Planning a trip to Cartagena, Colombia? Get ready for sunshine, salsa beats, and some serious vacation vibes! Whether you're strolling the cobblestone streets of the Old City, lounging on the beach, or dancing the night away, Cartagena calls for breezy outfits, bold colors, and your cutest sunnies. 💅
Here’s your ultimate, no-stress (but totally chic) packing guide for what to wear in Cartagena.
Check our pinterest photowalk board for inspo or just book a photo walk experience and get your instagram feed shots professional photographer who happens to know every good spot of the city.
👗 Dress to Impress…Casually
✨ Flowyyyy Dresses:
Think cotton, linen, or rayon — light, breathable, and ready to twirl in! Bright florals, tropical prints, or bold solids will pop beautifully against Cartagena’s colorful walls. Maxi, midi, or mini? Bring a mix!
👚 Crop Tops, Tanks & Breezy Blouses:
It’s hot and humid, girl. Loose tops with fun details like puff sleeves, embroidery, or tie-fronts are cute and cool — literally.
🩳 Shorts & Skirts:
High-waisted linen shorts? Yes please. A flouncy skirt for sunset cocktails? Definitely. Comfort meets cute every time.
🩱 Beach Babe Vibes
👙 Swimsuits (at least 2!):
One for tanning, one for swimming — because options, duh. Bonus points for vibrant patterns and cheeky cuts.
🩴 Cover-Up/Kaftan:
Effortlessly go from beach to beachfront café in something flowy and sheer. Extra chic with a sunhat and oversized sunnies. ☀️
👡 Shoes You Can Dance (and Walk) In
🩴 Flip-Flops:
Easy, breezy, beachy. Throw them on when heading to the islands or chilling at your hotel pool.
👡 Cute Sandals:
Flat, strappy sandals that go with everything? Packing MVPs. Comfort is key — Cartagena’s streets are cobbled and charming, but not foot-friendly if you’re in heels.
👟 Stylish Sneakers or Comfy Espadrilles:
Perfect for daytime exploring when you’re clocking 10k steps without realizing it.
🧢 Accessories: Don’t Forget These!
🕶️ Sunglasses:
Pack your fave pair (or two). You’ll wear them every day.
👒 Wide-Brim Hat or Bucket Hat:
Protect your face from the sun and turn heads at the same time.
👜 Crossbody Bag or Sling Pack:
Small, secure, and cute — just the way we like it. Keep your hands free for iced coconuts and Instagram snaps.
🧴 SPF Everything:
Face, body, lips — sun protection is non-negotiable. (Humidity + sun = glowy, not crispy.)
🧣 Light Scarf or Wrap:
For chilly AC inside museums or to cover up at religious sites.
🌅 Cartagena Nights = Dress-Up Time
Cartagena comes alive after dark. Think rooftop bars, live music, and ocean breezes.
👗 One or Two “Going Out” Looks:
A strappy dress, wide-leg pants + crop combo, or something that sparkles a little. You never know when you’ll find yourself dancing under the stars.
🧥 Light Jacket or Kimono:
Just in case there’s a breeze or a late-night mojito moment.
💡 Quick Tips
- Think breathable, not bulky. Cartagena is tropical all year — you won’t need layers.
- Go bold! Locals love color — so ditch the all-black wardrobe and embrace the sunshine hues.
- Pack less than you think. You will find cute stuff to buy there.
That’s it! Now you’re all set to slay the streets of Cartagena in style. Get ready for unforgettable sunsets, Caribbean breezes, and the kind of travel pics that make your friends say, “OMG, where is this?!”
Back to Insider's Guide