Plaza de la Aduana
Cartagena's grandest colonial plaza, a historic gateway to the Walled City, famed for its architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Plaza de la Aduana
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cartagena's grandest colonial plaza, a historic gateway to the Walled City, famed for its architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
"It is very beautiful, looks calm even in the most crowded time. There are ideal angles and width for photographing."
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Ideal angles and width make this plaza a photographer's dream. Capture the colonial charm!
🚶♀️ Enter the Walled City
Often the first grand square visitors see upon entering the historic Walled City.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Christopher Columbus Statue
Center of the plaza
The iconic statue stands as a central figure in this historic gathering space.
Colonial Architecture
Surrounding buildings
Admire the elegant, colorful buildings that frame this expansive and historic plaza.
Gateway to the Old Town
Northern end of the plaza
This plaza marks a grand entrance to the historical city center and adjacent squares.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Grandeur
Navigating the Plaza
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Ideal angles and width make this plaza a photographer's dream. Capture the colonial charm!
🚶♀️ Enter the Walled City
Often the first grand square visitors see upon entering the historic Walled City.
🚽 Public Restrooms
Conveniently located within the walls towards the end of the square.
🛍️ Beware of Sellers
Some visitors report persistent sellers; stay aware and firm.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Ideal angles and width make this plaza a photographer's dream. Capture the colonial charm!
🚶♀️ Enter the Walled City
Often the first grand square visitors see upon entering the historic Walled City.
🚽 Public Restrooms
Conveniently located within the walls towards the end of the square.
🛍️ Beware of Sellers
Some visitors report persistent sellers; stay aware and firm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Plaza de la Aduana is widely praised for its stunning colonial architecture and historical significance, serving as a beautiful gateway to Cartagena's Walled City. Visitors appreciate its photogenic qualities and the vibrant atmosphere, though some mention persistent vendors and occasional unpleasant odors.
"It is very beautiful, looks calm even in the most crowded time. There are places like Cartagena Museum of Modern Art in the vicinity. The end of the square opens to the historical city center and another square with the Clock Tower. There are ideal angles and width for photographing. Towards the end of the square, you can find the public toilet built inside the walls."
Öner Buçukcu
"This is the beautiful area which we entered the Walled City. We came in on a cruise and were just on a too short excursion...I very much wish we had more time. Absolutely beautiful area!"
Michelle Whitcomb
"This is the largest and oldest square in the Old Town and was used as a parade ground. In colonial times all the important governmental and administrative buildings were here. The old Royal Customs House has been restored and is now the City Hall. A statue of Christopher Columbus stands in the center of the square.
Worth visiting for the elegant, colorful architecture, Plaza de la Aduana is one of the most visited areas in the walled city, with many restaurants, banks and exchange shops.
The square itself is very beautiful, surrounded by
equally stunning buildings. It's a great place for
memorable photographs and is often converted into an open-air concert venue and hosts many great events in the city including the Cartagena de Indias International Film Festival which uses the square as an open-air cinema, showcasing many of the festivals featured films."
Abdulkarim ALZarouni
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza de la Aduana is located within Cartagena's historic Walled City. If you're arriving by cruise ship, it's often one of the first major squares you'll encounter. Taxis can drop you near the entrance to the Walled City, and it's a short walk from there.
Yes, it's a large, open plaza and is very accessible on foot once you are inside the Walled City. The ground is generally flat and well-maintained.
Driving directly into the historic Walled City is restricted. It's best to park outside the walls or take a taxi to the nearest entrance and walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza de la Aduana is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time.
As a public space, the plaza is accessible 24/7. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety.
While the plaza itself is free, some surrounding buildings like the Cartagena Museum of Modern Art may have their own admission fees.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy the stunning colonial architecture, take photos, learn about its history as a former parade ground, and use it as a gateway to explore the rest of the Walled City. It also hosts events like concerts and film screenings. +1
Absolutely! The plaza offers ideal angles and width for photographing the colorful buildings and the Columbus statue. It's a very photogenic spot.
Yes, public restrooms are available, located within the walls towards the end of the square.
It's the largest and oldest square in the Old Town, historically used as a parade ground and the site of important governmental buildings. The old Royal Customs House (now City Hall) is here.
Yes, the plaza is surrounded by many restaurants, cafes, and exchange shops, offering various dining and refreshment options.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the plaza itself doesn't have specific play areas, its role as a gateway means you're never far from other family-friendly activities. The public restrooms are also a practical convenience for families. Keep an eye on younger children, as the plaza can get busy, and be mindful of persistent vendors if you choose to engage with them.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to capture the intricate details of the buildings, from ornate balconies to colorful facades. The plaza's historical significance also adds depth to your imagery. It's a location where both wide-angle shots showcasing the scale and close-ups of architectural details can yield impressive results.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Walking through Plaza de la Aduana offers a tangible connection to Cartagena's rich past. It’s a place where history unfolds through its architecture and layout. The square's transformation over centuries, from a bustling administrative center to a vibrant public space, tells a story of resilience and cultural evolution. It’s a key point of entry for many visitors, offering an immediate immersion into the grandeur of Cartagena's colonial heritage.
Photography Paradise
Many visitors find the plaza to be a perfect spot for memorable photographs. It’s not just about the static beauty; the plaza often comes alive with activity, offering opportunities to capture candid moments. From the grand scale of the buildings to the intricate details of the balconies, there's always something visually interesting to frame. The open space ensures you can get a good vantage point without feeling too crowded, especially if you time your visit wisely.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit