Cheap Things to Do in Cartagena (On a Budget Travel Guide)

Cartagena looks dreamy online, but it can feel expensive once you arrive. Small costs add up fast in tourist areas. A short taxi ride can cost more than you expect. A beach chair may not be free. Even a quick snack can feel overpriced if you buy it in the wrong place. That is why so many travelers search for cheap things to do in Cartagena and things to do in Cartagena on a budget.

I felt this on my first trip too. I thought I could explore all day and spend almost nothing, but surprise costs kept showing up. After that, I learned a simple rule: pick 1–2 paid highlights that are truly worth it, then keep the rest of the day low-cost with walking, local snacks, and smart choices. This guide follows that plan, so you can enjoy Cartagena without stressing about money.

Top 5 cheap Things to Do in Cartagena

1. 1. Street snack walk (cheap food + sightseeing)
   2. Castillo San Felipe de Barajas (best paid budget highlight)
   3. La Popa Monastery (best city view for a low cost)
   4. Bocagrande Beach (cheap if you avoid extras)
   5. Night photo walk in busy areas of the Walled City

Cartagena budget cost guide (COP + USD)

These are approximate ranges. Prices can change by season and location, so confirm the price before you pay.

Item	Typical Cost (COP)	Typical Cost (USD)
Street snack	5,000–12,000	$1–$3
Budget lunch (local)	15,000–30,000	$4–$8
Cold drink (local shop)	3,000–8,000	$1–$2
Local bus ride	2,000–3,500	$0.50–$1
Short taxi ride (city)	10,000–20,000	$3–$6
Tip-based walking tour	20,000–60,000	$5–$15
Castillo San Felipe ticket (approx)	30,000–45,000	$8–$12
La Popa entry (approx)	20,000–35,000	$5–$9

What “Cheap” Means in Cartagena

Cheap does not always mean free. In Cartagena, cheap usually means:

• Walking in the main areas instead of taking taxis

• Paying for 1–2 top highlights instead of many tours

• Eating local snacks instead of tourist restaurants

• Avoiding hidden costs at beaches and busy plazas

A simple rule helps a lot: ask the price first, then decide.

Best time to enjoy Cartagena on a budget

Cheap Things to Do in Cartagena Under $10

These are budget-friendly activities that still feel fun and local.

1) Do a street snack walk

This is one of the best ways to enjoy Cartagena on a budget. You get food and a city walk at the same time.

Cost estimate: $5–$10
Simple plan:

• Buy 2 street snacks

• Grab 1 cold drink from a local shop

• Walk slowly and take photos

  2) Visit Museo del Oro Zenú (Gold Museum)

  This is a small museum with local history. It is a good stop when the weather feels hot.

  Cost estimate: Often free or low cost
  Tip: Check hours before you go

  3) Visit churches and historic buildings

  Cartagena has beautiful churches and historic places you can visit while walking.

  Cost estimate: Free or low cost
  Why it’s worth it: Calm, simple, and cultural

  4) Visit Caribe Jewelry Museum & Factory (free entry)

  This is a popular traveler stop. You can visit for free and learn about gemstones and jewelry.

  Cost estimate: Free entry
  Tip: Shopping is optional

  5) Take a tip-based walking tour

  Some tours are tip-based. You pay what you feel is fair.

  Cost estimate: $5–$15
  Tip: Ask what is included before you start

   

  Budget chart: Under $10 vs Under $25

  Under $10 ideas

  • Street snack walk + local drink
  • Museo del Oro Zenú (often free or low cost)
  • Church visits + historic buildings
  • Caribe Jewelry Museum & Factory (free entry)
  • Tip-based walking tour (small tip)

  Under $25 highlights

  • Castillo San Felipe de Barajas (ticket)
  • La Popa Monastery (entry + transport planning)
  • Bocagrande beach day (cheap if you avoid extras)

  Cheap Things to Do in Cartagena Under $25 (Worth Paying For)

  If you want 1–2 paid highlights, these are great budget picks.

  6) Visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas

  This is one of the top attractions in Cartagena. It is a strong choice for first-time visitors.

  Cost estimate: $8–$12 (approx)
  Best time: Morning
  Why it’s worth it: History, views, and a real fortress experience

  7) Visit La Popa Monastery (best view)

  

  La Popa is on a hill and gives one of the best views in Cartagena.

  Cost estimate: $5–$9 entry + transport cost
  Tip: Agree on the taxi price before you get in

  Cheap Beach Day in Cartagena (Bocagrande Without Overpaying)

  

  Bocagrande Beach is easy to reach and free to enter. But it can get expensive if you accept extras without checking prices.

  Cost estimate: $0–$15

  How to keep it cheap:

  • Bring water with you

  • Ask the price before you sit on a chair

  • Avoid accepting items without a clear price

  • Buy snacks away from the busiest tourist spots

    Things to Do in Cartagena on a Budget at Night

  • 

    Cartagena feels special at night, and you do not need to spend much to enjoy it.

    8) Take a night photo walk in busy areas

    This is a great option for couples and solo travelers.

    Cost estimate: $0–$5
    Tip: Stay in busy areas and avoid empty streets

    9) Enjoy plaza vibes and street life

    Some nights have street music or performers, especially on weekends.

    Good places to check:

    • Plaza Santo Domingo

    • Plaza de los Coches

    • Plaza de la Trinidad (Getsemaní)

    Cost estimate: $0

    Cheap Day Trips from Cartagena (Budget Options)

    These trips are not free, but they can still fit a budget if you plan early.

    10) Tierra Bomba (cheap island feel)

    Tierra Bomba is close to Cartagena and can be a cheaper island option.

    Cost estimate: $10–$30
    Tip: Avoid last-minute deals near tourist areas

    11) Rosario Islands (cheap version)

    The Rosario Islands can be expensive, but shared tours are usually cheaper than private boats.

    Cost estimate: $40–$80+
    Tip: Compare what is included before booking

    1-Day Cartagena Itinerary on a Budget (Paid + Free Mix Under $35)

    This plan gives you a full day without overspending.

    Morning (low spend)

    • Start at Torre del Reloj

    • Walk through the Walled City

    • Stop by Museo del Oro Zenú if it is open

    Afternoon (main paid highlight)

    • Visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas

    Evening (cheap vibe)

    • Walk around Getsemaní

    • Relax at Plaza Santo Domingo

    Estimated total: $15–$35 depending on snacks and tips.

    Budget Transport Tips (Save Money Getting Around)

    • Walk in the Walled City and Getsemaní

    • Agree on taxi prices before you enter

    • Use local buses only if you feel confident

    • Plan your day by area to reduce rides

      Common Budget Traps (Avoid Hidden Costs)

      • Sitting on beach chairs without asking the price

      • Accepting “free” items that turn into paid requests

      • Eating every meal in the most touristy streets

      • Taking taxis without agreeing on the price

      • Booking tours without comparing options

    • FAQs: Cheap Things to Do in Cartagena

      Is Cartagena expensive for tourists?

      It can feel expensive in tourist areas. But you can still enjoy Cartagena on a budget with smart planning.

      What is the cheapest way to explore Cartagena?

      Walking is the cheapest way because many top places are close to each other.

      Is Bocagrande Beach cheap?

      It can be cheap if you swim and walk. Chairs, drinks, and snacks may cost extra.

      How many days should I spend in Cartagena on a budget?

      2 to 3 days is enough for most travelers to see the main highlights.

      Final Thoughts

      Cartagena can be budget-friendly if you spend with intention instead of guessing. From my experience, the best trips here are not about doing everything, but about choosing wisely. Walking through the city, eating simple local snacks, and paying for one or two strong highlights makes the trip feel full without draining your wallet. This guide covers the best cheap Things to Do in Cartagena for travelers who want to enjoy the city on a budget. Ask prices early, stay in busy areas, and keep your plan simple. When you do that, Cartagena feels fun, easy, and affordable.