Plaza Santa Teresa
A vibrant public square in Cartagena's Old Town, known for local artisans and festive holiday decorations.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical festive atmosphere
Plaza Santa Teresa
Best Time
Magical festive atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant public square in Cartagena's Old Town, known for local artisans and festive holiday decorations.
"Nice decoration during Christmas and New Year's eve.."
Support Local Artisans
Engage with vendors and purchase unique crafts. It's a great way to support local artists! :moneybag:
Bring Local Currency
While dollars are accepted, having local currency is best for smaller purchases and vendors. :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Artisan Encounters
Throughout the plaza
Witness skilled artisans crafting intricate items, like a grasshopper from a reed. A unique cultural experience.

Festive Decorations
Plaza Santa Teresa
Experience the plaza's vibrant transformation with beautiful decorations during Christmas and New Year's.

European Brand Boutiques
Surrounding streets
Explore a variety of stores offering European brand names, adding a touch of modern shopping to the historic setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Artistic Vibe
Timing is Key for Ambiance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Support Local Artisans
Engage with vendors and purchase unique crafts. It's a great way to support local artists! :moneybag:
Bring Local Currency
While dollars are accepted, having local currency is best for smaller purchases and vendors. :moneywithwings:
Seek Vibrant Times
Visit during festive seasons for the most enchanting decorations and lively atmosphere. :tada:
Explore Surrounding Shops
Don't miss the European brand stores lining the streets around the plaza for a shopping experience. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
Support Local Artisans
Engage with vendors and purchase unique crafts. It's a great way to support local artists! :moneybag:
Bring Local Currency
While dollars are accepted, having local currency is best for smaller purchases and vendors. :moneywithwings:
Seek Vibrant Times
Visit during festive seasons for the most enchanting decorations and lively atmosphere. :tada:
Explore Surrounding Shops
Don't miss the European brand stores lining the streets around the plaza for a shopping experience. :shopping_bags:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Plaza Santa Teresa offers a glimpse into Cartagena's artistic side with local vendors showcasing crafts. While some find it a pleasant spot to sit and observe, others note a desire for more amenities like outdoor cafes. The plaza is particularly noted for its festive decorations during the holiday season.
"Arrived early for the @FreeTourCartagena and walked around Centro. Met a nice man who made a grasshopper out of a reed...impressive way to panhandle but felt good paying him for it instead of just dropping money into his hat. Very artistic...took skill."
Larry Manz
"There are better and more vibrant plazas in the old city. This place needs more outdoor cafes with tables and fans."
JULIO CEBALLOS
"Just been in Cartagena Columbia what a beautiful place, the old town and colonial buildings are breath taking, a lot of vendors and beggars, not many foreign exchanges so bring dollars or local currency. Dont go off the beaten track there are a lot of poor people that would do anything for a few dollars"
Mark Murray
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza Santa Teresa is located in the heart of Cartagena's historic Old Town. It's easily accessible by taxi or a short walk if you're staying within the walled city. Many guided tours of the Old Town will include a stop here.
Yes, Plaza Santa Teresa is very centrally located within the Old Town. You can easily walk to many other key sites like the Clock Tower, the Cathedral, and various museums from here.
From Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG), the most convenient way to reach Plaza Santa Teresa is by taxi. The ride typically takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza Santa Teresa is a public square and does not require an entrance ticket. You can visit and explore it freely at any time.
As an open public space, Plaza Santa Teresa doesn't have official opening or closing hours. It's accessible 24/7, though it's most pleasant to visit during daylight hours or early evening.
There are no fees to enter or wander around Plaza Santa Teresa itself. However, you may choose to purchase items from vendors or dine at nearby cafes, which will incur costs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy the ambiance, admire the architecture, watch local artisans at work, and potentially purchase their crafts. It's also a good spot to relax and people-watch.
Crowds can vary. It tends to be busier during peak tourist seasons, holidays like Christmas, and around midday. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can offer a more relaxed experience.
Yes, you'll often find numerous vendors selling various crafts, souvenirs, and sometimes offering services. Be prepared for them to approach you.
Plaza Santa Teresa is generally considered safe, especially during the day. However, like any busy tourist area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure. Avoid venturing into deserted side streets late at night.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the plaza itself might not have many direct dining establishments, the surrounding streets and buildings within the Old Town are filled with cafes and restaurants offering local and international cuisine. Some reviews suggest a desire for more outdoor cafes with fans.
You can find a wide variety of food options, from traditional Colombian dishes like bandeja paisa and arepas to international fare. Many places offer fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
Yes, Cartagena's Old Town is dotted with charming cafes where you can enjoy Colombian coffee. Look for spots with outdoor seating to soak in the atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the colonial architecture, the vibrant street life, and the artisans at work. The plaza is particularly picturesque during festive seasons with its decorations.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer beautiful soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant colors of the buildings still make for great shots.
Generally, there are no restrictions on photography in public areas like Plaza Santa Teresa. However, always be respectful if photographing individuals, especially vendors, and ask for permission if necessary.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistic Heart of the Plaza
While the plaza offers a glimpse into this artistic side, some visitors have expressed a desire for more amenities, such as outdoor cafes with fans, to enhance the comfort of lingering and observing. This suggests a potential for development that balances the preservation of its authentic charm with visitor comfort, making it an even more appealing destination for those seeking cultural immersion.
Festive Charm and Shopping
Beyond its festive appeal, the streets surrounding Plaza Santa Teresa are also known for their retail offerings. You can find 'stores from European brandmarks,' providing a contrast between the historic colonial setting and modern international shopping. This blend offers a diverse experience, allowing visitors to explore both cultural crafts and contemporary fashion within close proximity.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit