Cartagena: Private Walking Tour Walled City & Getsemaní

Summary

Wander Cartagena’s old streets, taste sweets, hear pirate tales, see murals in Getsemaní

You’ll walk Cartagena’s Walled City & Getsemaní with a local guide who knows every corner—tasting Caribbean sweets at Portal de los Dulces, hearing pirate legends by centuries-old walls, pausing for art and music in lively squares. Expect moments that surprise you, stories that stick with you, and plenty of time to wander at your own pace.

What’s the experience like?

I felt a weird mix of excitement and nerves stepping through the Clock Tower into Cartagena’s Walled City. Our guide, Ana, met us right by the yellow arches—she waved like she’d known us for years. The air was thick with the smell of fried arepas and something sweet (maybe coconut?), and I kept catching bits of music drifting from somewhere deeper in the maze. Ana started off with a story about pirates and independence battles—her voice had this way of making even the pigeons stop to listen. I didn’t expect to feel so much just standing in Plaza de los Coches, but there’s something about seeing those old stones and thinking about what they’ve seen.

We wandered slowly—Ana let us set the pace, which honestly was great because I kept stopping to stare at flower-draped balconies or snap photos of street art. She pointed out details I would’ve missed: a faded mural here, a tiny bakery there where she swears the tamarind balls are best (she was right). At one point we ducked under the umbrellas strung across Calle San Juan in Getsemaní; it felt almost silly how cheerful it looked compared to some of the heavy history she’d shared earlier. There was this moment when an old man selling dulces grinned at me and pressed a guava candy into my palm—sticky, tart, perfect. It’s funny how food can say so much about a place.

I still think about that quiet pause we took inside Santa Catalina Cathedral—the light slanting through stained glass, everything hushed except for distant salsa from outside. Ana talked about how Cartagena is always changing but never really loses its soul. We finished near Plaza de la Trinidad with salsa echoing off the walls and kids chasing pigeons around our feet. I didn’t want to leave yet. If you’re curious about Cartagena’s real stories (not just postcard stuff), this private walking tour is honestly worth every step—even if your feet get tired before your heart does.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Cartagena's historic and cultural sites

• Meet guide and get orientation
• Visit Camellón de Los Mártires plaza
• See Clock Tower and Plaza del Ecuador
• Learn about Miguel de Cervantes and slave markets
• Explore Portal de los Dulces
• Visit Plaza de la Aduana
• Pass by Museum of Modern Art and Gold Museum
• See San Pedro Claver Church and Museum
• Visit colonial bastion and learn pirate history
• Tour Palace of the Inquisition museum
• Stop at Plaza de la Proclamación
• Visit Cathedral of Santa Catalina de Alejandría
• Explore Centennial Park and see local wildlife
• Discover graffiti and cultural sites in Getsemaní
• Walk Callejón Ancho and Calle San Juan
• Experience vibrant street art and umbrellas in Getsemaní
• Visit Bastion and Plaza Bolívar

Top questions

How long does the private walking tour in Cartagena last?

The tour covers several key sites over a few hours; exact duration depends on your pace since it’s tailored privately.

Is hotel pickup included for this Cartagena walking tour?

Yes, hotel pickup is included for added convenience if you prefer not to meet at the Clock Tower.

What neighborhoods are visited on this walking tour?

The tour explores both Cartagena’s Walled City (Old Town) and Getsemaní district.

Are food or drinks included during the tour?

Bottled water is included; you’ll also have chances to buy local sweets or snacks along the route if you want.

Is this Cartagena walking tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels and can be adjusted to your preferred pace.

Will we see street art during the Getsemaní part of the tour?

Yes, you’ll see famous murals and vibrant graffiti throughout Getsemaní as part of the experience.

Are entry fees or museum visits included?

The focus is on outdoor sites; museum visits may be discussed with your guide but aren’t standard inclusions.

Is this private walking tour wheelchair accessible?

The route is wheelchair accessible; let your guide know any specific needs ahead of time.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup if needed, bottled water to keep cool under Cartagena’s sun, and an expert local guide who’ll share stories behind every plaza and mural as you walk through both the Walled City and colorful Getsemaní—all at whatever pace feels right for you.