Plaza de los Coches
A historic Cartagena plaza alive with sweet vendors, colonial charm, and the echoes of its past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere, cooler temps
Plaza de los Coches
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Cartagena plaza alive with sweet vendors, colonial charm, and the echoes of its past.
"Absolutely fabulously vibrant place. Restaurants nearby and lots of people with all sorts of activities."
🍬 Taste the Local Sweets
Sample the delicious traditional confections from the vendors in the Portal de los Dulces. A sweet treat for your senses!
📸 Capture the Charm
Take photos of the colonial architecture and the statue of Pedro de Heredia. Great photo opportunities!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Portal de los Dulces
Arcaded walkway
Indulge in a rainbow of traditional Colombian sweets from friendly vendors. A true taste of Cartagena!
Statue of Pedro de Heredia
Center of the plaza
Admire the statue of Cartagena's founder, a central figure in this historic and lively square.
Colonial Architecture
Surrounding buildings
Marvel at the charming colonial houses with their iconic balconies and ground-level arches.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sweetness
History Beneath Your Feet
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍬 Taste the Local Sweets
Sample the delicious traditional confections from the vendors in the Portal de los Dulces. A sweet treat for your senses!
📸 Capture the Charm
Take photos of the colonial architecture and the statue of Pedro de Heredia. Great photo opportunities!
🚶♀️ Stroll and Soak It In
Enjoy a leisurely walk around the plaza, especially in the late afternoon or evening.
🐴 Consider a Carriage Ride
Experience a classic Cartagena tour with a horse-drawn carriage ride around the historic center.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍬 Taste the Local Sweets
Sample the delicious traditional confections from the vendors in the Portal de los Dulces. A sweet treat for your senses!
📸 Capture the Charm
Take photos of the colonial architecture and the statue of Pedro de Heredia. Great photo opportunities!
🚶♀️ Stroll and Soak It In
Enjoy a leisurely walk around the plaza, especially in the late afternoon or evening.
🐴 Consider a Carriage Ride
Experience a classic Cartagena tour with a horse-drawn carriage ride around the historic center.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the vibrant and lively atmosphere of Plaza de los Coches, particularly highlighting the delightful array of traditional sweets available at the Portal de los Dulces. The charming colonial architecture and the historical significance of the plaza are also frequently praised, making it a must-visit spot for experiencing Cartagena's culture and flavors.
"Absolutely fabulously vibrant place. Restaurants nearby and lots of people with all sorts of activities. The atmosphere here is wonderful and lives up to its reputation. We only had a couple of nights in Cartagena. And wandering around this Plaza was just a great way to finish the day."
Ross Daniels
"The whole area is just a joy to vist with amazing shops and cafes!
The people are friendly and the place feels safe and welcoming."
Mikey T
"Previously known as Plaza de la Yerba, the triangular plaza just behind Puerta del Reloj was once used as a market for enslaved people.
It is lined with old balconied houses with colonial arches at ground level.
The arcaded walkway, known as El Portal de los Dulces, is today lined with confectionery stands selling local sweets.
The statue of the city's founder, Pedro de Heredia, is in the middle of the plaza."
Karin S.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza de los Coches is located right behind the iconic Clock Tower (Puerta del Reloj), a main entrance to the Walled City. It's easily accessible on foot if you're already exploring the historic center. Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off nearby.
Absolutely! It's a central point within the Walled City, making it a convenient stop after visiting the Clock Tower or before heading to other plazas like Plaza de la Aduana.
Driving directly into the Walled City is restricted. It's best to park outside the walls or take a taxi/ride-share to get close.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza de los Coches is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time.
The plaza is always open, as it's a public space. However, the surrounding shops and restaurants have their own operating hours.
The plaza itself is free. You might incur costs if you choose to purchase sweets, take a carriage ride, or dine at nearby establishments.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, admire the colonial architecture, take photos, sample local sweets from the Portal de los Dulces, and consider a horse-drawn carriage ride.
The 'dulces' are traditional Colombian sweets, often made with coconut, guava, or other fruits, and are a specialty of Cartagena.
Generally, Plaza de los Coches is considered safe, especially during the day and early evening. Like any busy tourist area, be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
Yes, photography is highly encouraged! The plaza offers many picturesque spots with its architecture and lively scenes.
The statue in the center is of Pedro de Heredia, the Spanish conquistador and founder of Cartagena in 1533.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the plaza itself is known for its sweet vendors, there are numerous restaurants and cafes located in the surrounding streets and arcades, offering a variety of cuisines.
You'll find a range of options from traditional Colombian dishes to international cuisine, seafood, and of course, plenty of cafes for coffee and snacks.
Popular choices include 'cocadas' (coconut candies), 'bocadillos' (guava paste), and various fruit-based sweets. Don't be afraid to ask vendors for recommendations!
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the colorful colonial buildings, the statue of Pedro de Heredia, the bustling Portal de los Dulces, and the horse-drawn carriages for classic Cartagena shots.
Late afternoon and early evening offer beautiful golden hour light. Morning can also be good before the crowds build up.
No specific restrictions for personal photography. If you plan professional shoots, it's always wise to check local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of Cartagena: The Portal de los Dulces
Many visitors find the experience of buying sweets here to be a highlight of their visit. The vendors are typically friendly and happy to explain their offerings. It's a perfect spot to pick up edible souvenirs or simply to indulge your sweet tooth while exploring the plaza. The vibrant colors of the sweets against the backdrop of the colonial architecture make for fantastic photo opportunities as well.
History and Transformation of Plaza de los Coches
Today, the plaza is characterized by its beautiful colonial architecture, with buildings featuring traditional balconies and arches at ground level. The statue of Pedro de Heredia, the city's founder, stands proudly in the center, a constant reminder of Cartagena's origins. The area is now a hub of activity, with restaurants, shops, and the famous sweet stalls, offering a stark contrast to its historical use. This juxtaposition makes Plaza de los Coches a place of both reflection and celebration.
Experiencing Plaza de los Coches: Beyond the Sweets
The plaza is also surrounded by buildings that house various restaurants and cafes. These establishments offer a chance to relax, enjoy a meal, or have a refreshing drink after exploring. The atmosphere in the plaza, especially in the late afternoon and evening, is incredibly vibrant, with people strolling, socializing, and enjoying the ambiance. It's a perfect spot to simply sit, people-watch, and soak in the lively spirit of Cartagena.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit