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City Comparison

CartagenavsMedellín

Can't decide between Cartagena and Medellín? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.

Cartagena colorful colonial buildings
Colombia

Cartagena

Cartagena is a Caribbean jewel of colorful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and tropical energy. This walled city enchants with its romantic plazas, vibrant nightlife, nearby islands, and some of the best ceviche in South America.

December to April
32°C / 30°C
Colombian Peso (COP)
Spanish

Known for

colonial architecture
Caribbean beaches
salsa
ceviche
Explore Cartagena
Medellín cityscape with mountains
Colombia

Medellín

Medellín has transformed from its troubled past into one of South America's most innovative cities. The "City of Eternal Spring" offers perfect weather, innovative public transport, vibrant nightlife, and a welcoming energy that captivates visitors.

December to March
24°C / 22°C
Colombian Peso (COP)
Spanish

Known for

eternal spring weather
transformation
nightlife
street art
Explore Medellín

Head-to-Head Comparison

See how these destinations stack up in key categories

Culture & History

Cartagena
4/5

Cartagena offers Walled City, Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, Getsemaní

Medellín
4/5

Medellín offers Comuna 13, Metrocable, Plaza Botero

Food & Dining

Cartagena
4/5

Cartagena is famous for its local dining scene

Medellín
4/5

Medellín is famous for its local dining scene

Nightlife

Cartagena
5/5

Cartagena has legendary nightlife

Medellín
5/5

Medellín has legendary nightlife

Best Time to Visit

Cartagena
4/5

December to April

Medellín
4/5

December to March, July to August

Weather

Cartagena
4/5

Summer: 32°C, Winter: 30°C

Medellín
4/5

Summer: 24°C, Winter: 22°C

Top Attractions in Cartagena

  • 1Walled City
  • 2Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
  • 3Getsemaní
  • 4Rosario Islands
  • 5Plaza Santo Domingo
  • 6Café del Mar

Top Attractions in Medellín

  • 1Comuna 13
  • 2Metrocable
  • 3Plaza Botero
  • 4El Poblado
  • 5Guatapé Day Trip
  • 6Parque Arví

Cartagena is Popular With

couples
beach lovers
history buffs
nightlife seekers

Medellín is Popular With

digital nomads
nightlife seekers
culture lovers
adventure travelers

Our Verdict

Both Cartagena and Medellín are incredible destinations. Cartagena excels in colonial architecture and Caribbean beaches, while Medellín stands out for eternal spring weather and transformation.

Best destination for:

nightlife

Cartagena

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