Daily Budget Ranges
Cartagena caters to travelers on virtually any budget. Budget travelers can comfortably spend $30–50 USD daily, covering hostel accommodation, street food, and free attractions. Mid-range visitors typically spend $75–150 daily for decent hotels, restaurant meals, and paid activities. Luxury travelers should budget $200+ daily for upscale accommodations and fine dining. The city's popularity means prices lean higher than rural Colombia, but you'll find genuine value if you venture beyond the walled Old City tourist zone.
Accommodation & Food Costs
Hostels in Getsemani neighborhood offer dorms for $12–20 nightly, while basic private rooms run $25–40. Mid-range hotels in the Old City average $60–100, though you'll pay premiums for sea views. For eating, street vendors near Castillo San Felipe serve arepas and empanadas for $1–3. Local restaurants in neighborhoods like San Diego offer filling meals for $8–15. Beachfront dining in Bocagrande costs $15–25 per person. Shopping at local markets like Mercado de Bazurto saves money on fresh produce and snacks.
Transport & Activities
Local buses cost $0.80 per ride; taxis are unmetered but typically $2–4 for short trips. Many Old City attractions—wandering colonial streets, visiting plazas, exploring the waterfront—are free. Paid activities like Castillo San Felipe entry ($6), boat tours to Rosario Islands ($25–40), and snorkeling trips ($35–50) add up quickly. Consider walking the Old City walls at sunset rather than paying for organized tours. Day trips by public bus to nearby beaches cost $2–5 each way.