Category: Blog

Walk through the historic center of Cartagena is to travel more than 500 years of history. Founded in 1533, this walled city was one of the most important ports in the Americas during the Spanish colonial era. From there out riches to Europe, arriving expeditions, were established viceroys and wove complex commercial and cultural networks. It is not by chance that it has been declared a Historical and Cultural Patrimony of the Humanity by the UNESCO in 1984. within its walls, the bastions and cobbled streets, Cartagena saves a legacy of stunning architecture. And although its churches, squares and fortresses were stolen many glances, the small details like the knockers on the doors of their colonial houses that reveal the most intimate secrets of the city.

Continue reading «Las aldabas de Cartagena: símbolos de historia, poder y tradición»

We are the gateway to South America – Cartagena de Indias is a destination that falls in love from the first moment and the best thing is that getting here has never been so easy. Thanks to its strategic location in the colombian Caribbean and the increasing supply air national and international, today most travelers can discover this historical gem, without scales unnecessary.

Whether you come from North America, Europe, Central america, or from another city in Colombia, you will find direct routes, airlines that connect with the magic of the Caribbean in a matter of hours. And if your visit coincides with the winter in your country, better yet: here the summer is eternal.

From the airport to the heart of Cartagena

The Airport is Rafael Núñez is located just 15 minutes from the historical centre. If you prefer, in Mustique Hotels we can arrange your private transfer from the airport directly to your hotel. So you can start your stay smooth and level of service that you expect.

When coming to Cartagena? At any time of the year

One of the great advantages of Cartagena is its warm climate all year round. That is why it is an ideal destination if you are looking for:

• Escape the winter and enjoy the sun
• Family vacations in any season
• An unforgettable honeymoon
• Hold a destination wedding with colonial charm
• Meet with friends in a bachelorette party or getaway for couples

From the historic center full of life, to the beaches of Baru or to the Rosario Islands, Cartagena always offers something special.

In Mustique, your only concern will be to enjoy. We take care of the rest.

Our hotels in Cartagena, houses with history, charm and personalized service— are much more than a place to sleep: they are the perfect starting point to experience the city with authenticity and elegance.

Our concierge team will be happy to put together an itinerary to suit you, manage transfers and accompany you in every moment of the trip.

Historic Centre

“I only needed to take a step inside of the wall to see her [to Cartagena] in all its grandeur to the light mauve of the six in the evening, and I could not repress the feeling of having been born again,” wrote Gabriel Garcia Marquez, in his autobiography Live to Tell it. 

The streets of the neighborhoods of San Diego and Gethsemane are surrounded by a wall of military-colonial, built four centuries ago. Its mission was to prevent invasions of navigators English and French. Its original shape remained almost intact to the present day, leaving a defence to become a door into yesterday.

The streets Garage Hobo, The Curacy of Santo Domingo, The Seven Infants, The Tumbamuertos and other more in the neighborhood of San Diego are full of colonial architecture, churches, theatres, convents, colleges, and houses that survive the passage of time and of the people. It is not only about walls, windows, and balconies, but also of stories that are discussed to be of historical events or legends mythologized.

In 1666, in San Diego, began the construction of the Church of Santo Tomas de Villanueva, today known as Santo Toribio. By this time, the cloister was part of the everyday life of the high class cartagena. Housed beautiful, almost divine, religious images, and a beautiful baroque altarpiece. 

27 April 1741 the bullet of a gun came out of a pirate ship and entered by the gate of the Church of Santo Toribio up to the feet of the priest, without causing damage only to scare, according to the chronicles written at the time. 

When walking through this neighborhood all the senses delight; look, listen, feel and live.

Continue reading «Cartagena de indias, un destino para volver en cualquier época del año»

Cartagena de Indias: city of award-winning, invites you to discover the colombian Caribbean

Cartagena de Indias is not only falls in love to those who visit it, it also captivates the international tourism industry. In recent years, the city has received prestigious awards and nominations that the consolidated their position as a world-class destination. These recognitions highlight its cultural, historical, gastronomic and infrastructure for all types of travellers.

Stay in Cartagena today is to live an experience recognized by experts worldwide.

A city that shines on the international stage

Finalist in the Cvent Excellence Awards 2025

Cartagena was recognized as a finalist in the Cvent Excellence Awards 2025 for its leadership in tourism and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions). This achievement underscores the city's ability to host international events of high level, thanks to its connectivity, infrastructure and cultural charm.

Award-winning at the World Travel Awards

Known as the “Oscars of tourism”, the World Travel Awards 2025 awarded to Cartagena as “Best Destination City in Colombia”. This recognition places the city among the most attractive places for travelers who are looking for history, luxury, beaches and culture on a single target.

Chosen as the Best City for Tourism in Colombia

According to the World's Best Awards 2024, Cartagena has taken the lead as the best city for tourism in the country. Its historic centre walled, squares vibrant, its cuisine and its unique blend of tradition and modernity were key aspects for this recognition.

Destination featured in the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards 2025

Cartagena was included among the best destinations in South america, according to Tripadvisor, thank you for the opinions and appraisals of thousands of travelers. The city was held by its ability to deliver memorable experiences: from cultural tours to plans of sun and beach.

The historical heritage of the humanity and luxury destination

Cartagena is so much more than a tourist destination: it is a living legacy. Its historic center, declared a world Heritage site by the UNESCO, is a scenario where the colonial history merges with contemporary sophistication. Between walls, centuries-old and balconies in bloom, they discover designer restaurants, art galleries and boutique hotels that enhance the experience of those who visit it.

Viva Cartagena with Mustique Hotels

In the heart of this award-winning city, Mustique Hotels offers a collection of colonial houses restored with elegance and respect for its history. Our boutique hotels are ideal for:

• Travelers cultural desire to be immersed in the historic centre.
• Couples seeking privacy and romance.
• Families who want comfort with the charm of the real thing.
• If your preference is to enjoy the nature, you can experience the Caribbean from a unique perspective, surrounded by mangroves and with privileged access to the Rosario Islands and the National Aviary.

Our concierges will be happy to design a special itinerary to discover the best of Cartagena: from their recent awards to its most secret corners.

Cartagena continues to attract international recognition. Now it's up to you to discover why.

Stay with us and experience the charm of a city is, without doubt, a world-class destination.

There are cities that love for the season, and others that conquer at any time of the year. Cartagena de Indias belongs to the second group. This jewel of the colombian Caribbean remains vibrant for the twelve months of the year, with a privileged climate, a fascinating history and an energy that captivates travelers from all over the world.

Either in January or September, in a family vacation or a getaway for a couple, Cartagena always offers the perfect plan.

Why Cartagena is perfect all year round?

Warm, tropical climate: it is always summer

With a temperature of around 28°C throughout the year, Cartagena invites you to enjoy the sun without restrictions. Beaches, islands, and outdoor experiences are available for any month, and that makes it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the winter, or simply live in the Caribbean without worrying about the calendar.

From Barú and the Islands of the Rosary to the more tranquil beaches or exclusive, Cartagena has always an option to enjoy the sea.

History, culture and architecture alive

The historic center of Cartagena, a unesco world Heritage of the Humanity by the UNESCO, is a city within the city. Its walls, forts, squares and colonial churches are witnesses of centuries of history.

But beyond its architecture, Cartagena is a cultural epicenter. Visit the Museo del Oro Zenu, with pieces that reveal the indigenous legacy of the region, tour the Museum of Modern Art, located in a former winery colonial; or explore the colonial history of the Palace of the Inquisition and the Historical Museum of Cartagena. For those who enjoy literature, the city also offers tours inspired by Gabriel García Márquez and the real scenarios of his work

Gastronomy that seduces the senses

Eat in Cartagena is an experience in itself. The city offers everything from a traditional kitchen coastal to contemporary proposals from renowned chefs. Among the typical dishes that you must try are:

• The coconut rice
• The fried fish with patacones and onion salad with lettuce and tomato
• La posta cartagena
• The motto of cheese
• The carimañolas and arepas egg in the traditional breakfast

The mix of flavors to afro-caribbean, indigenous, and Spanish makes each bite is a way of knowing the identity of the region. 

A city for all styles of travel

Cartagena is not only a destination for every month of the year, it is also a place for all types of traveller:

• Family vacation: plans cultural, boating, quiet beaches and hotels with spaces for all ages.
• Honeymoon: romantic hotels, private dining experiences in the islands and unforgettable sunsets.
• Bachelorette parties or getaways with friends: rooftops, beach clubs, night life and experiences as.
• Weddings destination: colonial churches, historic homes and environments ideal for celebrations and intimate with nature.
• Adventurers of the sea: snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, and from December to easter, perfect conditions for kite surfing.
• Modern travellers: Bocagrande offers a scene with modern cafes, shops, restaurants and hotels contemporaries.
• Lovers of history and art: the historic center has it all, from colonial architecture to cultural routes topics.

From Cartagena, we will take you to live an exclusive experience to the Rosario Islands and the peninsula of Barú, where the serenity and privacy are our priority. Relax on white sand beaches and crystalline waters, surf in our private boat and enjoy the natural beauty of the colombian Caribbean.

Continue reading «Una constelación de Islas sobre el Mar Caribe»