Historic Walking Tour of Cartagena’s Old Town

Cartagena , Colombia

Historic Walking Tour of Cartagena’s Old Town

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About this experience

Venture into the heart of Cartagena’s Old Town on a 2-hour guided walking tour that reveals the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Starting at the iconic Torre del Reloj, this tour takes you through significant landmarks like Plaza de la Aduana and the Mirador del Baluarte de San Ignacio, where tales of pirates and colonial defense come alive. Discover the legacy of San Pedro Claver, embrace the beauty of Plaza Santa Teresa, and meet Botero’s sculpture in Plaza Santo Domingo. With a maximum of 12 travelers, enjoy personalized attention from a certified local guide as you explore Cartagena’s diverse heritage.

- Guided tour with a certified local expert for immersive storytelling
- Small-group experience (max. 12 people) ensures a relaxed atmosphere
- Visit historic landmarks, plazas, and explore tales of conquest and culture
- Experience Cartagena’s history through art, architecture, and local stories

Available options

Shared Group

Private Group

What's included

Personalized attention and flexible pace

Visit to key landmarks in Cartagena’s Old Town

Guided walking tour with certified local expert

Small-group experience (max. 12 people)

In-depth historical and cultural storytelling

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

1. Torre del Reloj & Plaza de los Coches
We begin at the city's main gate — the historic entrance to the walled city. Learn about Cartagena’s Spanish foundation and the dark legacy of the African slave trade in this former slave market.

2. Plaza de la Aduana
Discover Cartagena’s oldest and largest colonial square, once the economic heart of the port during the Spanish colonial era.

3. Mirador del Baluarte de San Ignacio
Enjoy panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and city walls as we discuss pirates, corsairs, and the city's military defense strategies.

4. Plaza San Pedro Claver & Sanctuary
Learn the powerful story of San Pedro Claver, known as the “slave of the slaves,” and explore Cartagena’s African cultural roots.

Stop 6 Pass by

5. Plaza Santa Teresa
Step into one of the most photogenic plazas in Cartagena, surrounded by beautiful colonial architecture and boutique hotels.

Stop 7 Pass by

6. Plaza Santo Domingo & Botero’s Sculpture
Meet “Gertrudis” by Fernando Botero and dive into local legends, Cartagena’s nightlife, and how art and sensuality shape the city.

Stop 8 Pass by

7. Parque de Bolívar, Cathedral & Gold Museum
End at one of Cartagena’s most iconic cultural spots — home to the Inquisition Palace, the colonial cathedral, and a collection of indigenous gold artifacts.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Tips or gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour involves walking in warm weather and tasting local street food prepared in open-air settings. It may not be suitable for travelers with severe food allergies, dietary restrictions (gluten-free, vegan), or mobility issues. Please inform us in advance of any special needs so we can accommodate you as best as possible.

Meeting point

Once you are at the Clock Tower monument, we will wait for you at the Mouth of the Bridge (Central Gate). Our guide will be wearing a t-shirt with the NOMADAS logo.

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.