The Palazzo delle Esposizioni is an art and cultural event venue that frequently hosts various events, ranging from film screenings to book readings and exhibitions of modern art, along with musical and theatrical performances. There is also a pleasant Italian restaurant on the rooftop.

Just an hour's boat trip away from Cartagena lie the magnificent Rosario Islands, which belong to Colombia's only underwater natural park (Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park). Abundant marine wildlife (including over 50 species of corals) and some of Colombia's best beaches draw in many in search of relaxation and active pursuits such as snorkelling and diving. Isla Grande is best for kayaking through unique mangrove forests and seeing the phosphorescent plankton light up the waters of a brackish lake at night, while Playa Blanca is Cartagena's most spectacular white-sand beach (also reachable by land). It should be said that the company you choose to tour with has the potential to make or break the experience. Low cost tours can mean multiple intermediate stops en route to your destination, as well as unpleasant surprises such as no transfer back to your hotel. Try and choose a trusted company with consistently good reviews, or opt for a private tour. Mind that seas may be rough at certain times of the year, particularly in December and January, when tours on smaller boats may even become dangerous.

If you would like to see what paradise is like, you should take a day trip to Koh Nang Yuan, which is an island located only a few hundred meters from Ko Tao and linked to two other islands by a limb of white sand. Here you can unwind free from all cars and hustle, but also snorkel in beautiful waters.