LIVINGLuxe Dining, Island Escapes and High-End Shopping: See Why Cartagena, Colombia Is The Hottest Travel Destination And a Lowkey Celeb Hotspot
Aug. 14 2025, Published 10:15 a.m. ET
Cartagena, Colombia, is having quite the major moment.
Once unfairly overshadowed by gritty pop-culture depictions in TV shows like Narcos on Netflix , the city has stepped firmly into the global spotlight as one of the South America's most exciting destinations—thanks in part to recent high-profile visits from Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as well as Amazon mastermind Jeff Bezos and new wife Lauren Sánchez.
With its pastel-hued colonial streets, vibrant food scene, and a shopping culture as colorful as its Caribbean sunsets, Cartagena is experiencing the same kind of buzzy, “it” status that Tulum, Mexico, enjoyed in the mid-2010s.
OK! recently had the opportunity to take an exclusive visit to the Cartegena, hosted by Nuestra Cartagena—a collaborative initiative launched by 16 independently owned hospitality businesses united by a shared love for Cartagena and a mission to change its one-dimensional image abroad.
Inspired by our unforgettable experience in this vibrant city, OK! has carefully curated the ultimate Cartagena Insider Travel Guide, featuring our hand-picked selection of all the must-see spots, hidden gems, and local favorites—your definitive insider’s key to exploring Cartagena the right way, straight from those who truly know the city inside and out.
The view from the rooftop bar at Casa Carolina Hotel in Cartagena,Colombia.
WHERE TO STAY IN CARTAGENA
(L) The beachside swimming pool at Blue Apple Beach Hotel. (R) A hip suite at The Townhouse Art Hotel.
Just a quick 30-minute boat ride from Cartagena’s city center, Blue Apple Beach on Tierra Bomba island is the epitome of laid-back luxury. Part boutique hotel, part beach club, it’s as serious about sustainability as it is about style—certified as a B Corp and featured in the 2025 MICHELIN Hotel Guide. With only 11 rooms, staying here isn’t like checking into your standard beachside hotel—it feels more like slipping into a secret circle of kindred spirits who’ve mastered the art of carefree island living. Think Leonardo DiCaprio’s film The Beach (before all the island anarchy, of course!), where days are spent basking in the Caribbean sun, hopping between the pool and the sea, or setting out on a dive, and evenings bring a kind of magic as dinner is served under the stars in a new setting each night, so no two meals ever feel the same.
It’s no surprise that Blue Apple has become a favorite among high-profile visitors—recent guests have included Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez, Hollywood power couple Meagan Good and Jonathan Majors, and fan-favorite actor Jon Bernthal from 'The Walking Dead'—all of whom only add to the property’s magnetic charm and cement its status as Cartagena’s most effortlessly chic coastal escape.
Led by British-Trinidadian founder Portia Hart, who has built Blue Apple into a haven of creativity and conscious hospitality, and chef Pedro Mosqueda—trained in MICHELIN-starred kitchens in New York—who keeps the culinary program elevated yet unpretentious, the property feels like the stylish yet relaxed private island home of a well-traveled friend. Guests can also tour the onsite facility for the hotel's nonprofit, Green Apple Foundation, which supports recycling initiatives and artisan training. Complete with horses grazing nearby, a scuba dive center for adventure seekers, and an infectious sense of community that draws staff and guests together, Blue Apple captures the very spirit of what makes Cartagena’s seaside getaways so unforgettable.
Opened in December 2024, Casa Carolina has already become one of Cartagena’s most buzzed-about boutique hotels—and for good reason. This 5-star hotel is where history meets high design, tucked inside a building that was once the city’s first cathedral presbytery, later a private home, and now a classified historic monument.
Owner Caroline Tchekhoff’s renovation honors every colonial detail—from coral stone columns and sculptures to 16th-century wall paintings—while adding playful modern touches like a rooftop pool, a dreamy inner-courtyard waterfall, and six uniquely designed room styles across 15 suites. Whether you’re sipping cocktails at the rooftop bar, flowing through a yoga class, or indulging in dishes at the wellness café and restaurant crafted from responsibly sourced ingredients, staying at Casa Carolina feels like stepping into your own chic, historic hideaway.
In a city brimming with lively, social spots, Townhouse Art Hotel truly stands apart. Perfect for travelers who crave a vibrant, interactive vibe with plenty of personality, this 4-star gem lives by its motto: “ fancy doesn’t have to be boring”. It’s ideal for those who want all the comforts of a high-end hotel but also seeking the bustling, social energy of a hostel—perfect for solo travelers who may have outgrown shared hostel dorm life but still crave the chance to meet new people. Few things are more disappointing when traveling to a new country than staying somewhere that feels like just another cookie-cutter hotel that could be in any city in America, especially when in such a vibrant city like Cartagena, and Townhouse completely sidesteps that.
Right in the heart of the Walled City, Townhouse Art Hotel captures everything that makes Cartagena so magnetic—vibrant culture, busting city energy, and a social buzz that makes every stay exciting. The walls pop with murals and artwork from local artists, and whether you take the spiraling staircase or the see-through elevator zipping past painted walls, heading up to your room or the rooftop bar feels like a mini adventure. Staying at Townhouse, you can’t help but feel a little cool—you’re wrapped in an atmosphere that’s elevated and welcoming, brimming with style and energy, yet completely free of pretension.
The sprawling entrance to Casa Carolina Hotel.
WHERE TO GET BRUNCH
(L) Inside the very cool & chic Nia Bakery. (R) Cocktail Mixing Classes at 'Lunatico Experiences'.
Nía Bakery is hands-down one of Cartagena’s coolest brunch spots. Unassuming from the street entrance, when you step inside you’re greeted by warm pink-terracotta colored walls, boho-chic furnishings, and a vibe that’s effortlessly cool and welcoming—the kind of place that, if it were in New York's Soho, would definitely have a line around the corner every weekend, full of influencers eager to get inside and snap pics of every beautifully plated instagram worthy dish.
The pastries are next-level: seasonal tarts, buttery Breton cookies with lulo jam and Amazonian white chocolate—each bite a little taste of Colombia’s flavors. And the iced coffee? Honestly, it might just be the best in the city—a tall order in a country famous for its coffee. Stylish, relaxed, and buzzing with energy, Nía is the perfect spot to grab brunch with friends and soak up all the good vibes.
Lunático Experience is perfect for anyone looking for a daytime brunch activity that’s more of a hands on experience. It's part cooking class, part tasting adventure, and all about immersing yourself in the vibrant flavors and culture of the Caribbean. Slip on an apron and learn to make local favorites like arepa de huevo, carimañolas, or ceviche with the guidance of passionate local chefs, then sit down to enjoy your creations at a table with a stunning view of San Felipe Castle, the Bay of San Lázaro, and the Convent of La Popa. The fun doesn’t stop at the kitchen though—rum tastings, mixology sessions, and craft beers let you explore Colombia’s flavors sip by sip, from aged rums paired with artisanal chocolate to cocktails made with fresh local ingredients. Getting guidance from the locals, cooking your own dishes, and mixing your own drinks makes the experience far more fun than simply being served—and there’s nothing better than sitting down to enjoy the meal and cocktails you created yourself.
And if you’re craving a true taste of Cartagena beyond the restaurants, hit the streets and dive into the city’s incredible street food scene. OK! recommends booking a tour with Kristy Ellis from Cartagena Connections—she’ll take you straight to the local gems, far away from the cookie-cutter mass tour groups, and give you the kind of insider food crawl that makes you feel like you’re eating your way through the city with a friend who knows all the best spots.
A group cooking class at Lunatico Experiences.
WHERE TO DINE
(L)Salón Tropical (Center) Owner of Carmen restaurant, Carmen Angel. (R) Street Entrance to 'El Beso'
Housed in a warm, intimate colonial house, Carmen has a vibe that’s fun, social, and very lively—the perfect place to kick off a Friday night and start the weekend festivities off right. The menu is a celebration of Colombia’s flavors, highlighting local artisans, fishermen, and farmers with dishes that are as creative as they are delicious. And the cocktails? Don’t even get us started—handcrafted, packed with fresh fruits, vibrant flavors, and ancestral spirits, they’re as much a part of the experience as the food. Carmen isn’t just dinner; it’s an atmosphere, a scene, and a full-on celebration of Cartagena’s energy in an elevated dining setting.
El Beso is one of those hidden gems in Getsemaní—Cartagena’s “Brooklyn”—that feels like a secret only the locals know. Small, intimate, and full of personality, it’s the kind of spot where you immediately feel part of the neighborhood. The menu takes street food seriously, giving it a thoughtful twist with seafood and vegetarian flavors that surprise and delight with every bite. Unpretentious but passionate about quality and authenticity, El Beso turns every dish into a little journey through Cartagena’s flavors, reimagined with care. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why tradition and creativity are the ultimate pairing, all in a cozy, tucked-away setting that makes you feel like you’re in on the city’s best-kept secret.
Salón Tropical is where Cartagena’s vibrant flavors come alive. Tucked in the heart of Getsemaní, this spot is all about fresh, seasonal ingredients straight from local producers and fishermen, with a menu that celebrates the best of the Caribbean—from the catch of the day to a colorful array of shellfish. The seafood is, of course, a star, but the real magic happens in the atmosphere: lively, warm, and full of energy, with live music that makes dinner feel like a local celebration. The cocktails are just as memorable—don’t miss their unique spin on the classic piña colada, which is our top cocktail pick for those seeking something a little bit different. Salón Tropical the kind of place where you can relax, savor incredible food and drinks, support the local community, and soak up the spirit of Cartagena.
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The outdoor patio at Carmen Restaurant.
WHERE TO PARTY DAY & NIGHT
(L) The DJ gets the crowd dancing at Amare Beach (R) Late night dancing in the upstairs lounge at 'Casa Bohème'.
The moment you step onto the sand at Amaré, it’s easy to see why locals and travelers can’t get enough. When Portia Hart, founder of Blue Apple Beach, noticed her team spending their days off at work because they couldn’t find a spot that balanced quality with chill vibes, she created Amaré as the solution. It’s exactly that kind of place—shoes off, toes in the sand, zero pretentiousness. Think cold beers, tasty bites, good music, and that perfect mix of sun and sea. Getting here is a breeze too: book a ride with Boating Cartagena, the go-to for seamless island-hopping, and in just 10 minutes you’re back in the city with salty hair, sandy feet, and the kind of glow only a day at Amaré can give you.
Casa Bohème is where Cartagena’s nightlife really come alive. Located in the heart of the city, it’s a creative playground where music, art, and entertainment collide in the coolest way possible. The upstairs lounge is the perfect spot for late-night partying—think less nightclub, more an impromptu house party with close friends dancing around the living room. The crowd is welcoming, with a wide range of ages, making it feel like a true part of Cartagena’s infectious nightlife energy. With two restaurants, an audio lounge, a concept store, and a food market all under one roof, you can hop from a cocktail in the lounge to a bite at dinner, then lose yourself in a live DJ set or immersive sound journey. Dreamed up by a team of designers, hospitality pros, and entertainment insiders, Casa Bohème is the go-to spot for travelers craving a lively vibe with a true taste of Cartagena’s nightlife
Members Only is Cartagena’s little musical secret, tucked away on the ground floor of The Townhouse Art Hotel. True to its name, it has an exclusive feel—but without the velvet ropes or grumpy bouncers you often find at American bars. Instead, it’s welcoming to anyone who wants to kick back, sip a drink, and soak up some incredible live jazz. Think piano bar vibes straight out of New York—with a splash of Caribbean flair. Led by house pianist Angel and the band Lake Avenue, you might catch a local singer grabbing the mic—or even be tempted to take it yourself. Members Only the kind of classic jazz bar that is intimate, vibrant, and pure Cartagena energy.
The crowd takes in some live Jazz at 'Members Only'
WHERE TO SHOP
(L) Street entrance to Lucy's Jewelry (Center) The Restored Wooden Stadium ceterpoint at La Serrezuela mall. (R)Inside Lucy's Jewelry Store, Cartagena.
Cartagena isn’t just the place for sun, sea, and nightlife—it’s also where you’ll find the world’s most coveted emeralds. Colombia’s stones are in a league of their own, valued up to three times more than those mined elsewhere, and Lucy Jewelry is the insider spot to see (and shop) the very best. In fact, Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez recently popped in during their Cartagena getaway and left with a few dazzling emeralds of their own—proof that even billionaires can’t resist Colombia’s green treasures.
What sets Lucy Jewelry apart is its heart: a mother–daughter team. Founder Lucy passed down her love of emeralds to her daughter Alejandra, who now leads the brand as a GIA-certified gemologist—the global authority on gems. In an exclusive, direct-to-client setting, Alejandra walks visitors through the secrets of what makes Colombian emeralds so extraordinary. Lucy Jewelry proves that some of Cartagena’s brightest gems are found right here on land.
Cartagena’s most glamorous “mall” is anything but ordinary. Located inside the Walled City’s San Diego neighborhood, La Serrezuela opened in 1893 as a theater and bullfighting arena before being reborn as a stunning blend of historic grandeur and modern luxury. Today, visitors can wander beneath soaring arches, admire the restored wooden stadium, and even glimpse a 3D-printed scale model of the Old City.
Between sips of Colombia’s finest brews at the in-house coffee tasting, you’ll find a chic mix of local fashion, artisanal homewares, and natural skincare—plus Malva, the must-visit department store spotlighting Colombian designers. More than just retail therapy, La Serrezuela is a stylish, air-conditioned escape where Cartagena’s past and present collide.
Lucy's Jewelry Founder Lucy with GIA-certified gemologist daughter Alejandra.
Now that you’ve got the insider picks from OK!—and thanks to our experience with Nuestra Cartagena, the collective of local hospitality leaders shining a new light on this city—you’re all set to explore Cartagena the right way.
Cartagena's rise as the Caribbean’s hottest travel destination is only just getting started, and trust us, you’ll want to be able to say you got here before everyone else did.
With world-class dining, buzzing nightlife, chic boutique stays, and island escapes just minutes away, Cartagena has all the makings of the next global “it” spot.
So seriously—what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book that flight, and get there before this hidden gem turns into everyone’s not-so-secret obsession.
A birds eye view of Amare Beach Club.
