Cartagena in six stops

From street art to street food via white sand beaches, Colombia’s historical coastal town has myriad charms, says Beth Galloway

1 A Unesco Walled City and glorious architecture have earned this place the title of ‘Jewel of the Indies’. Wander its art-filled streets and the districts of El Centro and San Diego to see why. Classic Caribbean glamour meets beaches and salsa aplenty.

2 For a true taste of Cartagena, take a street-food tour (£20pp) through the labyrinth of old town streets and the Mercado de Bazurto. Buy exotic fruit from brightly dressed palenqueras and pause to try Costeño cheese and arepas (flatbread with guac and sour cream) along the way. cartagenaconnections.com

3 Head to Plaza de Bolívar, a palm-shaded oasis surrounded by museums and chic cafés. Cool off with a zapote ice cream from Galeteria Paradiso nearby, before marvelling at some of the oldest gold artefacts in the Americas at Zenú Gold Museum. After, saunter over to the neighbouring Getsemani to take in the city’s flourishing bar and street-art scene.

4 Discover Cartagena’s melting pot of Caribbean, Spanish and African influences at restaurant María, where dishes combine local ingredients with European touches: don’t miss the grilled octopus. Visit El Boliche Cebicheria on Calle Cochera del Hobo for ceviche, or try Carmen for Colombian classics with a twist. mariacartagena.com carmencartagena.com

5 Rest your head at the serene, elegantly designed Tcherassi Hotel and Spa, which boasts its own rooftop pool. For a touch of history, try Bóvedas de Santa Clara, a converted convent set against the imposing backdrop of the 17th-century San Felipe Castle. tcherassihotels.com bovedasdesantaclara.com

6 Around 45 minutes west of the city are the Rosario Islands. A remarkably preserved national park offers the perfect contrast to city life, with its white sand beaches and azure waters. Hire a kayak and set out among the mangroves, snorkel the reefs, or unwind with an aguapanela (sugarcane tea).