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The 5 Best Gay Bars In Cartagena: Your Ultimate 2025 Guide To Clubbing, Cocktails, And Caribbean Pride

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Planning your Caribbean getaway to Colombia? As of late 2025, Cartagena's LGBTQ+ nightlife scene is more vibrant and spread out than ever, offering a diverse mix of classic discos, intimate cocktail lounges, and authentic local haunts. While the city doesn't have a single "gay district," its best venues are concentrated between the historic Walled City and the bohemian neighborhood of Getsemaní, ensuring an unforgettable night of high-energy music, drag shows, and friendly crowds.

This up-to-date guide cuts through the noise to highlight the essential gay and gay-friendly bars and clubs you must visit. Whether you're looking to dance until dawn or sip a unique concept cocktail, Cartagena has a spot that perfectly captures the city's festive Caribbean flair and welcoming spirit.

The Essential LGBTQ+ Nightlife Venues in Cartagena

Cartagena's gay scene is defined by a handful of resilient, iconic establishments and a growing number of gay-friendly spots. Here are the top venues where you are guaranteed a great night out.

1. The City Club Cartagena: The Classic Gay Disco Experience

The City Club is arguably the most famous and longest-running gay nightclub in Cartagena, making it a must-visit for any queer traveler. It delivers the quintessential, high-energy, classic gay club experience.

  • Atmosphere: Expect an electric, buzzing atmosphere with a packed dance floor, high-energy music (often cheesy hits and Latin pop), and an enthusiastic crowd of both locals and tourists.
  • Unique Features: Known for its spectacular drag shows and performances, which are a major highlight. It's also famous for having some of the more affordable drinks in the Historic District's club scene, making it a popular late-night destination.
  • Location: Located right in the heart of Cartagena, making it easily accessible from the Walled City and Getsemaní.

2. Le Petit: The Iconic Bistro & Disco

Le Petit holds a special place in the city's LGBTQ+ history, often cited as one of the most resilient and iconic gay bars in the Historic Center. It offers a more sophisticated, multi-purpose experience.

  • Atmosphere: Le Petit transitions smoothly. It can be a gay-popular bistro and bar earlier in the evening, perfect for intimate conversations and unique concept cocktails. Later, it turns into a bustling disco with a lively dance floor.
  • Historical Note: This venue is significant as it is associated with the first gay hotel in Cartagena, adding to its iconic status in the community.
  • Location: Nestled in the Walled City (Calle del Candilejo, N° 32-34), close to the famous Clock Tower (Torre del Reloj).

3. Gabanna Bar Club Cartagena: The Local’s Multi-Floor Haunt

For a more authentic, local Colombian gay club experience away from the main tourist crowds, Gabanna is the perfect destination. It is a true local favorite that offers a vibrant alternative to the Walled City spots.

  • Atmosphere: Gabanna is a multi-floor club with various dance spaces and a strong, lively local crowd. Because it is located just outside the main tourist area, the prices are often better, and the vibe is more grounded and less tourist-driven.
  • Crowd: Predominantly local Colombian LGBTQ+ patrons, offering a fantastic opportunity to socialize and dance with residents.
  • Location: Located across the bridge in the Pie Del Cerro neighborhood (Cl. 32 #18 B 108 Local 1A), a short taxi ride from the Historic Center.

4. Patio bonito Cartagena: No-Frills Fun and Good Vibes

Patio bonito is known for its unpretentious and friendly atmosphere. If you are looking for a straightforward, no-frills place to dance and socialize with a mixed-age crowd, this is it.

  • Atmosphere: The name translates to "pretty patio," and the bar lives up to its reputation for "good vibes and great gays." It is a spirited spot that attracts a mixed LGBTQ+ crowd, often welcoming both 20-somethings and 30+ patrons.
  • Vibe: Casual, lively, and focused purely on dancing and having a good time. It’s a great spot for meeting people in a relaxed setting.

5. Solar Bar & Food: Getsemaní’s Gay-Friendly Cocktail Spot

While not exclusively a gay club, Solar Bar & Food is a highly recommended gay-friendly spot in the artsy, bohemian Getsemaní neighborhood. It’s the perfect place to start your night.

  • Atmosphere: Gay-friendly, surrounded by the colorful street art of Getsemaní. It’s a fantastic spot for people-watching, especially with views of the bustling Plaza de la Trinidad.
  • Why Visit: Known for great cocktails and bar food, it provides a more relaxed, cocktail-lounge alternative to the high-energy clubs.
  • Location: Situated in Getsemaní, the unofficial LGBTQ+-friendly hub known for its vibrant street life and boutique hotels like the LGBTQ+-owned Casa Lola.

Beyond the Bars: Cartagena's Thriving LGBTQ+ Scene

Cartagena's welcoming spirit extends far beyond its nightlife. The city offers a variety of gay-friendly experiences, from day trips to major annual events that draw international crowds.

The Best LGBTQ+-Friendly Neighborhoods

While the Walled City (Historic Center) is home to iconic spots like Le Petit and The City Club, the most popular area for LGBTQ+ travelers to stay and socialize is:

  • Getsemaní: This bohemian, hipster neighborhood is the undisputed heart of Cartagena’s alternative scene. It’s filled with colorful street art, boutique hotels, and popular squares like Plaza de la Trinidad, where locals and tourists mix freely. It’s home to gay-friendly venues like Solar Bar & Food and is the location of the trendy gay club, Studio 54.
  • Bocagrande & Manga: These neighborhoods are also known for being LGBTQ+-friendly, particularly for accommodations like Airbnbs and hotels.

Annual Events and Festivals

For travelers planning a trip around a major event, Cartagena hosts two significant annual celebrations:

  • Cartagena Pride Festival: The official city Pride event is typically held in August, featuring parades and community celebrations.
  • Rumours Festival: This circuit-style festival runs alongside the Pride events (often in July or August) and is one of the biggest gay events in the Caribbean, drawing a massive international crowd for multiple days of parties.
  • Pride On Deck: Look out for LGTBIQ+ boat parties that cruise the bay, offering a unique Caribbean experience with music, cocktails, and sunset views.

Daytime Activities and Gay-Friendly Beaches

The daytime scene in Cartagena is more about relaxation and exploration. While there isn't a dedicated "gay beach," the entire coastline is generally welcoming:

  • Playa Blanca (Isla Baru): This is the most famous white-sand beach near Cartagena (about an hour away). It’s a popular day trip destination for all travelers, including the LGBTQ+ community.
  • Rosario Islands: A must-do day trip. Spots like Islabela and Mangata offer pristine beaches and a chill, private beach club vibe that is completely gay-friendly.
  • Castillogrande: The beaches here are a good, local alternative to the tourist-heavy areas, and are great for a quiet day by the water.

Safety and Travel Tips for Gay Travelers in Cartagena

Colombia is one of the most progressive countries in Latin America regarding LGBTQ+ rights, and Cartagena is generally a very safe and welcoming destination for gay travelers. However, a few tips will ensure a smooth trip:

  • Public Displays of Affection (PDA): While PDA is common in the main tourist areas like the Walled City and Getsemaní, it is advisable to be more discreet in less touristy or residential neighborhoods.
  • Taxis and Transport: Always use official, registered taxis or ride-share apps. When leaving a club, ask the bouncer or staff to call a taxi for you to ensure it's a safe, regulated service.
  • Accommodation: Consider staying in LGBTQ+-owned or explicitly gay-friendly hotels, such as the beautiful Casa Lola in Getsemaní, which is known for its enchanting colonial design and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Money Safety: Be aware of your surroundings, especially when leaving late-night venues. Only carry the cash you need for the night.

Cartagena truly shines as a destination that blends rich history with a modern, joyful, and increasingly diverse social life. Embrace the energy of the Caribbean, enjoy the high-octane clubs, and discover why this city is a rising star on the international gay travel map.

The 5 Best Gay Bars in Cartagena: Your Ultimate 2025 Guide to Clubbing, Cocktails, and Caribbean Pride
gay bars in cartagena colombia
gay bars in cartagena colombia

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