The Plaza de Santa Teresa

Many people vacationing in Cartagena consider Plaza de Santa Teresa to be one of the most beautiful squares in the city. That says a lot because you can find gorgeous photogenic spots around pretty much any corner in Cartagena. But why is this particular square so attractive? Location, location, location.

Plaza de Santa Teresa is just steps from the great wall that surrounds the city. It also sits in the shadow of one of Cartagena’s most iconic buildings—the Cathedral San Pedro Claver. And the city has done a wonderful job of both preserving the historic look of the square while helping business owners create a well-groomed, pedestrian-friendly area where people vacationing in Cartagena can sit for a while and take in this ancient city’s natural beauty.

Visiting Plaza de Santa Teresa? Bring Your Cameras!

Plaza de Santa Teresa is one of the most photographed places in the city. Here professionals and amateurs alike can snap wonderful photos of the gorgeously restored Spanish Colonial buildings or take a few selfies with the iconic domed roof of The Cathedral a San Pedro Claver in the background. For the adventurous, walk along the wall and photograph the Caribbean or turn toward the city and get a unique vantage point from which to see the sights.

Dinner, Drinks, and More

Plaza de Santa Teresa is home to the Hotel Charleston. The restaurant inside is a wonderful place to have a bite to eat. At night it employs local musicians and live music spills out into the plaza for all to enjoy. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail any time of day, The Baluarte San Francisco Javier across from the Hotel Charleston is a fantastic outside chill bar and music venue that sits right on top of the historic wall surrounding the city. Day or night it’s a wonderful vantage point to take in the city and the harbor beyond while sipping a signature drink and taking a break from sightseeing in Cartagena.

Plaza de Santa Teresa is also a bit of a hotspot when it comes to shopping in Cartagena. Whether you’re looking for a unique souvenir to take home with you or just something comfortable to wear to the beach, the Plaza de Santa Teresa is just steps away from some of the best locations in the city to find a deal.

In fact, it’s here that you’ll find vendors selling the best examples of traditional Mochilla Bags in the city. These iconic pieces are one of the native people’s most recognizable contributions to the blended culture in Cartagena. They come in every color combination under the rainbow and make wonderful treasures for yourself or gifts for family and friends.

Plaza de Santa Teresa is a Must-See

If you’re vacationing in Cartagena you owe it to yourself to take a tour of the gorgeous and historic plazas sprinkled throughout the city and Plaza de Santa Teresa should be on that list. Do a little shopping, capture some great images to remember your Cartagena vacation, and sample some of the local foods all within walking distance from anything your heart desires.

And when you book one of our luxury vacation rental homes in Cartagena you’ll be in the heart of it all. We help you experience Cartagena like a native! Enjoy beautiful and historic accommodations, modern amenities, and complimentary concierge service for a Cartagena vacation unlike any other.

Martha Hampton
Home Curator
Founder of Cartagena Colombia Rentals & Hampton Property Rentals LLC