Getting ashore
Ships dock at the Cartagena cruise terminal about 4 km from the walled Old City. A free shuttle often runs from the pier to the terminal building. The terminal has shops, a café and taxi desks. The area outside the gates is industrial.
Watch-outs
Do not walk from the port into town. Use the terminal taxis or the shuttle. The Old City streets are cobbled and uneven. They can be hot with little shade at midday. Agree the taxi fare at the official desk. Street vendors and helpers are persistent near the walls.
Getting into the Old City
Official taxis leave from the terminal. The ride to the Clock Tower entrance takes about 10–15 minutes. The Old City is fully walkable once you are inside the walls. From one end to the other is about 30 minutes at a steady pace. No practical public bus for this short hop.
Taxis & ride apps
Use the taxis inside the terminal. The fare to the Old City or Getsemaní is fixed by the city. About 37,000 pesos for up to four people one way. Uber works in the city but pickup at the port is limited. Agree the price before you leave. Name the cruise terminal for the return.
What to do nearby
Once inside the walls, walk the plazas, churches and balconied streets. The Clock Tower, San Felipe Castle and the city walls are the main points. Getsemaní is just outside for more cafés and street art. All of this is on foot after the taxi drop-off.
Going further
Bocagrande beach strip is a short taxi ride. The Rosario Islands need a boat from a marina and take most of the day. Castillo San Felipe is a short ride from the Old City. Arrange any longer taxi with a clear return time.
Food & shopping
The Old City has restaurants in the plazas and side streets. Emerald and craft shops line the main lanes. The terminal has a duty-free area. Cards work in larger places. Cash in pesos is useful for small vendors and taxis.
Opening times & connectivity
Shops open about 9 or 10 and stay open until 7 or later when ships are in. Museums close earlier. Free Wi-Fi at the terminal and many cafés. Spanish is the language; English is spoken in tourist spots. Emergency number is 123.
Accessibility & mobility
The port to town requires a taxi. Inside the walls the streets are cobbled and uneven. A wheelchair needs a taxi that can stop close to a flat entrance. Ask the ship about the gangway. Name the cruise terminal for the return.