Cartagena de Indias Shines in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2026 List
Cartagena made Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2026 list at #20. Here is what to do and how to get there. The post Cartagena de Indias Shines in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2026 List appeared first on The Rio Times .
Cartagena de Indias has been named #20 on Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2026 list, as reported by Colombian outlet Semana. The walled colonial city, located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can reach Cartagena by flying into Rafael Núñez International Airport, approximately a 1 hour and 30 minute flight from Bogotá. The main sights include the Old Town (Ciudad Amurallada), Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, and Getsemaní.
The best time to visit Cartagena is from December to March, when the weather is dry, making it the high season with larger crowds and higher prices. Inside the Old Town, travelers can walk the 16th-century ramparts at Baluarte de Santo Domingo, explore Plaza de la Aduana, and visit the massive Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, which offers panoramic views of the city and harbor.
Barrio Getsemaní is known for its street art, lively nightlife, and local food stalls. For beach lovers, a boat ride to the Rosario Islands, located about 40 kilometers offshore, is highly recommended.
The Gold Museum (Museo del Oro Zenú) displays pre-Columbian gold artifacts, and a chiva bus tour provides a fun way to see the city's highlights at night. Walking tours of the old town’s fortifications are also available, offering insight into the city’s pirate history and naval battles. Travelers should confirm exact addresses locally, as they are not included in the provided sources. Costs for hotels, restaurants, and tours vary greatly, so checking up-to-date prices is advised before booking.
Written by urgent.news from The Rio Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
