Cartagena Transportation Tips – Taxi, Train, Bus & Airport Tips

Cartagena Transportation

The popularity of Cartagena, Colombia as a tourist destination has greatly increased in recent years. This bustling city is vibrant and at times hectic, but with these helpful hints you will get around town with very little difficulty!

Taxis

When traveling around town via taxi, be aware that the price in pesos will be much more favorable than any exchange rate that the driver will give you. And don’t be afraid to haggle a bit! It may be helpful to ask someone at your hotel what a reasonable price is for your destination and then bargain with your driver to reach that rate. This way, you will be able to quote a fair price in Spanish without much worry about a language barrier.

Train

There is no substantial train line that services Cartagena. Most regional transport is via bus and plane in this area.

Bus

When traveling within the city of Cartagena, taxis are affordable and the most convenient mode of transport. If you are looking to travel within the region, from town to town, the bus system is the way to go. Visitors to Colombia can visit many diverse and interesting towns throughout the Cartagena area via bus as there are many locales that make for a perfect day trip. Be sure to check the schedules and routes as many stops are reachable by a transfer on minibus. While not speaking Spanish can make things more difficult, Colombians are generally very welcoming and hospitable.

Getting To/From the Airport

Taxis to and from the airport into the Old Town are fairly reasonable, and more so if you are paying in pesos, and are probably the most convenient mode of transportation. Visit the taxi kiosk that is located within the baggage claim area and give them the address to your hotel. The taxi service from the airport is regular, reliable, and affordable. Do not be afraid to haggle with your driver to bring down the price a bit, especially if you are paying in a foreign currency! Air travel between Colombian cities is also a popular mode of getting around and is surprisingly affordable. Depending on the distance you are looking to travel, a plane may be the economical choice.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about transportation in Cartagena.