Looking to tie the knot in one of the world’s most romantic cities? Look no further than Cartagena, Colombia! We’ve got you covered with some of the best (and most iconic) wedding venues for your destination wedding. 

Cartagena, a city full of history and charm, is a must-visit destination that belongs on everyone’s bucket list. Whether you’ve already decided to host your destination wedding here, or are still considering other options, a visit to Cartagena is an absolute must anyways! We know you’ll be stunned by the city’s colorful streets, rich history, captivating architecture, vibrant culture, incredible cuisine, and undeniable romantic vibe. 

We’re here to be your go-to guide for planning your Cartagena wedding adventure, but first, let’s dive into why Cartagena is the place to say “I do,” what you’ll need to make it happen, and our top 10 picks for breathtaking wedding venues 🎊! 

Why You Should Get Married in Cartagena

Cartagena is becoming more and more popular amongst destination wedding couples and for a good reason. This city is a gem, packed with history and great people. The moment you set foot here, it’s like stepping back into a fairy tale world—cobblestone streets, sunshine, and magic hidden within the city’s unforgettable design and architecture. 

But hey, enough gushing. Here’s the lowdown on why Cartagena’s the perfect place for your destination wedding: 

Warm Weather

When it comes to sunny days, Cartagena’s got your back! The wet season might bring a bit of cloud cover, but the dry season is where the party’s at. Expect temperatures to hover between a comfy 24 °C to 31 °C / 75 °F to 87 °F (talk about a dream…). 

Best Time to Visit: The prime time to visit Cartagena is during the dry season, which is from December to March. However, we recently ventured there in April and found the weather to be hot and humid, with occasional rain showers. It’s still quite manageable, with plenty of warm, sunny days to enjoy ☀️.

Great Food

Cartagena is known for its fine dining and delicious food! From classic Colombian flavors to global cuisine, this city’s a feast for your taste buds. If you’re a foodie bride or groom, Cartagena is a winner. Some of our top picks include Carmen, Restaurante Candé and Mistura. For something truly special, don’t miss Celele—it’s perfect for a rehearsal dinner with the fam. Celele is among Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants, and it has a gorgeous space.  

Top Picks for Your Taste Buds: Arepas, Carimanola, Buñuelo de Frijol, and don’t forget to try the Colombian drink of choice: Aguardiente. 

Warm Hospitality & Rich Culture

From the moment you arrive in Cartagena, you’ll be greeted with friendly smiles. Then, you’ll probably get immersed in the rhythmic beats of champeta music that echo through the colorful streets. Trust us, you’ll feel the heart and soul of Colombia in every moment—but hey, why take our word for it? Fly in for a weekend getaway and experience it for yourself! ✈️.

Architectural Marvels & Unique Venues

Cartagena is famous for its jaw-dropping architecture, and it doesn’t disappoint. With colorful colonial buildings, churches, and historic landmarks at every turn, Cartagena is a treasure trove of beautiful venues and landmarks 🏛️.  

Accessibility

Cartagena is a breeze to reach from major cities in the USA, making it the most perfect and convenient destination for your wedding. With direct flights available from most major airports, you and your guests can jet off to this stunning destination with ease. And once you touch down in Cartagena, getting around is easy and hassle-free, thanks to its compact size and excellent transportation. 

What Do You Need to Get Married in Cartagena?

So, you’ve decided Cartagena is THE spot for your destination wedding—we couldn’t agree more! Now, let’s make sure you’ve got all the paperwork sorted for a smooth sailing ceremony. 

To get married in Cartagena you’ll need to gather specific documentation (depending on the type of ceremony you want to have). 

For example, for Catholic ceremonies, you’ll have to secure your Marriage License (Nihil Obstat) at your local parish at least a month ahead. Your parish priest will then send your documents, along with passport copies and photos straight to the Archdiocese of Cartagena or your chosen church.

For most ceremonies, here’s the checklist: 

Valid passports and birth certificates for you and your partner.

• Witnesses—more specifically, two of them over the age of 18.

• Affidavit of marital status, stating that you are single and eligible to marry.

• Certificate of No Impediment, also known as “Certificado de Soltería,” certifies that there are no legal barriers to your marriage. 

Lastly, don’t forget about those sneaky costs like the marriage license, officiant, and any legal or translation help you might need. But hey, with TravelBash you don’t have to worry about any of this—our team will guide you through everything🥂 🎉! 

What Are Cartagena’s Best Wedding Venues?

Sofitel Santa Clara

Casa 1537

El Baluarte San Francisco Javier

San Pedro Claver

For those of you drawn to nature, plants, gardens and art, look no further than San Pedro Claver. This sanctuary is a true oasis, with a stunning courtyard, chapel, and more views of the city. This venue is full of history: it was once a part of the initial foundations of the Colegio de la Compañía de Jesús in the 17th-century Cartagena. Today, it keeps a precious part of the city’s heritage, housing a collection of art within its walls. 

Club de Pesca

Restaurant Club de Pesca is an iconic venue right in the heart of Cartagena. Established in 1956, this renowned restaurant is celebrated for its seafood and stunning terrace. Housed within a historic building, this venue offers stunning panoramic views of the bay, where yachts and sailboats bob gently, and the towering skyscrapers beyond. It’s a feast for the senses in every way! 🐟🌆

Casa del Conde de Pestagua

Institución Universitaria Bella Artes — The Patio

Tucked away in the lively Plaza de San Diego, Bellas Artes is picturesque and cute. This charming courtyard lies within an old university.. Imagine a cozy open-air space with cool granite tiles and a big, beautiful tree right in the middle. It’s perfect for hanging out with loved ones and soaking up the vibes. With tables scattered around, it’s got that laid-back yet elegant feel that makes it a top spot for any event. 

Rooftop at Movich Hotel

The Charleston Santa Teresa

Catedral de Santa Catalina de Alejandria

Even if you’re not religious, the churches and cathedrals in Cartagena are one-of-a-kind. Our absolute favorite? The Catedral de Santa Catalina de Alejandría: a 17th-century church located in the historic center of town, full of charm and gorgeous architecture. Step inside, and prepare to be blown away by the jaw-dropping interior craftsmanship that will leave you breathless (you’ll have to Google this one for some incredible pictures, it’s almost indescribable). 

Let’s Get Married in Cartagena!

And that’s a wrap—our top 10 favorite venues in Cartagena, all ready and waiting for your destination wedding. Just imagine, they’re only a yacht away from some of the most stunning Caribbean Islands and gorgeous beaches you can only dream of! 

Now that you’ve got the lowdown on all the venues and what you’ll need to tie the knot, why wait any longer? Give us a shout, and let’s start planning the celebration of a lifetime! Your Cartagena wedding adventure awaits. Let’s make it unforgettable! 🎉💍

Courtnie is the founder & CEO of TravelBash. After years as an ambitious fundraiser, she took her passion for travel full-time. She has lived all over the U.S. and abroad and after planning her own destination wedding, she decided to help other couples plan their big day abroad too. She has written “Passport to Paradise: The Complete Destination Wedding Guide,” a top seller on Amazon. She has also been featured in Travel + Leisure, Destination I Do and The Washington Post. As a certified travel advisor, expert event planner and natural connector, she uses her powers to create VIP travel experiences.