A secret rooftop and a paintbrush in hand changes the pace fast. This Brunch And Paint class in Getsemaní pairs a private workshop with views of Cartagena’s San Felipe Castle, plus a done-by-you souvenir you can bring home. You start with a welcome glass of champagne and fruit, then settle in to create a colorful scene from the city’s historic center.

I like that the teaching is beginner-friendly. You’re guided step-by-step with aprons and brushes, and you still end up with a painting designed to be easy to take home or hang up. I also love the setting: a secluded rooftop feels special, not touristy, and it’s a great way to slow down for a morning.

One thing to plan for: the rooftop access involves steep steps, and finding the location can take a minute since it’s not a big, obvious venue. If you’re sensitive to stairs or you’re hoping for a full-on brunch buffet, adjust your expectations.

Key things to know before you go

• Secret-rooftop setting in Getsemaní with a calmer, more private vibe
• San Felipe Castle views while you paint
• DIY keepsake: a painting meant to be taken home comfortably or displayed
• Beginner-friendly instruction with encouragement and hands-on help
• Morning bites plus mimosa: empanadas, patacones de plátano, cheese fingers, and mimosa
• Small group limit (max 10) for more individual attention

The rooftop experience: why this one feels different

This class is built around one simple idea: do something creative in a place that feels like you found it, not like you booked it. The rooftop location in Getsemaní is the whole mood. You get open-air time, a view that includes Cartagena’s San Felipe Castle, and a setting that feels tucked away.

The format also matters. You’re not just watching a demo. You’re painting along in a small group with instructors there to guide you, which keeps the morning relaxed instead of chaotic. Even if you’ve never painted before, the goal is to help you express something, not to grade you on skill.

And yes, there’s food and drinks. You’re welcomed with a glass of champagne and fruit first, then you eat during the session and sip mimosas while you work. That mix—art plus leisure—fits Cartagena well. It’s a morning activity that doesn’t require you to rush around the city.

Getting settled: welcome drinks, fruit, and a quick start

The experience begins at 10:00 am at Secret Rooftop-realexperience, Cra. 10c #29-07, Getsemaní. It’s one of those addresses that’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention. I’d give yourself a little buffer time to locate the spot, since it’s described as a secret rooftop and not a big streetfront storefront.

When you arrive, you’re greeted with champagne and fruit. That first moment helps you decompress. It also sets the tone: this isn’t a cold, formal class. You’ll meet the instructors and get oriented before the painting part kicks in.

Painting your Cartagena scene: what you’ll actually create

This is a DIY painting experience, and the subject is the best kind of souvenir: something that feels tied to the place. Your painting is meant to be a living image of Cartagena’s historical center—colorful and full of life. You’ll work from techniques shared by the artist, using the brushes and materials provided.

A key point for anyone nervous about art: you’re not expected to know what you’re doing. The instruction is built around getting you to the outcome step-by-step. Multiple guests highlight that the instructors are patient and encouraging, and that the instructions are clear enough to make the process feel doable.

You’ll also be painting on a canvas designed to be a practical keepsake. It’s sized so you can take it back comfortably. That matters more than people think. Lots of “souvenirs” are decorative but annoying to transport. Here, the painting is treated like a real travel item—something you can pack and still feel good about when you arrive home.

The food and mimosa part: what to expect from the brunch

The class runs about 2 hours 30 minutes, and the food is woven into that time. The experience includes empanadas, patacones de plátano, cheese fingers, and mimosas. There’s also mention of a more breakfast-style spread in some cases, like eggs, arepas, and fruit.

So here’s the practical take: don’t assume you’re getting a huge hotel brunch buffet. Think snacks plus breakfast bites, served in a relaxed setting while you paint. If you’re genuinely hungry, consider eating something small before you go, then use the class food as your satisfying morning meal.

The drinks are part of the fun. Mimosas show up during the session, and people consistently mention them as a highlight. It’s not just a side detail—it helps keep the atmosphere social and easy.

The instructor team and language support

You’ll be working with an artist instructor who teaches techniques and offers hands-on help as you paint. Many people mention the added support of a translator/interpreter so English speakers can follow the directions without guessing. That support makes a difference when you’re trying to learn brush technique in real time.

If you speak Spanish, you may still appreciate how the class stays structured and repeatable. If you don’t, the presence of interpretation means you can focus on painting instead of translating in your head.

What makes it good value at $36

At $36 per person for roughly 2.5 hours, you’re not paying just for materials. You’re paying for three things that are hard to DIY in Cartagena: an instruction-focused experience, a private rooftop setting, and a built-in food-and-drink component.

Art classes can get expensive fast once you add instructor time and a venue. Here, the small group size (max 10) helps keep the attention more personal, which is part of why the reviews run so high. You’re also leaving with a tangible souvenir you made yourself, which is usually the difference between a memorable activity and a forgettable one.

In plain terms: this price works best if you want a structured morning where you can slow down, meet people, and take something home that doesn’t feel generic.

Logistics that matter: finding the spot and handling the steps

The main friction point is access. Several people call out that there are steep steps to reach the rooftop. You’re going up to a higher patio, and it’s not set up as a flat, easy walk.

If you have mobility concerns, this is the first thing to consider. If you’re fine with stairs, just plan for it and wear shoes with grip. It’s also mentioned that the bathroom situation may not be ideal for everyone. So if you’re particular about facilities, go in with realistic expectations.

Location can also be a tiny challenge. Since this is a secret rooftop, signage may not be obvious at first. If you like things smooth, arrive a little early and ask for directions from locals—people in Getsemaní are usually helpful when you’re polite and clear about where you’re headed.

Who this experience suits best (and who might skip it)

This works really well for:

• Friends who want a shared activity with a final keepsake
• Couples looking for something different than another walking tour
• Families, including with kids (the experience is described as welcoming for small families, with flexible guidance)
• Solo travelers who want conversation and a small-group setting

It might be less ideal if:

• You dislike heights or stairs and need an easy, flat venue
• You want a big, long brunch meal rather than snacks plus breakfast bites
• You prefer a quiet activity with no music or social energy

A practical plan for your morning in Getsemaní

Here’s how I’d set yourself up for a smooth experience.

Wear comfortable clothes for painting and expect sun exposure. Even though the rooftop can be shaded at times, it’s still outdoors. Bring water if you tend to get thirsty in the morning, even if the welcome includes fruit and the session includes drinks.

When you arrive, focus on the process more than the outcome. The whole point is that you’ll be guided to a finished painting that looks like it belongs to Cartagena. If you get stuck on details, ask for help right away. The instructors are there to adjust as you go.

Finally, think about your “take-home strategy.” If you’re packing lightly, keep the painting safe and flat as you travel onward. The canvas is designed to be convenient, but you’ll still want to treat it like a real souvenir.

Should you book Brunch And Paint in a secret rooftop?

Book it if you want a memorable Cartagena morning that mixes views, food, and a real souvenir you make yourself. At $36 with a small group cap, it feels like solid value—especially if you like activities that are structured but not intimidating.

Don’t book it if stairs are a deal-breaker or if you’re expecting an all-you-can-eat brunch spread. Also, if “secret rooftop” makes you nervous about finding places, plan for extra time so you don’t start the morning stressed.

If you fit the sweet spot—curious, open-minded, and happy to paint something that captures Cartagena—you’ll probably leave with both a story and a keepsake.

FAQ

What is the price and duration?

The tour costs $36.00 per person and lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes.

Where does the experience start?

It starts at Secret Rooftop-realexperience, Cra. 10c #29-07, Getsemaní, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia.

What time does it begin?

The start time is 10:00 am.

How many people are in the group?

The activity has a maximum of 10 travelers.

Do I need any painting experience?

No. Most travelers can participate, and you can create a painting even if you don’t have painting experience.

What’s included in the food and drinks?

You’ll be welcomed with champagne and fruit, and you’ll eat brunch items such as empanadas, patacones de plátano, and cheese fingers, plus you’ll drink mimosas.

What if the weather is bad?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.