
Convento de Santa Clara
Explore the evocative ruins of a 1700s convent in Antigua, Guatemala, featuring ornate facades and lush gardens.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Convento de Santa Clara
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the evocative ruins of a 1700s convent in Antigua, Guatemala, featuring ornate facades and lush gardens.
"A beautiful and historic place with stunning architecture and peaceful gardens."

🎟️ Ticket Prices Vary
Admission fees differ for locals, students, and foreign visitors. Check current prices upon arrival.
📸 Perfect for Photos
Bring your camera! The ruins and gardens offer incredible backdrops for memorable shots.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ornate Church Facade
Main Church Entrance
Marvel at the intricate stonework and historical grandeur of the church's original facade.

Lush Gardens and Courtyards
Throughout the Complex
Wander through peaceful gardens and courtyards, a stunning contrast to the ancient ruins.

Wedding Photography Backdrops
Various Scenic Spots
Experience the romantic ambiance that makes this a sought-after spot for wedding photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Timing is Key for Photos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Ticket Prices Vary
Admission fees differ for locals, students, and foreign visitors. Check current prices upon arrival.
📸 Perfect for Photos
Bring your camera! The ruins and gardens offer incredible backdrops for memorable shots.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully explore and appreciate the history and beauty.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces, so wear comfortable shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Ticket Prices Vary
Admission fees differ for locals, students, and foreign visitors. Check current prices upon arrival.
📸 Perfect for Photos
Bring your camera! The ruins and gardens offer incredible backdrops for memorable shots.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully explore and appreciate the history and beauty.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces, so wear comfortable shoes. :athletic_shoe:
💍 Popular Wedding Venue
Be aware that weddings are common, which can add to the charm or sometimes cause minor disruptions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Convento de Santa Clara for its breathtaking beauty, historical significance, and stunning photo opportunities. The blend of ancient ruins with vibrant gardens creates a magical atmosphere, making it a must-see in Antigua. Some note that prices vary for different visitor types and that the site is a popular wedding venue.
"The ruins of the convent really put the visitor in a time portal to the past. The mix of beautiful flowers and gardens with the structures makes for great photo opportunities too. You do need to buy a ticket to get in, I think it was Q40 per person (but I am not sure.) If you are coming to explore, I would plan to spend an hour here."
Carol Deminski
"What a beautiful experience is to visit this historic convent in Antigua Guatemala, one must give yourself at least 2-3 hours to admire the magnificent architecture and history of this building.
Plenty of photo opportunities, people who are getting married come visit for their wedding pictures.
We were lucky to visit the same day that Miss Universe Guatemala was doing a photo shoot.
Prices are as follows
Locals Q5.00
Foreign Students Q20.00
Foreign Visitors Q40.00
For more tips on trips, bars and restaurants follow us on our Social Media including YouTube as ⤵️
AVENTURASCONLOSPAIZ"
Isaac Paiz (AVENTURASCONLOSPAIZ)
"highly recommend visiting this old convent, so beautiful! there was also a wedding prep that was happening when we went on a weekend. Rich history if you are interested in seeing the ruins and exploring local Mayan architecture."
Arpitha Rao Annaji
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Convento de Santa Clara is conveniently located within Antigua Guatemala. You can easily reach it by a short walk from the central park or by taking a local tuk-tuk or taxi. Many visitors find it a pleasant stroll through the charming colonial streets.
Parking in Antigua can be challenging. It's best to rely on walking, taxis, or tuk-tuks. If you are driving, look for public parking lots in the city center and walk the rest of the way.
While ride-sharing apps are available in Guatemala, their availability and reliability can vary. Taxis and tuk-tuks are generally more common and easier to hail for short distances within Antigua.
The grounds have some uneven surfaces and cobblestones, which might pose challenges for those with significant mobility issues. However, many areas are relatively flat and accessible. It's advisable to check with the venue directly for specific accessibility information.
Walking is the most recommended way to explore Antigua and its historical sites like Convento de Santa Clara. This allows you to soak in the colonial architecture and discover hidden gems along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary. Locals typically pay Q5.00, foreign students Q20.00, and foreign visitors Q40.00. It's always a good idea to confirm the current rates upon arrival as they can change.
The convent is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's recommended to check their official social media or local listings for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance, especially for guided tours or during peak wedding season, is advisable to ensure entry and potentially skip lines.
Guided tours can offer deeper insights into the history and architecture of the convent. Inquire at the entrance or check local tour operator websites for availability and pricing.
Yes, you can often still visit the grounds even if a wedding is being prepared or taking place, though access to certain areas might be temporarily restricted. The beauty of the venue is often appreciated even with events happening.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
The ornate church facade, the lush gardens, and the open courtyards offer stunning photographic opportunities. Many couples choose this location for their wedding photos due to its romantic ambiance.
Absolutely! Convento de Santa Clara is a highly sought-after venue for destination weddings in Antigua Guatemala, known for its unique and breathtaking ruins.
The convent dates back to the early 1700s and offers a glimpse into the rich religious and architectural history of colonial Guatemala. You can explore the remains of the church and monastic buildings.
Generally, personal photography is allowed and encouraged. However, for professional photoshoots or commercial use, you might need special permits or fees. It's best to inquire on-site.
Visitors describe the atmosphere as peaceful, historic, and incredibly beautiful. The blend of ancient architecture with vibrant flora creates a unique and time-traveling experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Convento de Santa Clara is primarily a historical site and wedding venue, so there are no restaurants within the complex itself. However, Antigua Guatemala is filled with excellent dining options just a short walk away.
Antigua offers a diverse culinary scene, from traditional Guatemalan cuisine (like Pepian and Kak'ik) to international flavors. You'll find everything from casual street food to upscale dining experiences.
It's generally not recommended to bring outside food and drinks into historical sites like Convento de Santa Clara, especially if you plan to picnic. It's best to enjoy meals at nearby cafes and restaurants.
Yes, the streets surrounding Convento de Santa Clara are lined with charming cafes and small eateries where you can grab a coffee, a light snack, or a full meal.
Popular choices near the convent include Caoba Organic Cafe for healthy options, Hector's Bistro for European-inspired dishes, and La Cuevita de Los Urquizas for authentic Guatemalan flavors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring snacks and water, as dining options are outside the ruins. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the grounds. Consider making it a short visit if your children have a shorter attention span, focusing on the most visually striking areas like the church facade and the main courtyards.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Recommendations: Visit during the golden hours for the best light. Weekdays offer fewer crowds, allowing for more creative freedom. Be prepared for potential wedding events, which can add to the atmosphere or require navigating around setups.
💍 Couples & Romantics
Ideal for: Engagement photoshoots, anniversary trips, or simply a beautiful day out together. The serene gardens and grand ruins provide a unique backdrop that speaks of enduring beauty and history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The architecture is a testament to the skill of colonial builders, with remnants of the church, cloisters, and living quarters still standing. The ornate facade of the church is particularly striking, hinting at the grandeur that once was. The ongoing preservation and restoration efforts, evident in some areas, ensure that this piece of Guatemalan heritage can be appreciated by future generations.
Today, the ruins of Santa Clara are not just a historical site but also a vibrant space. They are frequently used for cultural events, art installations, and most notably, as a breathtaking venue for weddings and photoshoots, adding a layer of modern romance to its ancient stones.
Photography Paradise
Many visitors, including wedding parties and influencers, flock to the convent specifically for its photogenic qualities. The mix of textures and colors – from weathered stone to lush greenery and colorful blooms – makes every corner a potential masterpiece. Whether you're using a professional camera or just your smartphone, you're likely to come away with incredible images.
Pro-tip for photographers: Visit during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for the most dramatic and flattering light. Weekdays also offer a less crowded environment, allowing you to compose your shots without as many people in the background.
A Dream Wedding Venue
Planners and couples often highlight the 'wow' factor of the venue, noting how guests are consistently impressed by the picturesque backdrop. The open-air nature of the ruins allows for a magical experience under the Guatemalan sky, while the architectural remnants provide a sense of timeless elegance.
While the convent is a popular wedding spot, it's important for general visitors to be aware that events are frequently held here. This can sometimes mean limited access to certain areas on event days, but the overall experience of visiting such a unique and beautiful historical site remains highly rewarding.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit