Embrace the Charm of Cartagena’s Historic Heart

As the rain taps gently on the cobblestones of Cartagena, the city’s historic heart beats with a rhythm that invites exploration. This weekend, let the overcast skies guide you to the enchanting streets of the Walled City, where history whispers from every corner. Begin your journey with the Historic City Tour, a private exploration of Cartagena’s colonial mansions, convents, and fortifications. Available from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on both days, this tour offers a deep dive into the city’s storied past.

The tour kicks off at La Popa’s Hill, the highest point in the city, offering panoramic views that are breathtaking even under a cloudy sky. As you wander through the San Felipe de Barajas Fortress, the largest military fortification in South America, you’ll feel the echoes of battles past. The tour then meanders through the vibrant Getsemaní neighborhood, where colorful murals and lively squares tell tales of resilience and creativity.

Review (2024-09-24): Highlights of Cartagena with a very knowledgeable guide - My wife and I toured with Niko, a very knowledgeable guide who seems to know everyone, and everyone seems to know him! We visited the highlights of Cartagena, including Getsemani, San Felipe de Barajas Fort, Convent of Santa Cruz de la Popa and a short drive by of Boca Grande. The tour ended with a lovely surprise of a gift (no spoilers!) graciously given to us by Niko - thank you!

Dive into Cartagena’s Artistic Soul

When the rain falls, Cartagena’s artistic soul shines even brighter. The Authentic City Tour is your ticket to discovering the city’s vibrant art scene and rich history. Available from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, this tour takes you beyond the usual tourist spots to the heart of local culture.

Start your day in the bohemian Getsemaní, where street art and graffiti transform the neighborhood into an open-air gallery. As you stroll through the colorful streets, your guide will share stories of the artists and the community events that breathe life into this area. The tour also includes a visit to the bustling Mercado Bazurto, where you can immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of local commerce and creativity.

Review (2024-08-16): Wonderful “Be Local” Tour! - What a wonderful “Be Local” tour we had with Felipe as our guide. Felipe was a pleasure to be with and shared so much local knowledge and passion for the area. We loved our tour in the city, in the market, and canoeing in the mangroves. We highly recommend the Be Local tour!

Savor the Flavors of Cartagena

No rainy retreat in Cartagena is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. After a morning of exploration, treat yourself to a leisurely lunch at one of the city’s renowned eateries. The Historic City Tour conveniently ends near some of the best dining spots in the city, where you can savor traditional dishes like coconut rice and fried plantains.

As the rain continues to fall, find solace in the cozy ambiance of Cartagena’s cafes and restaurants. Whether you’re sipping on a freshly brewed Colombian coffee or enjoying a hearty seafood stew, the city’s flavors are sure to warm your soul. And as the day winds down, consider a visit to the modern neighborhoods of Bocagrande and Laguito, where the city’s contemporary side offers a contrast to its historic charm.

This weekend, let Cartagena’s indoor treasures captivate you. From its rich history and vibrant art scene to its delectable cuisine, the city promises a retreat that’s as enriching as it is relaxing, rain or shine.