Top 5 Bars & Entertainment Spots in Cartagena

Written by Marcus Kayode, Marika Maslanka, Santiago Rodriguez

03/08/2025

Charming street in Cartagena with vibrant buildings and cathedral in view, ideal for travel inspiration. — Ariel Foletto, Pexels

Cartagena's drinking scene is vibrant and diverse, ranging from acclaimed cocktail bars to energetic live music venues and scenic rooftop lounges, particularly concentrated within the Historic Center and Getsemaní.

Entertainment and Music:

Cartagena offers a dynamic and vibrant music and entertainment scene, deeply rooted in Caribbean rhythms.

The city pulses with live music, particularly salsa and the local Champeta genre. Iconic venues like Cafe Havana offer vibrant live salsa experiences, while Bazurto Social Club provides an authentic dive into Champeta's rhythmic sounds.

1. Alquímico

Type: Craft Cocktail Bar / Multi-level Club with Rooftop

Situated in a historic mansion in the Old City, Alquímico provides an acclaimed experience across three floors, each offering a distinct cocktail concept. The ground floor highlights drinks made with ingredients from local agricultural communities, the second floor serves classic cocktails with a Colombian twist, and the tropical rooftop features farm-to-bar creations. It is known for its lively, bustling atmosphere and DJs playing reggaeton and Colombian tunes.

Getting There: Located in the Historic Center (Calle del Colegio #34-24), it is easily walkable from most accommodations within the Old City. Arriving early is recommended to avoid long queues, especially on weekends.

2. Café Havana

Type: Live Salsa Bar / Club

An iconic and vibrant venue in Getsemaní, Café Havana is famous for its energetic live Cuban salsa music and dancing. It attracts both locals and tourists, creating a warm and electric atmosphere. Guests can expect classic Cuban cocktails.

Getting There: Found in the Getsemaní neighborhood (Calle Media Luna), it is within walking distance from Getsemaní's main areas and a short stroll from the Historic Center. There is typically a cover charge, approximately 50,000-60,000 COP (around $8-$10 USD).

3. Movich Hotel Rooftop

Type: Rooftop Bar

Perched atop the Movich Hotel in the Historic Center, this rooftop provides impressive 360-degree panoramic views of Cartagena's colonial architecture, the bay, and the ocean, making it an ideal location for sunset. It maintains a relaxed ambiance with chilled house music and serves signature cocktails often featuring local fruits.

Getting There: Located in the Historic Center (Calle de Vélez Danies # 4 – 39), it is easily accessible on foot from the Old City. The terrace is generally open to the public with the purchase of a drink.

5. La Jugada Club House

Type: Multi-level Club with Rooftop / Cocktail Bar

This elegant, multi-story venue in the Old Town showcases a Gatsby-inspired art deco design. It features different musical genres across its floors, including salsa inside and disco/reggaeton on its tropical rooftop terrace, known as Daisy the Rooftop. The club attracts a fashionable crowd and offers a lively atmosphere with DJs and occasional live performances.

Getting There: Found in the Old City (Calle del Colegio No. 34 – 25), it is within walking distance from most areas of the Historic Center. A dress code is enforced (no flip-flops or shorts), and drinks are generally higher priced. Booking a table is advisable, especially for groups on weekends, to ensure entry.

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