Cartagena Nightlife – Clubs, Bars & Nightlife Tips

Cartagena Nightlife

When the sun goes down on the seaside of Columbia, the city of Cartagena comes alive.  Visitors who want to participate in the local salsa or tango can easily get swept up in a night of excitement that lasts until the dawn.  Here’s what to know about how to make the most of the night.

Boca Grande

Cartagena’s answer to Long Beach, Boca Grand offers lots of skin and lots of sizzle for visitors as well as natives.  This stretch of beach features a number of upscale discotechs and clubs.  Expectations may be a bit high: Make certain to dress to the nines, because showing up in a T-shirt and shorts may set you apart from the crowd, or may keep the bouncers from letting you in.  Consider taking a taxi from your hotel to Boca Grande rather than walk, as its safer and costs just a few dollars.

Getsemani District

Located outside the centuries-old city walls, Getsemani is famous for its authentic coffee spots, bars, and nightclubs.  These aren’t the trendy places closer to the tourist districts, but rather a chance to see the locals partying like locals.  One of the most popular spots, Cafe Havana, features Caribbean music and dance, in addition to ample Cuban cocktails, with live music starting on the weekends by 11:30.

While it’s only a five-minute walk from the center of town, it might be a bit too risky to walk through at night on your own; take a cab or get a friend to pick you up once your feet start to ache.

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