Cartagena’s walled old town is filled with historical churches, colourful colonial architecture and vibrant street art. This Cartagena self-guided walking tour will take you from the fortress through Getsemani into the walled city to explore the best things to see in Cartagena.
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Cartagena Self-Guided Walking Tour
1. Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
Start your working tour at the nearly 400 year old fortress is just outside of the old town. The fortress was initially designed in 1630 by Spanish colonists. Set up on the hilltop, it offers views over the walled city and bay. The fortress was extended and attacked several times over the centuries. Beneath the thick stone walls, there is a maze of tunnels, some of which are open to the public.
2. Calle de Las Sombrillas
For the next stop on the tour, head into the vibrant neighbourhood of Getsemani to Salle de Las Sombrillas – Umbrella Street. So called, due to the colourful umbrellas strung up to provide shade along the street. Throughout the neighbourhood keep an eye out for street art and murals.
3. Plaza de la Trinidad
The beating heart of the Getsemanà neighbourhood, this lively square transforms from a quiet community hub by day into a vibrant cultural stage by night. You’ll find locals and travellers gathering beneath the yellow facade of the Iglesia de la Trinidad (church) to enjoy street food, spontaneous dance performances, and world-class murals that capture Cartagena’s rebellious spirit.
4. Centenario Park
Wander through Centenario park to cross between Getsemani and the historical centre of Cartagena. Make sure you look up to the trees when you do! If you’re lucky you may spot a sloth or two.
5. Monumento Torre del Reloj
Pass through the three majestic yellow arches of the city’s primary gateway, where the iconic 19th-century clock tower stands as a sentinel between the old city and the bustling bay. Once the only entrance to the fortified centre, this vibrant plaza now pulses with the rhythm of local life, offering a grand threshold into the colonial heart of Cartagena.
When the gate was originally built 400 years ago, it was called the Mouth of the Bridge (Boca del Puente). It was renamed when the clock tower was added in the 18th century.
6. Catedral de Santa Catalina de Alejandria
Marvel at the soaring, salmon-hued tower of one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas, a masterful blend of Renaissance and Baroque architecture that serves as the spiritual heart of the walled city. Inside, the cool air offers a respite from the tropical heat as you admire the gilded 18th-century altarpiece and the elegant, minimalist limestone arches.
Whilst the cathedral was still under construction in 1586, Francis Drake arrived in Cartagena from England and launched an attack. Over 6 weeks, he looted and burned the city. He threatened to destroy the cathedral and with his first shot knocked down three columns. This was enough to convince the locals to pay the ransom. Francis Drake then left Cartagena and construction continued slowly over the next 26 years.
7. Plaza de Bolivar
Step into this lush, shaded sanctuary where towering trees and cooling fountains provide a tranquil escape from the Caribbean heat. At its centre, an equestrian statue of the “Liberator” Simon BolÃvar stands tall, surrounded by chess players and the occasional melody of street performers.
Simon Bolivar is often cited as a hero who led many South America countries to independence from the Spanish. As a result lots of South America cities have plaza’s named after him, or an entire country in Bolivia’s case! Bolivar first came to Cartagena in 1812 from his home country of Venezuela after the fall of it’s first republic. There he wrote the Cartagena Manifesto, a new strategy for independence. He went on to liberate Veneezuela the following year.
If you want to find out more about the history of the area visit the Museum of Cartagena de Indias in the square. The museum is mostly in Spanish though so might not be so engaging for you if you aren’t fluent!
8. Plaza de Santo Domingo
Step into this lively colonial square to admire the smooth curves of Fernando Botero’s famous bronze sculpture, La Gorda Gertrudis, nestled against the golden backdrop of the city’s oldest church. If you are superstitious and travelling with your partner, rub the statue’s breasts to secure a long and happy relationship!
The plaza is named for the bright yellow Santo Domingo church. You might notice the tower of the church is slightly askew. Local legends claim this is the work of the devil in an attempt to destroy the church. The more likely and less exciting explanation is issues in construction and unstable foundations.
9. Abaco Book Cafe
Half book shop, half cafe, this quirky little spot is the perfect place to escape the Caribbean heat and take a little rest after your walking tour.
More Things to do in Cartagena
Watch the sunset from the city walls
Head over to the city wall around the Entrada de Santiago and Baluarte de Santo Domingo in the evening to catch a view of the sun setting over the Caribbean sea.
Explore Las Bovedas shops
Tucked away in the corner of town under the city walls, you’ll find a row of yellow arches that used to house 18th century dungeons but are now home to several craft and souvenir shops.
Visit the Museum of Cartagena de Indias
If you are keen to learn more about the history of Cartagena and the region, visit the Museo in Plaza de Bolivar.
Where to Stay in Cartagena, Colombia
I’d highly recommend staying within the walled old town of Cartagena. If you can find a hotel room with a balcony, it’s great for people watching! Sadly the hotel we stayed has since closed but here are some other hotels and hostels with great reviews to check out:
Hostel: Viajero Cartagena (also has private rooms!)
Budget Hotel:Â Hotel Casa Augustina
Mid-range:Â Casa Lorenza Hotel
Luxury:Â Casa Pizarro Boutique Hotel