Top Rated Full City Tour of Cartagena
Active
3h - 4h
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 isn’t just a history lesson—it’s living Cartagena! From strolling vibrant plazas and colorful streets to tasting local flavors and enjoying free time for shopping and photos, our tours mix culture, fun, and authentic experiences. With small groups and passionate guides, you’ll feel less like a tourist and more like a friend discovering the city’s secrets.
Available options
City tour + San Felipe Fortres
Admission to San Felipe Fortre: This option includes entrance tickets to San Felipe Fortress with a guided visit inside, instead of just a photo stop outside<br/>San Felipe Fortress Visit: Includes guided visit inside San Felipe Fortress (ticket included), instead of only a photo stop outside.<br/>Pickup included
Top-Rated Full City Tour of Cartagena
What's included
Visit La Popa Monastery (best panoramic view of the city)
Panoramic view of Manga’s historic Republican-style houses
Certified professional bilingual tour guide
Stop to take pictures at San Felipe Fortress (entrance not included)
Small group experience for a more personalized tour
Complimentary bottled water (one per person)
Free time to discover the city and shop for souvenirs
Walking tour of Cartagena’s historic center and Getsemaní
Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned car, minivan, or bus, according to the size of your group
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Enjoy panoramic views from the highest point in Cartagena. A must-see for breathtaking photos and a sense of the city’s layout.
2
Stop 2
See Colombia’s most famous fortress and learn about the strategic battles that shaped the country’s history. (Photo stop included). Please note: if you wish to enter the monument, tickets must be purchased separately.
3
Stop 3
Stroll through charming colonial streets, lively plazas, and iconic churches while experiencing Cartagena’s colorful soul firsthand. Enjoy free time to shop for local crafts, savor a delicious coffee, and capture unforgettable photos.
4
Discover vibrant neighborhoods full of street art, music, and Afro-Caribbean heritage.
5
Stop 5
See the contrast between the modern skyline and colonial past from your comfortable transport.
6
Stop 6
Manga is one of Cartagena’s most elegant neighborhoods, known for its beautiful early 20th-century mansions built in Republican style. As you walk or drive through its quiet, tree-lined streets, you’ll see grand houses with colorful facades, balconies, and gardens that reflect the city’s past wealth.
What's not included
Meals and additional drinks are not included, but you will have free time to purchase food and drinks if you wish
Tips for your guide are not included in the tour price but are always appreciated
Entrance to San Felipe Fortress (tour includes only a photo stop outside)
Any personal expenses and souvenir purchases
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.5
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
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
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The meeting point is at the Texaco gas station right outside the cruise port. Take the shuttle to the “Oasis,” follow the path to the main exit, and you’ll see Texaco across the street. Look for a sign with your name and our logo. Drop-off will be inside the port.
Important notes
Show your booking confirmation to our staff member holding a sign with our company logo at the port pickup area. No ticket exchange required.
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
