What Cities Are Close to Cartagena Colombia

When planning a trip to Cartagena, Colombia, it’s natural to wonder about the cities nearby. Are there any hidden gems just a stone’s throw away? Or perhaps bustling metropolitan areas worth exploring? In this article, we will unveil the cities near Cartagena, Colombia, giving you insight into the diverse destinations that can enhance your Cartagena adventure,

Key Takeaways:

• There are several cities within a 60 km radius of Cartagena, Colombia, including Santa Catalina, San Estanislao, Mahates, and more.
• Barranquilla is the closest major city to Cartagena, followed by Soledad, Maracaibo (Venezuela), Cúcuta, and Bucaramanga.
• Towns and suburbs near Cartagena can contribute to a deeper exploration of the region, offering unique experiences.
• Bolívar Department boasts charming towns like Turbaco, Mompox, and San Basilio de Palenque, each with its own historical and cultural significance.
• Cartagena’s proximity to other Colombian cities and even foreign cities opens up possibilities for further travel and discovery.

Major Cities near Cartagena Colombia

If you’re planning a trip to Cartagena, Colombia, and want to explore beyond the city itself, there are several major cities nearby that you can visit. These cities offer unique attractions and experiences that can complement your Cartagena adventure.

Barranquilla

Located about 101 km away, Barranquilla is the closest major city to Cartagena. Known for its vibrant Carnaval de Barranquilla, which is one of the biggest carnivals in the world, this city offers a lively atmosphere and a rich cultural heritage. Explore its colonial architecture, enjoy the local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the music and dance that define Barranquilla’s identity.

Soledad

Situated just north of Barranquilla, Soledad is another major city near Cartagena. This bustling urban center is home to a diverse population and offers a range of amenities and entertainment options. Discover its vibrant markets, visit local parks, or indulge in delicious street food to get a taste of Soledad’s vibrant culture.

Maracaibo (Venezuela)

If you’re up for an international adventure, consider visiting Maracaibo in neighboring Venezuela. Located approximately 427 km from Cartagena, Maracaibo is known for its stunning Lake Maracaibo and the iconic Maracaibo Bridge. Immerse yourself in the vibrant street life, explore the historic city center, and sample the unique flavors of Venezuelan cuisine.

Cúcuta

Located further east, near the border with Venezuela, Cúcuta is another major city that you can explore from Cartagena. This city offers a blend of cultural influences resulting from its historical position as a gateway to Colombia’s eastern regions. Visit its impressive landmarks, such as the Catedral de San José and the Santander Park, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the local people.

Bucaramanga

Last but not least, Bucaramanga is a major city situated in the foothills of the Andes Mountains, offering stunning natural landscapes and a pleasant climate. Known as “The City of Parks,” Bucaramanga is filled with green spaces and outdoor recreational areas. Take a stroll through its picturesque streets, visit the Chicamocha National Park, or indulge in the local cuisine to fully experience the charm of this city.

These major cities near Cartagena provide a variety of attractions, cultural experiences, and transportation options. If you’re arriving by air, some of these cities may have airports that you can fly into, making your journey even more convenient. So, don’t miss the opportunity to explore beyond Cartagena and discover the hidden gems of Colombia’s neighboring cities.

Nearby Towns and Suburbs near Cartagena

When visiting Cartagena, don’t limit yourself to the city alone. Travelmath provides a map of local cities around Cartagena, offering a glimpse into nearby towns and suburbs that can enhance your travel experience. These towns and suburbs are not only ideal for those living in metropolitan areas, but they also provide an opportunity to explore different neighborhoods and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Whether you’re seeking a change of scenery, looking for cities near specific airports or zip codes, or hoping to discover hidden gems away from the bustling streets of Cartagena, exploring these nearby towns and suburbs is a fantastic idea. They offer a unique perspective on the region and provide more depth to your trip.

If you’re interested in a serene coastal retreat near Cartagena, consider visiting Santa Catalina. This charming town is known for its beautiful beaches, tranquil ambiance, and rich history. It’s the perfect destination for a relaxing day trip or a weekend getaway.

For those looking to escape the cityscape, make your way to the picturesque suburb of Soplaviento. Located a short distance from Cartagena, Soplaviento offers a peaceful environment surrounded by lush greenery. Take a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood, visit local markets, or simply unwind in nature.

Another noteworthy town near Cartagena is Repelon. This vibrant suburb is famous for its lively festivals, colorful architecture, and warm hospitality. Immerse yourself in the local traditions, savor the delicious cuisine, and participate in cultural events to truly experience the essence of Repelon.

Exploring nearby towns and suburbs near Cartagena is like embarking on a treasure hunt. Each place has its own unique charm, attractions, and experiences to offer. So, make sure to include these hidden gems in your travel itinerary to fully appreciate the diverse and vibrant surroundings of Cartagena.

Discover the beauty of nearby towns and suburbs near Cartagena:

Charming Towns in Bolívar Department

Bolívar is a department in Colombia known for its tourist beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Within this department, there are several charming towns worth visiting.

Turbaco

Turbaco, also known as the Stone Balcony or Bright Star de Cartagena, offers picturesque views of Cartagena and the Caribbean Sea. Its scenic landscapes and historical sites make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

Mompox

Mompox is a historical city with well-preserved colonial architecture. This town is a hidden gem, known for its cobblestone streets, vibrant colors, and traditional crafts. A visit to Mompox feels like stepping back in time, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Colombia.

Santa Catalina de Alejandría

Santa Catalina de Alejandría boasts natural attractions such as the Volcán del Totumo with healing properties. This town is famous for its mud volcano, where visitors can soak in the therapeutic mud, believed to have therapeutic properties for the skin. The captivating natural beauty of Santa Catalina de Alejandría is a unique experience worth exploring.

San Basilio de Palenque

San Basilio de Palenque is a village with African origins and is classified as an Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. This vibrant town is known for its Afro-Colombian culture, traditional music, and ancestral traditions. Exploring San Basilio de Palenque is like stepping into a living history book, discovering the rich cultural tapestry of Colombia.

Other towns in Bolívar Department worth exploring include San Juan Nepomuceno, San Jacinto, El Carmen de Bolívar, and Marialabaja. Each town has its own unique charm and attractions that contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of the Bolívar department.

Distance to Other Colombian Cities from Cartagena

Cartagena, Colombia, is not just surrounded by picturesque towns and cities in Bolívar Department; it also serves as a perfect launching point for exploring different parts of the country. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the diverse Colombian landscape awaits your discovery.

When it comes to domestic cities, the closest one to Cartagena is Barranquilla, located approximately 101 km away. This vibrant city offers a mix of urban charm, historical sites, and a bustling carnival scene.

If you’re willing to venture a bit further, Cali, known as the salsa capital of the world, is around 781 km from Cartagena. Experience the exhilarating dance culture and immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms of salsa.

Other notable cities within a certain distance from Cartagena include Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, known for its rich history and cosmopolitan atmosphere; Ibagué, a city surrounded by breathtaking natural parks and mountains; Pereira, a gateway to the picturesque Coffee Cultural Landscape; and Medellín, a vibrant metropolis famed for its innovative urban transformation.

Explore the Wonders of Colombia

With Cartagena as your starting point, you have the opportunity to embark on unforgettable adventures, discovering the beauty and diversity of this remarkable country. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or business, the distance to these Colombian cities is well worth traversing.

Cartagena’s Proximity to Foreign Cities

While Cartagena is primarily known for its proximity to domestic cities in Colombia, it is also relatively close to some foreign cities. The closest foreign city to Cartagena is Maracaibo in Venezuela. Located approximately 427 km away, Maracaibo offers a unique cultural experience just a short distance from Cartagena.

Other foreign cities that are within a certain distance from Cartagena include Panama de Panama (Panama), Barquisimeto (Venezuela), Valencia (Venezuela), and Kingston (Jamaica). These cities hold their own charm and attractions, making them worth considering if you have the time to explore beyond Colombia’s borders.

With Cartagena as your base, you can embark on exciting adventures to these foreign cities and immerse yourself in their unique cultures, architecture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in visiting Maracaibo’s stunning Lake Maracaibo or exploring Panama City’s modern skyline and historic Casco Viejo district, the proximity of these foreign cities allows for an enriching and diverse travel experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cartagena, Colombia, is surrounded by a diverse array of cities that offer countless opportunities for exploration and enriching your Cartagena adventure. Whether you prefer to immerse yourself in the charm of the smaller towns within Bolívar Department or venture out to the major cities nearby, there are numerous options to suit your interests. Additionally, don’t forget to consider the neighboring foreign cities that are within reach, allowing you to experience cross-cultural encounters.

To enhance your experience in and around Cartagena, we recommend visiting Santa Catalina, Turbaco, Mompox, San Basilio de Palenque, and the other towns mentioned throughout this article. Each of these destinations has its own unique appeal, from scenic views and preserved colonial architecture to their African origins and vibrant heritage. Exploring these nearby cities will provide a deeper understanding of the rich cultural tapestry that surrounds Cartagena.

Embrace the opportunity to venture beyond Cartagena’s borders and discover the hidden gems nearby. By doing so, you will create lasting memories and gain a more comprehensive perspective on the beauty and diversity of Colombia’s geography and culture. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to these remarkable cities that are just a stone’s throw away from Cartagena.