Cartagena, with its mix of ancient ruins, lively streets, and coastal beauty, offers a level of tour variety that can satisfy nearly any traveler. Whether you’re dreaming of scenic rides outside the city, exploring Roman ruins, or tasting the flavors of the region, Cartagena’s tours deliver authentic experiences that go beyond the typical sightseeing bus. We especially like the Luxury Rewaco Trike “The Fun In The Sun Tour” for its open-air adventure through villages and mountains, and the Roman exploration for its immersive history. These tours capture the essence of Cartagena’s diverse attractions, making your visit memorable and meaningful.
In this list, we cover a broad spectrum: private guided walks, off-road trike rides, Roman archaeological tours, food tastings, and even horseback riding—each with unique highlights. Whether you’re a history lover, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s something here for you. Below, we dig into each tour, sharing what makes them special.
1. Luxury Rewaco Trike “The Fun In The Sun Tour”
Explore beyond Cartagena’s city center with this private scenic trike ride through the mountain range between Cartagena and Mar Menor. You meet your guide at the Yacht Port, then set out on a 3-hour journey that takes you through traditional villages, lemon groves, and old mining areas. The tour is perfect for those wanting to see local villages, farmland, and mountains in a relaxed outdoor setting. Guests praise the personalized experience and the stories about local history and heritage, making it a standout option for those who love a mix of adventure and education. The small-group setup ensures plenty of attention, and the open-air ride is a refreshing way to enjoy the outdoors.
This tour is best suited for travelers comfortable with short rides and those wanting to maximize their time outside the crowded city. The reviews highlight how much fun and informative it is, with one saying, “So glad we chose this tour!”
Bottom Line: If you want a fun, private way to explore Cartagena’s nearby mountains and villages, this trike tour delivers a memorable outdoors experience.
2. Luxury Rewaco Trike “The Photo Blaster Tour”
For a shorter, photo-focused ride, the Photo Blaster Tour offers a 2-hour adventure through Cartagena and its scenic surroundings. Your chauffeur doubles as your photographer, stopping at coastal viewpoints like Portman Bay and the abandoned mines in La Union. You’ll cruise through mountains and along rugged coastal roads, taking in stunning vistas while your guide shares stories about the area’s history.
Guests rave about how comfortable the ride is and the professional attitude of the guides. “Stephanie was knowledgeable and passionate,” one reviewer notes. The tour is ideal for those wanting to see and photograph Cartagena’s beautiful landscapes without the hassle of driving. You can book multiple trikes for group outings, making it flexible for families or friends.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a stylish, photo-rich way to see Cartagena’s natural beauty with a friendly, knowledgeable guide handling the driving.
3. Diving Baptism in the Marine Reserve of Cabo Tiñoso
If you’re eager to experience the sea like a fish, the Diving baptism in Cabo Tiñoso’s Marine Reserve is perfect. This 3-hour session introduces beginners to the underwater world with a basic dive experience that requires no previous training. You’ll breathe underwater, feel weightless, and see marine life in its natural habitat. It’s a fantastic way for non-divers to get a taste of scuba diving, or for those who want to try something different during their visit.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on safety and the chance to try diving in an protected marine area. Reviews mention how accommodating and professional the instructors are, making beginners feel comfortable. It’s suited for anyone seeking an active, outdoor experience that’s both fun and educational.
Bottom Line: For a low-pressure intro to scuba diving, this is a top choice, especially if you want to add a splash of adventure to your trip.
4. 3 Tapas Cartagena Walking Tour
If you’re into local flavors and history, the 3 Tapas Cartagena walking tour combines both effortlessly. Starting at the port, your small group heads to the Parque Torres for panoramic views and then walks to the Roman Theatre—one of the city’s must-see ancient sites. The tour continues through the city’s vibrant streets, stopping at traditional bars for three different tapas and drinks—from beer to wine or soft drinks—while your guide shares stories about Cartagena’s 3,000-year history.
With a 4.5-star rating, guests say it’s an up-close, authentic way to experience the city’s food, history, and lively street life. It’s perfect for foodies and history lovers alike, providing a relaxed pace in a small-group setting.
Bottom Line: A flavorful way to explore Cartagena’s ancient roots and modern social scene in just 3 hours, ideal for food and history enthusiasts.
5. Cartagena and Murcia – Full Day Shore Excursion
For those with a full day, this full-day shore excursion combines two cities—Cartagena and Murcia—into one seamless trip. It’s designed to avoid the crowds and give a comprehensive look at the region’s highlights. You’ll visit the Cervantes House, the Romeo Theater, and explore Murcia’s impressive Cathedral, all with a professional guide. The trip includes visits to historic sites and scenic spots in both cities.
Guests appreciate the relaxed pace and local insights, noting the tour’s good organization. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to see the region without worrying about the logistics.
Bottom Line: Ideal for cruise passengers wanting an all-in-one experience of Cartagena and Murcia, with expert guidance and minimal hassle.
6. Private Historical Roman Walking Tour of Cartagena
If your passion is Roman history, then this personalized 4-hour tour is hard to beat. The private guide takes you to key sites like the Roman Theatre, the Punic Wall from 3 B.C., and Calle Mayor, the city’s main street. You’ll get to walk at your own pace and enjoy a tailored experience that covers Cartagena’s Roman heritage in depth.
The reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides like Daniel make the history come alive, sharing stories behind each ruin. This tour is particularly suited for history buffs who want a customized, intimate experience with a focus on archaeological sites.
Bottom Line: For a deep dive into Cartagena’s Roman past, a private guide makes this tour engaging and informative.
7. Shore Excursion: 4-Hour Cartagena Walking Tour
This 4-hour private walking tour covers Cartagena’s top landmarks like the Roman Theater, the Roman Forum, and the magnificent Art Nouveau Cervantes House. Ideal for cruise travelers, it offers an inside look at the city’s architectural diversity and ancient sites.
Guests commend the flexibility and knowledge of guides such as Jorde and Ula, who adapt the tour to your pace and interests. It’s a great way to see the highlights and get a feel for the city’s vibe in a few hours.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers with limited time who want a comprehensive, personalized introduction to Cartagena.
8. Murcia and Cartagena Shore Excursion Private Tour
This tailored full-day private tour offers a deep dive into both Murcia and Cartagena. You’ll visit Murcia’s impressive Cathedral and the Real Casino, then explore Cartagena’s Punic Wall and Roman Theatre, all with your personal guide. The tour’s strength is in its flexibility, allowing you to customize the itinerary and spend more time at your favorite sites.
Guests note the expert narration and the opportunity to see less touristy spots, making it ideal for travelers who want a personalized experience.
Bottom Line: For a full-day, private exploration with emphasis on archaeology and architecture, this tour is a top choice.
9. Private 4-hour Walking Tour of Cartagena
This private tour offers a personalized 4-hour exploration with an official guide. You’ll visit the Roman Theater, Castillo de la Concepcion, and other highlights. The guides are praised for their extensive knowledge and ability to adjust the pace based on your interests and mobility.
Guests appreciate how the insider insights bring the city’s sights to life. It’s suited for travelers who want a balanced, informative overview of Cartagena’s main attractions.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a private, flexible tour with expert narration.
10. Murcia Full Day Private Tour from Cartagena
This private full-day tour takes you from Cartagena to Murcia’s highlights, including the Cathedral, Royal Casino, and Roman archaeology. It’s perfect for travelers who want to spend a full day exploring the region with a dedicated guide, enjoying customized stops and local tastes like the region’s famous meat pies.
Guests love the personalized pace and the seamless experience, emphasizing the value of having a dedicated guide show you the best spots.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a relaxed, comprehensive day trip tailored specifically to your interests.
11. Roman Exploration in Cartagena (Spain)
For an affordable introduction to Cartagena’s Roman sites, this Roman exploration offers a 2.5-hour guided walk that includes the Roman Theatre, the Roman Forum, and some light refreshments. With a 4-star rating and a price under $54, it’s a good budget option for history lovers wanting a guided overview.
Guests highlight how informative and friendly the guide was, making it a value-packed experience. It’s best suited for those with limited time but a strong interest in Roman history.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, guided introduction to Cartagena’s Roman ruins.
12. Shore Excursion: Cartagena Half-Day Private Tour
This half-day private tour is well-suited for cruise passengers wanting a customized, efficient overview of Cartagena’s main sights. It covers Roman remains, the Punic Wall, and top city streets, with a local guide providing personal attention.
Guests appreciate the flexibility and the opportunity to see key landmarks like the Roman Theater and Calle Mayor without rushing.
Bottom Line: A great choice for a short, personalized visit during a port stop, ensuring you hit the highlights.
13. Ancient Rome Wine Tasting in Cartagena Spain
Add a taste of antiquity with this unique Ancient Rome Wine Tasting. Visiting the Casa de la Fortuna and Cartago Mundi, you’ll sample wines, cheeses, and sauces recreated from Roman recipes. The experience lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours and immerses you in Roman culinary traditions.
Reviewers say it’s “highly recommended” for its engaging storytelling and authentic flavors. This tour is a hit for foodies or anyone interested in how ancient cultures enjoyed their meals and drinks.
Bottom Line: For a fun, immersive culinary experience rooted in history, this wine tasting offers a delicious way to connect with Cartagena’s past.
14. Cartagena – Private Historic Walking Tour
This private historic walk takes you through the city’s main sites, including the City Hall, San Francisco Square, and Calle Mayor. It’s a 2-hour tour that offers a quick yet rich overview, perfect for travelers wanting a personalized snapshot of Cartagena’s architecture and landmarks.
The guide’s enthusiasm and local insights are frequently praised, making it a relaxed but comprehensive introduction.
Bottom Line: Compact and private, this tour suits travelers who want to cover the essentials in a short time.
15. Horseback Riding in Cartagena (Spain)
Get your legs moving with this Horseback Riding tour through Calblanque Regional Park. It’s a 2.5-hour ride suitable for all ages and experience levels, with trained horses and a knowledgeable guide. The ride takes you through coastal and forested terrain, offering a different perspective of Cartagena’s natural surroundings.
Guests commend the rescue horses’ gentle nature and the relaxed pace, making it good for families or beginners. The tour balances outdoor activity with scenic views, and the included lessons ensure everyone is comfortable.
Bottom Line: Perfect for outdoor lovers and families seeking a gentle ride in a scenic park.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Cartagena
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your interests, budget, physical activity level, and how much time you want to dedicate. If you’re passionate about Roman history, the private walking tours or exploration trips will satisfy your curiosity. For a more relaxed outdoor experience, the trike rides (Fun in the Sun) or horseback riding (Horseback Riding) are excellent choices. Foodies and culture seekers will appreciate the Tapas walking tour and wine tasting, while those on a tight schedule might prefer shorter tours.
Booking early can ensure you get your preferred date, especially during peak season. Also, check whether tours are private or small-group, depending on your comfort with social settings.
Final Thoughts
Cartagena offers a broad suite of tours tailored to diverse interests and activity levels. For adventure and landscape lovers, the trike tours provide a fantastic outdoor perspective. History enthusiasts will find plenty to love in the Roman explorations and guided walks, while foodies can indulge in tapas and wine tastings that bring the city’s flavors to life. A few standout options include the Luxury Rewaco Trike “The Fun In The Sun Tour”, which combines scenery and heritage, and the private Roman walking tours, perfect for those wanting a deep dive into ancient history.
Whether you’re after a leisurely ride, a history-focused exploration, or a culinary adventure, Cartagena’s tours promise memorable moments. Remember to book early and pick the experience that best matches your interests, pace, and budget. With so many options, your perfect Cartagena tour is just a click away.
