Hotels Cartagena de Indias Colombia
In this guide, I share where to stay in Cartagena, which areas suit different travel styles, and my honest reviews of two of the city’s most talked-about luxury hotels: Sofitel Legend Santa Clara and Bastion Luxury Hotel.
Getsemani for budget hotels and nightlife
Getsemaní is Cartagena’s most vibrant and youthful neighborhood, known for street art, bars, and an energetic atmosphere. It’s a great choice for budget travelers and backpackers looking for hostels, boutique guesthouses, and an urban, creative vibe close to the walled city.
Bocagrande for beach lovers and modern hotels
Bocagrande is Cartagena’s modern beachfront area, lined with high-rise hotels and long sandy beaches. This area is ideal if your priority is beach access and international hotel chains, but it lacks the historic charm and atmosphere that define Cartagena’s old town.
The Walled City – where you should stay
My strongest recommendation is to stay inside Cartagena’s historic walled city, the true heart and soul of the destination. Known as La Ciudad Amurallada, this area offers an unmatched atmosphere of cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant plazas.
Here you’ll find some of the city’s best boutique and luxury hotels, many housed in beautifully restored colonial buildings. Staying inside the walls allows you to experience Cartagena at its most authentic – close to restaurants, history, and nightlife, all within walking distance.
Hotel Sofitel Legend Santa Clara
Luxury heritage hotel inside Cartagena’s walled city. Sofitel Legend Santa Clara is Cartagena’s most iconic luxury hotel, located in the heart of the walled city at Plaza San Diego. Originally built as a convent in 1621, the building was carefully restored in the 1990s and today blends centuries of history with refined modern luxury.
Cartagena’s iconic luxury hotel
The rooms are spacious and filled with natural light; ours overlooked the stunning pool. Meals are a true delight, enjoyed in the hotel’s enchanting courtyard, surrounded by lush greenery and colonial architecture. The pool area is not only the largest but also the most impressive within the walled city, offering the perfect spot to relax under the Caribbean sun.
We spent two unforgettable nights here, immersed in pure luxury. Sofitel Legend Santa Clara is the perfect retreat for unwinding after a long trip, where every detail is designed to offer tranquility and indulgence. Whether you’re looking to relax or explore Cartagena’s rich heritage, this hotel offers an experience like no other.
Bastion Luxury Hotel Cartagena
Housed in a beautifully restored 16th-century colonial mansion within Cartagena’s walled city, Bastion Luxury Hotel seamlessly combines historic charm with contemporary design. This boutique hotel offers a perfect balance of elegance and modern amenities, making it one of the best value-for-money options in the city. With its stylish interiors, sophisticated ambiance, and impeccable service, Bastion Luxury Hotel provides a unique stay that captures the essence of Cartagena’s rich past while delivering all the comforts of a modern luxury experience.
Relax by the swimming pool at Hotel Bastion in the middle of the walled city of Cartagena. Photo: Merete Moen
A blend of colonial charm and elegance
The rooms at Bastion Luxury Hotel are spacious and well-appointed. When our group grew from two to three travelers, we easily upgraded to a room with two large, comfortable beds. The need for a room for three was one of the reasons we chose to move from the Sofitel.
The hotel’s rooftop terrace is a true highlight. With its vibrant greenery, stylish bar, and inviting pool, it offers stunning 360-degree views of Cartagena. Whether basking in the sun during the day or enjoying the warm evening breeze, the rooftop was a perfect spot to unwind and take in the city’s beauty, making it an unforgettable part of our stay.
Boutiquehotel Cartagena
Breakfast at Bastion Luxury Hotel was a feast for the senses. With an extensive selection of exotic fruits, fresh berries, a variety of egg dishes, hot options, traditional Colombian specialties and delicious cakes. Every morning felt like a culinary adventure. The food on the rooftop terrace was equally impressive. We enjoyed several delicious meals there, with each dish being expertly prepared and beautifully presented.
What truly set the hotel apart, however, was the outstanding service. The staff went above and beyond, offering invaluable advice on trips and restaurant recommendations, making our stay feel effortless. The bartenders, in particular, were fantastic—friendly, funny, and always ready to lift our spirits, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that made us feel right at home.
Smiling and friendly staff at Hotel Bastion Cartagena. Photo: Merete Moen
Cartagena de Colombia Hotels
Cartagena is such a vibrant and captivating city that you’ll hardly want to spend time sleeping. While the city offers plenty of fantastic hotel options, I couldn’t have been happier with my two choices. I’m confident you’ll love them just as much as I did. Visit the hotels online for more information, more photos and bookings. Bastion Luxury Hotel Cartagena and Sofitel Legend Santa Clara.