If you thirst for history, culture and good food, you will enjoy strolling through the many squares, cathedrals and fortresses within this walled city. Among the most formidable fortresses, the San Felipe de Barajas is a beautiful structure with massive walls rising some 135 feet above the sea. It is considered the greatest and strongest ever built by the Spaniards in their colonies.

The Convento de La Popa, perched atop a hill, is the highest point of the city and offers scenic views.

The Museo Del Oro Y Arqueologia, located opposite the Palace of the Inquisition and set on one of Cartagena’s most beautiful plazas, houses gold treasures and pre-Colonial pottery. The largest and oldest square in the old town, Plaza De La Aduana features a statue of Christopher Columbus in its center, and is used as a parade ground.

The Cathedral of Santo Domingo is one of the more popular churches, although all are uniquely beautiful and worth a visit.

Outside of the Cartagena is Islas Del Rosario is an archipelago consisting of 27 small coral islands; it makes for an ideal day trip. Cruises depart year-round from the Muelle Turistico in Cartagena and can be arranged directly through most of the hotels. Scuba diving, shopping and a visit to an aquarium are all available on the islands. Playa Blanca is undoubtedly the nicest beach off Cartagena and can be reached via a boat ride.

A popular tourist site approximately 25 miles north of Cartagena is a mud volcano known as Volcán del Totumo; it gives a whole new meaning to the mud wrap treatment. Visitors can enter the crater and slip into a relaxing mud bath. The nearby lagoon serves as a natural bath for washing off the mud. The venture makes for a fun-filled day and is highly recommended.

Parque Nacional Tayrona is one of Colombia’s most popular national parks and once home to Tayrona Indians. With coral reef beaches, coconut palms and steep peaks, the park is popular with trekkers and campers, although swimming can be dangerous due to its rough currents.

Bocagrande and El Laguito, located on an L-shaped peninsula facing the Caribbean, is a nice afternoon activity. Filled with restaurants and shopping, the area offers almost any goods and souvenirs the traveling tourist may be seeking. These two upscale areas can be accessed via a short cab ride from the old city.