What to expect when visiting 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.
3 ways to get from Cartagena Airport to the City Centre
There are 3 ways to travel the distance of 6 kilometers (4 miles) from Cartagena Airport to the City Centre by bus (15 minutes), minivan (10 to 40 minutes) and private Transfer (20 minutes - 1 hour). The journey duration ranges between 10 minutes - 1 hour and the quickest way is by minivan. The lowest priced tickets start from 22,000 COP ($5.30) for the bus.Where to stay in Cartagena?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Cartagena.
Cartagena Airport to the City Centre by Bus
The orange and white buses run by Transcaribe, line T102, run frequently from just outside Cartagena Airport. This service passes by the city centre and runs from 05:30-21:00 every day. The ride takes about 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
The bus stop is on Calle 70 and Carrera 4, one block from the airport. The only Transcaribe line stopping there is the T102 so you won’t get lost. The bus rate is 3,000 COP ($0.60).
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 from Cartagena Airport
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 22,000 COP ($5.30).
Bus schedule from Cartagena Airport to the City Centre
Cartagena Airport to the City Centre by Minivan
A minivan ride from Cartagena Airport to the City Centre costs around 24,000 COP ($5.60). The minivan journey takes about 10 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic.
There are three companies operating on this route: Corona Tours, Transturismo Cartagena and Destino Colombia.
From the City Centre to Cartagena Airport
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Cartagena Airport to the City Centre by Private Transfer
Unlike other countries, Colombia’s taxi service is relatively poor; most vehicles are small and drivers are often rude. 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. The driver usually waits for you outside the terminal.
You can book the type of car you want, and most will offer amenities such as water bottles, AC, and music.
The price of a private transfer for 4 people starts from 55,000 COP ($13) and it’s a set price to any location within the urban area. You can book online via BookAway.
Taking a taxi from Cartagena Airport to the City Centre
The taxi service at Cartagena Airport runs 24 hours a day and is available from just outside the arrivals gate.
Taxi prices are fixed depending on the area of your destination. Follow the signs to the taxi counter right outside the arrivals gate and indicate the area or neighbourhood where you’re going to. They will hand you a ticket with the price printed on it, which you should give to the driver at the end of the ride along with your payment.
An average price for a ride to most hotel areas is 35,000 COP ($8.30), but it can be slightly more or less depending on the distance.
Private Transport options from Cartagena Airport to the City Centre
From the City Centre to Cartagena Airport
Frequently Asked Questions about Cartagena Airport to the City Centre
What is the distance from Cartagena Airport to the City Centre?
The distance from Cartagena Airport to the City Centre is 6 kilometers (4 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Cartagena Airport to the City Centre?
The fastest way to get from Cartagena Airport to the City Centre is by minivan and takes 10 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Cartagena Airport to the City Centre?
The cheapest way to get from Cartagena Airport to the City Centre is by bus with ticket costs starting from 22,000 COP ($5.30).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Cartagena Airport to the City Centre. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
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Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Kate is a writer, (ex)Management Consultant and avid traveller. She recently returned from a 2-year career break exploring the world and decided corporate life wasn’t for her. She’ll soon be testing life as a digital nomad. She’s visited over 40 countries and fell in love with Latin America in particular. Her travelling has inspired a passion for yoga, salsa, hiking and Spanish.
