Day 01
Walking Tour of Cartagena's Historic Highlights
- Meet your tour guide at Camellón de Los Mártires, where you will be introduced to the geographical reason why the Spanish conquistadores chose this spot as a safe box for their treasures. From here, you will also enjoy views of the new 4 Seasons Hotel, the Convention Center, and the La Bodeguita dock at the inlet, or caleta, of Cartagena Bay.
- Walk through the Torre del Reloj and enter the walls of the most desired port city of the Caribbean Sea, dating back to the colonial days.
- Visit Plaza de los Coches, where your guide will share the story of Cartagena's foundation. Explore the plaza to see Cartagena Cathedral and other historical architecture.
- Continue to the famous Portál de Los Dulces, where you will see the local sweet treats offered here since the 19th century.
- Proceed to the magnificent Plaza de la Aduana, where the riches of Spain are represented in gold, silver, emeralds, pearls, and fruits. In addition to Palacio de la Aduana and its beautiful architecture, this spot offers a deeper look into the local culture and history.
- Learn about San Pedro Cláver, a Jesuit priest who dedicated his life to being 'the slave of the slaves,' at Plaza de San Pedro. At Portál de Los Escribanos, learn about Colombian beauty queens.
- See the important statue of 'Libertador' Simón Bolívar, the father of the nation, in Parque Bolívar.
- Admire the architecture of Palacio de La Inquisición, and learn more about the institution of the Catholic Church and how it worked like a secret police force for the Pope and the Vatican.
- Your guide will then lead you through the beautiful cobbled streets of the town to visit Plaza de Santo Domingo, where you will see a sculpture of Gertrudis, also known as La Gorda de Botero.
