Cartagena is one of Colombia's most popular tourist destinations thanks to its interesting history, excellent cuisine, and an amazing place for shopping. Located on the Caribbean coast just 256 miles from the Panama Canal, Cartagena is a major maritime and commercial port. Dozens of cruise ships visit the city leaving more than 70 million dollars for the city. More than 3,000 ships pass through this port every year, and Cartagena receives almost 112,000 tourists a year from cruise ships alone.

With a residential population of approximately 1 million people, Cartagena is the fifth largest city in Colombia and the second largest in the coastal region. At 221 square miles, it's slightly smaller than Chicago.

The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While it gained its independence from Spain on November 11, 1811, Cartagena still retains much of the original colonial architecture. As you walk through the old city, you'll find narrow, cobblestone streets, old churches, museums, and restaurants and shops located in colonial buildings, making you feel like you've stepped back in time.