Cartagena Centro Historico Old Town Private Walking Tour
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Uncover Cartagena’s vibrant history and culture in its UNESCO-listed Old Town. Stroll past colorful murals, grand plazas, and historic fortresses, and hear powerful tales of freedom and faith that shaped this coastal gem. Optional: Visit Las Bóvedas.
Choose one of our excellent tour options tailored to your needs and interests:
2-hour: Cartagena Old Town Tour
Visit Cartagena’s Old Town and sea Getsemaní, Torre del Reloj, Plaza de Bolívar, and more while hearing powerful stories of colonial history and freedom.
3-hour: Cartagena Old Town & Las Bóvedas Tour
Visit Cartagena’s Old Town with stops at Getsemaní, Plaza de Bolívar, San Pedro Claver Sanctuary, Heredia Theatre, and Las Bóvedas. Discover hidden gems and cultural stories.
Experience Cartagena through the eyes of a local on a private walking tour with Rosotravel. With your own Licensed Guide, dive deep into the city’s soul—its history, colors, and contrasts—without the rush or crowds.
Available options
2H: Cartagena Old Town
Duration: 2 hours: Visit Cartagena’s Old Town and sea Getsemaní, Torre del Reloj, Plaza de Bolívar, and more while hearing powerful stories of<br/>,: colonial history and freedom.<br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language - COCA001.
3H: CartagenaOldTown&LasBóveda
Duration: 3 hours: Visit Cartagena’s Old Town with stops at Getsemaní, Plaza de Bolívar, San Pedro Claver Sanctuary, Heredia Theatre, and <br/>,: Las Bóvedas. Discover hidden gems and cultural stories. <br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language - COCA001.
What's included
5-Star Licensed Guide who is fluent in your chosen language
Extended waking route to Heredia Theatre and Las Bóvedas (in the 3-hour option only)
Insider tips on the best things to do in Cartagena
Interesting facts about Cartagena’s history and culture
Private Walking Tour of Cartagena’s Old Town, Top Attractions and Hidden Gems -
- (number of attractions depends on the selected option)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Meet your guide In front of Hotel Capellan de Getsemani, Calle de La Sierpe #29-52, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia. Please do not enter the hotel, it is only a meeting point and the staff is not informed about the tour.
2
Stop 2
Explore the higlights of Centro Historico. This isn’t just about seeing landmarks—it’s about understanding them. Your guide adapts the tour to your interests, offering rich context, hidden gems, and powerful stories. Begin in the colorful Getsemaní district, where revolutionary murals and street art reflect Cartagena’s spirit of resistance and transformation. It’s a lively neighborhood filled with local pride, and your guide will help decode its symbolism and history. In nearby Centenario Park, unwind among native wildlife and hear how this tranquil space became a monument to independence
3
Cross under the grand Torre del Reloj into the walled city, where each plaza reveals another layer of Cartagena’s colonial past. In Plaza de la Aduana, learn how trade shaped the city’s rise. Outside the San Pedro Claver Sanctuary, hear the deeply human story of a Jesuit priest who fought for enslaved Africans—a moving tale that adds emotional depth to your journey.
Throughout, your guide shares nuanced perspectives on Cartagena’s indigenous roots, Spanish conquest, and postcolonial identity.
4
Stop 4
End your walk at Plaza de Santo Domingo, where local legends and stunning architecture meet. With expert commentary and a flexible route, this tour offers a meaningful, memorable connection to Cartagena.
5
Stop 5
After seeing the heart of Centro Historico, follow your Local Guide to the Heredia Theatre, an elegant landmark of Cartagena’s cultural life with a story behind every arch. Explore colorful, winding streets and visit Las Bóvedas, a row of former military vaults turned into vibrant craft shops—perfect for discovering handmade souvenirs and local charm. See also the 16th-century Walls of Cartagena. With more time to explore, this extended route offers a fuller picture of Cartagena’s spirit.
This activity is perfect for travelers who value depth over speed. Rather than following a rigid script, your guide adapts to your pace and interests—whether you're into hidden alleys filled with murals, the legacy of independence, or the untold human stories behind the city’s grand façades. You'll hear the voices of revolutionaries, saints, merchants, and artists who shaped Cartagena across centuries. Book now!
What's not included
Extended waking route to Heredia Theatre and Las Bóvedas (in the 2-hour tour option)
Tickets to attractions
Food and drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please check your email the day before the tour
Meeting point
Meet your guide in front of Hotel Capellan de Getsemani, Calle de La Sierpe 29-52, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia. Please do not enter the hotel, it is only a meeting point, and the staff is not informed about the tour.
Important notes
Information for the customer (Know before you go)
• Please check your email the day before the tour for important details from Rosotravel, your tour operator.
• Skip-the-line tickets are valid for a specific date and time. You’ll skip the ticket office but still go through regular entrance and security checks.
• Please wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather—this tour runs rain or shine.
• As per the attraction's rules, one licensed guide can lead up to 9 people. Larger groups will require extra guides, which increases the price.
• For a personalized experience, we keep our private groups small (1-25 guests per guide). We will provide additional guides for larger groups.
• Have a special request or need accessibility support? Let us know in advance—we’re happy to help!
About Cartagena
Cartagena, a vibrant city on Colombia's Caribbean coast, is renowned for its colonial architecture, rich history, and stunning beaches. Known as the 'Pearl of the Caribbean,' it offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, lively nightlife, and tropical charm.
Top Attractions
Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada)
The historic center of Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features colonial architecture, vibrant plazas, and colorful buildings.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to enter, individual attractions may charge admission
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
A 17th-century fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate
Playa Blanca
A beautiful white-sand beach with clear waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Beach
Full day
Budget to moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ceviche de Camarones
Shrimp ceviche made with fresh shrimp, lime juice, and various spices.
Appetizer
Contains seafood
Arepas
Cornmeal patties that can be stuffed with various ingredients like cheese, meat, or beans.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Bandeja Paisa
A hearty platter with rice, beans, meat, plantains, avocado, and more.
Main Course
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Scuba diving
Hiking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Sunset watching
Exploring historic sites
Visiting museums
Best Time to Visit
December to April
The dry season offers sunny skies and lower humidity, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the city.
24°C to 32°C
75°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Colombian Peso (COP)
Time Zone
UTC-5
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Cartagena is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Stay vigilant and take precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
Getting there
By air
- Rafael Núñez International Airport • 3 km from city center
By bus
Terminal de Transporte Terrestre
Getting around
Public transport
A modern bus rapid transit system with air-conditioned buses and dedicated lanes.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Ciudad Amurallada)
Getsemani
Bocagrande
Day trips
Isla Barú
15 km from Cartagena • Full day
A beautiful island with stunning beaches and clear waters, perfect for a day of relaxation and water activities.
Mud Volcanoes (Volcanes de Lodo)
45 km from Cartagena • Half day
A unique natural phenomenon where mud volcanoes can be climbed for therapeutic mud baths.
Palmar
20 km from Cartagena • Half day
A beautiful nature reserve with mangrove forests and a variety of wildlife.
Festivals
Hay Festival Cartagena • January
Carnaval de Barranquilla • February/March
Pro tips
- Visit the Walled City early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience.
- Explore the neighborhoods of Getsemani and Bocagrande for a mix of history and modern luxury.
- Use the Transcaribe bus system for affordable and convenient transportation.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water for exploring the city.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
