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.
What are the 3 ways to travel from Cartagena Airport to the City Centre?
There are 3 ways to travel the 6 kilometre (4 miles) distance from Cartagena Airport to the City Centre. You can choose between the bus, shared minivan and private transport. 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 ($0.90).
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 bus is the cheapest way to get from Cartagena Airport, also known as Rafael Núñez International 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 your destination in the port city.
Public bus
Transcaribe is the main bus company operating from Cartagena Airport. Take line T102, the orange and white buses that pass by the Walled City. It runs from 06:00 to 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 ($0.90), but keep in mind that cash isn’t accepted. You’ll need a rechargeable Transcaribe card, which you can buy at Transcaribe stations for 6,000 COP ($1.60).
There are two stops equally close to the city centre, one is called Parque Apolo and the other one Boquete San Diego. If you’re confused, you can just ask for ‘Centro’ or ‘San Diego’ and the driver or other passengers will help you get off at the right stop.
Bus via BookAway
You also have the option to pre-book a bus that will take you from the airport straight to your hotel — no need to find your way to and from the bus stops. Plan Tours offers several trips daily with rates from 37,000 COP ($10.10). You can book your ride beforehand through BookAway.
City Centre to Cartagena Airport
Cartagena Airport to the City Centre by Private Transport
A taxi is the most convenient way to get to and from Rafael Núñez International Airport. Taxis are easy to spot; they’re usually parked just outside the arrivals hall.
It’s a bit tricky to take taxis in Colombia, though. Most vehicles are small, and it’s not uncommon for drivers to overcharge tourists or come across as unfriendly.
For better cars that come with professional drivers, the best option is to hire a private transfer. We like booking through BookAway for its good customer service. You can pick the type of car you want and book with the taxi company you prefer.
Here’s a quick look at your options:
Airport taxi
The airport taxi service at Cartagena Airport runs 24 hours a day and is available from 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. A ride to the centro usually starts at 18,000 COP ($4.80), but it can be higher if you’re going further out. Rates tend to increase annually, usually between February and April.
Uber
You can book an Uber ride after landing at the airport. Uber rates from Cartagena Airport to the Walled City start at 32,000 COP ($8.70), but the price can vary depending on the time of day and traffic.
Private Cars via BookAway
Booking a private transfer with BookAway is a bit expensive. Prices start from 63,000 COP ($17.20) for 2 persons. What we like about this option is that the driver will be waiting for you at the airport. You won’t have anything to think about as you set foot in Cartagena.
City Centre to Cartagena Airport
Cartagena Airport to the City Centre by Shared Minivan
Shared minivans are a cheap and easy way to get to your hotel from Cartagena Airport. 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.
Minivan fares between Cartagena Airport and the Walled City start at 27,000 COP ($7.30).
City Centre to Cartagena Airport
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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!
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 kilometre (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 bus and takes 15 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 3,000 COP ($0.90).
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 travel content creator, writer and founder of Stay Wild Travel, a tour company running group trips for women beyond your typical destinations. Her full-time travels have taken her to almost 60 countries, and she doesn’t intend to stop anytime soon.
Faye is a writer and full-time mom. She loves planning trips to the beach, tasting new cuisines and discovering gems in the Philippines. But if she had to choose, London is her favourite place in the world and she can't wait to travel there again with her hubby and baby!
