Originally the only entrance to the fortified city, this iconic yellow gate is the symbol of Cartagena. Standing under its arches, you are at the threshold between the modern city and the colonial past. It opens into the Plaza de los Coches, where you’ll find the famous Portal de los Dulces, a row of stalls selling traditional coastal sweets made by local families for generations.

This is the most peaceful and shaded spot in the city. Surrounded by massive trees and colonial buildings with ornate balconies, it houses the Palace of the Inquisition and the Gold Museum. It’s the perfect place to sit on a bench, watch the Palenqueras in their colorful dresses, and feel the "old world" atmosphere of the 16th century.

You can actually walk along the top of the massive coral-stone walls that encircle the city. The section near the Baluarte de Santo Domingo is the most famous spot to watch the sunset over the Caribbean Sea. It’s a stunning reminder of the city’s military past, built to defend the Spanish Crown's gold from pirates like Sir Francis Drake.

This majestic church and monastery are dedicated to the "Slave of the Slaves," a priest who spent his life ministering to the Africans brought to the city’s port. The plaza in front is filled with quirky iron sculptures and is one of the most photographed spots in the city. Inside, the quiet, lush courtyard offers a stark, beautiful contrast to the humid heat outside.

This is the vibrant heart of the city’s social life. In the center of the square sits the famous "Gertrudis" statue by the legendary Colombian artist Fernando Botero. Local legend says that rubbing her (well-worn) bronze curves brings luck in love. Surrounded by open-air restaurants and the oldest church in the city, it’s the best place to enjoy the evening breeze and live music.