Cartagena Sightseeing Tour Historic Center starting at the port

Cartagena , Colombia

Cartagena Sightseeing Tour Historic Center starting at the port

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(9 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour is specially designed for those who are on a cruise through the Caribbean and will make a stop at Cartagena. You will be able to make the most of the time you have in this magical and enchanting city.

Available options

Cartagena Shore Excursion

Pickup included

What's included

Visit to the city’s main landmarks.

Knowledgeable guide in the language of your preference.

Entry tickets to the places visited.

Private transportation from and to the port of cruises.

Detailed itinerary

From this site, you will continue to the highest point of Cartagena, El Cerro de la Popa. Here, you will get to know the Monastery of the Augustinian monks and enjoy the best view of the city

Stop 2

Afterward, you will be driven to Castillo de San Felipe, a strong fort built on the top of a mountain by the Spaniards to gain control of the bay. There, you’ll have the opportunity to discover from the outside the impressive architecture and history behind this fort.

Stop 3

The Cartagena city tour continues with a nice walk through the Historic Center where you will visit Torre del Reloj at Plaza de la Aduana, the place used for slave trade during the Colonial period. Then you will go to San Pedro Claver Church, a historic Church that exhibits religious art and history. Lastly, you’ll visit Plaza de Bolivar surrounded by some of the city’s colonial buildings.

What's not included

Optional tips and gratuities

Unspecified food or beverage.

Personal expenses

Entry to Castillo de San Felipe

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

7 reviews

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1★

Tripadvisor 3.0

2 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

We recommend you bring comfortable clothes and shoes as well as sunscreen and a hat or cap.

MEETING POINT: Please walk until the meeting point (don't take the shuttle bus, you will get lost). Look for a sign with your name on it. After you meet with the staff you will walk until the guide's location (you will see a small zoo inside the port)

Meeting point at the port: please read your confirmation voucher and if you have any questions or need additional information, email the operator to get a map.

Important notes

• Note: Please email the tour operator at info@impulsetravel.co to confirm your booking.

MEETING POINT INSTRUCTIONS:
• Please walk until the meeting point (don't take the shuttle bus, you will get lost)
• Look for a sign with your name on it.
• After you meet with the staff you will walk until the guide's location (you will see a small zoo inside the port)
• If the ship is delayed please go to the meeting point half an hour after its arrival, or give us a call if the itinerary changes.
• Please print and hand over this booking confirmation to our staff member (You can show it on your phone as well)
• No matter which position your ship is located at, it will always be the same meeting point for independent tours

The price you paid for the service does not include 19% V.A.T. This benefit only applies to foreigners entering as tourists, so it is necessary that you send us as proof a copy of your passport and the photo of the entry stamp to the country. As required by the national tax authority.

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.