Cartagena , Colombia

Cartagena City Tour Shore Excursion

Active

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Whether you are short of time or you are wanting to have the complete experience in Cartagena, this 5 hours tour is made for you! Come to the most important places of the city and live them authentically. Discover Cartagena’s top landmarks: Getsemani neighbor, San Felipe Castle and more. Join us!

- San Felipe Castle, and Getsemani neighbor guided tour
- Historical landmarks in the Walled City its squares, fortresses and bastions
- Tasting of typical Caribbean cuisine
- Plenty of spectacular photo spots for unforgettable memories of your trip to Cartagena.

Available options

Shore Excursion 5H

Pickup included

What's included

Cruise Terminal pick-up and drop-off

Tour Guide

All-risk insurance

Gastronomic experiences

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Start this full-day tour by meeting the expert local guide who will pick you up from your hotel. Walk through San Felipe Castle, the old fortress built by Spaniards, and let the guide bring back to life adventure stories of conquerors, treasures and pirates, while you learn more about how Colombia became so mixed due to African, indigenous and Spanish roots.

Stop 2

Visit afterwards the stunning Walled City and stroll around the colonial and colorful houses as you know more about the main squares and bastions that traced our path to independence.

Stop 3

Visit Santo Domingo’s square and church, the Cathedral of Santa Catalina de Alejandría (Saint Catherine of Alexandria) among others of great cultural importance.

A walk along important spots of the city such as the emblematic Portal de los dulces

A walk along important spots of the city such as the emblematic Clock Tower

A walk along important spots of the city such as the emblematic La Trinidad Square

Stop 7

A walk along important spots of the city such as the emblematic Las Bovedas

Stop 8

A walk along important spots of the city such as the emblematic Sanctuary of Saint Peter Claver

Of course, this wouldn’t be the perfect tour without tasting Colombia’s flavors so you will have typical coconut sweets, fried arepa with egg, a traditional snack famous in the Caribbean coast, and the raspao, a snow cone with a sugary, flavored syrup on top

What's not included

Extra purchases

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

If you have a layover in Cartagena please select the airport or cruise ship terminal as a pick-up point for the shore excursion.

The Tour Guide will contact you the day before in case you have any questions or assist you with any requirements

Be aware this tour is walking

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.