Cartagena

US, Canadian, EU, Australian, and many other nationals can enter Colombia visa-free for up to 90 days. Check requirements at cancilleria.gov.co.

By Air: Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) is 4km from Old City.

By Bus: Buses from Bogotá (20 hours), Medellín (13 hours), Santa Marta (4 hours).

By Cruise: Major Caribbean cruise port.

Spanish is official with coastal Caribbean accent. English spoken in tourist hotels and restaurants in Walled City and Getsemaní, limited elsewhere. Basic Spanish helpful.

Colombian Peso (COP). Exchange rate roughly 4,000-4,500 COP per USD. Cards accepted at hotels and tourist restaurants. Cash essential for street food, markets, and taxis. ATMs widely available in tourist areas.

Walking: Walled City (Centro Histórico) and Getsemaní are compact and walkable. Very hot and humid - walk early morning or evening.

Taxis: No meters - negotiate before getting in. Within Old City 8,000-15,000 COP. To Bocagrande 15,000-25,000 COP.

Uber/Didi/Beat: Available and popular (10,000-30,000 COP for most trips). More reliable than street taxis.

Buses: Local buses (2,500 COP) but confusing for tourists.

Transcaribe: BRT system but limited tourist routes.

Bicycles: Some hotels provide bikes. Hot but flat terrain.

Taxi: Official airport taxis 18,000-25,000 COP to Old City (15-20 min).

Uber/Didi: Slightly cheaper, 15,000-20,000 COP.

Bus: Very cheap but not recommended with luggage (2,500 COP).