Convento de la Popa - people walking near concrete church under blue and white skies
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Convento de la Popa

4.6
·5k reviews·Cartagena de Indias, Colombia

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
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Convento de la Popa - people walking near concrete church under blue and white skies

Convento de la Popa

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(5k reviews)

"The views are amazing, stunning and flabbergasting!!"

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Top of the hill

Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Cartagena, from modern skyscrapers to historic districts.

Leafy Cloister

Leafy Cloister

Inner courtyard

A serene and beautiful courtyard offering a peaceful escape and a glimpse into the convent's history.

Historical Significance

Historical Significance

Throughout the convent

Explore the 17th-century architecture and learn about the convent's rich past as a spiritual retreat.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat and the Crowds

Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun and peak tourist hours. The Convento de la Popa offers stunning panoramic views, but it can get crowded. Consider going during weekdays for a more peaceful experience.

Navigating to the Top

Reaching the Convento de la Popa, located on Cartagena's highest hill, requires some planning. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are common options, but be prepared for potential pick-up challenges. Walking is an option for the fit, but the climb is steep.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

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:

reddit.com

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

4.6
(5k reviews)

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

Incredible city views
Peaceful cloister
Historical atmosphere

What People Dislike

Insistent vendors
Transportation faff

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🤔 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Convento de la Popa offers a unique experience for families, primarily through its incredible panoramic views of Cartagena. Kids often enjoy spotting different parts of the city from above, making it a fun geography lesson. The leafy cloister provides a calm space for children to wander and explore, offering a contrast to the bustling streets. While the climb can be a bit much for very young children, taxis and Ubers make the ascent manageable. Be mindful of the vendors outside, and perhaps set expectations with children beforehand about not accepting 'free' items without parental consent. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget travelers, the Convento de la Popa is an excellent value. The entrance fee is quite low (around $5 USD), and the main draw – the spectacular views – is priceless. Reddit To save on transportation, consider walking if you're fit and the weather permits, or look for shared taxi options. While official guides are available, the signage is generally good, allowing you to explore independently and save on guide fees. Pack your own water and snacks to avoid purchasing them at potentially inflated prices near the entrance. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Convento de la Popa is a photographer's dream, especially during the golden hour in the late afternoon. The sweeping panoramic views offer endless opportunities for landscape shots, capturing the vibrant colors of Cartagena. The architectural details of the cloister also provide excellent subjects for more intimate photography. Be prepared for the bright Caribbean sun, and consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive vistas. Remember to be respectful of the religious nature of the site when taking photos. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Convento de la Popa

The Convento de la Popa, officially the Convento de Santa Cruz de la Popa, is a historic Augustinian monastery founded in 1607. Perched atop the highest hill in Cartagena, it has served as a spiritual sanctuary and a strategic vantage point for centuries. Its construction was a testament to the Augustinian order's dedication to establishing a presence in the burgeoning colonial city. The convent's architecture reflects the colonial style of the era, with its serene cloister being a focal point for visitors seeking tranquility.

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.' Reddit

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. Reddit

Experiencing the Views and Atmosphere

The views from Convento de la Popa are undeniably the star attraction, consistently described as 'amazing,' 'stunning,' and 'flabbergasting.' Reddit From this vantage point, you can witness a breathtaking panorama of Cartagena, encompassing the modern skyscrapers of Bocagrande, the historic walled city, and the surrounding Caribbean coastline. It's a unique perspective that allows you to appreciate the city's diverse urban landscape and its geographical setting.

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. Reddit

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