See a sizzling Cartagena away from the tourist crowds, like popping past well-known Plaza Santo Domingo in the fortified Old Town to see hidden craft stores and bars filled with locals. Admire Spanish-influenced architecture away from famous landmarks to humble gems like the Geographic Institute, housed in a balconied building draped in tropical flowers and surrounded by art vendors. Escape the Walled City to see art take to the street walls, influenced by local politics and the beauty of Colombian flair, before heading to artsy barrio Getsemani. Catch a glimpse of pulsating salsa at a café teeming with locals, or head to Plaza de la Trinidad, a stage for local futbol, foot-stomping traditional music, and dancing galore once the sun goes down.