4.8 (501) · Cartagena · By Sion Tours Free cancellation Private tour
Embark on a private journey to explore the most significant landmarks within Cartagena's historic old city. This exceptional experience commences with a visit to the city's highest point, La Popa Hill, home to a convent established in the early 17th century. Following this, we'll explore the San Felipe de Barajas Fortress, recognized as South America's premier military fortification. The tour then proceeds to the walled city and the vibrant Getsemaní neighborhood. We'll make a stop for souvenir shopping at 'Las Bovedas,' a historic building that served as a prison and now houses artisan shops. Afterward, enjoy a walking tour through the city's various squares, including St. Domingo Square, Bolivar Square, Los Coches Square, Aduana Square, the Clock Tower, and St. Pedro Square, while admiring the colonial houses steeped in history and legend. Finally, we'll tour the modern districts of Cartagena, such as Bocagrande, Laguito, and Castillogrande.
✓ Hotel pickup and drop-off✓ Private tour experience✓ Bottled water provided✓ Professional guide services✓ Driver and guide included✓ Pickup service from the port✓ Transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle✓ Flexible departure time customization✕ Meals and beverages✕ Gratuities for the guide and driver1 Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
1 hour, entrance fee included
The most significant fortification in the Americas
· 1 h · Admission included
2 La Popa Convent
30 minutes, entrance fee included
A 17th-century convent situated at the city's highest point
· 30 min · Admission included
3 Walled City of Cartagena
1 hour, entrance fee included
A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1984
· 1 h · Admission included
4 Neoclassical Houses
Drive-by without stopping
Admire the architecture of neoclassical-style houses.
· Non-stop passage
5 Barrio Getsemani
15 minutes
Experience the authentic charm of Getsemaní, known for its colorful Caribbean vibe, narrow streets, and welcoming locals.
· 15 min
6 Las Bovedas
15 minutes
A stop at the handicraft market for shopping opportunities.
· 15 min
7 Modern Cartagena
15 minutes
Explore modern areas resembling Miami or Panama City, featuring malls, casinos, and contemporary skyscrapers.
· 15 min
8 Plaza de Bolivar
5 minutes
A brief stop during the walking tour.
· 5 min
9 Playa de Bocagrande
Drive-by without stopping
Enjoy a panoramic view of the city's modern coastal area.
· Non-stop passage
10 Manga Neighborhood
Drive-by without stopping
A drive through the Manga district.
· Non-stop passage
11 Plaza Santo Domingo
5 minutes
Part of the walking tour experience.
· 5 min
Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One ticket per booking.
We offer pickup for travelers in the following areas: Port, Walled City, Crespo, Boquilla, Castillo Grande, Laguito, Getsemaní, and Manga.
For other locations, departure is from the meeting point: Old City, San Diego - 'Las Bovedas', Store Number 1.
Please note: Entrance tickets and transportation are included. This voucher is not valid for direct presentation at the venue.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for this tour.
If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
At the time of booking, cruise ship passengers must provide the following information: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time, and re-boarding time.
This location is wheelchair accessible. Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. Public transportation options are available nearby. Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap during the tour. This tour is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health. The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels. The tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide. At the time of booking, cruise ship passengers must provide the following information: traveler names, ship name, docking time, disembarkation time, and re-boarding time. City Tour Pickup service is included Wear comfortable shoes as there will be walking involved. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the Caribbean sun can be strong. Stay hydrated by drinking the provided bottled water. Customize your tour by discussing your preferences with your guide. Ensure you have your booking confirmation readily available. For cruise ship passengers, providing accurate ship and timing details is crucial for seamless logistics. For a full refund, cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 29253P2
Activity offered by Sion Tours via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center History enthusiasts Culture seekers Travelers seeking a personalized experience Cruise ship passengers Explore Cartagena's historic walled city and vibrant Getsemaní neighborhood. Visit iconic landmarks like the San Felipe de Barajas Fortress and La Popa Convent. Enjoy a personalized private tour experience with a dedicated guide. Discover both historical sites and modern areas of the city. Flexible departure times to suit your schedule.
Population 914,552 (2020)
Elevation 2 m
Currency Colombian peso
Official language Spanish
Driving on the right
Power plugs A, B · 110 V
Emergency number 123
Capital city Bogotá Average temperatures 27° Jan 28° Feb 28° Mar 28° Apr 28° May 29° Jun 29° Jul 29° Aug 28° Sept 28° Oct 28° Nov 28° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is included in the tour? + The tour includes hotel/port pickup and drop-off, a private guide, a driver, bottled water, and transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle. Entrance tickets are also included.
What is not included in the tour? + Food and drinks (other than bottled water) and gratuities are not included in the tour price.
How far in advance should I cancel for a full refund? + You can receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Is this tour suitable for everyone? + The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels and is wheelchair accessible. However, it is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health. Infants can ride in a stroller or on an adult's lap.
What information do cruise ship passengers need to provide? + Cruise ship passengers must provide their ship name, docking time, disembarkation time, and re-boarding time at the time of booking.
Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.
★★★★★ Viator review
Private tour of Cartagena
carol_w, October 2026
Elin (spelling?) our guide was so lovely, professional and very knowledgable about Cartagena. She shows us so much and made our short visit very memorable.
★★★★★ Viator review
City tour - Ask for Nico!
Dipesh_P, October 2026
The tour was amazing. We covered important parts of the city and our guide Nico was fantastic. A good guide makes the difference and he was knowledgeable, friendly, professional and warm. Highly recommend! Ask for Nico!
★★★★★ Viator review
Francisco was great. It...
Eddie_R, October 2026
Francisco was great. It was really nice being able to get driven around and shown the city. From the port of the new part of town, to San Felipe fort, up to the top of the monastery de Popa. This is a recommended tour.
★★★★★ Viator review
Both my guide Luis &...
ChanderShekhar_S, September 2026
Both my guide Luis & driver Luis were cool, calm collected professional with knowledge & experience about Cartagena City & surroundings. I was very impressed the time they took me to show around without rushing.
★★★★★ Viator review
Amazing tour of Cartagena!
Kiera_P, September 2026
This is a great way to see Cartagena. If you're lucky to get Nico as a guide, you'll learn a great deal about the city's history. Both Nico and the driver are accommodating and will modify the stops as needed. Great tour!
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