Uncover the history, architecture, and local myths of Cartagena on a private walking tour. Explore dreamy streets, learn about customs and legends, and get insider recommendations for the city.
Uncover the history, architecture, and local myths of Cartagena on a private walking tour. Explore dreamy streets, learn about customs and legends, and get insider recommendations for the city.
- Walled City of Cartagena - Embark on a Private Walking Tour of Cartagena and experience the essence of Cartagena de Indias, a city with a unique spirit. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the legendary Walled City invites exploration of its cobblestone streets, romantic squares, and ancient fortifications. This engaging walking tour of…
- Walled City of Cartagena - Embark on a Private Walking Tour of Cartagena and experience the essence of Cartagena de Indias, a city with a unique spirit. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the legendary Walled City invites exploration of its cobblestone streets, romantic squares, and ancient fortifications. This engaging walking tour of Cartagena reveals captivating tales of pirates, colonial conquests, and heroic independence battles, all beautifully intertwined with Cartagena’s vibrant Caribbean energy.
Discover the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems, as your knowledgeable local guide brings history to life with stories of Indigenous, African, and Spanish influences, colorful folklore, religious traditions, and the lively music that fills its streets. Marvel at charming colonial architecture, vibrant balconies adorned with flowers, and the aroma of tropical fruits and street food that encapsulate the essence of Cartagena.
- Camellon de los Martires - Our certified local guide warmly welcomes you to this private walking tour of Cartagena, confirms your reservation, and provides a brief introduction to the adventure ahead. After a short orientation to familiarize you with the city’s layout, we begin our journey at the historic Camellón de Los Mártires – Plaza de Cervantes. Here, you’ll uncover the intriguing stories of the Indigenous peoples who inhabited these lands long before the Spanish conquest, and how their legacy shaped Cartagena’s rich, multicultural history. It’s the perfect starting point to delve into the city’s past and experience the vibrant blend of cultures that define it today.
- Monumento Torre del Reloj - Next, we proceed to Cartagena’s iconic “Golden Key” — the renowned Clock Tower, and step into Plaza del Ecuador, formerly known as Plaza del Esclavo. This square marks the beginning of the city’s old enslavement route, which we’ll follow along the historic Porto Carrero and Candilejo streets. Before continuing, we’ll be greeted by Pedro de Heredia, the city’s founder, whose presence still watches over Cartagena’s bustling entrance.
- Monumento a Pedro de Heredia - Here, you’ll discover the story of Miguel de Cervantes and his surprising connection to Cartagena, along with his influence on Colombian literature. This stop also reveals the dark history of the old slave markets that once operated here, where people were bought and sold during colonial times. Today, however, this very spot has transformed into one of Cartagena’s most charming corners — the famous Portal de los Dulces. Beneath its colorful arcades, you’ll find stalls brimming with traditional Caribbean sweets like coconut candies, tamarind balls, and guava treats, preserving a flavorful part of the city’s cultural heritage. It’s a perfect example of how Cartagena’s history blends the painful and the beautiful in one place.
- Portal de Los Dulces - We continue to the Portal de Los Dulces, a symbol of female activity during times of slavery, where their descendants still carry on their traditions.
- Plaza de la Aduana - The historic Plaza de la Aduana was once the heart of trade and commerce in colonial Cartagena — and regrettably, a key site in the trafficking of enslaved people. Today, this emblematic square is surrounded by some of the city’s most important landmarks, including the Municipal Hall, one of the oldest civil buildings in Cartagena. It’s a space where history whispers through its preserved colonial facades, inviting visitors to reflect on the city’s complex past while admiring its elegant architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
- Museo de Arte Moderno de Cartagena de Indias - Art is an essential part of this tour as well. We’ll pass by the Museum of Modern Art in this Private Walking in Cartagena, showcasing remarkable Caribbean and Latin American works from the 1950s onward. The Gold Museum welcomes visitors with a fascinating collection of Indigenous artifacts from Colombia’s Caribbean region, while the Emerald Museum dazzles with exquisite stones, considered among the most beautiful in the world — prized by royalty and celebrities alike.
- Plaza de San Pedro Claver - Religion is present with San Pedro Claver, Slave of the Slaves, where we will see the Architecture of the Church and Museum-Monastery that bear his name and is the Headquarters of Human Rights.
- Baluarte de San Ignacio - This bastion was built to defend the “Bay of Souls” from any pirate attack. On this tour, you will see the history behind the walls of Cartagena.
- Palacio de La Inquisicion - The historic Palace of the Inquisition is one of Cartagena’s most striking and infamous landmarks. Built in the early 17th century, this colonial mansion once served as the seat of the Holy Office of the Inquisition in the city. Here, suspected heretics and those accused of witchcraft or blasphemy were interrogated and tried during one of the darkest chapters of colonial history.
Today, the beautifully preserved building houses a museum where visitors can learn about the Inquisition’s role in Cartagena, view original torture devices, and explore exhibits on the city’s colonial history. Its elegant baroque balconies, stone archways, and lush courtyard stand in stark contrast to the grim events that once took place inside. This is a powerful and thought-provoking stop that reveals another layer of Cartagena’s complex past.
- Plaza de la Proclamacion - Welcome to Plaza de la Proclamación, one of Cartagena’s most historically significant squares. It was here, on November 11, 1811, that Cartagena boldly declared its independence from Spanish rule — becoming the first city in Colombia to do so. Surrounded by colonial-era buildings, including the Archbishop’s Palace, this plaza has witnessed key moments in the city’s fight for freedom.
Today, it remains a vibrant public space, where locals gather and historic monuments honor the city’s revolutionary spirit. As you stand in this square, you’ll feel the echoes of Cartagena’s brave past and see how history and modern Caribbean life blend seamlessly here.
- Catedral Santa Catalina de Alejandria - Our next stop in this Private Walking Tour in Cartagena is the stunning Cathedral of Santa Catalina de Alejandría, one of the oldest and most iconic churches in Colombia. Built between 1577 and 1612, this impressive structure is a perfect example of colonial religious architecture in the Caribbean. Its striking bell tower and beautiful stone facade have become one of Cartagena’s most photographed landmarks.
Inside, the cathedral preserves centuries of history, with religious art, original altars, and stories of the city’s colonial past. It also played a vital role as a spiritual and social center for Cartagena’s residents throughout the years. Standing in front of this magnificent building, you’ll feel the city’s layered history — from Spanish rule to independence — reflected in its architecture and legends. A must-see stop on any walking tour through Cartagena’s Walled City.
- Parque del Centenario - Are you familiar with the sloths, the squirrels, the iguanas? You will see them in one of the most important lungs of Cartagena, Centennial Park, former Railway Station, which is a relic of the Tropical Dry Forest where we refresh under the shade of beautiful trees.
- Cl. de San Juan #25-25 - Here we will talk about Graffiti, Café, Blas de Lezo, Gabriel García Márquez, Mister Black, Joe Arroyo.
- Plaza de La Trinidad - Finally, we enter the Callejón Ancho, to reach the end of the route along Calle San Juan to the sound of salsa and the African champeta; previously passing by the church and square of the Holy Trinity.
- Barrio Getsemani - Graffiti, culture, music, traditions, folklore, trade, and architecture all come alive as we explore one of Getsemaní’s most vibrant cultural corridors. This lively street is known for its colorful umbrellas overhead — a symbol of local identity — stunning street art, and unique colonial architecture. It’s a perfect spot to feel the creative pulse and authentic spirit of Cartagena.
- Plaza de Bolivar - Are you intrigued by the feats of pirates and corsairs? We recount them when visiting a Bastion, as a sample of Spanish military constructions and strategies, we continue to Plaza Bolívar, in homage to the precursor of Independence, a place to refresh ourselves.

- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- Tour Guide
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- Tour Guide
- Anything not especified previously is not included in the price!
- Anything not especified previously is not included in the price!
Experience the enchantment of Cartagena with a private walking tour designed to match your pace and interests! Begin at the renowned Clock Tower or opt for convenient hotel pick-up. Wander through the Walled City’s charming colonial streets, lively squares, and secret alleys, while discovering Cartagena’s fascinating history, Caribbean culture, street…
Experience the enchantment of Cartagena with a private walking tour designed to match your pace and interests! Begin at the renowned Clock Tower or opt for convenient hotel pick-up. Wander through the Walled City’s charming colonial streets, lively squares, and secret alleys, while discovering Cartagena’s fascinating history, Caribbean culture, street art, local wildlife, and legendary stories of pirates and heroes. Explore key sites like Plaza de los Coches, Plaza Santo Domingo, and the famous murals of Getsemaní. Our certified, enthusiastic guides will tailor your journey, offering insider advice on the best places to dine, shop, and enjoy the city. An exciting, memorable way to connect with the heart of Cartagena!
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.