If you’ve landed on this post, chances are you’ve already spent a decent chunk of time researching where to stay in Cartagena, and you’ve narrowed it down to two heavy hitters: the Walled City vs. Getsemaní.
I visited Cartagena again in June 2025 and, honestly, I was blown away by how much Getsemaní has transformed compared my previous visit.
The neighborhood is changing fast, in a good way.
Still, for this trip, I chose to stay inside the Walled City. And here’s why.
First things first: location, location, location.
The Walled City is the heart of Cartagena, and you feel it the second you step inside.
Everything’s here: the best restaurants, stylish bars, boutique hotels, charming plazas, high-end shops, and just a general buzz of energy that’s hard to match.
Compared to Getsemaní, the Walled City feels more polished and well-maintained.
The colonial architecture is stunning, and at night the streets come alive with music, candlelit dinners, and that kind of classy nightlife that doesn’t involve blasting reggaeton until 4am.
Don’t get me wrong, you’ll pay more to stay here.
But what you get in return is comfort, convenience, and a touch of luxury.
One underrated perk?
Being able to escape the heat.
Cartagena gets hot and humid: it’s that full-on tropical stickiness.
So being able to walk back to your hotel in just a few minutes to shower and cool down makes a huge difference, especially if you’re out exploring during the day.
And truth is, most people do spend their days walking around the Walled City, even if they’re staying elsewhere.
The Walled City is full of history, shops, fantastic restaurants and boutique hotels. Here, it's all about comfort and sightseeing. But the evenings can be very fun too!
That said, Getsemaní deserves its flowers.
It’s easily one of the most vibrant and colorful neighborhoods I’ve been to in Colombia, maybe even all of Latin America.
Think murals on every corner, street performers, spontaneous dance battles, and locals selling beers and empanadas out of coolers.
It’s gritty in the best way.
During the day, it’s pretty chill and the painted streets make it Instagram heaven.
But once the sun sets, the whole neighborhood flips a switch.
The energy is electric: especially around Calle de San Juan and Calle 10.
Music spills onto the streets, people dance, food carts fire up, and the party doesn’t stop until way past midnight.
Just know that if you’re staying near the action, it’ll be loud.
Sleep isn’t exactly sacred here.
Accommodation-wise, Getsemaní is perfect for backpackers, digital nomads, and budget travelers.
Hostels are everywhere, but there are some great boutique hotels tucked between the street art and cafes.
If you’re more into comfort and quiet, though, you’ll be happier inside the walls.
And getting to the Walled City?
A breezy 10-minute walk, super easy.
Getsemaní is the most colorful part of Cartagena. Especially in the evening, this part of the city comes alive.
Short answer: yes, as long as you’re not doing anything dumb.
Both the Walled City and Getsemaní are considered safe areas for travelers.
Getsemaní did have a rougher rep in the past, but those days are pretty much behind it.
Today, it’s a key part of Cartagena’s tourism scene, and the local government knows how valuable that is.
You’ll see police around, especially at night, and the main streets are well-lit and full of people.
Just stick to the usual travel smarts – don’t flash valuables, leave your passport in the hotel, avoid dark alleys after midnight – and you’ll be totally fine.
If you’re after comfort, convenience, and a bit of elegance, go for the Walled City.
If you want color, culture, and street vibes, Getsemaní is where it’s at.
Honestly, you can’t go wrong, they’re both amazing in their own way.
And whichever one you choose, make sure to explore the other.
It’s all part of the Cartagena experience.
