Situated in a bay that never sleeps, the colonial part of this heavenly city stands proudly behind historic walls, amazingly untouched by the centuries that have passed since their creation. The facades of its colonial houses — many over 400 years old — have silently witnessed the stories of thousands of visitors who have explored the city's streets, who have rested in its many quaint plazas, and prayed in its numerous picturesque churches. The city has a huge variety of attractions within the city walls, some just outside, and others still further afield.
- Families and couples might enjoy exploring the colonial streets of the city by horse-drawn cart. It’s a really special experience!
- A fun evening activity is exploring the historic center by “chiva” (a traditional open-sided bus used in rural areas of Colombia). The beats of typical Colombian Caribbean music will play throughout your tour.
- The ashes of the Colombian Nobel literature laureate, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, rest in this city in the “Claustro de la Merced.” If you haven't read any Marquez yet, make it your holiday reading!
- If you only have one day in the city, stay inside the Walled City, where you'll find multiple tourist attractions.
- Most places inside the walls have an interesting history, so explore with a certified guide to ensure you don't miss a thing!
Take a scenic drive through the residential area of Manga, and admire the beautiful mansions built in Republican-style architecture at the end of the 19th century. Explore the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a fort that was once the most important military structure built in Latin America. Enjoy a boat ride to the Islas del Rosario, 26 coral islands located off the coast of Isla Barú, and continue to the island of San Martín de Pajarales to visit the aquarium. Enjoy a spectacular dolphin and shark show and other marine attractions there. Board the beautiful Spanish Galleon, a replica of a 17th-century sailing ship, for a cruise of the inner bay of Cartagena.
The following Shore Excursions are available for this port on this cruise, and may be reserved beginning 240 days before the cruise begins for guests receiving Concierge amenities, and 180 days before the cruise begins for all other guests. Guests receiving Concierge amenities will receive a 5% discount off of the prices shown below for Regent Choice tours.
La Popa Monastery and the Palace of Inquisition (EV,JO)
Depart the pier for the drive to the La Popa Monastery. This ancient monastery is located on a hilltop that can be seen from any point in Cartagena, and offers spectacular views and photo opportunities of the city below. From a distance, the hill upon which La Popa stands resembles the stern of galleon. Built at the beginning of the 17th
century, La Popa is still inhabited by monks. It also houses a chapel dedicated to Virgen de la Candelaria, the Patron Saint of Cartagena, as well as a Colonial museum.
During your guided visit at La Popa, you will view the ornate, 22-karat gold foil altar and a lovely, flower-filled courtyard.
Next, you will proceed for a photo stop at San Felipe Fortress, the largest Spanish fort in the New World. This fortress defended the city from several attacks, and withstood a bloody assault from British Admiral Vernon. From here, you will continue on to the Old City, which offers lovely views of the ocean. Upon arrival, a visit will be made to the Saint Peter Claver Church and Cloister, built in homage to the protector of slaves. You will view the remains of Saint Peter Claver, which are encased upon the High Altar.
A brief stop will then be made under the huge trees in the cloister's courtyard to see the well used by Saint Peter Claver to baptize tens of thousands of black slaves.
Your five-block walk through the Old City will continue on with a visit to the Inquisition Plaza, or Bolivar Plaza, the main square of the city. Here, you will find the Inquisition Palace Museum, seat of the Spanish Inquisition for nearly two centuries. The museum displays tools of torture and a receipt for ransom paid to Sir Francis Drake in exchange for his agreement not to burn the city. With the cathedral on one side and the Inquisition Palace on the other, this plaza is full of history and beautiful Colonial buildings.
Following your visit, you will re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier.
During your guided visit at La Popa, you will view the ornate, 22-karat gold foil altar and a lovely, flower-filled courtyard.
Next, you will proceed for a photo stop at San Felipe Fortress, the largest Spanish fort in the New World. This fortress defended the city from several attacks, and withstood a bloody assault from British Admiral Vernon. From here, you will continue on to the Old City, which offers lovely views of the ocean. Upon arrival, a visit will be made to the Saint Peter Claver Church and Cloister, built in homage to the protector of slaves. You will view the remains of Saint Peter Claver, which are encased upon the High Altar.
A brief stop will then be made under the huge trees in the cloister's courtyard to see the well used by Saint Peter Claver to baptize tens of thousands of black slaves.
Your five-block walk through the Old City will continue on with a visit to the Inquisition Plaza, or Bolivar Plaza, the main square of the city. Here, you will find the Inquisition Palace Museum, seat of the Spanish Inquisition for nearly two centuries. The museum displays tools of torture and a receipt for ransom paid to Sir Francis Drake in exchange for his agreement not to burn the city. With the cathedral on one side and the Inquisition Palace on the other, this plaza is full of history and beautiful Colonial buildings.
Following your visit, you will re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier.
Cartagena Hop-On Hop-Off Tour (KE)
You can hop-on and off this fun-filled open top double-decker bus unlimited times at any of the stops and enjoy the city at your own pace. A 3-D map and bottle of water will be provided. The frequency of the buses is every 30-40 minutes.
#1 - From the pier, you’ll travel to the
#2 - Clock Tower - main entrance to the walled city. :
#3 – San Felipe Castle
#4 – Rafael Nunez Museum
#5 – Boquetillo Entrance to the Walled City
#6 – San Francisco Entrance to the Walled City
#7 – San Martin Avenue McDonalds
#8 – Bocagrande Beaches
#9 – Pirino Gallo Emerald Shop
#10 – Cartagena Bay
#11 – Naval Base
#12 – Bodeguita Pier
#13 – Port of Cartagena
Your tour also includes an optional 90-minute guided walking tour which showcases the major landmarks of the old city for those who wish to take advantage of this opportunity.
Please note: Walking on this tour is at the guests’ discretion during any stops they choose to get off the bus.
Those with mobility concerns are cautioned to carefully evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability. Weather appropriate clothing; sun cap; sunglasses; sunscreen; an umbrella; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. While the lower deck of the bus is air-conditioned, the open-top upper deck is not. The entire loop without stops is approximately 2 1/2 hours.
#2 - Clock Tower - main entrance to the walled city. :
#3 – San Felipe Castle
#4 – Rafael Nunez Museum
#5 – Boquetillo Entrance to the Walled City
#6 – San Francisco Entrance to the Walled City
#7 – San Martin Avenue McDonalds
#8 – Bocagrande Beaches
#9 – Pirino Gallo Emerald Shop
#10 – Cartagena Bay
#11 – Naval Base
#12 – Bodeguita Pier
#13 – Port of Cartagena
Your tour also includes an optional 90-minute guided walking tour which showcases the major landmarks of the old city for those who wish to take advantage of this opportunity.
Please note: Walking on this tour is at the guests’ discretion during any stops they choose to get off the bus.
Those with mobility concerns are cautioned to carefully evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability. Weather appropriate clothing; sun cap; sunglasses; sunscreen; an umbrella; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. While the lower deck of the bus is air-conditioned, the open-top upper deck is not. The entire loop without stops is approximately 2 1/2 hours.
