The upscale boutique hotel Casa San Agustin is a member of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World group and its atmosphere is quiet and reserved. Staff members are among the best and most highly trained in Cartagena, and many guests compare the hotel and its employees to that of a Four Seasons property. The hotel’s 30 rooms and richly decorated communal spaces evoke the building’s 17th-century grandeur, and there is locally made artisanal furniture and custom artwork throughout. A stunning interior courtyard with a mosaic tile pool and a gorgeous rooftop with city views are real highlights, but the property’s best amenity is its acclaimed on-site restaurant, Alma. The fine-dining restaurant is widely considered to be one of the best in Cartagena, and reservations are nearly difficult to come by -- which is perhaps why its so-so breakfast buffet is a real letdown, even though it’s free. 

Old World charm and modern comforts come together at Bastion Luxury Hotel, a 51-room boutique hotel located on a quiet street Cartagena’s historic walled city. The hotel is one of the larger upscale hotels in the walled city, and has top-notch features such as a rooftop pool, an acclaimed on-site restaurant, a small spa, and a fitness center. Rooms are classically elegant, with thoughtfully curated colonial decor that still feels fresh and modern. Along with beautiful decor, guest rooms feature luxe amenities, like Smart TVs, iPod docks, Nespresso machines, and fully stocked mini-fridges. Bathrooms are a treat, as well, with travertine covering nearly every surface, including the large walk-in showers.

Staying at Hotel Quadrifolio feels like staying at a friend’s house -- a friend that just so happens to own a meticulously restored 17th-century Colombian mansion. The stunning, upscale property feels like a private home, and staff members welcome guests like family. Eight individually decorated rooms are scattered across three floors, and overlook the gorgeous interior courtyard or Cartagena’s bustling city streets. On-site amenities include a pool, a rooftop hot tub and sundeck, and two multi-purpose common areas. However, the hotel doesn’t have a spa, fitness center, or a full restaurant -- the delicious free breakfast is served at large communal table in the courtyard. 

The high-end boutique hotel Casa del Coliseo has a prime location in Cartagena’s historic walled city, and feels more like a private residence than a hotel. The 12 individually decorated guest rooms and grand living and dining spaces feature sophisticated decor, but still feel homey and comfortable. A gorgeous rooftop pool and lounge area is a standout feature, but the hotel lacks amenities like an on-site restaurant, spa, or fitness center. Freebies include excellent daily breakfast and Wi-Fi. Travelers with mobility issues should note that this property has lots of stairs and lacks an elevator and ground-floor rooms.