Are you looking for the best Airbnb in Cartagena? I have you covered!
Known as the crown jewel of the Caribbean, Cartagena was founded in the 16th century and it truly is a beautiful city – the kind of place you should definitely visit in Colombia. Bigger than you would imagine (more than a million people live there), not to mention quite spread out, it also is the most expensive and the most popular tourist destination in the country, which means that no matter when you visit, you’ll find it packed with tourists and if you want to score a good room at a reasonable price, you really have to book in advance.
The good news is that there are some great places to stay in Cartagena. Actually, there are so many that you may have a hard time deciding where to stay. The bad news is that the best places are actually quite expensive and if you want to save a bit you will have to opt for something not as nice, or in a lesser central location.
That’s unless you decide to stay in an Airbnb in Cartagena!
There’s more than one reason to consider staying in Airbnbs in Cartagena. First of all, they are great value for money – most of the time, for the price of a good hotel room, you actually get an entire place to stay, full with a kitchen in case you want to cook your own meals. But there’s more: Airbnb hosts are usually a reliable and very local source of information, so you can count on them for tips on things to do, good (budget friendly) places to eat, and more. Finally, Airbnbs can be totally charming!
If you don’t know where to start looking for your Airbnb in Cartagena, I am here for you. In this post, I will highlight the best areas to stay in the city, and select the best Airbnbs in Cartagena for you.
A Quick Introduction To Cartagena’s Best Areas To Stay
Cartagena may be a relatively compact city, but its various neighborhoods couldn’t be more different from each other. From its Old Walled City – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – to its modern-day skyscrapers and high-rises, there is something for just about everyone to enjoy in Cartagena. Whether you’re looking for a down-to-earth stay in a historic building, or if you feel like living it up in a luxurious condo, there’s sure to be an Airbnb out there for you. So let’s dive right in!
These are the best neighborhoods in town Cartagena:
CENTRO – also known as the Old City, as the name suggests, Centro makes up the heart of Cartagena. It’s also one of the oldest parts of the city, situated within its Spanish colonial-era city walls. This picturesque neighborhood is a great place to stay if it’s your first time visiting Cartagena. It’s full to the brim with historic architecture, charming streets and plentiful places to grab a cold drink from street vendors, relax and watch passers-by. The area is quite touristy, but aside from crowds, that also means you’ll have access to a good number of things to see and do (as well and drink and eat) in Centro.
GETSEMANI – With its street art and alternative atmosphere, Getsemani is a great place to stay in Cartagena if you like the idea of lively nightlife. This hip neighborhood – a former red light district – is centered near Holy Trinity Square (Plaza de la Santisima Trinidad), which is often busy with musicians, snack stalls and groups of people hanging out and enjoying the vibes. Many of its narrow streets are daubed with colorful murals and slogans, making it an interesting place to explore with a camera in hand. It’s a local area by day, coming to life even more at night with its great selection of bars and restaurants.
MANGA – Manga is virtually the opposite of Getsemani and Centro. Situated outside of the city walls, this is a residential neighborhood that isn’t very exciting, nor very attractive – especially when compared to the Old City. But what it does have is a calm seaside promenade with yachts that fill the surrounding water. The skyline of Bocagrande across the bay is also quite impressive. There are a few nice, colonial-era buildings, as well as a fort and a good selection of seafood restaurants to try out – particularly the famous Club de Pesca, dating back to the 1950s.
CASTILLOGRANDE – This is an upscale neighborhood where wealthy Colombians live in modern, high-rise apartment blocks that line this jutting piece of land. It may be a small peninsula, but there’s plenty of options for activities at Castillogrande. There are good beaches here, as well as a nice selection of restaurants and bars, too. Although it’s also a very safe area to stay, the downside is that you’ll be far from the historic center of Cartagena. The public transport isn’t very well developed either.
MARBELLA – This residential neighborhood may not be packed with bars and restaurants, but it does make for an affordable place to stay in Cartagena. It’s also not too far from Centro, and therefore still offers the charm of the historic part of town. Boasting a waterfront location, Marbella also has a family-friendly atmosphere with its very own beach to rival those of Bocagrande. It’s the best of both worlds – beach and city. If you’re in Cartagena on a budget, or with your family, Marbella – just a 10-minute taxi ride from the Old City – is a great base from which to explore the city.
SAN DIEGO – Situated in the northeast corner of the walled city, San Diego is a more upscale alternative to Centro or Getsemani. It’s a popular spot for sunset viewing, with couples and groups of friends gathering along the old sea walls with snacks and drinks. Around the area, there is a range of bistros where diners sit a la terrasse, soaking up the life of squares such as Plaza San Diego. A picturesque part of town, San Diego is great if you want to stay in an historic neighborhood but want to avoid the more lively Old City district.
BOCAGRANDE AND LAGUITO – These two neighborhoods make up an area that’s often touted as the Miami Beach of Cartagena. Feeling worlds away from the centuries-old Centro district, this most modern part of the city glitters with high-rises, malls and international eateries. Bocagrande may not have the historic ambience or colonial architecture of the Old City, but you do get a view into the city’s modern life – a wealthy area with casinos and luxury boutiques where many Colombians own holiday homes. One of the most popular beaches is Laguito which is popular among water sport enthusiasts. One downside is that both areas are quite far from the centre of town.
ISLAS DEL ROSARIO – Situated around 100 kilometers from the coast of Cartagena, the Islas del Rosario is a collection of beautiful islands which are often visited by day trippers from the mainland. But it is also possible to stay on one of them during your vacation to this coastal city. The islands actually make up one of Colombia’s national parks, and waters are teeming with coral reefs and colorful marine life. This is an ideal spot for those who want to kayak, chill out on the beach, go snorkeling and have a quieter vacation when compared to the rest of Cartagena which is around an hour’s boat ride away.
Now that you know more about the best neighborhoods in Cartagena, it’s time to check out some of its most amazing Airbnbs!
The Best Airbnb In Cartagena
Gorgeous Apartment in the Walled City
LOCATION – Old City
SLEEPS – 5
SUPERHOST – Yes
This apartment is easily one of the most beautiful Airbnbs in Cartagena. With enough room for five guests, it’s spacious enough for a family or group of friends to stay in comfortably. The interiors are polished and include a luxurious living area, complete with large, comfy sofas. In fact, there’s enough room in the fully-equipped kitchen for you to whip up a family dinner with ease.
In terms of location, you’ll find this incredibly stylish apartment in Cartagena’s Old City with historic sights as well as plenty of places to eat and drink within easy walking distance.
Click here for the latest rates.
Minimalist Studio with Balcony
LOCATION – Getsemani
SLEEPS – 3
SUPERHOST – Yes
This colorful studio apartment is a bright and welcoming place to stay in the heart of Cartagena’s hip Getsemani neighborhood. Staying here means you’ll be located just steps away from top city sights and restaurants, with a cosy and spacious Airbnb to return to after exploring.
There’s room for three people to sleep here, but it’s probably better suited to a couple. It even comes with its very own balcony – an ideal spot for a cup of coffee before heading out to discover the historic charms of the city.
Click here for the latest rates.
Exclusive Villa in Downtown Cartagena
LOCATION – Old City
SLEEPS – 10
SUPERHOST – Yes
This place is truly a unique Airbnb in Cartagena. Situated in a historic building with high ceilings and antique furniture throughout, this villa is decorated with original artwork and amazing period features. With space for up to 10 guests to sleep across its four bedrooms, it’s great for a family trip away or a group of friends. Extra bonuses of staying here include its roof-deck, complete with jacuzzi and swimming pool. There’s even the perk of being able to order a personalized breakfast thanks to the private chef included in the room rate.
Click here for the latest rates.
Luxurious Beachfront Condo
LOCATION – Bocagrande
SLEEPS – 6
SUPERHOST – Yes
If you’re a fan of great views, you should definitely take a look at this place. It’s a condo situated on the 20th floor of a modern apartment block, meaning you’ll be treated to an amazing vista of the sea. The even cooler thing about this amazing Airbnb in Cartagena is that it even comes with its own balcony, so you can enjoy your morning coffee with that amazing view and a sea breeze.
Situated in Bocagrande, this apartment is steps away from the beach, so if you prefer your vacation to be more about sun, sea and sand than history, it could be a great choice for you.
Click here for the latest rates.
Beautiful Townhouse in Getsemani
LOCATION – Getsemani
SLEEPS – 6
SUPERHOST – Yes
This stylish Cartagena Airbnb is situated in the historic neighborhood of Getsemani, meaning you’ll have all the excitement of the district on your doorstep. The townhouse itself is modern and contemporary – a mix of minimalism and polished concrete floors – complete with color pops and quirky, eclectic furniture throughout. There’s enough room to sleep up to six guests across the three bedrooms in this cool Airbnb, which also comes with two bathrooms, living spaces and a fully equipped kitchen.
Click here for the latest rates.
Spacious, Contemporary Bocagrande Apartment
LOCATION – Bocagrande
SLEEPS – 3
SUPERHOST – Yes
This apartment is decorated in a modern style with polished tiled floors, large floor to ceiling windows and a fresh, nautical theme throughout the property. There’s room enough for three guests to stay here, and it comes with a well-equipped kitchen and a large balcony. The views from here of the Bay of Cartagena are amazing.
Guests will also have access to the amenities situated in this condominium building, including the gym, swimming pool and jacuzzi.
Click here for the latest rates.
Boho Studio in Historic Building
LOCATION – Old City
SLEEPS – 2
SUPERHOST – Yes
You’ll really get a taste of the old world in this amazing Cartagena Airbnb. Situated right in the heart of the Old City, this totally charming apartment is set in a historic building to match the heritage of the surrounding area. Its vintage-style interiors allow you to relax in style as you soak up the sights and sounds of the city through its large windows.
This place really makes for an ideal way to get to know Cartagena by allowing you to stay in a slice of the city’s history itself. On top of that, the location – with restaurants and bars right on the doorstep – is perfect.
Click here for the latest rates.
Townhouse with Pool in the Old City
LOCATION – San Diego
SLEEPS – 9
SUPERHOST – Yes
This place certainly is a sophisticated option. With its high-end furnishings, eye-catching artworks and a wealth of amenities, this Airbnb in Cartagena’s San Diego neighborhood is great for families or a group of friends. There’s space for nine guests here, with four bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms, as well as a fully equipped kitchen, private swimming pool, beautiful outdoor terrace and even a gym. This truly is the Airbnb of your dreams – a truly luxurious property where you can relax away from the hustle and bustle of the Old City.
Click here for the latest rates.
Contemporary Condo with Incredible Sea Views
LOCATION – Bocagrande
SLEEPS – 4
SUPERHOST – Yes
Nothing quite beats waking up to an amazing sea view, and that’s exactly what you get with this modern condo. The comfy double bed is surrounded by glass giving those sea views center-stage. Situated in the Bocagrande district, mere steps away from the beach, there’s also a balcony and a fully equipped kitchen.
Visitors also have to a shared rooftop where you’ll find the incredible hotel-worthy pool, as well as a shared gym sauna and jacuzzi too. There’s enough room for four guests, with one bedroom and a spacious living area to relax in. The building also comes with 24-hour security and free parking which is always handy.
Click here for the latest rates.
Modern Minimalist Townhouse
LOCATION – Getsemani
SLEEPS – 11
SUPERHOST – Yes
With enough room to sleep up to 11 guests, this large, multi-level house in Cartagena is easily one of the coolest places to stay in the city. And with all that space, it’s a great option if you’re traveling to the city with a large group of friends or your family.
The interiors throughout this top Airbnb in Cartagena are beautifully designed with excellent attention to detail – think minimalist aesthetics, white-washed walls and carefully curated fixtures and furnishings throughout. One of the best things about this place is its rooftop terrace – the perfect place to chill out after a day of exploring the city.
Click here for the latest rates.
Further Readings
Are you planning a trip to Colombia? Make sure to check out my other posts:
- 19 Unmissable Things To Do In Bogota
- A Complete Guide To Where To Stay In Bogota
- The Most Unique Airbnbs In Bogota
- 7 Great Day Trips From Bogota
- A Concise Guide To Villa De Leyva, Colombia
- An Excellent Guide To San Gil, Colombia
- A Concise Guide To Salento, Colombia
- A Complete Guide To Hiking Valle De Cocora, Colombia
- 31 Incredible Things To Do In Cartagena
- 15 Useful Things To Know Before Visiting Cartagena
- The Best Day Trips From Cartagena
- Where To Stay In Cartagena – The Best Neighborhoods And Places To Stay
- 29 Beautiful Places To Visit In Colombia
- A Wonderful Itinerary For 2 Weeks In Colombia
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