Sumérgete en la vibrante Cartagena de Indias con nuestro exclusivo walking tour por su centro histórico, declarado Patrimonio de la Humanidad por la UNESCO. Acompañados por guías expertos, recorreremos sus calles adornadas con coloridos balcones coloniales, mientras descubrimos la riqueza de su historia, cultura y gastronomía.

A lo largo del recorrido, conocerás las historias detrás de sus emblemáticas plazas, fortalezas y monumentos. Sentirás el calor y la alegría de su gente, explorando un espacio donde el arte, la moda y la tradición se fusionan en cada esquina. Además, tendrás la oportunidad de degustar sabores auténticos de la gastronomía local y descubrir los secretos de esta ciudad que ha cautivado al mundo.

Este tour es una invitación a vivir Cartagena desde su corazón, disfrutando de su belleza arquitectónica, su pasado legendario y su presente vibrante. Déjate llevar por la magia de esta ciudad única y descubre por qué sigue siendo un destino imperdible en el Caribe.

Experiences

City Tour Privado por Cartagena: Historia y Modernidad en un Solo Recorrido

Descubre Cartagena de Indias en un exclusivo city tour privado donde la historia y la modernidad se encuentran en perfecta armonía. Acompañados por un guía experto, recorreremos los lugares más emblemáticos de la ciudad, con la comodidad y exclusividad que los Hoteles Mustique ofrecen.

Iniciamos en el imponente Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, una de las fortalezas más impresionantes de América, donde conocerás su historia y su importancia estratégica en la defensa de la ciudad. Luego, subiremos al Convento de la Popa, el punto más alto de Cartagena, desde donde se pueden admirar vistas panorámicas incomparables de la ciudad y el mar Caribe.

Para finalizar, exploraremos la Cartagena moderna, con su vibrante mezcla de arquitectura contemporánea, lujosos hoteles, centros comerciales y el dinamismo de Bocagrande. Este recorrido te permitirá vivir la esencia de Cartagena, apreciando su evolución desde la época colonial hasta la actualidad.

Disfruta de una experiencia única, con total comodidad y atención personalizada, descubriendo los contrastes que hacen de Cartagena un destino incomparable.

Experiences

Experiencias Sensoriales: Descubre el Sabor de Colombia

Disfruta de una experiencia de aromas y sabores con nuestras exclusivas catas, diseñadas para quienes desean explorar la riqueza gastronómica y cultural de Colombia. Guiados por expertos, cada sesión ofrece una experiencia sensorial única que deleitará tu paladar y hará tu experiencia en casa mucho más placentera.  

  • Cata de Café: Descubre los matices y aromas de los mejores cafés colombianos, aprendiendo sobre su origen, procesos de cultivo y técnicas de preparación.
  • Cata de Ron: Explora la tradición del ron colombiano con una degustación guiada que destaca su elaboración, añejamiento y notas características.
  • Cata de Ron con Chocolate: Una combinación sofisticada donde el dulzor y la intensidad del chocolate realzan los perfiles aromáticos del ron.
  • Cata de Ron con Chocolate y Frutas Tropicales: Una experiencia que resalta la diversidad de sabores tropicales, combinando ron, chocolate y frutas exóticas.
  • Cata de Frutas Tropicales: Disfruta de una selección de las frutas más representativas del trópico, descubriendo sus texturas, sabores y beneficios nutricionales.

Cada cata está diseñada para transportarte a través de la historia y la cultura colombiana, en un ambiente exclusivo y enriquecedor. Ven y descubre el auténtico sabor de Colombia con nosotros.

Experiences

Clases de Cocina: Descubre los Sabores de Colombia

Explora la riqueza gastronómica de Colombia con nuestras exclusivas clases de cocina, diseñadas para quienes desean aprender los secretos de la cocina tradicional en un ambiente auténtico y acogedor. Ya sea en una de nuestras casas o en un espacio especializado, nuestros huéspedes podrán experimentar de primera mano la elaboración de platos icónicos de la gastronomía colombiana.

Guiados por chefs expertos, aprenderás a preparar recetas emblemáticas de la Costa Caribe como la arepa de huevo, las carimañolas, las empanadas y los ceviches, entre otras delicias típicas. Además, conocerás sobre los ingredientes autóctonos, técnicas culinarias tradicionales y la historia detrás de cada plato.

Más que una clase, esta es una experiencia cultural única donde podrás interactuar, degustar y disfrutar de los sabores que hacen de la cocina colombiana una de las más ricas y diversas del mundo. Ven y vive una experiencia culinaria inolvidable con nosotros.

Blog

Icons colonial Cartagena de Indias: history, heritage and faith to steps of Mustique

During the colonial era, the churches and religious buildings were built as symbols of power and faith, to rise above the rest of the walled city. Its domes were led not only to the spirit of the inhabitants, but also to mariners arriving at the port. Today, between the contrast in the skyline, modern, and the walls are centuries old, these monuments continue to be the most recognizable, photographed and admired of Cartagena de Indias.

Stay in one of the houses Mustique —such as Hotel Casa Don Sancho Hotel House of Mercy or House Hotel Income means to be immersed in the heart of this story alive. Just steps away, guests can walk among centuries of architecture, legends and sacred art, while enjoying the elegance of a stay-colonial with all the contemporary comforts.

Cathedral of St. Catherine of Alexandria: between heaven and earth

Located in one of the most emblematic squares of the city, this imposing cathedral dates from the SIXTEENTH century and is one of the oldest in America. Its dome yellow stands as a spiritual lighthouse and a point of reference, from different angles, from the historical centre.

Only A few steps away from the hotels Mustique, is today a meeting point for tourists, worshippers and travelers who stop to admire your greatness... and to capture it in a photograph.

Church of San Pedro Claver: faith, history and justice

Just A few minutes walk from either of our houses, this church was named in honor of the "slave of slaves" represents one of the most human of colonial history. San Pedro Claver dedicated his life to the defense of the rights of the enslaved, and their legacy remains in this temple of coral stone, one of the most visited and revered of the city.

In the square that surrounds it, in addition to being one of the most photographed places in the historic center, visitors can enjoy the outdoor art sculptures wrought iron master Edgardo Carmona, as well as a vibrant dining experience with restaurants and bars where you blend local and international flavours.

It is a place where art, history, and contemporary life are interwoven to provide an experience genuinely cartagena. 

Clock tower: the door to the walled city

Built in the SEVENTEENTH century, this structure is marked for centuries the main entrance to the historic centre. His watch, added later in the NINETEENTH century, gave the name to which today we know it. Crossing the Clock Tower is to enter officially the Cartagena colonial.

From House of Income, a few steps away, guests can easily reach this iconic door, ideal to start any tour of the city. It is also one of the photography backdrops most sought-after by travelers and locals, especially at night, when the lighting highlights the symmetry of the architecture.

Live Cartagena, live Mustique

Stay in Mustique is to enjoy the privilege of walking between jewellery colonial, living monuments and places that have witnessed centuries of history. From our boutique hotels, you can walk around every corner emblematic, discover new perspectives, and be enchanted by the legacy of a city that breathes art, spirituality and beauty.

Our concierges will be happy to arrange personalized experiences that connect to your stay with the best of the heritage of Cartagena de Indias. Because here, each walk is a lesson in history and each view, a postal eternal.

Experiences

Atardecer de Ensueño en la Bahía de Cartagena

Disfruta de una experiencia inolvidable mientras navegas por la bahía de Cartagena en una de nuestras exclusivas embarcaciones. Disfruta de la brisa del Caribe y contempla un atardecer que pinta el cielo con tonos dorados y rosados, creando un escenario perfecto para una velada inolvidable.

Para complementar esta experiencia, ofrecemos junto con nuestro increíble equipo un delicioso catering con opciones de cocina de autor o un menú personalizado según tu elección. Cada detalle ha sido cuidadosamente diseñado para ofrecer una combinación única de sabor y disfrute.

Ya sea para una ocasión especial o simplemente para disfrutar de la magia de Cartagena este paseo al atardecer te permitirá atesorar recuerdos inolvidables.

Blog

Cartagena de Indias: Culture, Art, and Music to Start the Year

The beginning of the year in Cartagena de Indias, is not only is marked by its warm climate and its charming atmosphere in front of the Caribbean sea. It is also the season in which the city is alive with some of the cultural events, artistic, musical and most important of Colombia and Latin america.

If you're looking for a destination that combines beauty, history, beach and an intense cultural life, Cartagena is the perfect place to live unforgettable experiences in these first months of the year.

International Music Festival of Cartagena

4 to January 12, 2026

For nine days, Cartagena is transformed into a stage for classical music. Concerts in colonial churches, squares and theatres iconic, interpreted by recognized national and international artists, make this festival an encounter sublime between the music, the architecture and the history. A world-class event which connects to the lovers of the art sound with the soul of the city.

International Fair Farex

Until 12 January, 2026

The fair of arts and crafts more important of the region, brings together creators from all over the country and Latin america. Fashion ethnic, handmade items, textiles and unique cultural expressions are part of an exhibition that values authenticity and celebrates the diversity of traditions. An ideal opportunity to purchase unique pieces and connect with talent communities and artisans.

Hay Festival Cartagena

January 29 to February 1, 2026

One of the literary meetings more important in the world returns to Cartagena with its unique blend of thought, literature, journalism, science and culture. Authors, thinkers, musicians and artists to share ideas in scenarios that are open to dialogue and inspiration. The hay Festival is an invitation to look at the world from different perspectives, with Cartagena as a backdrop.

FICCI – International Film Festival of Cartagena

14 to April 19, 2026

The film festival is the oldest in Latin America celebrates the seventh art at its finest. Independent productions, talks with filmmakers, outdoor screenings and premieres of international filled with magic nights cartageneras. The FICCI makes the city at the meeting point of the audiovisual industry in the region and a showcase of emerging talent.

A cultural experience, from the heart of Cartagena

Stay in boutique hotels of Mustique, located in the Historic Center, is an active part of this vibrant cultural agenda. From our homes restored colonial, guests can walk to the main scenarios, live the city from the inside, and enjoy an experience that combines hospitality custom, living history and closeness with the art, the music and the word.

Either from a balcony flourished or a terrace with views of the domes colonial Cartagena is live different when you at the right place.

Cartagena 2026:

Culture, music, art and hospitality in a single destination.

Discover our homes and prepare to live a season full of inspiration.

Blog

Cartagena and Ironman 70.3: history, Caribbean, and world-class sport

Cartagena de Indias is not only synonymous with history, culture, romance, and hospitality. Today is also positioning itself as one of the most relevant of sports tourism in Latin America, consolidating its place on the international map with events of high impact as the Ironman 70.3. In its eighth edition, this competition of resistance returns to reunite with hundreds of athletes in national and international in a city that has it all: infrastructure, connectivity, natural beauty, and caribbean spirit.

A destination versatile: weddings, holidays and major events

From celebrations to intimate in colonial churches to international conferences, Cartagena adapts to every type of trip. Its streets, city walls, a hundred years old, beaches, warm water, and a gastronomy vibrant make it the ideal place for a family vacation as well as for experiences of luxury, honeymoons or getaways cultural.

The city is consolidated also as a hub for events, large format, and the Ironman 70.3 is proof of this: a global race that is done only in cities that meet high standards of logistics, weather and tourism.

Ironman 70.3 Cartagena: more than a career

With evidence of swimming, cycling and running, the Ironman 70.3 Cartagena challenges the limits of endurance of the athletes in a unique setting. Cartagena has been recognized as one of the venues most spectacular of the world circuit, thanks to its geography, its hotel infrastructure and the quality of the public that accompanies the event.

During this edition, participants will swim in front of the Bay of Souls, and they'll travel the northern area on bike and cross the historic center running between walls, squares and alleys colonial. A physical challenge and, at the same time, a unique sensory experience for competitors and spectators.

Mustique: a perfect location to live the Ironman

In Mustique, our boutique hotels located within the historic centre offered to the athletes, teams and associates are a strategic location for the event:

  • A few steps from the exit point of the swim.
  • In the same perimeter where the transition is made from bicycles.
  • In the heart of the circuit trot and arrival end.

In addition to the closeness logistics, in our houses, you will find the necessary rest, the silence restorer and personalized hospitality that characterizes Mustique. Our team is ready to support you before, during and after the event, either as an athlete or spectator.

Sports tourism: Cartagena continues to set trends

Events like this not only promotes the sport of high performance, but also enhance the economic development, responsible tourism, and the international visibility of the city.

The Ironman 70.3 Cartagena is, without a doubt, a showcase global, which reaffirms that this city is not only a destination for holidays and weddings, but also sports world-class.


What we hope to do in Cartagena with Mustique

Whether you come to compete, to support, or to enjoy the energy of the event, in Mustique Hotels we will be happy to receive you. Our concierge team can help you plan your schedule, manage transfers, reservations, tours, or simply assure you an unforgettable stay.

Cartagena is alive with history, culture, and sport. And Mustique is the best place to live.

Blog

Cartagena of the Indies: The Independence that Vibrates with History, Culture and Sea

Each November 11, Cartagena de Indias dresses of history, memory and celebration. This iconic date, it is not only a commemoration more in the calendar colombian; it is a symbol of national pride. It was in 1811 when Cartagena became the first city in the country to declare its absolute independence from the Spanish Crown, marking a milestone in the history of Colombia and Latin America.

More than two centuries after, that rebellious spirit and brave continues to be present in every cobbled street, on every wall that resists the passage of time, in each face of its people.

A city that celebrates its history with joy

November 11 is much more than a date patriotic: it is a living expression of the identity cartagena. During this time, the city is transformed into a scene of color, music, tradition and pride. Parades, parades, presentations and folklore events that pay tribute both to its history as cultural richness.

The Festivities of Independence bring together locals and visitors in a celebration that unites the past with the present. Here, the joy is not disconnected from the memory, but the glory: the freedom singing, dancing, cooking and shares.

A jewel of the colombian Caribbean

Cartagena is not only critical to understand the history of Colombia, it is also your window to the world. Its historic center declared a world Heritage site by UNESCO, its churches, squares, museums, balconies and domes colonial, are silent witnesses of a city that has managed to resist, renew, and shine.

But beyond its walls, Cartagena offers authentic Caribbean and vibrant. Baru, the Rosario Islands and white sand beaches invite us to rest and wonder. It is that balance between culture, history, and nature that makes it one of the favorite destinations not only for international travelers, but also for the colombians.

Cartagena, always a good plan

Independence is not only remember, we live in. And those who choose to Cartagena at this time of year, or in any other, prove it. Because beyond their celebrations, independence day, the town is a destination that excites and surprises at every visit:

  • For its gastronomy that mixed heritage of african, indigenous and Spanish.
  • By its streets alive, where every corner has a story to tell.
  • By his people, who proudly transmitted traditions from generation to generation.
  • For its sea, which completes the experience with beaches, islands, and unforgettable sunsets.

Living history, live in the Caribbean, lives Cartagena

In Mustique Hotels, we are proud to be part of this unique city. Our colonial houses, located in the heart of the historic center are the perfect place to stay and live the story of a close, without losing the warmth of the personalized service.

And for those who wish to continue the experience by the sea, in a natural environment and serene, Water-Baru by Mustique offers an exclusive setting for contemplation and connecting with the Caribbean, surrounded by a landscape of mangroves and with privileged views. An experience that combines privacy, nature, and good taste.

From our spaces, we discover Cartagena from its essence: his freedom, his identity and his beauty.

We look forward to celebrating the history, experience the culture and feel the sea. Cartagena de Indias has it all.