Cartagena, Colombia

Start your day early in the Walled City—the heart of old Cartagena. The streets are quiet in the morning, and the heat hasn’t kicked in yet. You’ll see colorful buildings, small plazas, and balconies covered in flowers. It’s the perfect time to take a walk, grab some coffee, and see the city before the crowds show up. Don’t miss the Clock Tower Gate or Plaza de los Coches, two of the most iconic spots in the area.

After breakfast, head to Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, a huge stone fortress built by the Spanish to stop pirate attacks. You can walk up to the top for great views of the city and explore the dark tunnels below. It’s not a long visit, but it’s worth it to understand how Cartagena was defended for centuries.

For lunch, head to the Bocagrande area or back near Getsemaní and find a restaurant that serves local seafood. Try fried fish, coconut rice, and plantains—it’s one of the most common meals on the coast. If you’re up for it, try some fresh ceviche with a cold beer or a juice made from tropical fruit.

The Chiva bus tour is one of the most fun and easy ways to explore Cartagena when you’re short on time. These colorful, open-air buses pick up cruise ship passengers right near the port and take them on a lively ride through the city. Along the way, you’ll pass by major landmarks like the Walled City, San Felipe Castle, and La India Catalina statue, all while a local guide shares stories, jokes, and music. Some Chiva tours include short stops for photos, while others include drinks and live instruments on board, turning the whole ride into a rolling party. It’s a lighthearted and memorable way to see Cartagena in just a few hours.

Perched on the highest hill in Cartagena, the La Popa Monastery offers panoramic views of the entire city, the coastline, and even the bay where your cruise ship is docked. Originally built in the early 1600s, this peaceful hilltop convent is filled with colonial-era religious art, a small chapel, and a beautiful courtyard surrounded by arched columns. It’s a quiet place away from the city noise, perfect for taking photos or learning more about the spiritual side of Cartagena’s history. A visit here is short but meaningful, and it fits easily into a half-day city tour from the cruise terminal.