Cartagena Half Day Tour: Old Town, San Felipe Castle & More

Summary

Private Cartagena City Tour with Local Guide

You’ll dive into Cartagena’s real life—history-packed streets, colorful neighborhoods like Getsemaní, epic views from San Felipe Castle, plus time to browse local crafts at Las Bóvedas—all with a friendly guide who knows every shortcut and story.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me stepping out of the car was the warm, salty air—Cartagena never really lets you forget you’re by the sea. Our guide, Andrés, met us right under the Torre del Reloj’s yellow arches. He had this knack for weaving in little stories about the clock tower and Plaza de la Aduana—like how locals still argue about which bakery does the best arepas nearby. The square was already buzzing at 9am, vendors setting up fruit carts and kids chasing pigeons around.

We wandered through Getsemaní next, where street art spills across old walls and music drifts from open windows. Andrés pointed out a mural dedicated to Pedro Romero—he’s kind of a local hero here—and explained how this neighborhood used to be the heart of resistance during colonial times. It’s easy to get lost in these narrow streets; I caught myself stopping every few minutes just to snap another photo or watch an old man play dominoes outside Café Havana.

The walk up to San Felipe Castle is no joke in midday heat, but it’s worth it for the view alone. Inside, you can almost feel the history—the tunnels echo with your footsteps and there’s this faint smell of stone and moss that lingers. Our tickets were ready at the gate (no waiting), and Andrés shared stories about pirates and battles that made it all come alive. Afterward, we cooled off at Las Bóvedas, where local artisans sell everything from woven bags to emerald jewelry. The breeze here carries a mix of sea air and coffee from a tiny stall tucked into one of the vaults.

Before heading back, we paused for photos outside Teatro Adolfo Mejía—the Heredia Theater—with its pastel façade catching the late morning light just right. The whole tour took about four hours but honestly felt like a crash course in Cartagena’s soul. We finished back at our hotel, tired but grinning—and maybe just a little sunburned.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cartagena Half Day City Tour

• Walk around city
• Visit San Felipe de Barajas Castle
• Explore Old Town Cartagena
• Walk around Las Bovedas
• Photo stop at Teatro Heredia

Top questions

Is this Cartagena city tour suitable for families with young kids?

Yes! The route is flexible and our guides are used to adapting for families. Just let us know if you need extra breaks or have strollers—we’ll make it work.

Can I choose my own start time?

Absolutely—while most tours run at 9am or 2pm daily, we’re happy to adjust if you need something different. Just ask when booking.

Are entrance tickets included for San Felipe Castle?

Yes, your entry tickets are covered so you won’t have to wait in line or pay extra on site.

Is transportation private?

You’ll ride in a private car with AC and a bilingual driver—it’s just your group on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Cartagena, private transport with AC and bilingual driver-guide, all entry fees (including San Felipe Castle), local taxes, parking fees, traveler insurance—and plenty of stories along the way! Food and tips aren’t included.