Convento de la Popa
Historic 17th-century convent atop Cartagena's highest hill, offering breathtaking panoramic city views and a serene cloister.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Convento de la Popa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 17th-century convent atop Cartagena's highest hill, offering breathtaking panoramic city views and a serene cloister.
"The views are amazing, stunning and flabbergasting!!"
Vendor Savvy
Be aware of insistent vendors outside. If offered something 'free,' expect a sales pitch later. :moneywithwings:
Budget for Entry
Entrance fee is around $5 USD. Official guides are available for an additional fee. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views
Top of the hill
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Cartagena, from modern skyscrapers to historic districts.

Leafy Cloister
Inner courtyard
A serene and beautiful courtyard offering a peaceful escape and a glimpse into the convent's history.
Historical Significance
Throughout the convent
Explore the 17th-century architecture and learn about the convent's rich past as a spiritual retreat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and the Crowds
Navigating to the Top
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Robbed @ gunpoint, Convento de la Popa, Cartagena, Colombia. Please help!
Vendor Savvy
Be aware of insistent vendors outside. If offered something 'free,' expect a sales pitch later. :moneywithwings:
Budget for Entry
Entrance fee is around $5 USD. Official guides are available for an additional fee. :ticket:
First Trip to Cartagena
Uber Pick-up
Uber can be a bit tricky for pick-up and drop-off. Plan accordingly. :car:
Short Visit Time
Most visitors find 30 minutes to an hour is sufficient to explore. :stopwatch:
Tips
from all over the internet
Vendor Savvy
Be aware of insistent vendors outside. If offered something 'free,' expect a sales pitch later. :moneywithwings:
Budget for Entry
Entrance fee is around $5 USD. Official guides are available for an additional fee. :ticket:
Uber Pick-up
Uber can be a bit tricky for pick-up and drop-off. Plan accordingly. :car:
Short Visit Time
Most visitors find 30 minutes to an hour is sufficient to explore. :stopwatch:
Comfortable Shoes
The climb to the convent is steep, so wear comfortable footwear. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Convento de la Popa for its absolutely stunning and flabbergasting panoramic views of Cartagena. The peaceful cloister and historical ambiance are also highly appreciated. Some travelers note that reaching the convent can be a bit of a hassle, and the vendors outside can be quite insistent.
"The view from the Convent is the best in the city. The Convent itself has a beautiful inner courtyard and you are able to walk around and explore a few areas. Beware that the vendors outside the entrance, while very nice, are quite insistent. If you take a key chain for “free” on the way in, you will be expected to visit them on the way out and buy something. The prices are high and they do not like to tell you upfront. However, this is how they make their living, so it is nice to support them. Just have your eyes open going into the process."
Shara Khon Duncan
"The Convent of Santa Cruz de la Popa is more than just a historical monument—it’s a peaceful retreat that connects you with the rich tapestry of Cartagena’s past. I would highly recommend a visit to anyone who wants to experience a blend of history, spirituality, and stunning vistas."
HG W
"from this place there is a beautiful panorama of the city, you can see the modern buildings of the Bocagrande district but also the poor districts of the city of Cartagena. It is enough for a 30-minute tour"
themostunknowntraveler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common ways to reach the Convento de la Popa are by taxi or ride-sharing services like Uber. The convent is located on the city's highest hill, so expect a climb. Some visitors mention that Uber can be a bit picky about pick-up and drop-off points. For the adventurous and fit, it's possible to walk, but be prepared for a steep ascent.
Getting transportation back can sometimes be a bit of a 'faff,' as one traveler put it. While taxis are available, ride-sharing apps might have intermittent service. It's advisable to have a backup plan or to coordinate with your driver if possible.
Public bus routes directly to the convent are not as common or straightforward as taxis. Most visitors opt for more direct transportation methods like taxis or ride-sharing services for convenience, especially given the convent's elevated location.
While walking is the cheapest option, it's a strenuous climb. If you're on a budget, consider sharing a taxi or Uber with other travelers to split the cost. Research local bus routes, though they may require transfers and a longer travel time.
The travel time to Convento de la Popa from the historic center of Cartagena typically ranges from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and your starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for the Convento de la Popa is generally around $5 USD. This price is considered quite reasonable for the stunning views and historical experience it offers.
Advance booking for Convento de la Popa tickets is typically not required. You can usually purchase your admission upon arrival. However, it's always a good idea to check their official website or recent visitor information for any changes.
Yes, there are official guides available inside the convent who can provide historical context and insights. They typically charge around $8 USD for their services. Many visitors find the signage sufficient if they prefer to explore independently.
The opening hours for Convento de la Popa can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's best to confirm the exact times closer to your visit, as they may change seasonally or for special events.
As a religious site, it's respectful to dress modestly when visiting Convento de la Popa. While there isn't a strict dress code enforced, avoiding overly revealing clothing is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The absolute best spots for photos are along the perimeter walls offering sweeping panoramic views of Cartagena. The inner cloister also provides beautiful architectural shots with its leafy courtyard. Capture the contrast between the historic convent and the modern city skyline.
Photography is generally permitted inside Convento de la Popa, especially in the public areas and the cloister. However, always be mindful of any signs or staff instructions regarding photography in specific areas, particularly if there are ongoing religious services.
Absolutely! The views from Convento de la Popa are consistently described as 'amazing,' 'stunning,' and 'flabbergasting.' It's one of the primary reasons visitors flock to the convent, offering unparalleled perspectives of the entire city.
Late afternoon, especially during the golden hour, is ideal for photography at Convento de la Popa. The soft, warm light enhances the cityscapes and the architecture. Early mornings can also offer good light with fewer crowds.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical and religious sites like Convento de la Popa to preserve the atmosphere and for safety reasons. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
🎫 🤔 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that 30 minutes to an hour is sufficient to explore Convento de la Popa. This allows time to take in the views, wander through the cloister, and appreciate the historical ambiance.
The main attractions are the breathtaking panoramic views of Cartagena, the peaceful and leafy cloister, and the historical architecture of the 17th-century convent itself. It's a place for reflection and appreciating the city's past and present.
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available. However, don't expect extensive amenities like cafes or gift shops directly within the convent. It's advisable to use facilities before your visit and bring any snacks or water you might need.
The convent is located on a hill, and while the main areas are accessible, navigating the grounds might present challenges for those with significant mobility issues. The climb to reach it can also be difficult.
Be prepared for insistent vendors outside the entrance. They may offer items for 'free' but expect you to purchase something on your way out. While they are trying to make a living, it's good to be aware of their sales tactics to avoid surprises.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Convento de la Popa
Beyond its religious importance, the convent's elevated position made it a crucial lookout point. Throughout Cartagena's history, its commanding views offered early warnings of approaching ships, playing a role in the city's defense. Today, it stands as a symbol of Cartagena's rich past, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city below and a tangible connection to its colonial heritage. Visitors often describe it as a place that connects them with the 'rich tapestry of Cartagena’s past.'
Exploring the convent allows visitors to step back in time, imagining the lives of the monks who resided there and the historical events that unfolded beneath its gaze. The blend of history, spirituality, and the stunning natural setting makes it a unique and memorable destination. It's more than just a historical monument; it's a peaceful retreat that offers a profound sense of place.
Experiencing the Views and Atmosphere
Beyond the visual spectacle, the atmosphere at Convento de la Popa is one of serene contemplation. The leafy cloister, with its tranquil ambiance and architectural beauty, offers a welcome respite from the heat and energy of the city. Visitors often highlight the peacefulness of this inner courtyard, making it an ideal spot to pause, reflect, and soak in the historical significance of the location. The combination of expansive views and a calm, spiritual environment creates a memorable experience for all who visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit