How to get from Cartagena Airport to the city centre

Why visit Cartagena?

Cartagena is known as Colombia’s jewel on the Caribbean coast. Unlike the rest of the country, it has been a tourist hub for quite a while because it’s a common stop for cruise ships sailing the Caribbean.

Its attraction lies in the almost intact and colourful, colonial-style mansions in the walled old city. Inside these walls, you’ll be transported back in time and into a foodie’s paradise. A tip when exploring Cartagena: for safety, stay out of the city’s outskirts! The tourist centre is generally safe.

There are 3 ways to travel the 6 kilometres (4 miles) from Cartagena Airport to the city centre. You can choose between the bus, shared minivan and taxi. The journey takes 15 minutes - 1 hour and the quickest way is by bus. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 3,000 COP ($0.80).

There are bus services connecting Cartagena Airport to the city centre. You can either hop on a public bus or pre-book your ride online.

The journey takes around 15 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and which bus stop you’re getting off at.

Public Bus

The orange and white buses operated by Transcaribe, line T102, run frequently from just outside Cartagena Airport. This service passes by the city centre and runs from 06:00-23:00 on weekdays, and until 21:00 on weekends.

The bus stop is just a short walk from the airport, at Calle 70 and Carrera 4, only a block away. The only Transcaribe line stopping there is the T102, so you won’t get lost.

Bus fare is 3,000 COP ($0.80), but keep in mind that cash isn’t accepted. You’ll need a rechargeable TuLlave card, which you can buy at Transcaribe stations for 6,000 COP ($1.50).

There are 2 stops equally close to the city centre, one is called ‘Parque Apolo’ and the other one ‘Boquete San Diego’. Don’t be afraid of the long names, you can just ask for ‘Centro’ or ‘San Diego’ and the driver or other passengers will help you to get off at the right stop.

Airport bus via BookAway

You also have the option to pre-book a bus that will take you from the airport to your hotel — no need to find your way to and from the bus stops. Plan Tours offers several trips daily with rates from 41,000 COP ($10.10).

A taxi is the most convenient way to get to and from Cartagena Airport. Taxis are easy to spot; they’re usually parked just outside the arrivals hall.

But unlike other countries, Colombia’s taxi service is relatively poor; most vehicles are small, and it’s not uncommon for drivers to overcharge tourists or come across as unfriendly.

If you prefer comfort and good customer service, the best option is to hire a private transfer.

Multiple companies offer transfer services between the airport and the city centre. You can book the type of car you want, and the driver usually waits for you outside the terminal.

Here’s a quick look at your options:

Airport Taxi

The taxi service at Cartagena Airport runs 24 hours a day and is available from just outside the arrivals gate.

Right at the exit, you’ll see a yellow digital kiosk. Select your destination or neighbourhood, and it’ll print a ticket with the official fare. Give that ticket to the first taxi in line.

Taxi prices are fixed depending on the area of your destination. But here’s what you need to know: taxis don’t use meters, and because some drivers may try to overcharge, always agree on the fare before you get in.

Taxi rates to the centro start at 18,000 COP ($4.40), but it can be higher depending on the distance.

Uber

You can book an Uber ride after landing at the airport. You’ll get pickup instructions, along with your driver’s name and car plate.

Uber rates from Cartagena Airport to the city centre start at 32,000 COP ($8).

Private Cars via BookAway

The price of a private transfer for 2 people starts from 69,000 COP ($17.20) and it’s a set price to any location within the urban area. You can book online via BookAway.

Shared minivans are a cheap and easy way to get to your hotel. You’ll be dropped off right at the door, no extra transport needed.

The ride usually takes around 15 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and how many stops are on the way. If your hotel’s one of the last, it could take a bit longer.

You can book your seat online with BookAway through either of these minivan companies: Transturismo Cartagena and Destino Colombia. Ticket prices start at 29,000 COP ($7.30).

Cartagena Airport (CTG)

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From 53,000 COP ($13.10)

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53,000 COP ($13.10)

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63,000 COP ($15.80)

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