Cartagena, Spain, is a city that rewards explorers on foot. Its narrow, shaded streets reveal layers of history—Roman ruins, Art Nouveau facades, and lively food scenes—that make for memorable walking experiences. We particularly like the guided tapas tour, which combines authentic flavors with storytelling, and the Roman theater visit, offering a taste of ancient history. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or just love strolling through charming streets, Cartagena’s diversity makes it a perfect city to explore on foot.
This list features a variety of walking tours suited to different interests. From culinary adventures and Roman ruins to modernist architecture and city sights, each tour offers unique insights and experiences. Here’s a detailed look at the top six options to help you choose your perfect Cartagena walking experience.
1. Cartagena: Guided Walking Tour with Tapas and Drinks
On a two-and-a-half-hour stroll through Cartagena’s lively streets, this tour immerses you in local flavors and stories. It’s a perfect way to taste three carefully selected tapas and enjoy three drinks, all while learning about the city’s culture from an engaging guide. The tour begins at the Mare Nostrum meeting point, where your guide—wearing a white t-shirt and blue lanyard—will greet you, ready to lead you through the city’s culinary and historical highlights.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of gastronomy and storytelling. You’ll visit different spots to sample local products, from traditional cheeses to regional wines, while your guide shares insights into Cartagena’s past. The itinerary includes a mix of brief walking segments and tasting stops—ideal for anyone wanting an authentic taste of the city without a full day commitment.
Guests praise the friendly guide and the relaxed pace. With a high rating of 4.6/5 from 142 reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for first-timers or anyone who appreciates a laid-back yet informative experience. The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers the convenience of flexible booking, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Bottom Line: If you love food, culture, and a friendly guide, this tour offers a delightful introduction to Cartagena in just 2.5 hours, with plenty of tasty highlights.
2. Cartagena: Tapas Guided Walking Tour with Roman Theater
For those interested in combining culinary delights with ancient history, this two-hour tapas tour hits all the right notes. Rated an impressive 4.9/5 from 51 reviewers, it’s one of the most highly praised tours in Cartagena. Starting near the cruise terminal, this guided walk takes you through the city’s best tapas bars and reveals fascinating stories about the Roman theater, one of the city’s most significant archaeological sites.
What makes this tour truly special is the chance to taste three different tapas dishes at three separate locations, each paired with a drink. Along the way, your guide shares insights into the city’s Roman past, local cuisine, and social customs. The Roman theater itself is a highlight, offering a glimpse into Cartagena’s ancient roots and its ongoing archaeological discoveries.
Reviewers consistently mention how knowledgeable and engaging the guide, Candice or Diego, is—adding depth and humor to the experience. The small group format ensures personalized attention, and the proximity to the cruise port makes it a convenient option for travelers with limited time.
Bottom Line: This tour excels for travelers who want a combination of food, history, and intimate group settings, making it a perfect short introduction to Cartagena’s layered past and lively dining scene.
3. Cartagena: Ancient Roman Walking Tour with Entry Tickets
Step back into Roman times with this detailed 2.5-hour walking tour, which includes entry tickets to key sites. It’s tailored for those eager to explore Cartagena’s 3000-year-old history in depth. Your guide, Ellie, is praised for her clear explanations and passion for the city’s Roman heritage. The tour kicks off at Tablao de Levante, leading you on a route that covers Roman ruins, ancient monuments, and 19th- and 20th-century architecture.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of walking and entry to important Roman sites, providing a tangible connection to the past. Highlights include visiting Roman remains, viewing well-preserved ruins, and enjoying a tapa and drink at a popular local bar afterward. The inclusion of entry tickets means no fuss about waiting or searching for tickets yourself.
The tour’s reviews note how the guide’s knowledge makes history come alive. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive history lesson without sacrificing the chance to see the city’s modernist architecture and lively streets.
Bottom Line: If you’re fascinated by Roman history and seek an in-depth experience, this tour offers good value with its combination of guided walking and site access.
4. Cartagena: Guided City Walking Tour
This 2.5-hour tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Cartagena’s major sights. Led by an experienced guide, it covers Art Nouveau architecture on Mayor Street, the Plaza Héroes de Cavite, and the Roman theater. It’s a flexible option for travelers wanting a broad overview that includes both historic and modern highlights.
Guests appreciate the friendly guide who brings the city’s stories to life, and the tour’s pacing suits visitors who prefer a moderate walk without rushing. The focus on architecture and key landmarks makes this a good choice for travelers interested in urban design and cultural sites.
Pricing is around $47 per person, and the tour runs for 2.5 hours, making it a manageable way to see Cartagena’s highlights without a full day. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive city overview with a focus on Art Nouveau and Roman architecture.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers who want an all-around introduction, this tour balances city sights with historical anecdotes, perfect for first-time visitors.
5. Cartagena: Guided Walking Tour of the Historic Center
This 2-hour walk offers an insider’s look at Cartagena’s historic core. The tour highlights include the City Hall from 1900, the Isaac Peral Submarine, and the Roman Forum Museum. It’s a concise but rich experience for visitors keen to understand the city’s evolution from ancient to modern times.
While the detailed reviews are unavailable, the tour’s focus on urban and military history makes it appealing to those interested in architectural styles and Cartagena’s strategic importance. The inclusion of the Isaac Peral Submarine, a nod to innovation, adds a modern twist to the classic walk.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a compact yet informative experience that hits the highlights without a lengthy schedule. It’s perfect for a quick exploration or as part of a broader sightseeing plan.
Bottom Line: If your time is limited but you want a solid overview of Cartagena’s key landmarks and history, this tour provides a quick, engaging introduction.
6. Cartagena: Mediterranean Flavors Culinary Walking Tour
For food lovers who want more than just a taste, this 3.5-hour culinary walking tour offers a full immersion into regional cuisine. The show-cooking of paella, combined with visits to Santa Florentina Food Market and a guided tour, makes for a sensory-rich experience. The tour includes a refreshing sangria and a perfectly cooked paella served at the end.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on cooking and local ingredients, giving you the chance to see how regional dishes are prepared. The itinerary, which involves walking between markets, cooking classes, and historic streets, appeals to those who want an interactive experience that combines culinary skills and cultural insights.
With a rating of 4.8/5 from reviews, this tour is highly appreciated for its authenticity and educational value. It’s best suited for foodies eager to learn regional cooking techniques and enjoy a full meal as part of the experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a longer, hands-on experience that blends food, history, and community, this tour delivers a memorable gastronomic journey.
How to Choose Your Perfect Cartagena Walking Tour
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests and schedule. If you’re a food lover who appreciates tapas and local flavors, the Guided Walking Tour with Tapas and Drinks is an excellent pick. For history buffs, the Ancient Roman Walking Tour offers in-depth archaeological insights, especially if you want to visit Roman ruins with entry tickets included.
Those interested in city architecture and general sights will find the Guided City Walking Tour a balanced option. Meanwhile, the Culinary Flavors Tour is perfect if you want a full day of cooking, tasting, and exploring.
Consider your budget, time available, and specific interests—archaeology, food, architecture—and book early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Cartagena offers a wonderful range of walking tours that suit various tastes—from gastronomy and Roman history to architecture and local culture. If you’re a history enthusiast, the Roman-themed tours deliver well with their detailed storytelling and site visits. For foodies, the tapas and culinary tours provide memorable flavors and hands-on experiences.
For a broad overview, the guided city tour balances sights with stories. And if you have more time, the longer culinary experience combines cooking, tasting, and sightseeing for a satisfying full-day adventure.
No matter your choice, booking early is wise—Cartagena’s small group tours fill quickly, especially during the busy season. Whichever tour you pick, you’re sure to leave with a richer understanding of this fascinating city.
