
San Francisco Convent and Cloister
A stunning Gothic church and cloister, rich in history, art, and local legends.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

San Francisco Convent and Cloister
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Gothic church and cloister, rich in history, art, and local legends.
"The elegant and simple cloister is well worth seeing."

Check Hours Before Visiting
Some visitors found it unexpectedly closed. Always verify opening times to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
Don't Skip the Cloister
The cloister is a highlight for many, offering a beautiful and tranquil escape. :park:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Church
Main Sanctuary
A stunning Gothic church with a beautifully sculpted portal and unique, atmospheric lighting.
Elegant Cloister
Adjoining Cloister
A serene and simple cloister, praised by visitors for its beauty and peaceful ambiance.
Sculpted Portal
Church Facade
Admire the intricate details of the Gothic-origin portal, a testament to the convent's rich history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Explore Beyond the Altar
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Hours Before Visiting
Some visitors found it unexpectedly closed. Always verify opening times to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
Don't Skip the Cloister
The cloister is a highlight for many, offering a beautiful and tranquil escape. :park:
Appreciate the Lighting
The periodic lighting in the chapels adds a special atmosphere to the church. :bulb:
Gothic Architecture Gem
Marvel at the sculpted portal and Gothic origins of this historic church. :classical_building:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Hours Before Visiting
Some visitors found it unexpectedly closed. Always verify opening times to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
Don't Skip the Cloister
The cloister is a highlight for many, offering a beautiful and tranquil escape. :park:
Appreciate the Lighting
The periodic lighting in the chapels adds a special atmosphere to the church. :bulb:
Gothic Architecture Gem
Marvel at the sculpted portal and Gothic origins of this historic church. :classical_building:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the San Francisco Convent and Cloister for its beautiful Gothic architecture, especially the sculpted portal and the serene cloister. The unique lighting within the chapels adds to its atmospheric charm. However, some have experienced unexpected closures, highlighting the importance of checking opening hours.
"I really liked the cloister."
Pecharromán
"A grand church of Gothic origin. The portal is sculpted and preceded by a later portico. The periodic lighting of the High Altar and the chapels as you enter them are welcome touches. The elegant and simple cloister is well worth seeing."
Paco M.F.
"Very pretty, we walked past there and went in, the church and cloister are beautiful."
Lau
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The convent is located in the historic center of Quito, Ecuador. It's easily accessible by public transport or taxi within the city. Many visitors explore it as part of a walking tour of the historic district.
Parking in Quito's historic center can be challenging. It's often recommended to use public transport or ride-sharing services to reach the convent.
Yes, if you are staying in or near the historic center, the convent is within walking distance of many other key sites like Plaza Grande.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, and some visitors have reported finding it closed unexpectedly. It's crucial to check the most current hours before your visit.
While the church itself might be free to enter, there can be fees for specific areas like the cloister or any special tours. Some sources mention a small fee for foreign visitors for certain tours.
For general entry, advance booking is usually not required. However, if you plan to take a guided tour, it's advisable to inquire about booking procedures.
Yes, guided tours are often available and can provide deeper insights into the history and art of the convent and cloister.
Tickets for tours can typically be purchased on-site. For general entry, you can usually enter directly.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can admire the grand Gothic church with its sculpted portal, the elegant and simple cloister, and chapels with unique periodic lighting. Legends about deceiving the devil are also associated with the church.
The architecture and art within the convent and cloister offer many beautiful photo opportunities. Remember to be respectful of the sacred space when taking pictures.
A visit can range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the architecture, history, and whether you take a guided tour.
The main church area is generally accessible, but some older parts of historic sites might have limitations. It's best to inquire about specific accessibility details if needed.
Yes, there's a famous legend about Cantuña, who is said to have deceived the devil himself within the church. There are also mentions of eerie experiences in empty churches.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, there are no dining facilities directly within the convent or cloister itself. However, the surrounding historic center of Quito is filled with numerous restaurants and cafes offering local and international cuisine.
You'll find a wide variety of options, from traditional Ecuadorian dishes like locro de papa and empanadas to international fare. Many eateries offer great views of the historic architecture.
Yes, the historic center has many local eateries and markets where you can find affordable and delicious meals. Look for 'almuerzos' (set lunches) for good value.
📸 📸 Photography
The intricately sculpted portal, the serene cloister, and the atmospheric chapels with their unique lighting are prime spots for photography. The grand altar area also offers impressive shots.
While generally allowed, it's always good practice to be discreet and respectful, especially in active religious areas. Some specific exhibits or areas might have 'no photography' signs.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the exterior and the cloister. The interior's unique lighting system is designed to create atmosphere, so any time during opening hours can be visually interesting.
Tripod usage might be restricted, especially during busy periods, to avoid obstructing other visitors. It's best to check on-site regulations.
Photos highlighting the detailed architecture, the peaceful cloister, and the dramatic interior lighting are popular on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the cloister offers a quiet space, the main church's architecture and unique lighting might be more captivating for younger visitors. Consider focusing on the visual aspects and the stories to keep them engaged. Ensure you check opening hours beforehand, as unexpected closures can be disruptive for family outings.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The periodic lighting within the chapels creates dramatic and atmospheric scenes, ideal for low-light photography. Social media content often highlights these visually striking elements. Be mindful of any on-site photography restrictions, especially regarding tripods, and always be respectful of the sacred nature of the site.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Legend
Beyond the grand church, the elegant and simple cloister offers a tranquil space for reflection. Many visitors find this area particularly serene and beautiful, providing a peaceful contrast to the grandeur of the main sanctuary. The convent's architecture is further enhanced by its unique periodic lighting of the High Altar and chapels, creating an atmospheric and memorable visit. Some accounts even touch upon eerie experiences within seemingly empty churches, adding to the site's enigmatic aura.
Architectural Marvels and Ambiance
Many visitors are drawn to the elegant and simple cloister, which is consistently praised for its beauty and peaceful atmosphere. This adjoining space provides a serene counterpoint to the main church, inviting quiet contemplation. The overall impression is one of historical significance combined with artistic merit, making it a must-see for those interested in architecture and cultural heritage. The visual appeal is strong, making it a popular subject for photography on social media.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit