If you're planning a trip to Cartagena and feeling overwhelmed by the many lodging options, don’t worry—we’re here to help you choose between two iconic areas: Bocagrande and Getsemaní. Each has its own unique vibe and charm, so it all depends on how you want to experience the city.

Bocagrande: Beach, Modern Comfort, and Relaxation

Bocagrande is like Cartagena’s sophisticated cousin. Here, you’ll find high-rise buildings, sea-view hotels, and beaches just steps away. It’s perfect if your ideal vacation includes sunbathing, strolling along the shore with a cold coconut in hand, and dining in air-conditioned restaurants after a day in the sun. Just don’t expect a wild, deserted Caribbean beach—it’s lively and has an urban touch.

Estimated cost per night per person: Between COP $80,000 and $250,000, depending on whether you choose a budget hostel, an Airbnb, or a more upscale hotel.

Practical tips:

• Look for hostels or Airbnbs near Avenida San Martín to be at the heart of the action without paying five-star hotel prices.

• Bring cash: Many beach vendors don’t accept cards, and you’ll want to try the local arepas de huevo (egg-filled corn fritters).

• If you’re sensitive to noise, avoid long weekends—this area gets packed with local tourists.

Getsemaní: Art, Culture, and Nightlife

If you’re more into the bohemian side of travel, Getsemaní is your spot. This neighborhood is full of life: mural-covered streets, hostels with hammocks, and bars where salsa and champeta play late into the night. It’s ideal for young travelers looking to meet people, explore on foot, and feel the pulse of Cartagena’s most authentic side. Just be ready for the heat—and the charming chaos.

Estimated cost per night per person: Between COP $30,000 and $120,000. You'll find budget-friendly dorms as well as boutique hostels with more comfort.

Local recommendations:

• Casa Zahri Boutique Hostel: A great option if you're looking for a place with a pool, social atmosphere, and great location in Getsemaní. Private rooms usually range from COP $80,000 to $100,000 per night.

• Viajero Hostel Getsemaní: Recently renovated, with a terrace, pool, and perfect vibe to meet fellow travelers. Dorm beds from COP $35,000.

Practical tips:

• Pack light clothing and comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking a lot through alleyways and plazas like Plaza de la Trinidad.

• Try the street food (patacones with hogao are a must) and bring cash for street vendors.

• For a quieter stay, choose a hostel with an interior patio, as the streets can get noisy at night.

So, Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re dreaming of the beach, comfort, and convenience, go with Bocagrande—it offers a more relaxed experience with easy sea access, though at a slightly higher cost. But if you're excited to dive into local culture and don’t mind trading a bit of peace for a vibrant, budget-friendly atmosphere, Getsemaní will win your heart with its authenticity.

And hey—you don’t have to decide blindly: join a Beyond Colombia Tour and let a local guide show you the real Cartagena. Book your spot and experience the city the way it’s meant to be lived!