Excursion Cartagena city sights tour at Cartagena

Experience the Old World splendor of Cartagena during a scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion through this historic city.

San Felipe Fortress

Depart the pier for a short drive to the Old City. The first stop is at the scenic San Felipe Fortress. Strategically-located on the Hill of San Lazaro, this fortress originally known as Castillo de San Lazaro, dominated the approach to the city by land and sea. Construction of the fortress began in 1536 and it was expanded in 1657. After a visit of the Fortress, re-board the motor coach for a brief sightseeing drive through the Old City.

Old City Walking Tour, Caribbean Naval Museum and San Pedro Claver Church

Upon arrival to the walled city, walk down the ramp from Santiago's Bastion to San Juan de Dios Street and start your guided tour through the Old City. Along the way, admire stately Colonial buildings as you stroll along the narrow streets of this historic center. Stop for a visit to the Caribbean Naval Museum and learn about the Caribbean Natives' culture and trade routes. After enjoying a Folkloric Show, continue your walk around San Pedro Square and visit the 17th Century San Pedro Claver Church. Discover the plethora of exquisite statues and Old World furnishings honoring the missionary Saint Peter Clave, the patron saint of slaves.

Inquisition Palace

Next, proceed to Customs Square, site of the statue of Columbus and Palacio Municipal. Continue on to Bolivar Square, bordered by the Inquisition Palace on one side and a statue of Simon bolivar in the center of this square. Take a guided tour of the Inquisition Palace (also known as Historic Museum of Cartagena), one of the most noteworthy buildings of the Old City. With its overhanging balconies, cloisters and patios, this palace is a fine example of Colonial Baroque architecture. It now houses a museum and the office of the Historical Archives.

At the end of your guided walking tour, some free time will be available at Cartagena's Old City

Bocagrande and Manga

Reboard the bus and head for a scenic tour of the modern Bocagrande, which is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea on one side and the Bay of Cartagena on the other. Also drive through the residential area of Manga, home to the beautiful late 19th and early 20th century mansions before returning to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: San Felipe Fortress, Old City, Naval Museum, San Pedro Claver Church, Inquisition Palace, Bocagrande, Manga.

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