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Standing before Convento de San Francisco, the red-brick church feels like it’s been kissed by time—its Gothic arches and Spanish colonial style blend seamlessly, as if you’ve stepped straight into a 16th-century dream. When afternoon sun slants across the weathered walls, light dances through history, filling the air with quiet reverence. Don’t miss the rooftop view—climb up and gaze over the entire historic cityscape, where the feeling of being embraced by centuries is truly unforgettable!
This hotel is your dream destination! With its elegant and luxurious design, extra-large beds, and comfortable air conditioning, you'll enjoy a restful stay every night. The Jardín Restaurant serves sustainable cuisine made with fresh ingredients, while El Caustro offers a charming outdoor space to unwind. Relax at the spa center or by the poolside bar. Whether for business or family trips, the hotel’s meeting rooms, fitness center, and childcare services cater to all your needs. Don’t miss out!
Everything you need to know about Convento de San Francisco
Hotel San Francisco is a top choice, housed within the historic complex of the Convento de San Francisco itself. Originally a 16th-century Franciscan convent, this boutique hotel blends colonial architecture with modern comforts—featuring stone walls, arched windows, and tranquil courtyards. Some rooms offer direct views of the convent’s serene cloisters.
The hotel provides complimentary guided tours, allowing guests to explore the rich religious history and architectural details of the site. Located just a 10-minute walk from Cartagena’s Old Town, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring cobbled streets, local markets, and authentic Caribbean cuisine.
Unique experiences include attending morning prayers at the convent, live Andean folk music performances, and a curated colonial-themed dinner hosted by local chefs, offering an immersive taste of Colombian heritage.
Near the Convento de San Francisco, visitors can enjoy immersive cultural experiences. Daily morning religious services are open to the public, offering a rare glimpse into colonial-era spiritual life.
The site hosts regular Andean folk music and dance performances, showcasing Colombia’s rich indigenous and mestizo heritage. Guided "Colonial Life" walking tours explore the convent’s library, chapel, and storerooms, revealing how monks lived and preserved knowledge centuries ago.
Guests may also join hands-on workshops such as traditional chocolate-making using native cacao beans or artisan bread baking with colonial-era recipes. These interactive sessions provide deep insights into Cartagena’s culinary and cultural roots, making them ideal for travelers seeking authentic, meaningful encounters.
The Convento de San Francisco is centrally located in Cartagena’s Old Town, making it easy to reach major attractions on foot. Key sites like Castillo San Felipe, Plaza de la Aduana, and Baluarte de la Popa are all within a 10- to 30-minute walk.
For farther destinations, frequent local electric minibus routes (rutas) operate nearby, taking about 10 minutes to reach areas like the Walled City perimeter or Getsemaní district. Affordable and efficient, these services are ideal for short hops.
Additionally, shared e-bike rental stations are available nearby, perfect for leisurely exploration along cobblestone alleys and past colorful colonial facades. The central location ensures that most historic landmarks and artisan markets are accessible without long commutes, maximizing your time in the city’s vibrant heart.
Hotel Las Palmas, just a 5-minute walk from Convento de San Francisco, offers a perfect blend of colonial charm and modern comfort. Its rooms feature traditional brick walls, wrought-iron balconies, and views of the convent’s historic façade. The hotel provides complimentary guided tours that delve into the 16th-century church and rare religious artworks within the convent, transforming your stay into a rich cultural experience.
The Convento de San Francisco is just a 10-minute walk from downtown Cartagena’s historic center. Head along Calle de la Popa or Calle de San Pedro, where you’ll pass charming 17th-century cobblestone streets and vibrant colonial facades. For a more relaxed option, use local ride-sharing apps like Didi Cartagena or rent a bike—designated parking zones are available nearby. Several tour buses also stop close to the site, making it ideal for day-trippers.
Don’t miss the Chapel of the Assumption, whose ceiling features exquisite Baroque frescoes depicting angels and saints. The Convent Library houses over 3,000 manuscripts from the 16th to 18th centuries, including rare texts on indigenous languages and early colonial history. The tranquil cloister garden, still preserving its original Franciscan prayer walk, offers a peaceful space to reflect. Guided tours led by expert historians provide deeper insight into this well-preserved religious heritage.
Join the daily 10 a.m. prayer ceremony at the convent to witness authentic Franciscan rituals and Latin chants. Every weekend, Plaza de San Francisco hosts a vibrant artisan market featuring local ceramics, embroidery, and traditional coffee beans, accompanied by live Andean music. For a deeper cultural dive, book a colonial-era lifestyle workshop—learn to craft candles and handmade paper while dressing in period attire, creating memorable photos and lasting souvenirs.
The Convento de San Francisco is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on Mondays. Admission costs 20,000 COP (~$5 USD), with half-price tickets for students. Pre-book guided tours via the official website to skip lines and receive personalized commentary. For access to the library and chapel, purchase a combined ticket ($10) that includes audio guides and all indoor exhibits. Multilingual brochures are available on-site for self-guided visits.
Casa de la Tía Chona is a must-visit, serving authentic Caribbean-style fried fish and yuca flatbread with spicy sauce in a restored 18th-century house with hand-painted beams and ceramic tiles. Another top pick is La Casona del Pescador, specializing in fresh seafood delivered daily from the harbor. Their signature dish, grilled sea bass with mango salsa, captures the region’s coastal flavors. Both restaurants are within a 5-minute walk, perfect for a leisurely post-convent meal.
See what other travelers say about Convento de San Francisco
Staying at the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena was an absolute delight. As one of only three luxury hotels in the city and the largest among them, it truly feels like stepping into living history. The garden featured in the photo is lush with tropical greenery, surrounded by weathered columns and ancient stone walls—perfect for a peaceful breakfast in the morning sun. I’d heard great things from fellow travelers online, and being an Accor member, I decided to book here. From the start, the service was warm, professional, and genuinely attentive. What surprised me most? They handed me a welcome gift—a generous bag of Colombian coffee! Such a thoughtful touch that made my stay feel extra special. I also happened to witness several wedding celebrations during my visit—families in full formal attire gathering in the courtyard, capturing memories against this stunning backdrop. That final photo had me laughing out loud. This hotel isn’t just about luxury—it’s about soul, heritage, and unforgettable moments.
Staying at Hotel Boutique Bovedas de Santa Clara by Accor in Cartagena's walled city was an absolute highlight of my trip. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help. The rooms are beautifully designed with a perfect mix of modern comfort and colonial charm. What truly sets this hotel apart is the access to the facilities at Hotel Santa Clara, including the rooftop pool and fitness center—such a fantastic bonus! Everything about this place feels luxurious yet welcoming. I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Cartagena who wants a stylish, central base with exceptional service and value. A must-stay!
The hotel is basic but meets all the essentials perfectly. It's well located—super easy to get around, just a short walk from the historic center and right next to what feels like a private beach. The staff were incredibly welcoming from the doorman to the front desk, always going the extra mile. Breakfast was excellent with a great buffet, and they even made special arepas for us—such a nice touch! Overall, it’s a fantastic value for money and a highly recommended stay in Cartagena.
Staying at Hotel Ayenda Casa Cano 1805 was a perfect experience from start to finish. The place is immaculately clean, and the front desk staff were welcoming and efficient. What stood out most was how close it is to the airport—just a 2-block walk, making early departures stress-free. It’s exactly what we were looking for: a quiet, comfortable stay with great value. Highly recommend this gem in Cartagena if you want convenience without sacrificing quality.
Staying at HMC Palenque Casa Hotel by HMC was an absolute delight. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from the heart of Cartagena, making it super easy to explore the city on foot. I especially loved the cocktail recommendations from Daniel Salazar—he knows his craft! Every drink was perfectly balanced, refreshing, and full of flavor. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a lovely mix of local charm and modern comfort. Staff went above and beyond with their hospitality—friendly, attentive, and always smiling. From check-in to checkout, every interaction felt genuine and personal. This place truly delivers on comfort, service, and character. I’d recommend it 100% to anyone visiting Cartagena. A standout stay!
Hotel Casa Andrea in Bocagrande, Cartagena, offers an unbeatable location and excellent value for money. The hotel is just steps away from the beach, restaurants, shops, and 24-hour supermarkets—everything you need is within easy reach. I was especially impressed by the room layout; the space is flexible and well-designed, making it perfect for families or groups who want to customize their setup. The staff went above and beyond with their warm and attentive service, making us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. Despite being in a lively tourist area, the neighborhood remains peaceful and safe. With a solid 8/10 rating, this place truly delivers on comfort, convenience, and charm. If you're visiting Cartagena, this is definitely a top choice for a stress-free, enjoyable stay.
Staying at Juna Hotel Boutique in Cartagena was an absolute delight from start to finish. The staff were incredibly warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home the moment we arrived. The hotel’s interior has a unique, artistic charm with a peaceful, elegant vibe that stands out among other places we’ve stayed in. It’s perfectly located just a short walk from the historic Old Town—great for exploring on foot, and public transport is super convenient nearby. Our room was spotless, beautifully designed, and had everything we needed, including a comfy bed that made for a restful night's sleep. What really impressed us was how much value we got for the price—luxury vibes without the luxury price tag. If you're visiting Cartagena, this is a must-try. I’ll definitely be recommending it to friends and returning myself.
The hotel was absolutely fantastic—every single detail exceeded my expectations. From the moment I arrived, the staff were warm and welcoming, offering helpful tips about local attractions. My room was spacious, impeccably clean, and had a modern, inviting vibe with excellent air conditioning—perfect for the tropical climate. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and I slept like a baby throughout the night. I especially appreciated the complimentary breakfast, which included fresh fruit, local pastries, and coffee that tasted just like what you’d find in a neighborhood café. Location-wise, it’s within walking distance of major sights and public transit, making exploration super easy. Overall, this place delivers an outstanding experience with great value. I’ll definitely be back—highly recommend!
To be honest, I never actually stayed at this hotel as a guest—I was staying across the street at another property that didn’t quite live up to expectations. Still, I kept finding myself drawn to San Pedro Suite Hotel just to take in its inviting and mysterious entrance. Once inside, I explained to the staff that I was only curious about the place, and they welcomed me with open arms. They even let me enjoy their rooftop hot tub and magical swimming pool—completely free of charge. I ended up booking some spa treatments, which were absolutely worth it. The manager was incredibly warm and engaging—we talked late into the night, sharing stories and laughter. We stayed in touch for a while after, but life took us in different directions. Still, that one visit left such a lasting impression that I now dream of returning to Cartagena—not just for the city, but specifically for a romantic getaway at this hidden gem. It’s not just a hotel; it’s an experience.
The service at Hotel Amoek is exceptional—friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming from the moment you arrive. Every staff member goes the extra mile to make your stay comfortable and memorable. The location is fantastic, just a short walk from the historic old town and nearby metro access makes exploring the city effortless. Rooms are clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed with modern comforts. It's rare to find such a high level of hospitality and value in one place. I couldn't recommend this hotel more—it’s a true gem in Cartagena.
I wouldn't recommend this property. While the location in Cartagena is convenient—close to downtown and easy to get around by public transit—the actual condition of the apartment was far from what we expected. The unit felt dirty and poorly maintained, with visible dust and grime in corners and crevices. To our horror, there were cockroaches everywhere—under the sink, in the kitchen, even near the bed. The appliances shown in the photos didn’t work at all: the air conditioner was broken, the stove wouldn’t ignite, and the fridge barely cooled. It’s clear the listing photos are misleading. We ended up spending more time fixing issues than enjoying our stay. For a better experience, I’d suggest looking elsewhere—there are definitely much cleaner, more reliable options in the area.
Playa Norte Hotel is a great choice if you're looking for a quiet, comfortable stay just outside the city center. While it's a bit farther from downtown Cartagena, the location offers peace and relaxation without being too isolated. The nearby market is super convenient for grabbing fresh groceries or local snacks—no need to travel far. Getting into the city is easy via taxi or public transit, making it a good balance between tranquility and accessibility. Overall, a solid option with excellent value.
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