The 15 Most Unique Hotels in Cartagena Old City

Wondering what are the best hotels in Cartagena Old City? I got you covered!

Embarking on a journey to the heart of Colombia’s rich history, the best hotels in Cartagena Old City offer a blend of modern luxury and timeless charm.  

Nestled within ancient walls, these havens provide an immersive experience into the vibrant culture and stunning architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. From boutique getaways to lavish resorts, each hotel has its own story to tell, adding a unique touch to your stay.

Without further delay, let’s explore the best hotels in Cartagena Walled City together.

1. Hotel Boutique Casona del Colegio

Nestled in the heart of Cartagena’s Old City, Hotel Boutique Casona del Colegio offers an unforgettable stay that perfectly combines the charm of its historic setting with modern luxury.

This boutique hotel, praised for its excellent location, is a stone’s throw from numerous restaurants and attractions, making it a favorite for couples and visitors looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.

The hotel’s rooms, each uniquely designed to celebrate different regions or aspects of Colombian culture, offer a range of experiences.

For instance, the Magdalena Suite’s light blue decor inspired by the river provides a serene and luxurious atmosphere.

The rooftop pool, though compact, offers stunning views and is a delightful spot for relaxation. The on-site restaurant, Costa, serves regional Colombian cuisine and is noted for its gourmet-style dinners.

Their breakfast, included in the room price, can be enjoyed by the pool, adding a touch of luxury to the start of your day.

The hotel also serves a signature range of cocktails, perfect for sipping while taking in the view.

2. Bastión Luxury Hotel

Nestled in the heart of the historic old city, this luxury hotel is a blend of modern architecture and 16th-century charm, offering a unique experience that combines history with contemporary luxury.

Guests at the Bastión Luxury Hotel rave about the exceptional cleanliness, attentive staff service, and top-notch amenities.

The hotel is known for treating its guests like VIPs, offering a variety of services including an outdoor swimming pool, bar terrace, spa and wellness facilities, and even a pet-friendly environment. 

The onsite restaurant, El Gobernador, provides a culinary journey with traditional Colombian cuisine in a luxurious setting.

Rooms at the Bastión are designed with comfort and privacy in mind, equipped with Californian king-size beds, free Wi-Fi, minibars, and other 5-star services. The colonial-inspired décor with a touch of British nobility adds to the charm and elegance of the accommodation.

3. Hotel Boutique Casa Del Arzobispado

This hotel is all about stepping into a world where the echoes of the 17th century merge seamlessly with contemporary luxury. 

Its location is unbeatable, directly across from Cartagena’s famed cathedral, Catedral de Santa Catalina. It’s a peaceful haven, yet just a short walk away from the vibrant shops, restaurants, and attractions of Cartagena’s bustling tourist scene.

Each room in the hotel is a delightful mix of antique and modern furnishings, featuring vaulted wood-beam ceilings that accentuate their spaciousness.

The decor reflects the hotel’s grand historical past, with gilded headboards and ornately carved furniture. 

The heart of the hotel is its gorgeous ivy-covered courtyard, where a beautiful mosaic-tile pool awaits. It’s a perfect spot to escape Cartagena’s heat and unwind in tranquility. For those who seek relaxation, the hotel offers a sauna and massage services. 

Each morning, guests are treated to a delightful breakfast in an ornate dining room, setting the tone for a day of exploration or relaxation.

Reviews from past guests have consistently praised the helpful and friendly staff, highlighting their commitment to making each stay special.

Whether it’s a refreshing welcome drink after your journey or arranging private tours to explore the beauty of Cartagena and its surroundings, every detail is meticulously taken care of.

4. Casa Pestagua Relais Châteaux

Casa Pestagua Relais Châteaux, often hailed as “the most beautiful house in Cartagena,” is a true gem in the heart of the Old City. This boutique hotel, with its colonial architecture, provides a luxurious and intimate experience.

Being situated in the Old City, the hotel is surrounded by vibrant restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.

Guests often rave about the personalized and attentive service, making one feel like royalty from the moment of arrival. 

The staff, especially noted for their friendliness and professionalism, ensures a comfortable and memorable stay. The hotel staff members are often mentioned for their exceptional service.

The hotel itself is a blend of historical charm and modern luxury. It offers a range of amenities including an outdoor pool, fitness center, free breakfast, and high-speed internet.

The rooms are described as beautiful, spacious, and cozy, equipped with modern conveniences while retaining their historical elegance.

The on-site dining experience is also a highlight, with guests praising the quality of the breakfast and the availability of room service. The outdoor dining area adds to the charm, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in a picturesque setting.

5. Hotel Casa San Agustin

This boutique hotel, recognized as a 2023 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best, encompasses three beautifully restored 17th-century colonial houses. Its atmosphere is reminiscent of staying in the elegantly curated home of a sophisticated friend.

The intricate details of the original frescoes and wooden-beamed ceilings add to its unique allure.

Each of the 20 guestrooms and 11 spacious suites at Casa San Agustin is richly appointed, featuring artisanal furniture, luxurious amenities like Frette linens and Ortigia toiletries, and hand-painted tiles.

The rooms offer a comfortable retreat, starting from a spacious 400+ square feet and equipped with modern conveniences like flat-screen TVs and free minibars. 

For those seeking extra luxury, suites with private terraces and plunge pools are available, providing an intimate experience.

The hotel’s common areas are equally captivating. Its interior courtyard, divided by an original 17th-century wall, features a unique mosaic tile pool, creating an oasis-like atmosphere.

The rooftop solarium and library, available for private functions, offer both relaxation and elegance. 

One standout feature is Alma, the hotel’s on-site restaurant, widely acclaimed as one of Cartagena’s best. It serves a mix of local and international cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, upscale dishes.

6. La Passion by Masaya

Tucked away in the bustling heart of the historic district, La Passion’s location is perfect for exploring the city’s enchanting streets, with key attractions like Bolivar Square and the Clock Tower just a short walk away.

The hotel’s architecture and decor reflect the colonial charm of Cartagena, with marble floors and tastefully rustic furniture.

Guest reviews often highlight the rooftop pool as a highlight, providing a serene oasis above the city’s vibrant life. It’s an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring or to enjoy the sumptuous breakfast offered by the hotel. 

Speaking of food, you won’t have to venture far for great dining experiences, as the hotel is surrounded by some of the best restaurants and cafes in Cartagena.

While some guests have mentioned the quirkiness of the room layouts and the hotel’s lack of an elevator (which is something to consider for accessibility concerns), these aspects often add to the hotel’s unique character.

7. Casa BuGo

Casa Bugo is part of the BGH Group and aims to offer a luxurious experience that combines elegance, personalized service, and comfort. 

Guest reviews highlight the hotel’s excellent location, perfect for exploring the nearby attractions and enjoying the local cuisine. With an impressive array of restaurants and attractions within walking distance, it’s a great spot for those who love to explore on foot.

The hotel itself boasts high ratings for cleanliness, service, and facilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

However, it’s important to note that some guests have reported issues during their stay, particularly regarding the water supply. Instances of no running water for extended periods have been a significant inconvenience for some visitors.

On the flip side, many guests have expressed high satisfaction with their stay, praising the hotel’s cozy ambiance, attentive staff, and overall value for money. 

The beautiful pool area and the quality of the breakfast receive frequent mentions in reviews, along with the comfort of the rooms and their historic charm.

The hotel’s commitment to providing a unique experience is also evident, with many guests recommending Casa Bugo for its boutique feel and excellent location within the walled city.

8. Hotel Casa La Mantilla by Faranda Boutique

Hotel Casa La Mantilla by Faranda Boutique stands out as a gem for travelers seeking an upscale, comfortable stay. The hotel, recently remodeled, blends modern amenities with Cartagena’s charm.

One of the highlights of Hotel Casa La Mantilla is its location. Situated in the heart of the walled city, it’s just a short walk from notable landmarks like Plaza Santo Domingo and the Clock Tower, as well as a mere 15-minute drive from Rafael Nuñez International Airport. 

This prime location, rated 9.6 for its convenience at the time of writing this article, allows guests easy access to explore the vibrant streets and culture of Cartagena.

The hotel boasts an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace with a jacuzzi, and sun loungers – perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.

The rooms are equipped with modern conveniences like air conditioning, streaming services, and free wifi internet; although some guests have had issues with the hotel’s wifi, both in terms of connectivity and speed. 

9. Casa La Fe by BespokeColombia

Casa La Fe is housed in a beautifully restored republican house, and boasts classical rooms with hand-crafted furniture, restored republican tiled floors, and modern amenities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and satellite TV.

Guests have particularly noted the hotel’s rooftop pool and sun terrace, which offer panoramic views of the city skyline.

This, along with the central courtyard featuring a vertical garden, creates a serene oasis amidst the bustling city. 

Casa La Fe’s en-suite bedrooms vary in style, some boasting private balconies, while others are well-suited for family groups. Each room is thoughtfully decorated, combining modern amenities like air conditioning, TV, WiFi, minibar, and room safety, with the charm of the old city. 

The hotel’s central courtyard is also where a varied breakfast is served, it is a delightful space to start your day amidst the city’s ambiance.

10. Alfiz Hotel

Alfiz Hotel, nestled in a 17th-century colonial house, is a gem worth considering. The atmosphere is infused with Old World charm and a romantic vibe, making it a favorite among couples. It’s also a GreenLeaders GreenPartner, highlighting its commitment to eco-friendly practices.

The rooms at Alfiz Hotel are individually decorated, each reflecting a different period in Cartagena’s history.

From Spanish colonization to independence, each room tells a story through its decor, which includes antiques and period furnishings. 

Some rooms feature elements like four-poster beds, wood-beamed ceilings, and classic tilework. Modern amenities such as minibars, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs ensure a comfortable stay. 

For amenities, the hotel offers a small plunge pool in a secluded courtyard, perfect for cooling off after a day of sightseeing. There’s also a rooftop hot tub available by reservation. 

Alfiz serves a complimentary a la carte breakfast with local dishes and fresh coffee available all day in the library, which houses a large selection of books by the famous Colombian novelist Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

While the hotel doesn’t serve lunch or dinner, there’s no shortage of dining options nearby.

11. Casa India Catalina

Just like Casa La Fe, this hotel is also set in a beautifully restored Republican building. colonial style and elegant decor add a touch of sophistication to every corner.

The rooms at Casa India Catalina are thoughtfully furnished, offering amenities such as air conditioning, complimentary toiletries, and a minibar for a comfortable stay.

However, you should be aware of some aspects of this hotel. While the central location is highly praised, some have noted that certain rooms can be quite dark, requiring artificial light throughout the day. 

Additionally, the proximity to local nightlife can mean noise issues in rooms on higher floors. The small swimming pool also may not appeal to everyone, and guests with mobility issues should note that there is no lift for people, only for luggage. The breakfast service requires ordering the day before, and some guests have experienced service delays.

If you can deal with these shortcomings, though, the hotel does offer a whole range of facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, hammock area, and a lounge with television.

12. Ayenda El Viajero #2

One of the highlights of staying at Ayenda El Viajero #2 is its commitment to providing a comfortable and friendly environment. 

Guests frequently mention the helpfulness and kindness of the staff, adding a personal touch to their stay. Moreover, the hotel’s cleanliness and hygiene measures are noteworthy, ensuring a safe and pleasant experience for all guests.

The hotel offers all the essential amenities like free WiFi, air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, daily housekeeping, and a 24-hour front desk.

While there’s no onsite parking, the convenience of being within walking distance of many of Cartagena’s landmarks more than makes up for it.

While you won’t be getting luxury amenities here, this hotel is a great option if you’re looking for the best bang for your buck.

13. Hotel Casa Agustina

Hotel Casa Agustina offers a blend of traditional charm and modern comforts. Just steps away from the hotel, you’ll find a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and attractions, ensuring you’re never far from the best the city has to offer.

The hotel itself boasts a distinctive design, thoughtfully restored to offer an authentic Cartagena experience. The attention to detail in its architecture and decor is evident, reflecting the city’s colonial past while providing contemporary amenities. 

Guests have praised the hotel for its excellent service, location, and overall value, making it a well-regarded choice among travelers.

For those looking to indulge in local cuisine, you’re in luck. The hotel is surrounded by a variety of dining options, ranging from healthy eateries to seafood restaurants, all within a short walking distance. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick espresso at a nearby bar or a full Caribbean meal, you’ll have choices aplenty.

14. Casa Del Tejadillo 

Situated just steps away from the sea, this Republican-style house has been fully restored to preserve its Colombian Caribbean architectural charm.

The hotel’s location is excellent for walking, with plenty of restaurants and attractions within a 0.3-mile radius, including Plaza de San Diego and Plaza de Bolivar.

Casa Del Tejadillo’s ambiance is often described as peaceful and quaint. The hotel’s interior patio, quiet atmosphere at night, and proximity to key tourist sites are frequently praised by guests.

The small pool offers a refreshing oasis in the hot afternoons, and the air conditioning in the rooms is a welcome feature in Cartagena’s climate.

Some guests have reported challenges. The lack of a traditional reception area is a point of inconvenience, sometimes leading to difficulties in accessing the hotel, especially at night. The hotel also has problems with hot water at times.

However, despite these shortcomings, this hotel is an extremely popular choice, especially with couples who’ve given it a rating of 9.6 at the time of writing this article. 

15. Casa Abril II

This quaint hotel stands out for its exceptional location, rated 9.6 by guests, the highest rating in this department for budget hotels listed here. 

You’ll find yourself just a short walk from iconic landmarks like the House of Gabriel Garcia Marquez and the Walls of Cartagena, immersing you in the city’s rich history and culture.

The hotel is known for its friendly and accommodating staff, who are highly praised by guests for their service. This, coupled with the hotel’s charming colonial design, creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

One of the highlights of Casa Abril II is its terrace with a hydromassage tub, offering panoramic views of the city, including San Felipe Castle and the Popa Convent. It’s a perfect spot to relax after a day of sightseeing.

Additionally, the hotel provides a satisfying continental breakfast, served in a cozy breakfast room, to start your day right.

In terms of accessibility, it’s important to note that the property does not have elevators and may not be ideal for those with mobility issues.