Pensión Balcones Azules, balconies facing the Roman Forum of Cartagena
Pensión Balcones Azules is a simple guesthouse in the old town of Cartagena, facing the Roman ruins. It stands out for its location, cleanliness and friendly staff. I would choose it for travellers who plan to walk the city and want a comfortable bed, not a luxury hotel.
Written by Valeria Romano
Published .
Updated
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Where the Pensión Balcones Azules is in Cartagena
The Pensión Balcones Azules is in the heart of Cartagena's old town, on a pedestrian street facing the ruins of El Molinete. Guests place it right opposite the Roman Forum, and the listing itself says the Roman Theatre is five minutes' walk away.
That is its great asset. The port, museums and sights are, according to one review, a short walk away, and the bus station is about ten minutes on foot. For the beaches, the listing mentions El Portús and La Manga, which you reach by car.
What the rooms are like
The rooms are simple and functional, designed for short stays. According to the description they have tiled floors, adjustable air conditioning, television and a private bathroom with bath or shower. One review praises the good air conditioning and a large bed.
Some rooms have a balcony with views of the Roman ruins, and that is what gives the place its name and what guests appreciate most. Others face an inner courtyard, and that is where the differences start.
| The good points | What to know |
|---|---|
| Balcony with views of the Forum | Not every room has the same view |
| Cleanliness and order | Small rooms, according to some guests |
| Pedestrian, quiet street | Noise and smells from the bars on the back square in some rooms |
What guests say
The Google rating is good and the positive reviews follow a very similar pattern. They talk about the location, the cleanliness and, above all, the person who looks after the guests.
- The welcome. Several guests praise a friendly, helpful reception, which also gives good tips on what to see and where to eat.
- The cleanliness. It is repeated again and again that everything is clean, tidy and comfortable.
- The location. Almost everyone agrees you can walk to everything and that, even so, the street is quiet.
- The atmosphere. More than one guest describes it as cosy, the kind of place that makes you feel at home.
It is a guesthouse and it should be taken as one. One review sums it up well: it is simple but clean, and it offers the services you would expect from a pensión.
What to know before booking
There are negative reviews and it is worth reading them. They are not many compared with the positive ones and several are old, but they touch on points that may matter to you.
- Small rooms and noise. One review mentions thin walls, poor light and few blankets. If you are a light sleeper, ask for a quiet room.
- The view changes a lot. One guest was given an inside room facing the back of the building, with a smell of frying from the bars. Ask specifically for a room with a balcony over the Forum.
- Parking costs extra. There is private parking, but according to one guest you have to call to arrange it when booking. Don't count on it at the last minute.
- Towels. Two critical reviews describe an extra charge for towels they say they did not take. Note down what you are given on arrival.
- Cats. One review mentions cats around the ruins. If you have allergies, keep this in mind.
The reception is not staffed 24 hours, so let them know if you are going to arrive late.
Who the guesthouse is for
I would choose it for anyone visiting Cartagena to see the city on foot and who just needs a clean bed, a good location and friendly service. It works for a short cultural trip, as a couple or with friends.
It is not the place for you if you are looking for spacious rooms, hotel-grade soundproofing or luxury services. If noise worries you, or if you want a guaranteed view, ask about the room before you confirm.
What to see and do nearby
The guesthouse is in one of the best spots to start getting to know Cartagena. The Roman sights are right on your doorstep, and from there you can reach the port and the old town without taking the car.
- The Roman Forum and El Molinete. They are opposite, and the views from some balconies are already part of the visit.
- The Roman Theatre. According to the listing, a few minutes on foot.
- The port. A short walk from the guesthouse, according to guests.
- The beach. For the sea, you need to drive to places like El Portús or La Manga.
In short, the Pensión Balcones Azules is a good choice in Cartagena if location matters more to you than luxury. Read carefully about the room type when you book.
Passionate about travel and about the kind of places that turn a getaway into something unforgettable. I love writing about hotels, country houses and charming hideaways, helping every traveller find the perfect place to rest and feel at home.
