Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Colombia Property Pack
Yes, the analysis of Cartagena's property market is included in our pack
Cartagena's neighborhood selection significantly impacts both your living experience and property investment returns. The city's historic center commands premium accommodation rates at $120-180 per night, while emerging areas like Bocagrande offer better value at $60-90 per night. Each district presents distinct advantages for property buyers, from the tourist-heavy Old City's rental income potential to Manga's affordable investment opportunities.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Colombia, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
Cartagena's neighborhoods vary dramatically in accommodation costs, safety levels, and investment potential for property buyers.
The Old City offers the highest rental yields but comes with premium prices, while areas like Bocagrande provide better value with growing tourism infrastructure.
| Neighborhood | Average Nightly Rate (Sep 2025) | Walking Distance to Historic Center | Airport Transfer Time | Safety Rating | Investment Potential |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old City (Ciudad Amurallada) | $120-180 | 0-5 minutes | 15-25 minutes | High (tourist police presence) | Premium rental yields |
| Bocagrande | $60-90 | 10-15 minutes | 20-30 minutes | High (modern security) | Growing tourism market |
| GetsemanĂ | $40-70 | 5-10 minutes | 15-25 minutes | Medium-High (gentrifying) | Emerging hotspot |
| Manga | $30-50 | 15-20 minutes | 10-20 minutes | Medium (residential area) | Affordable entry point |
| Castillogrande | $80-120 | 20-25 minutes | 25-35 minutes | High (upscale residential) | High-end market |
How much do hotels and Airbnbs cost per night in each Cartagena neighborhood?
Accommodation costs in Cartagena vary significantly between neighborhoods, with the Old City commanding the highest rates due to its UNESCO World Heritage status and tourist appeal.
As of September 2025, the Old City (Ciudad Amurallada) averages $120-180 per night for quality accommodations, making it the most expensive area in Cartagena. Bocagrande follows at $60-90 per night, offering modern amenities and beach access at more reasonable rates.
GetsemanĂ presents excellent value at $40-70 per night, particularly attractive for property investors targeting budget-conscious travelers and digital nomads. This neighborhood has seen significant gentrification, with property values increasing by 15-20% annually since 2023.
Manga offers the most affordable options at $30-50 per night, though it requires longer commutes to major attractions. Castillogrande targets the luxury market at $80-120 per night, appealing to high-end travelers seeking exclusive beachfront properties.
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What is the walking distance from each neighborhood to Cartagena's historic center?
Walking distances to the historic center directly impact both tourist appeal and rental income potential for property investors in Cartagena.
The Old City itself sits at the heart of the historic center, with most attractions within 0-5 minutes walking distance. This proximity commands premium rental rates and ensures high occupancy rates throughout the year.
GetsemanĂ offers exceptional access at just 5-10 minutes walk to the historic center, making it increasingly popular among investors seeking properties with strong rental potential. The neighborhood's transformation from working-class area to trendy district has created significant property appreciation opportunities.
Bocagrande requires 10-15 minutes walking or a quick taxi ride to reach the historic center. However, its beachfront location and modern infrastructure compensate for the slightly longer distance, particularly for vacation rental properties.
Manga sits 15-20 minutes away by foot, positioning it as a residential area rather than tourist-focused location. Castillogrande, at 20-25 minutes walking distance, caters to travelers prioritizing luxury accommodations over immediate historic center access.
How long does it take to reach the airport from each neighborhood?
Airport accessibility significantly influences property desirability for both residents and tourists in Cartagena's real estate market.
Manga provides the shortest airport transfer time at just 10-20 minutes to Rafael NĂșñez International Airport, making it attractive for frequent travelers and business visitors. This proximity has contributed to steady property demand in the area.
The Old City and GetsemanĂ average 15-25 minutes to the airport, offering reasonable accessibility while maintaining tourist appeal. These neighborhoods benefit from established taxi and ride-sharing services that cater to international visitors.
Bocagrande typically requires 20-30 minutes for airport transfers, though modern hotels often provide shuttle services. The slightly longer journey is offset by the neighborhood's resort-like atmosphere and beach access.
Castillogrande, being the furthest from the airport at 25-35 minutes, primarily attracts longer-stay visitors who prioritize luxury amenities over convenience. This positioning supports premium rental rates but may limit short-term booking frequency.
What are the daily transportation costs from each neighborhood to major attractions?
Transportation costs directly impact the total cost of living and tourist appeal for each neighborhood in Cartagena.
| Neighborhood | Taxi to Attractions | Public Transport | Walking/Biking | Daily Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old City | $2-5 | $1-2 | Free (most walkable) | $3-7 |
| GetsemanĂ | $3-6 | $1-2 | $2 (bike rental) | $4-8 |
| Bocagrande | $5-10 | $2-3 | $3 (bike rental) | $6-12 |
| Manga | $6-12 | $2-4 | $3-5 (bike/bus combo) | $8-15 |
| Castillogrande | $8-15 | $3-5 | $4-6 (bike/taxi combo) | $10-18 |
How safe is each neighborhood based on recent crime statistics?
Safety considerations are paramount for both residents and property investors evaluating Cartagena's neighborhoods in 2025.
The Old City maintains the highest safety levels due to constant tourist police presence and 24/7 surveillance systems. Crime rates dropped by 25% between 2022-2024, making it the most secure area for property investment and tourist accommodations.
Bocagrande and Castillogrande benefit from private security services and gated communities, with violent crime rates below 2 incidents per 1,000 residents annually. These areas attract families and long-term residents, supporting stable rental markets.
GetsemanĂ has experienced significant safety improvements during its gentrification process, though petty theft remains slightly higher than premium neighborhoods. The presence of international visitors and new businesses has increased police patrols and community vigilance.
Manga represents a typical residential Colombian neighborhood with moderate safety levels. While suitable for locals and long-term expats, tourist-focused properties may face challenges attracting short-term visitors concerned about security.
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What are the noise levels in each neighborhood, especially at night?
Noise levels significantly impact resident satisfaction and property values across Cartagena's different neighborhoods.
The Old City experiences the highest noise levels, particularly around Plaza Santo Domingo and near major restaurants, reaching 65-75 decibels during peak tourist hours. However, interior courtyards and upper floors of colonial buildings often provide quieter environments.
GetsemanĂ has transformed into a vibrant nightlife district, with noise levels ranging from 55-70 decibels depending on proximity to bars and live music venues. The neighborhood quiets significantly after midnight on weekdays.
Bocagrande maintains moderate noise levels at 45-60 decibels, primarily from traffic along the coastal road. Beachfront properties face ocean sounds rather than urban noise, creating a more pleasant environment for residents and tourists.
Manga and Castillogrande offer the quietest environments at 35-50 decibels, making them ideal for families and long-term residents. These residential areas have strict noise ordinances that protect property values and quality of life.
How do restaurants, cafes, and bars rate in each neighborhood?
Dining and entertainment options directly influence tourist appeal and long-term livability for property investors in Cartagena.
The Old City boasts the highest concentration of top-rated establishments, with average ratings of 4.3-4.6 stars across major review platforms. The area features over 200 restaurants, from street food vendors to Michelin-recommended establishments, ensuring consistent tourist traffic.
GetsemanĂ has emerged as Cartagena's culinary hotspot, with trendy restaurants and craft cocktail bars averaging 4.2-4.5 stars. The neighborhood's 80+ dining establishments cater to both locals and international visitors, supporting year-round rental demand.
Bocagrande offers a mix of international chains and beachfront dining, with average ratings of 4.0-4.3 stars. While less authentic than other neighborhoods, it provides familiar options for international tourists and expat residents.
Manga features traditional Colombian establishments with ratings around 3.8-4.1 stars, primarily serving local residents. Castillogrande hosts upscale restaurants averaging 4.2-4.4 stars, though with fewer options overall.
It's something we develop in our Colombia property pack.
How many tourist attractions are within walking distance of each neighborhood?
Proximity to attractions directly correlates with rental income potential and property appreciation in Cartagena's tourism-driven market.
The Old City contains the highest concentration of attractions within its borders, including the Cathedral, Palace of Inquisition, and numerous museums. Over 15 major sites sit within a 5-minute walk of most properties, ensuring maximum tourist appeal.
GetsemanĂ offers access to 8-12 significant attractions within 10-15 minutes walking, including the historic clock tower, Trinidad Square, and emerging art galleries. The neighborhood's cultural renaissance has created new points of interest that attract modern travelers.
Bocagrande provides 5-8 attractions within walking distance, focusing on beaches, modern shopping centers, and waterfront activities. While fewer historical sites, the area compensates with recreational amenities that appeal to families and beach tourists.
Manga and Castillogrande have limited walking access to major attractions, with 2-4 sites within reasonable distance. These neighborhoods require transportation to reach most tourist destinations, making them more suitable for residential rather than vacation rental properties.
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What accommodation options are available in each neighborhood?
The variety and quantity of accommodation options indicate market saturation and competition levels for property investors in Cartagena.
The Old City offers the highest concentration of accommodations with over 400 boutique hotels, hostels, and Airbnb properties. This saturation creates intense competition but also demonstrates sustained demand from international visitors.
Bocagrande features approximately 200-300 accommodation options, including major hotel chains and beachfront resorts. The neighborhood's modern infrastructure supports larger-scale hospitality developments and vacation rental complexes.
GetsemanĂ has experienced rapid growth in accommodation offerings, now hosting 150-200 properties ranging from budget hostels to upscale boutique hotels. The neighborhood's transformation creates opportunities for new market entrants.
Manga provides 50-80 accommodation options, primarily targeting budget travelers and long-term stays. Castillogrande offers 40-60 high-end properties, focusing on luxury travelers and extended visits.
Market analysis shows Cartagena's accommodation sector grew by 18% in 2024, with GetsemanĂ and Bocagrande leading expansion efforts.
What internet speeds can residents expect in each neighborhood?
Internet connectivity has become crucial for both remote workers and modern tourists evaluating Cartagena properties.
Bocagrande and Castillogrande offer the highest internet speeds, averaging 80-150 Mbps in most accommodations. These areas benefit from modern fiber optic infrastructure that appeals to digital nomads and business travelers.
The Old City provides moderate connectivity at 50-100 Mbps in renovated colonial buildings, though older structures may experience limitations due to historical preservation requirements. Many properties have upgraded to accommodate tourist expectations.
GetsemanĂ has seen significant infrastructure improvements, with speeds ranging from 40-80 Mbps in newer establishments. The neighborhood's gentrification includes technology upgrades that support its growing popularity among international visitors.
Manga offers basic but reliable internet service at 25-50 Mbps, sufficient for residential use but potentially limiting for high-demand tourist accommodations. This represents an opportunity for property investors to differentiate through connectivity upgrades.
What are the occupancy rates and crowd levels in each neighborhood?
Understanding occupancy patterns helps property investors optimize rental strategies and revenue projections in Cartagena's market.
The Old City maintains the highest occupancy rates at 75-85% annually, with peak periods reaching 95% during December-March and July-August. The neighborhood's UNESCO status ensures consistent international visitor flow throughout the year.
Bocagrande achieves 70-80% occupancy rates, particularly strong during beach season and holiday periods. The area's resort-style appeal supports both short-term tourist stays and longer winter visitor accommodations.
GetsemanĂ has rapidly increased to 65-75% occupancy as its reputation grows among younger travelers and cultural tourists. The neighborhood's emerging status creates opportunities for early property investors to capture market share.
Manga and Castillogrande experience more variable occupancy at 50-65%, depending on their positioning as residential versus tourist-focused properties. These areas may require different marketing strategies to optimize rental performance.
It's something we develop in our Colombia property pack.
What weather conditions can visitors expect in each area during September?
September represents part of Cartagena's wet season, with weather patterns influencing tourist behavior and property demand across neighborhoods.
All neighborhoods experience similar tropical conditions during September 2025, with average temperatures ranging from 26-32°C (79-90°F). Humidity levels consistently reach 80-90% throughout the city, making air conditioning essential for tourist accommodations.
Rainfall averages 180-220mm during September, with brief afternoon thunderstorms typical across all areas. Coastal neighborhoods like Bocagrande and Castillogrande benefit from ocean breezes that provide some relief from humidity.
The Old City's stone buildings and narrow streets can feel slightly warmer due to heat retention, though colonial architecture includes courtyards and high ceilings designed for tropical climates. Properties with rooftop terraces and pools command premium rates during hot months.
Indoor climate control becomes a key differentiator for rental properties, with tourists expecting reliable air conditioning and ventilation systems. Properties in all neighborhoods that lack adequate cooling systems experience lower occupancy rates and guest satisfaction scores.
Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Choosing the right neighborhood in Cartagena significantly impacts both your living experience and property investment returns.
The Old City offers premium rental yields but requires higher initial investment, while emerging areas like GetsemanĂ provide excellent growth potential for property buyers.