Hotels Cartagena de Indias

Sofitel Legend Santa Clara and Bastion Luxury Hotel, Cartagena de Indias

Cartagena, Colombia’s stunning colonial Caribbean city, with its vibrant colors and tropical climate, is so lively that you’ll barely want to sleep. This city pulses with energy day and night, and trust me, you won’t want to miss a thing. But if you must rest, Cartagena offers a variety of wonderful accommodations. During my visit, I stayed at two incredible hotels – Sofitel Legend Santa Clara and Bastion Luxury Hotel – and I loved them so much that I’m already dreaming of returning.

For travelers on a budget, the trendy Getsemaní neighborhood offers plenty of budget hotels and hostels. It’s the most modern part of Cartagena, perfect for those looking for a hip, urban vibe. Meanwhile, Bocagrande is the place for beach lovers, with its long stretches of sand and a wide variety of accommodations, including international hotel chains that cater to all budgets.

However, my top recommendation is to stay within the walled city, the heart and soul of Cartagena. The ciudad amurallada is what makes this city truly unique, more than its beaches. Wandering through its cobblestone streets, surrounded by centuries-old architecture, feels like stepping into a living piece of history.

Within the walled city, you’ll find stunning luxury hotels as well as charming colonial homes that have been transformed into boutique hotels and cozy hostels. It’s here where the true essence of Cartagena comes alive, and where you’ll experience the city’s blend of history, culture, and elegance.

I loved the wonderful garden with a pool

Sofitel Legend Santa Clara

Photo: Merete Moen

Sofitel Legend Santa Clara: Cartagena’s iconic luxury hotel

Sofitel Legend Santa Clara is Cartagena's most renowned and prestigious hotel, perfectly situated in the heart of the walled city at Plaza San Diego. This historic gem dates back to 1621, originally serving as a convent before being meticulously restored in the 1990s. Today, it stands as a symbol of timeless elegance, blending rich history with modern luxury.

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: A blend of colonial charm and modern elegance

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

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—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.

Rooftop terrace with a pool and amazing view

Hotel Bastion Cartagena

Photo: Merete Moen

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 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, and 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.