Note: This Cartagena nightlife guide was written by my friend Sam who lived for several years in Colombia. Cartagena is a coastal Caribbean city, probably one of the most popular with foreigners in Colombia. You have a lot of backpackers, retirees, American cruise ship passengers, as well as local tourists. The main attractions are the old town, with its Spanish colonial architecture, the beaches, and what will interest us here: the nightlife.
Nightlife in Cartagena has a fantastic Caribbean vibe, but there are a few things to pay attention to. Ripping off tourists is an art form in this city and all the unsavory characters come out at night here. After spending 3 months in Cartagena, I know where to go and when. I hope my recommendations will help you enjoy some great parties in the city!
Please don't hesitate to ask me questions in the comment section if something is not clear. What to Expect at Night in Cartagena. Dark jeans and a button-down shirt is all you need. Not Cheap : This is a touristic city. Prices are going to be inflated. In fact, the prices were higher than almost anywhere else in Colombia. When to Party : Sunday, Monday, Tuesday are usually dead. Things get better on Wednesday and Thursday.
Friday and Saturday are the busiest. Don't visit clubs before 1AM, unless you want to get in for free usually before midnight. My favorite bars and clubs where always hit and miss. Is it safe to party in Cartagena? The Old Town, Getsemani and Bocagrande are generally safe to walk around - even when stumbling drunk late at night. Meeting Normal Girls. Finally, Tinder is another option, but based on my experience, it only works if you are young, handsome and living in Cartagena.
Best Hotels Near Cartagena Nightlife. As it turns out, this is also the best location for exploring the city's colonial district. Best Bars and Clubs in Cartagena. Alquimico Bar. Fun atmosphere, it is usually crowded from Thursday to Saturday starting 11PM. Tourist and expat crowd. Good for meeting normal girls at the bar on the 1st floor. Music can be Latin or more electronic. If you like this kind of places, you may also want to check the restaurant-bar El Baron , which is just a few minutes away, walking distance.
