Cartagena: CITY TOUR IN ENGLISH, Old city, Monuments, Castle

Cartagena: CITY TOUR IN ENGLISH, Old city, Monuments, Castle

Location: Bolívar, Colombia
Country: Colombia
Rating: 4/5 (based on 4 reviews)
Price: $15 per person
Duration: 4 hours
Supplier: AV COL

Quick overview

If you’re looking to see the core of Cartagena without sacrificing too much of your precious time or budget, this four-hour city tour is a solid choice. For just $15, you get a lively ride on a traditional Chiva Antigua, a guided walk through the historic Old Town, and a glimpse of key sights like Castillo de San Felipe, the famous India Catalina, and the whimsical Zapatos Viejos statue.

What we love about this tour are two things: first, the colorful chiva bus ride that turns a sightseeing trip into a fun, vibrant experience, and second, the guided walk through Cartagena’s historic center, which offers just enough depth and personality. It’s a great way to get a “big picture” view of the city in a short amount of time.

A possible drawback? Some travelers note that the schedule can be a little loose — meaning the timing might not always stick precisely to the plan. Also, the walk through the old town is relatively brief, so if you’re craving a deeper exploration of Cartagena’s quaint streets, you might find it a bit rushed.

This tour suits travelers who want a cost-effective, lively overview with some iconic photo stops and a bit of local flavor. It’s especially good for first-timers or those on a tight schedule who still want to tick off the major sights comfortably.

Key takeaways

• Vibrant transportation: The fun, brightly painted Chiva Antigua makes the ride a highlight.
• Iconic photo ops: Cartagena letters and Zapatos Viejos are perfect spots for memorable pictures.
• Efficient itinerary: Combines scenic drives, quick visits, and guided walks in four hours.
• Value for money: At only $15, this tour offers a lot of sightseeing for a small price.
• Knowledgeable guides: Some reviews mention friendly, informative guides, adding depth to the experience.
• Schedule flexibility: The tour starts in the early afternoon, with pickup from select hotel districts or a meeting point, requiring some planning ahead.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed review

Transportation on the vibrant Chiva Antigua

We start our adventure by hopping onto a vibrantly colored Chiva Antigua, a classic Colombian bus that’s as cheerful as Cartagena itself. This mode of transport isn’t just a ride; it’s part of the fun. The bright paint, lively music, and local flavor make the journey itself a memorable part of the experience. You’ll find yourself taking plenty of photos, and it sets a pleasant, relaxed tone for the day.

The bus takes us through some of Cartagena’s modern neighborhoods, like Bocagrande, Castillogrande, and El Laguito. These areas are known for their sleek skyscrapers and bustling beaches, giving you a quick peek into the city’s contemporary side. You might love the contrast between these modern districts and the historic center, highlighting Cartagena’s blend of old and new.

Scenic drives and iconic sights

The first stops are mainly scenic. We pass by the Bahía de las Animas, a naturally beautiful bay with lush surroundings, perfect for snapping some scenic photos. The driver then takes us to La India Catalina, an impressive statue honoring an indigenous woman who played a vital role in the city’s history. According to one reviewer, this is a “beautiful natural bay and a lush linear park,” which is exactly what you’ll get – a peaceful, picturesque view that helps set the scene for Cartagena’s historic grandeur.

Next, the Zapatos Viejos statue—an oversized shoe—delivers a touch of humor and fun. This quirky stop is ideal for quick photos and adds a relaxed vibe to the tour.

Castillo de San Felipe: a highlight

One of the major highlights is the Castillo de San Felipe, a huge Spanish fortress perched above the city. The tour offers a brief visit here, enough to capture some panoramic shots of its impressive walls and moat. While the tour doesn’t include a full exploration, the exterior and views from the fortress definitely leave an impression. It’s a reminder of Cartagena’s strategic importance and colonial history.

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Exploring the walled city

The core of the tour is a guided walk through Cartagena’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The guide takes you past Las Bóvedas, a former colonial prison now turned artisan market, and the Clock Tower, a recognizable landmark welcoming visitors into the historic heart. The walk lasts about 45 minutes, giving a taste of the charming, colorful streets lined with colonial architecture, lively plazas, and vibrant cafes.

This segment received mixed reviews. One traveler mentioned the shortness of the walk and expressed a wish for more time to soak in the atmosphere. However, others appreciated the insightful guidance, noting how some guides provide a wealth of local stories and historical context.

Photo stops and iconic views

Throughout the tour, there are several dedicated photo stops, including Letras de Cartagena, the city’s famous sign where you can pose with the colorful backdrop of the city skyline. The Sunset views here are especially striking if timed right, offering a great photo opportunity and a moment to appreciate Cartagena’s lively spirit.

Ending the tour

The tour concludes with a visit to Las Bóvedas and a final walk around the walled city, giving you a taste of Cartagena’s vibrant street life, shops, and cafes. The last stop is near the Clock Tower, where some travelers enjoy browsing local shops or simply soaking in the atmosphere.

What’s included and what’s not

For the price of $15, the tour provides a certified guide, transportation in the colorful Chiva bus, and a walking tour of the old town. You’ll need to cover your own expenses for food, drinks, and entry to Castillo de San Felipe, which is not included. The tour starts in the early afternoon, with pick-up options from hotel districts or a designated meeting point, making it flexible for different travel plans.

Authentic insights from reviews

A few reviewers shared their honest thoughts. One noted, “The tour is good because it includes a visit to the castle,” but also mentioned that “the old town part is very short, which is a shame.” This highlights that if you’re expecting a deep dive into Cartagena’s history, this tour might leave you wanting more.

Another traveler appreciated the informative guides and described the tour as “very good value for money,” especially for such a modest fee. Conversely, some pointed out that the schedule can be a little loose, so patience and flexibility are key.

Who is this tour perfect for?

This tour is ideal if you want a quick, lively overview of Cartagena without breaking the bank. It suits first-time visitors eager to see the highlights, capture some photos, and get a feel for the city’s vibrant energy. It’s also great for travelers who prefer a group experience with a guide but don’t need an in-depth historical tour.

If you’re staying in the hotel districts like Bocagrande or Castillogrande, the included hotel pickup makes it convenient. But if you’re in the historic center, the meeting point at the Clock Tower is straightforward.

Practical tips

• Book early — check availability, especially if you want an afternoon tour.
• Be prepared for flexible timing since the schedule may vary.
• Bring comfortable shoes for the walking section.
• Don’t forget your camera for the scenic stops and photo opportunities.
• Consider whether you want to visit Castillo de San Felipe separately if you’re keen on exploring it more thoroughly.

The Sum Up

This Cartagena city tour offers a fun, affordable snapshot of the city’s highlights. The combination of a lively Chiva Antigua ride, scenic photo stops, and a brief walk through the old town delivers a solid introduction—perfect for those with limited time or on a budget. The guides generally receive positive remarks for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more engaging.

While it’s not the most comprehensive tour available, it packs a lot into four hours and provides a good foundation for exploring further on your own. If you’re looking for an enjoyable, lighthearted way to start your Cartagena adventures, this tour hits the mark.

For travelers who crave a blend of fun transportation, iconic sights, and authentic local flavor, this experience is worth considering. Just keep in mind that if history or in-depth exploration is your priority, you might want to supplement this with additional visits or a more detailed tour later.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins in the early afternoon, around 1:20 p.m., but check with the provider for exact times and availability.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if your hotel is in Bocagrande, Castillogrande, or El Laguito, pickup is available from your lobby. Otherwise, you’ll meet at the Clock Tower in Cartagena.

How long is the walking tour of Old Town?
The guided walk lasts approximately 45 minutes, covering key sights like Las Bóvedas and the Clock Tower, with brief stops at photo spots.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included; you’ll need to plan for your own food if desired.

Do I need to pay extra for entry to Castillo de San Felipe?
Yes, entrance to the castle is not included and must be paid separately.

Can I customize the tour?
This is a fixed group tour, so customization is limited. However, you can ask your guide for additional tips or suggestions for further exploration.

In sum, this Cartagena city tour offers a lively, affordable way to experience the city’s highlights. With friendly guides, photogenic stops, and a colorful transport experience, it perfectly suits first-timers and those looking for a quick, authentic taste of Cartagena without fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby