I know I can rely on my stylish Colombian girlfriend for where to shop in Cartagena:

Cartagena offers an exciting blend of shopping experiences, with its Old Town standing out as the ideal spot to explore. From local handcrafts to high-end boutiques, here’s how to make the most of shopping in this vibrant city:

Best Area for Shopping:

The Old Town is the hub for shopping in Cartagena, in fact, you really don't need to leave it at all unless you are going on a boat excursion.

Its charming streets come alive in the late afternoon and early evening, with locals and tourists alike strolling and browsing. You’ll find everything from traditional Colombian crafts to chic boutiques, making it the perfect area to shop and soak in the city’s atmosphere.

Shopping Spots to Explore:

L.A. Cano: Located near Bolívar Square, this shop is for finding authentic Colombian handicrafts. For more casual browsing, street vendors in the area also offer a variety of handmade goods.

St. DOM: A highly recommended multi-brand store on Santo Domingo Street, offering a curated selection for both men and women. It’s a great spot to find standout pieces from top Colombian designers. Location pinned below.

La Plazuela: A new mall inside the Old Town, La Plazuela is a one-stop destination for resort wear, swimwear, and more. Built on the site of an old bullfighting ring, its circular design and courtyard create a unique shopping ambiance. It’s perfect for finding upscale Colombian brands that are now popular internationally.

Bonus: the courtyard often has something entertaining for kids to enjoy.

Pro Tips:

Late Afternoon Shopping Strolls: The best time to explore Cartagena’s shops is in the late afternoon or early evening when the streets are lively and the heat is less intense.

Focus on Swimwear and Lingerie. Cartagena excels in swimwear, offering high-quality designs at better value than in the U.S.

Resortwear and High-End Fashion are also great, but prices are on par with New York, so it’s best to purchase standout pieces you won’t find elsewhere.

Look for these great local brands:

Onda de Mar

Agua by Agua Bendita

Touche 

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