
How to Spend 3 Days in Cartagena
With 72 hours, you can explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, visit vibrant markets, and venture to nearby islands on snorkeling trips.
As one of Cartagena’s major historic landmarks, Santo Domingo Church (Iglesia Santo Domingo) is a feature of many Cartagena sightseeing tours. Cycle around Santo Domingo Square on a bike tour; discover the finer details of the church's interior on a walking tour; or cover more sights in less time on a tour by air-conditioned bus. Regardless of which mode of transport you choose, tours typically also cover Bolivar Square, San Felipe de Barajas Castle, and San Pedro Claver Cathedral.
Santo Domingo Church (Iglesia Santo Domingo) is located on the bustling Santo Domingo Square, in the midst of the UNESCO-listed Cartagena Old Town, so the church is within walking distance of many historic Cartagena attractions.
The church is open from morning until early evening, and hosts Catholic Mass services throughout the week. Though you’re welcome to enter the church during mass, silence and no taking of photos is expected.
Though the square is named after Iglesia Santo Domingo, there’s much more to Plaza Santo Domingo than the church. Highlights of the square, which is particularly atmospheric after sunset, include the buxom Gertrude sculpture by Colombian artist Fernando Botero; houses with traditional wooden balconies; and the wide selection of restaurants and cafes that offer cocktails and freshly-caught seafood.