CartagenavsCusco
Can't decide between Cartagena and Cusco? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
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.
Known for
Cusco
Cusco was the heart of the Inca Empire and remains the gateway to Machu Picchu. This high-altitude city blends Incan ruins with Spanish colonial architecture, offering rich indigenous culture, vibrant markets, and access to Peru's most iconic sites.
Known for
Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Cartagena offers Walled City, Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, Getsemaní
Cusco offers Machu Picchu Day Trip, Plaza de Armas, Sacsayhuamán
Food & Dining
Cartagena is famous for its local dining scene
Cusco is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Cartagena has legendary nightlife
Cusco offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
December to April
April to October
Weather
Summer: 32°C, Winter: 30°C
Summer: 18°C, Winter: 17°C
Top Attractions in Cartagena
- 1Walled City
- 2Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
- 3Getsemaní
- 4Rosario Islands
- 5Plaza Santo Domingo
- 6Café del Mar
Top Attractions in Cusco
- 1Machu Picchu Day Trip
- 2Plaza de Armas
- 3Sacsayhuamán
- 4San Pedro Market
- 5Sacred Valley
- 6Rainbow Mountain
Cartagena is Popular With
Cusco is Popular With
Our Verdict
Both Cartagena and Cusco are incredible destinations. Cartagena excels in colonial architecture and Caribbean beaches, while Cusco stands out for Machu Picchu and Incan ruins.
Best destination for:
nightlife
Cartagena
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