Cartagena may be best known for its colonial attractions and grand Afro-Caribbean cuisine, but the bar scene in this coastal city is also world class. Here are eight of the best cocktail hotspots for every taste.
Cartagena pulses with a vibrant cocktail culture, rivaling cities many times its size, thanks to a thriving scene of bars helmed by skilled mixologists who passionately embrace local ingredients. The city presents a dazzling array of concoctions, from unique twists on the classic *coco loco* (that delightful rum-and-coconut-based Colombian creation) to perfectly balanced mojitos that offer a welcome respite from Cartagena’s ever-present, sultry heat. Whether you gravitate toward intimate, low-key lounges or seek a night of unrestrained revelry, Cartagena has the ideal watering hole to quench your thirst and engage in lively conversation. Conveniently, all these destinations are located either in El Centro – the historically significant, walled city – or in the neighboring Getsemaní, a district that has undergone a fashionable revitalization and now serves as the epicenter of the city’s vibrant nightlife.
## Alquímico
The visionaries behind Alquímico (“Alchemy”) have undoubtedly struck gold, crafting an establishment that seamlessly blends a captivating atmosphere with a repertoire of truly superb cocktails. The bar resides within a magnificent multi-floored colonial mansion, characterized by soaring ceilings, artfully distressed walls, rich red curtains, and a central, square island bar that sits gracefully beneath a sun-drenched atrium. Throughout the space, giant glass jars proudly display the ingredients used to create Alquímico’s unique in-house spirits, such as the tantalizing ginger rum or the potent *inquisición*, a complex blend incorporating rose salt, exotic spices, and zesty lime. While any time of day presents a compelling reason to visit Alquímico, the true magic unfolds around 11 pm, when the rum-fueled, high-octane fun takes flight, complemented by the sounds of talented DJs spinning a diverse range of music, from classic disco and upbeat reggae to soulful funk. Patrons can also enjoy amenities such as a pool table, a fusbol table, and a large screen broadcasting the most important sporting event of the moment. Don’t forget to venture up to the top-floor roof lounge for a unique perspective on the city. Alquímico truly provides an intoxicating mix of culture, style and ambiance that is not to be missed in Cartagena.
*Calle del Colegio #34-24, El Centro, Cartagena*
## Bazurto Social Club
Among Cartagena’s most animated and refreshingly unpretentious nightspots, Bazurto Social Club stands out for its impressive roster of top DJs and its five dynamic house bands. One of these bands, the esteemed Bazurto All Stars, specializes in a captivating fusion of Afro-Colombian rhythms, incorporating elements of *champeta*, *cumbia*, and other infectious tunes. The décor of Bazurto is as whimsical and spirited as its music, featuring playful art installations, including eye-catching red chairs shaped like crabs. Securing one of these coveted seats, especially on weekend evenings, requires arriving early. Bazurto also serves a delectable menu of ceviche and other seafood-based tapas until midnight, all of which pair exquisitely with the *machacao* (a house cocktail that offers a fruity and refreshing twist on the classic mojito). For a unique cultural experience, be sure to check out Bazurto on Wednesday evenings for free salsa lessons. You can find it located at the northern end of Getsemaní. The energy that permeates Bazurto Social Club is a true representation of the soul of Cartagena’s nightlife, inviting locals and tourists alike to dance the night away.
*Avenida del Centenario, Carrera 9 #30-42, Getsemaní, Cartagena*
## Café del Mar
As Cartagena’s quintessential sunset venue, the open-air Café del Mar owes its remarkable popularity to its unparalleled location atop the historic Baluarte Santo Domingo: a prime vantage point situated on a corner of the city’s ancient ramparts. Here, a gentle sea breeze provides a cooling embrace, while talented DJs contribute to the vibrant atmosphere by spinning an eclectic mix of old-school tracks. While the cocktails at Café del Mar may come with a higher price tag, the undeniably potent house mojito is well worth the indulgence. Kick off your evening in style with a breathtaking sundowner at this popular tourist hotspot before moving on to explore other facets of Cartagena’s nightlife. The view from Café del Mar is unparalleled, creating a magical setting that complements the lively atmosphere and high-quality drinks. Visiting Café del Mar is an absolute must for any visitor to Cartagena seeking an unforgettable sunset experience.
*Baluarte de Santo Domingo, El Centro, Cartagena*
## Café Habana
Widely recognized as the most famous bar in Cartagena (even attracting the likes of Bill and Hillary Clinton), Café Habana radiates an undeniable Cuban vibe. Nestled in the heart of Getsemaní, within the district’s lively golden triangle, this establishment pays homage to the Havana of the 1950s. It draws a diverse crowd, encompassing affluent Colombians, international tourists, seasoned travelers, and enthusiastic locals, all united by a desire to splurge on expertly crafted, albeit slightly inflated, cocktails and to dance the night away.
Housed within a repurposed former warehouse, Café Habana’s deconstructed interior evokes the charm of a well-worn Havana establishment, while portraits of iconic Cuban music legends, such as Benny Moré, Celia Cruz, and Omara Portuondo, enhance the thematic atmosphere. The live music, provided by a sensational 12-piece house band, is guaranteed to ignite the dance floor, providing the perfect setting for patrons to showcase their hip-shaking salsa skills (or to simply observe the impressive moves of the locals). Due to Café Habana’s overwhelming popularity, its clientele often spills out onto the surrounding streets, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. Café Habana offers an immersive experience that transports its guests to the heart of Cuban culture, right in the middle of Getsemaní, Cartagena.
*Calle de la Media Luna & Calle de Guerrero, Getsemaní, Cartagena*
## Demente
Echoes of weathered Havana also resonate within Demente, evident in its exposed limestone exterior and its minimalist, contemporary interior, complete with a retractable roof. This establishment caters to a discerning crowd, many of whom enjoy relaxing in an outdoor rocking chair while indulging in a premium Cuban cigar (available for purchase on-site). The friendly and skilled bar staff expertly craft delectable variations of signature cocktails, such as the refreshing green mango daiquiri and the intriguing *madre sucia* (“dirty mother”), a potent blend of coffee, rum, and tequila. Situated on Getsemaní’s Plaza de la Trinidad, Demente also offers a tempting selection of tapas and wood-fired pizzas. Another noteworthy aspect of Demente is its eclectic music playlist, which seamlessly transitions between the sounds of Sinatra and Coltrane to the rhythms of Bob Marley and Amy Winehouse. This creates an atmosphere of relaxed sophistication that is very enticing. Demente is the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the bohemian atmosphere of Getsemaní, Cartagena.
*Plaza de la Trinidad, Getsemaní, Cartagena*
## Donde Fidel
Donde Fidel, affectionately known as “Fidel’s Place” – named after its owner, Fidel Leottau – is a legendary institution and a dive bar in the most endearing sense of the term. If you’re seeking an evening that won’t break the bank, this fun and unpretentious establishment is an excellent choice, especially renowned for its exceptional salsa music, perfectly chilled beer on tap, and prime location for people-watching. Donde Fidel occupies a prominent corner of Plaza de los Coches, near the main entrance to Cartagena’s walled city. On particularly crowded evenings, the revelry often spills out onto the plaza itself. Make sure to take some time to admire the inside walls of Donde Fidel, which are adorned with photographs of its numerous famous patrons. Donde Fidel is a staple of Cartagena, providing a welcoming atmosphere and a taste of authentic local culture in the heart of El Centro.
*Carerra 7 and Calle 32, El Centro, Cartagena*
## El Arsenal: The Rum Box
For those with a passion for sampling the latest innovations in rum cocktails, El Arsenal is an absolute must-visit. The talented mixologists at El Arsenal curate monthly menus featuring exclusive, limited-time temptations, such as the inventive “Te-Killa” (a unique concoction of rum, cachaca, fruit tea, and tequila) and the refreshing summer libation known as the Paitilla Pink. This delightful cocktail is crafted with rum, lime, watermelon, and basil, and served in an eye-catching fish-bowl glass. Abe, the bar’s owner, and his knowledgeable staff are even willing to create improvised cocktails based on your personal preferences. El Arsenal also offers engaging rum-tasting classes. The bar’s name pays homage to its location on Calle El Arsenal in Getsemaní – a central hub of Cartagena’s vibrant nightlife scene. El Arsenal provides a refined and unique drinking experience in the heart of Getsemaní, Cartagena.
*Calle 24 #8B-19, Getsemaní, Cartagena*
## El Barón Café & Liquor Bar
El Barón is a bar destined to bring a smile to the face of any discerning sophisticate. This establishment exudes a New York Meatpacking District ambiance, characterized by its bare walls, stylish tile floor, and speakeasy-inspired atmosphere. Complementing this is a modishly retro playlist and an alchemists’ touch applied to the cocktails (all meticulously prepared by vested mixologists), and it’s easy to understand why the well-heeled crowd flocks to this establishment. Small in size but expansive in atmosphere, this standout bar is nestled on Plaza de San Pedro Claver. El Barón combines refined style with excellent cocktails, making it a must-see destination on Plaza de San Pedro Claver, Cartagena.
*Plaza de San Pedro Claver, Carrera 4 #31-7, El Centro, Cartagena*
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