The city walls of Cartagena de Indias are one of the best-preserved examples of Spanish colonial military architecture in the Americas. Walking along the top of the walls — particularly the section between the Clock Tower (Torre del Reloj) and Las Bóvedas — is one of the essential experiences of the city. The views out over the Caribbean and back over the terracotta rooftops of the old city are excellent, and the breeze off the water makes it bearable even in the heat.
The walls are lined with cannons and dotted with bastions and sentry posts. The best time to walk them is late afternoon, when the light turns golden and the temperature drops slightly. Several bars and restaurants sit right on the walls, including Café del Mar, which is overpriced but well-positioned for sunset cocktails.