What is a private palace in Cartagena and why it suits you
When you think of Cartagena, you probably imagine cobblestone streets, flower-filled balconies, and colonial walls. But what few people know is that many of these 17th and 18th-century mansions are available for full rental. We are not talking about a boutique hotel with a reception desk, but an entire house —with a courtyard, pool, terrace, and even a chapel— that was once the home of a viceroy or a Spanish merchant. Today, in May 2026, renting a private palace in Cartagena is a real option for large groups who want luxury without paying celebrity prices. The key is to split the cost among 6, 8, or 10 people.
A concrete example: the Casa de la Compañía in the Historic Center, or Casa Pestagua (now a hotel, but with exclusive rental options). There are also properties like Casa San Agustín or Casa La Merced that offer full rentals for groups. These are not fantasies: they are real properties, many managed through platforms like Airbnb or directly by local agencies.
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Available options
Palaces within the Historic Center
The Historic Center of Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is full of restored mansions. Here you will find properties with 5 to 12 bedrooms, interior gardens, private pools, and terraces with views of the walled city. Some have documented history: for example, the Casa de la Aduana was the site of the royal customs house in the 18th century. Others, like Casa de la Trinidad, have courtyards with original fountains and columns.
Palaces in San Diego
The neighborhood of San Diego, north of the Center, is quieter and less touristy, but equally colonial. Here, prices are usually 20-30% lower than in the heart of the Center. Properties like Casa San Diego or Casa de la Merced offer spacious areas with equipped kitchens and quick access to the wall. Perfect if you want to be near the sea but without the hustle and bustle of the Plaza de los Coches.
Palaces in Getsemaní
Getsemaní, the bohemian neighborhood, has fewer colonial palaces but more restored houses with style. Here, prices are even more affordable. Look for properties on Calle de la Media Luna or near Plaza de la Trinidad. They are ideal for young groups looking for nightlife and authenticity.
Updated costs
Reference prices in May 2026 vary by season and size:
- Low season (April-June, September-November): A 6-bedroom palace can cost between $1,500,000 and $3,000,000 COP per night. Split among 12 people, that is $125,000 to $250,000 COP per person per night.
- Mid season (July-August, December excluding New Year's): Between $2,500,000 and $4,500,000 COP per night. For 10 people, $250,000 to $450,000 COP per person.
- High season (January, Holy Week, New Year's): From $4,000,000 to $8,000,000 COP per night. With 8 people, $500,000 to $1,000,000 COP per person.
Compared to a luxury boutique hotel in Cartagena (which costs $400,000 to $800,000 COP per night per room), renting an entire palace is cheaper per person if you fill all the beds. Plus, you get a private kitchen, living room, terrace, and pool.
Estimated timelines
Booking a private palace is not like booking a hotel. You need time:
- Search and comparison: 1-2 weeks. Check Airbnb, Booking, and local agencies like Cartagena Rentals or Colombia Travel.
- Direct negotiation: 3-5 business days. Many owners offer discounts for stays of 5+ nights or for large groups.
- Confirmation and payment: 1-2 days. Always ask for a contract and verify that the deposit is refundable.
- Check-in: Generally at 3:00 PM. Some properties allow early entry if there are no guests the previous night.
For Holy Week or New Year's, book 3-4 months in advance. For low season, 2-3 weeks is enough.
Practical tips
Savings strategies
- Split the costs: If you are 8 people, each pays their share. Use apps like Splitwise to keep track.
- Travel in low season: April, May, September, and October are the cheapest months. The weather is still good (30°C, with a breeze).
- Negiate extras: Ask for daily cleaning service, basic breakfast, or airport transportation to be included. Many owners do this at no extra cost if you rent for 5+ nights.
- Last-minute booking: If you take a risk, 7-10 days before the date you can find discounts of up to 40% on properties that haven't been booked.
Checklist of essential services
- Private pool: Not all mansions have one. Verify it is clean and has daily maintenance.
- Terrace or rooftop: Essential for Cartagena nights. Look for one with a view of the city or the sea.
- Equipped kitchen: You save on meals if you cook. It must have a fridge, stove, oven, and basic utensils.
- Air conditioning in all bedrooms: Cartagena is humid and hot. Without AC, you won't sleep.
- High-speed WiFi: For working or sharing photos. Ask about the speed before booking.
- 24/7 security: Many mansions have private security or are on streets with cameras.
The best neighborhoods to find these gems
- Historic Center: Streets like Calle del Sargento Mayor or Calle de la Factoría have impressive mansions. High price, but unbeatable location.
- San Diego: Near Plaza de San Diego and Calle de la Iglesia. Quieter and with better prices.
- Getsemaní: Calle de la Media Luna and Plaza de la Trinidad are areas with restored houses. Young atmosphere and moderate prices.
Fun fact
Did you know that many of these mansions have secret tunnels that connected to the sea? During the colonial era, merchants used these passageways to move goods without paying taxes. Today, some palaces like the Casa de la Moneda still preserve these tunnels (though sealed). Ask the host if the property has documented history; sometimes they tell you local legends that you won't find in any guidebook.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to rent a private palace in Cartagena?
Yes, as long as you book through reliable platforms (Airbnb, Booking) or reputable local agencies. Ask for references, read recent reviews, and verify that the property has damage insurance. In the Historic Center and San Diego, security is high because there is private security and cameras on the streets. Avoid paying by direct bank transfer to strangers; use methods with buyer protection.
Can I rent a palace for just one night?
Some owners accept 1-night stays, but most require a minimum of 2-3 nights, especially in high season. For large groups, it is more cost-effective to stay at least 3 nights because the nightly rate goes down. If you only want one night, look for properties in Getsemaní or smaller houses (4-5 bedrooms) that are usually more flexible.
What does the rental of a private palace typically include?
Generally it includes: all furnished bedrooms, private or shared bathrooms, equipped kitchen, living room, dining room, courtyard, pool (if available), terrace, WiFi, and basic cleaning service (every 2-3 days). Some offer breakfast or a private chef for an additional cost. It does not include: food, drinks, or transportation. Always ask what is included before booking to avoid surprises.
Calculate how much you would pay per night by splitting a palace among 8 friends: If you find a palace for