Is Cartagena expensive to visit?
Cartagena is a smaller destination that attracts a range of visitors, each with distinct travel styles, spending habits, and budgetary requirements. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
If you choose to make it so, Cartagena can be very pricey, but you can reduce your expenses by looking for discounts and coupons.
On average, budget travelers spend $120 (€111) per day, mid-range travelers spend $273 (€252) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $521 (€481) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Cartagena.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Cartagena is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Santorini or Zermatt.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Cartagena Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Cartagena?
The average Cartagena trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Cartagena travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Cartagena cost?
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people assume they can visit Cartagena on a minimal budget, but most find that style of travel to be uncomfortable. Think about what makes a vacation enjoyable for you. Do you like staying in budget hostels, regular hotels, or high-end resorts? Do you want to experience the local attractions? Do you enjoy dining out? Your budget and itinerary will be determined by your answers to these questions.
What Does It Mean to Be a Budget Traveler?
You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $120 that backpackers often get by on.
Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
Thankfully, Cartagena offers plenty of hostels such as Loop INN Hostel Cartagena. You can find budget-friendly dorm accommodation here, paired with a social atmosphere, but expect limited amenities.
What Makes You an Average Traveler?
Couples and families on a fun trip will likely choose a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at popular dining spots, and visit significant museums and attractions that have entry fees. Most tourists in Cartagena are inclined to explore its main attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities are not free. So, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be about $273 per person, per day.
There's a wide selection of hotels and vacation rentals in Cartagena. If you're traveling with others, sharing a hotel room with a partner, friend, or kids will help split costs and save money. When traveling as a family, look for hotels and restaurants that welcome children. Sercotel Carlos III is a great choice for kids, and NH Campo Cartagena is another wonderful option. For more family and couple-friendly places to stay, check out our Cartagena hotel costs guide.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If you're looking for a complete getaway that features every luxury and a high level of service, plan on a cost of about $521 daily. To enjoy nicer hotels, dine at award-winning venues, indulge in extravagant experiences, and travel around the destination with taxis or private drivers, you'll need to set aside a luxury budget. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Luxury Rewaco Trike "The Fun In The Sun Tour" - - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Cartagena
The cost of hotels in Cartagena can be quite surprising. Luxury accommodations come with higher prices and more amenities, especially during peak season. Off-season rates average $110, but peak season () average prices jump to $205. Overall, prices range from $65 to $418. Hostels are often the cheaper option, especially in dorms. You can save by booking early, traveling in the off-season, or taking advantage of promotions.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Cartagena for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $302 (€266). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $151 (€133) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Cartagena? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Cartagena include:
- Sercotel Alfonso XIII starting at $74
- Sercotel Carlos III starting at $52
- Villa Cristal II 7507 - Resort Choice starting at $81
- Hotel Portman starting at $55
- Hotel La Posada starting at $40
Traveling during the shoulder or low season (instead of ) means you'll get lower prices on accommodations and have fewer crowds to deal with.
Transportation Budget in Cartagena
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $47 (€41) per person, per day, on local transportation in Cartagena. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Cartagena is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$47
€41
The closest airport to Cartagena is Region de Murcia International Airport (RMU), located about 30 minutes away by car. Visitors can also fly into Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC), which is around an hour's drive away and offers more international flight connections. From both airports, travelers can reach Cartagena via rental car, taxi, or bus services.
Cartagena is well connected by Spain's RENFE train network, with direct routes from Madrid, Murcia, and other major cities. The bus station also offers frequent services to Murcia, Alicante, and surrounding coastal towns.
Once in Cartagena, most attractions are within walking distance in the city center. For visiting nearby beaches or nature reserves, local buses and taxis are available, though renting a car offers greater flexibility for exploring the region.
If you're driving, check for convenient parking at your hotel.
Some of the standard transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Private Transfer from Santa Pola to Alicante–Elche (ALC) Airport for $85 details
- La Palma Airport (SPC) to La Palma - Arrival Private Transfer for $106 details
- La Palma to La Palma Airport (SPC) - Departure Private Transfer for $106 details
How much does it cost to go to Cartagena? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Cartagena will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Cartagena
One of the biggest draws for travelers is the food, so be sure to savor the local flavors.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Cartagena can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Cartagena is $104 (€91) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$104
€91
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Cartagena is around $99 (€91) per person, with previous travelers spending from $43 to $189. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Cartagena are as follows:
- Breakfast: $10 to $30
- Lunch: $15 to $40
- Dinner: $30 to $69
- Coffee: $8
- Fast Food or Street Food: $15
Cartagena's cuisine reflects its coastal location and Mediterranean roots, with a focus on fresh seafood and traditional Murcian flavors. A must-try local dish is Caldero, a flavorful rice and fish stew cooked with saffron and served with garlic-infused aioli. Another specialty is Michirones, a hearty bean stew made with chorizo, ham, and paprika.
For a true taste of Cartagena, visit La Catedral, a highly rated restaurant located near the Roman Theatre, offering beautifully prepared seafood dishes and regional specialties in a historic setting. El Barrio de San Roque is another fantastic spot, known for its tapas and local wine selection. For a more casual experience, Mare Nostrum at the port serves fresh seafood with stunning harbor views.
No meal is complete without trying Asiatico, a local coffee specialty made with condensed milk, brandy, and Licor 43, a sweet Spanish liqueur originally from Cartagena. Many cafes and bars around the city serve this beloved drink.
Some hotels include breakfast in the overall cost, while others add it as an extra charge. The quality and price of breakfast can vary greatly depending on the hotel. Being informed beforehand can help you determine if you need to set aside additional funds. The hotel's buffet may be worth it, or you might consider visiting a local bakery or cafe for a more budget-friendly option.
Take a water bottle with you to save on drinks. It's also an environmentally friendly option.
If you're going to take a tour, make sure you understand which meals are included. You could end up paying for some food yourself, which might affect your budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Cartagena
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Cartagena typically cost an average of $27 (€24) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$27
€24
One of Cartagena's most iconic landmarks is the Roman Theatre, an ancient amphitheater dating back to the 1st century BC. Discovered in the late 20th century, this remarkable ruin has been beautifully restored and now features a museum showcasing its fascinating history. Just a short walk away, Castillo de la Concepción offers panoramic views of the city and harbor from its hilltop perch. This medieval fortress, built on the remains of a Roman temple, is an excellent spot to learn about the city’s layered history.
Another must-see is the Muralla Púnica (Punic Wall), one of the few remnants of the ancient Carthaginian city. This well-preserved defensive wall dates back to the 3rd century BC and provides insight into Cartagena's strategic military past. Visitors interested in naval history should explore the National Museum of Underwater Archaeology (ARQUA), which displays artifacts from sunken ships, including treasures from the famous Phoenician wrecks.
For a relaxing stroll, Calle Mayor is Cartagena's lively main street, lined with elegant Art Nouveau buildings, boutique shops, and charming cafes. It’s a great place to soak up the local atmosphere and admire the city's stunning architecture.
A visit to Cartagena isn't complete without exploring its picturesque coastline. Boat tours from the port offer stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and forts, with some excursions venturing out to nearby islands or hidden coves. Cala Cortina, the city's closest beach, is a scenic spot for sunbathing and swimming, just a short drive from the city center.
For nature lovers, a hike through Parque Natural de Calblanque offers breathtaking coastal scenery, golden dunes, and secluded beaches. This protected area is ideal for hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying unspoiled Mediterranean landscapes.
Diving and snorkeling enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in the waters around Cartagena. The nearby Cabo de Palos is one of Spain’s top diving destinations, featuring underwater caves, shipwrecks, and vibrant marine life. Several dive centers in the area offer excursions for both beginners and experienced divers.
A nice way to explore destinations in Cartagena is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Luxury Rewaco Trike "The Photo Blaster Tour" - (2 hours, Min of 2 passengers) for $128 details
- Luxury Rewaco Trike "The Rock Out Rocker Tour" - (4 hours, Min 2 Passengers) for $198 details
- Cartagena Highlights Shore Excursion Private Walking Tour for $199 details
Cartagena, Spain
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.