Things to do for free in Cartagena de Indias

If you want to have an unforgettable experience in Cartagena, you do not have to spend a lot of money. Actually, in this famous city, internationally recognized by its history, magnificent military structures, and its enchanting islands, there are a lot of exiting things to do that won’t cost you any money. Here we give you a few recommendations:

Have a picnic in the Parque Lineal of the Crespo's Malecon

This marvel of modern architecture was built above a tunnel at the edge of the sea. It is the perfect place to share one of the funniest plans you can make in Cartagena: A picnic. Just imagine yourself having a great time by the sea, listening to the waves and contemplating a spectacular colorful sky.

The best moment of the day to have a picnic, in the company of your friends, is at dusk. While you watch the sun going down and getting lost among the bright waters of the sea, the fresh night appears, and the lights of the park become the stars of the evening.

Visit the Bocachica Island

The islands that surround Cartagena stand out for its unique beauty, and the one called Bochachica is not the exception. Located approximately 20 minutes away from the city, it looks like a colonial stage from a movie set.

You can visit its old Forts for free and get to explore every corner of the island. History will come alive in front of your eyes and you will witness the combat fields of ancient battles.

Have fun in La Plaza de la Trinidad

The square of La Trinidad is the favorite among local and foreign tourists. Its nights are full of life and vibrant rhythms, in which you can either experience live shows from different street artists or be part of one entertaining aerobics’ class.

It is located in Getsemaní and is the ideal location to spend a wonderful evening next to your couple, or in the company of friends and family.

Walking by this neighborhood of narrow streets and graffiti art on its walls is a true delight. Every day, more and more citizens from different parts of the world want to live this unique and charming experience.

Work out in the streets

If you feel like exercising outside,  Cartagena has plenty of places where you can work out without spending any money.

Most of the parks you find in the city are equipped with bio healthy exercising machines, so you can work on your muscles at any time. You can also go for a bike ride, a jog, or simply walk around this gorgeous bay, where the soft sound of the waves will help you improve your performance.

Explore the Espíritu del Manglar Park

It is an ideal place to exercise and to set a picnic. But it is also a perfect place to learn. This natural park also offers a cultural corridor where you can find statues honoring writers, athletes and cultural figures. There are different paths where you can find the names of every plant. Sometimes it offers the opportunity to see some amazing animals within the mangles, but you must always watch your step, because there might be a few turtles wandering around the park and you don´t want to cause them any damage.

There is no admission fee. The money you spend is optional, in case you want to purchase something from the shops inside the park. There are different restaurants and a market where you can have delicious snacks. It is a quiet park full of nature, where you can have one of the best walks of your life.

Visit the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas

It is the most important Fort of Cartagena. It is considered the largest military construction made by the Spanish in America, attracting hundreds of thousands of tourists from all over the world, who come to Cartagena to see this marvel full of tunnels, history and secrets

The entrance to this colossal construction, once considered the “guardian” of Cartagena, is totally free for Colombian citizens during the last Sunday of every month (except for December and January).