Knowing how to get around is important! That is especially true when you’re coming to a foreign country, and especially if you might not be a native or great speaker of the language (in this case Spanish). It’s also important to know your options for public transportation in Cartagena to help save some money and make sure you’re not being overcharged.

When in Cartagena it is important to note that the city is delimited by the Caribbean Seaand therefore it has an irregular shape. It is divided it into three parts, the northern zone, where the historic center is, the northwest, where the barrio Getsemani (Gethsemane neighborhood) is located and the south where the Bocagrande (Big Mouth), Laguito (Little Lake) and Castillo grande (Big castle) beaches are found.

Main Roads – Cartagena Colombia

The main roads in the city are the Avenida Santander (Santander Avenue) which goes from the airport to Bocagrande adn the avenida Pedro de Heredia (Pedro de Heredia avenue)which directs the flow of traffic from east to west and vice versa.

On Foot – Cartagena Colombia

Warm weather and compact areas with lots of attractions make walking through the kaleidoscopic streets of Cartagena a treat. With some careful planning, travelers can plot a short stroll by the city’s architectural landmarks, shopping centers and beaches.

Taxi – Cartagena Colombia

As a tourist town, taxis are abundant and safe, but drivers will not hesitate to overcharge unsuspecting travelers. Visitors should plan to negotiate a price before they enter the vehicle to avoid overpaying. Also, keep in mind that rides generally start at COL$7,000 (about $2) and additional fees are at the discretion of the driver, as there are no meters. Tipping taxi drivers about 10 percent or by rounding to the next thousand pesos is a nice gesture for honest and helpful drivers.

Uber – Cartagena Colombia

Uber had always existed in a sort of legal gray area in Colombia. It has caused controversy with taxi companies and unions opposing it. At one point it was banned, however, a mid-2020 court decision overturned that ban, and according it will be returning.

Rental Cars – Cartagena Colombia

There are car rental companies by the airport. Unless you are planning to travel outside of Cartagena and prefer driving yourself, I would say it is not worth renting a car. Taxis and plentiful and parking in Cartagena can be difficult, especially in Centro.

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➡ Discover more about Colombia: Looking to maximize your time in the Sun and Beach? Visit San Andrés

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Tours & Tickets in Cartagena Colombia

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CARTAGENA TRAVEL GUIDE

 

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