At Air Transat, travel is all about wonder, excitement, and discovering new worlds. Our employees are true travel lovers, always ready to dive into new experiences. Today, it’s all about the adventure in Getsemaní, the lively, colorful heart of Cartagena on the Caribbean coast.
Nothing excites us more than sharing our love for travel and the destinations we’ve fallen for. That’s why we followed our Flight Attendant, Leanne, to Colombia, to uncover the essence of this vibrant and culturally rich place.
Once an edgy, local neighborhood known for hostels and backpackers, Getsemaní has transformed in the past decade into a trendy, modern district buzzing with life and creativity. It’s the perfect spot to experience the real Cartagena, just a few minutes from the historic center and the iconic Castillo de San Felipe, two landmarks of this fortified city. For Leanne, Getsemaní is everything – from the endless, creative street art and the ultra-vibrant colors of the colonial houses to the music pulsing everywhere, from salsa clubs to live performances. Here’s her take on the best part of the neighborhood of Getsemaní.
Cartagena: is it safe to walk around Getsemaní neighborhood at night?
Today, Getsemaní is a welcoming and safe neighborhood, loved by both tourists and locals. Its lively, laid-back atmosphere and colorful streets create a friendly and festive environment. But as in any big city, it’s best to stay alert, especially in the evening – stick to main streets and keep your belongings safe. That said, the energy and warmth of Getsemaní will make you feel right at home.
Where to eat in Getsemaní, Colombia’s bustling culinary scene
Getsemaní’s action-packed culinary scene is a must-experience in Cartagena. Over the past decade, a wave of trendy restaurants has popped up, offering dishes that showcase the best of local ingredients and the flavors of the Caribbean coast. From traditional to modern Colombian cuisine, it’s a great place to explore the tastes of the neighborhood.
Mercado Bazurto
If you want to dive deep into the local culture, head to Mercado Bazurto. It’s the heart of Getsemaní, bursting with fresh produce, local ingredients, and the daily buzz of life. Avocados, mangoes, and exotic fruits – it’s all here, and it’s all about getting a taste of the authentic Cartagena experience. Leanne loves to explore markets like these to meet people, observe the local way of life, and sample the fresh produce. Just keep your valuables close, as you would in any lively market abroad.
El Gramo Cevicheria
If you’re looking for a fresh and quick meal that won’t slow down your adventure, El Gramo Cevicheria Express is the perfect spot. With ceviches made from the freshest local ingredients, you can choose your fish or seafood, pile on some vibrant veggies, and top it off with your favorite seasoning – or let the menu guide your choices. The best part? It’s quick, flavorful, and perfectly portable, so you can savor Getsemaní’s tastes as you wander through its colorful streets.
Stroll the Streets of Getsemaní
Walking through Getsemaní is like stepping into a painting – every street is an explosion of vibrant colors and creativity. Take your time to admire the colonial houses painted in brilliant hues, each more vivid than the last especially on streets like Calle Media Luna and Callejón Ancho.
The heart of Getsemaní is in its art, with stunning murals and street art that turn every corner into a visual feast. These vibrant streets set a striking contrast against the historic walls of Cartagena’s Old Town, creating a unique, unforgettable vibe.
Get a feel for Cartagena in Plaza de la Trinidad
To really feel the pulse of Cartagena, head to Plaza de la Trinidad, the heart of Getsemaní’s local life. After 8 pm, this lively square comes alive with music, dancing, and a festival-like energy as locals gather to play instruments, dance sals partya, and celebrate life. It’s a great place to see street performers and enjoy live performances with locals.
Before 8 pm, it’s the perfect spot to relax with a drink or a coffee and soak in the lively atmosphere. Try Solar Bar & Food for inventive (and strong!) cocktails or Café de la Trinidad for a front-row seat to the square’s action.
What is Getsemaní known for: street art and creative murals on Calle de la Sierpe
Leanne’s favorite area in the neighborhood is Calle de la Sierpe, known for its stunning street art and murals. You can easily spend hours wandering along this street, where each wall tells a story through vibrant, colorful art. And keep your eyes open – you might spot a tribute to Colombia’s most famous writer, Gabriel García Márquez. Start at Plaza de la Trinidad, follow Calle de la Sierpe (also known as Calle 29), and let yourself be guided by the energy of Getsemaní’s artistic spirit.
The sunset over Las Murallas
For a quiet moment away from the action of Getsemaní, head to Baluarte de Santa Catalina, just north of the Old Town, by Plaza Las Bovedas. Watching the sunset from the city’s ancient walls, Las Murallas, is a breathtaking experience. This spot is less crowded than the popular Baluarte de Santo Domingo but equally beautiful, offering a perfect view of the Caribbean sun dipping below the horizon.
Salsa nights in Getsemaní
When in Cartagena, it’s all about the music and the dance. And Getsemaní is where it all happens. Salsa clubs are the perfect place to experience the local nightlife, with Colombians staying out late and the energy turning up around 9:30 or 10 pm. Dive into the rhythm, and don’t be surprised if a local pulls you onto the dance floor to teach you the basics. From live performances to impromptu dancing, the nightlife in Getsemaní is an experience like no other.
