One of the most common questions for first-time visitors to Cartagena, Colombia is how to get around: taxi, rideshare app, bus, or just walk? The answer depends on where you’re staying and how much ground you want to cover, but overall Cartagena is an easy city to navigate once you know your options and roughly what things should cost.
This guide breaks down each transportation option, when to use it, and how to avoid overpaying — especially if you’re staying somewhere well-located like Bocagrande.
Taxis: the traditional option
Yellow taxis are the most common form of transportation in Cartagena. A few tips:
- Ask for an approximate price before getting in, since many taxis don’t run on a meter.
- Ask your hotel’s front desk for reference prices for common routes (Old Town, airport, Getsemaní) so you don’t overpay.
- During peak hours or big events, wait times can increase.
Rideshare apps
Rideshare apps work in Cartagena and are often the more comfortable option since the price is set before the ride starts, no haggling required. It’s a practical choice, especially at night or when you’d rather not rely on flagging down a taxi on the street.
Buses and public transit
The city’s mass transit system (Transcaribe) connects several areas at a low cost. It’s an economical option, though it takes a bit more planning if you’re not familiar with the routes. For short tourist trips between Bocagrande, the Old Town, and Getsemaní, a taxi or rideshare app is usually more practical.
Bicycle taxis and local transport
In areas like the Old Town and Getsemaní, you’ll commonly see bicycle taxis (bicitaxis), which are great for short trips within the same area. They’re an affordable and charming option, though it’s worth agreeing on the price before hopping on.
Walking: the best way to experience certain areas
Both the Old Town and Getsemaní are best enjoyed on foot: the pedestrian streets, flower-covered balconies, and colonial atmosphere lose some of their charm if you only see them from inside a car. Bocagrande is also very walkable, with the beach and boardwalk connecting much of the hotel and commercial area.
Why your hotel’s location makes a real difference
Choosing a well-located hotel significantly cuts down on how much transportation you’ll need during your trip. Staying in Bocagrande, for example, puts you just minutes on foot from the beach, the boardwalk, and a wide range of restaurants, while still being a short taxi ride from the Old Town and the airport.
Booking an ocean-view room in a central area like Bocagrande means much of your day-to-day — beach, pool, boardwalk — is just steps away, cutting down on what you’d otherwise spend getting around.
Quick tips for getting around without overpaying
- Always ask for an approximate fare before getting into a taxi without a meter.
- Use rideshare apps for nighttime trips or whenever you’d prefer a fixed price.
- Walk the pedestrian areas (Old Town, Getsemaní) to get the most out of the experience.
- Avoid paying for transportation with large bills; keep small change on hand.
- Check with the front desk for reference prices on frequent routes.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to hail a taxi on the street in Cartagena?
Yes, it’s common practice, though it’s recommended to agree on the price beforehand or prefer taxis requested through your hotel.
Do rideshare apps work well in Cartagena?
Yes, they work similarly to other Colombian cities and are a convenient option with a fixed fare.
Is it worth using public buses as a tourist?
It’s an economical option, but it requires knowing the routes. For short tourist trips, a taxi or rideshare app is usually more practical.
How far is the airport from Bocagrande?
Approximately 15-20 minutes by taxi or rideshare app, depending on traffic.
Have questions about getting to your hotel or getting around during your stay? Reach out through our contact page and we’ll be happy to help.
