Gran Hotel de Cartagena
A stunning architectural gem in Bocagrande, Cartagena, admired for its facade even though it's now a bank.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for admiring architecture
Gran Hotel de Cartagena
Best Time
Best for admiring architecture

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning architectural gem in Bocagrande, Cartagena, admired for its facade even though it's now a bank.
"Beautiful to admire from outside but such a pity you cannot go inside to explore."
Admire from Outside
It's now a bank, so you can't go inside, but the exterior is stunning! :camerawithflash:
Explore the Area
Discover nearby restaurants and public art installations. :art:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Impressive Facade
A breathtaking architectural marvel, its beauty is best appreciated from the exterior.

Surrounding Sculptures & Restaurants
Explore the vibrant area around the hotel, featuring public art and diverse dining options.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Admire the Architecture
Location, Location, Location
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Admire from Outside
It's now a bank, so you can't go inside, but the exterior is stunning! :camerawithflash:
Explore the Area
Discover nearby restaurants and public art installations. :art:
Photo Opportunity
Perfect spot for memorable photos of Cartagena's colonial charm. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
Admire from Outside
It's now a bank, so you can't go inside, but the exterior is stunning! :camerawithflash:
Explore the Area
Discover nearby restaurants and public art installations. :art:
Photo Opportunity
Perfect spot for memorable photos of Cartagena's colonial charm. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors admire the Gran Hotel de Cartagena's beautiful and impressive facade, recognizing its architectural significance. However, many express disappointment that it's no longer a hotel and cannot be explored from the inside, as it now serves as a bank.
"We looked at the building from the outside, it is beautiful and impressive. There are many restaurants and a nice sculpture around"
Natalia Tomanek
"Now a building society, beautiful facade"
IAN COLLINS
"Beautiful to admire from outside but such a pity you cannot go inside to explore."
Gary Flynn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Gran Hotel de Cartagena is located in Bocagrande. You can reach it by taxi or bus from the airport or other parts of the city. Many visitors choose to stay in the Old City or Getsemani and take a short taxi ride to Bocagrande to see the building.
Parking in Bocagrande can be challenging. It's often easier to use public transport or taxis if you're not staying in the immediate vicinity.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Gran Hotel de Cartagena is no longer a functioning hotel. It has been converted into a bank, so public access inside is not permitted. You can only admire its beautiful facade from the outside.
There are no entrance fees to view the exterior of the Gran Hotel de Cartagena. It's a public building whose architecture can be admired freely.
📸 📸 Photography
The best time for photos is during daylight hours when the architectural details are clearly visible. Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can also offer beautiful lighting.
Yes, the area around the Gran Hotel offers several vantage points for photos. You can capture its grandeur from across the street or from nearby public spaces.
🎫 📍 Location & Surroundings
The area around the Gran Hotel is lively, with many restaurants, shops, and public sculptures to explore. Bocagrande itself is known for its beaches and modern amenities.
Bocagrande offers a more modern experience with hotels and beaches, while the Old City and Getsemani provide a historic and bohemian vibe. Your preference will depend on the atmosphere you seek.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Architecture Enthusiasts
While you can't enter, the surrounding area of Bocagrande also features other interesting buildings and public art. Consider pairing your visit with a walk through the nearby streets to discover more architectural gems.
Day-Trippers
Combine your visit with exploring the nearby beaches of Bocagrande or enjoying a meal at one of the many restaurants in the area. It's a quick yet rewarding stop that adds a touch of historical charm to your day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
Many travelers are drawn to its impressive exterior, often stopping to take photos and admire the craftsmanship. While you can't step inside to explore its former grandeur, the visual impact from the outside is substantial. It stands as a testament to the city's past and its evolving urban landscape.
Its presence in Bocagrande adds to the area's appeal, complementing the modern developments with a touch of historical elegance. The building is often mentioned in discussions about iconic Cartagena landmarks, even in its current state as a bank.
Exploring Bocagrande
Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the promenade, relax on the sandy shores, or indulge in the numerous dining options available. Bocagrande is also home to various sculptures and public art installations, adding to its visual appeal.
While the Gran Hotel itself is no longer accessible internally, its location in Bocagrande places you in the heart of a vibrant urban environment. It's a great base for experiencing both the modern amenities and the coastal beauty of Cartagena.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit