Santa Catalina Hotel is a practical, comfortable choice in the heart of Cartagena’s walled city. It has a poolside bar, a terrace, air conditioning and, notably, complimentary breakfast and a 24-hour airport shuttle, which means that your arrival and your first morning are both taken care of. It is a hotel for travellers who value convenience and a solid base over the grandest atmosphere, and it sits in the old town close to the cathedral and the plazas, so the sights are within walking distance. After a day among the ramparts and museums, the pool and its bar give you somewhere to rest, and the terrace is a pleasant place for a drink in the evening. It is a sensible middle ground between the budget options outside the walls and the five-star palaces within them.
Location and getting around
The hotel is in the walled city, a short walk from Plaza de Bolívar, the cathedral and the Clock Tower. The ramparts are near, and Getsemaní is within a comfortable stroll. The streets are narrow and cobbled, and the 24-hour airport shuttle is valuable if your flight arrives late or leaves early, since taxis can be harder to find at odd hours. Check the shuttle details with the hotel when you book.
The rooms and facilities
The poolside bar and the terrace give the hotel its social character, and the air conditioning is a real comfort in Cartagena’s heat. Complimentary breakfast, where included in your rate, saves time and money, so it is worth comparing rates with and without it. Rooms vary in size and style, so read the descriptions carefully and ask for a quieter room if you are a light sleeper.
Who it suits
Couples, friends and independent travellers who want a central, comfortable stay with practical extras. The airport shuttle makes it a good choice for short stays, early flights and late arrivals, and the breakfast and pool make it good value for money. If you want a spa, several restaurants and a long list of luxury services, a grander hotel will serve you better.
Good to know
Confirm what your rate includes, since offers on breakfast and the shuttle can change. Prices rise in December, January and around the November festivals, so book early. Pack light clothes, a swimsuit and a smarter outfit for evening, and keep some small notes for taxis and tips. The old town is safe and walkable, but take usual city care at night. Ask at reception about restaurants within a few blocks, as well as guided tours that depart from the old town.
Why stay here
- ✓Poolside bar
- ✓Terrace
- ✓Free breakfast on many rates
- ✓24-hour airport shuttle
- ✓Air conditioning
- ✓Walled city location
- ✓Near the cathedral
- ✓Walkable to the plazas
Good questions
Does the hotel offer an airport shuttle?+
Yes, a 24-hour airport shuttle is part of its services. Confirm the details with the hotel when you book.
Is breakfast included?+
Complimentary breakfast is offered, but it depends on the rate, so check your booking.
Is it in the walled city?+
Yes, it is in the walled city, a short walk from the cathedral and the main plazas.
