Let’s face it, many people often ponder more about their honeymoons than the actual wedding. Women before even being in a relationship, think of the places they would like to visit when they wed. This is a lot of pressure, guys.
Thanks to globalization and social media, travel has grown even more in popularity. Honeymoon retreats have become even bigger than before.
For those who have Colombia on their shortlist for their honeymoon, we’ve got a few things to tell you.
Cartagena vs. Medellin for Honeymoons
Cartagena and Medellin are by far the country’s most popular tourist destinations.
Medellin has the weather, people, and uncrowded epic attractions. But Cartagena has the beach, history, and nightlife. All are great amenities when looking to steer away from all-inclusive resorts and cruises.
Cartagena is more popular in large part because of the Unesco World Heritage site that is the walled city center. It’s a town that was barricaded in the 15th century by the Spanish. These walls protected the port city from English pirates.
This alone isn’t enough to lure people back to this beautiful Colombian city. The city has done a fantastic job of preserving its architecture. For a few hundred dollars you can stay at a boutique hotel in the city center that was once a lavish villa for rich diplomats.
Honeymoon in Cartagena Colombia
Once you decide on Cartagena, Colombia you’re going to want to decide where to stay.
Where to Stay in Cartagena
There are a few neighborhoods in Cartagena worth highlighting the first of which is the city center. Known as “El Centro Historico” or the historic center, this place is Cartagena’s best sector. For specific hotels and locations, check out our article on the best hotels in Cartagena for couples.
It’s touristy and can get loud, but there is no better place to be for couples. Boutique hotels, shops, and restaurants. The horse carriage rides, the architecture, so much to see.
Our second favorite neighborhood is Bocagrande. This is where Colombians from other cities come and visit. It’s near the beach and has more of an authentic Caribbean vibe. But if you choose Bocagrande for the beach, don’t think the beach in Cartagena is as nice as Jamaica or the Dominican Republic.
If you’re looking for beautiful beaches in Cartagena, we recommend an island hopping tour. More on this later.
What to do in Cartagena for Couples
Once you’ve accommodations be it the best hotels in Cartagena or Airbnbs, we need to look at what to do.
The great thing about Cartagena is that there is something for everything. The city center alone has a plethora of rooftop bars, boutique stores, and gelato shops.
You can also walk to one of the many delicious ceviche restaurants, taco shops and traditional Colombian street food carts.
Be sure to check out the Townhouse Hotel in the walled city for their rooftop bar. Cafe del Mar to catch the sunset everyday at 5:45pm. Not to mention Alquimico for delicious exotic cocktails. Owned and operated by an American expat, Alquimico has often been awarded one of the best bars in the world.
Excursions for Couples in Cartagena
The temperature in the afternoon can become unbearable sometimes reaching 90+ degrees. This is why we recommend embarking on tours either early in the morning (before 9am) or in the late afternoons.
You need to check out the San Felipe Castle for their historical pirate tour. Take an uber out to Bocagrande and ask about chiva tours. This is an authentic Colombian bus with no windows. They give you beers and stop and a few different landmarks for history lessons.
We also recommend heading over to the Townhouse hotel in the city center. Here be sure to ask about their blue apple beach club resort. It’s 45-minutes away by speedboat and it’s a private resort. Reminiscent of 1980’s Saint Tropez vibes, Blue Apple is a must for any daytime event. For about $60 per person, you have access to a private beach, transportation, welcome cocktail, pool and a DJ.
Best time to Visit for a Honeymoon in Cartagena
Cartagena’s tropical client makes every month about the same as far as temperature. But weather-wise, we recommend visiting between December and April.
If you would like more information for a honeymoon in Cartagena, or for your own VIP host, be sure to contact us today.