Luxurious boutique property in a restored colonial convent with stunning architecture. Features elegant suites, rooftop pool with panoramic volcano views, fine dining restaurant, and impeccable service in the heart of Antigua.
El Convento Boutique Hotel occupies a sensitively restored sixteenth-century convent at 4a Avenida Norte 29 in the heart of Antigua Guatemala, one of the best-preserved Spanish colonial cities in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The property is positioned in the northern part of Antigua's historic grid, a few blocks from the Arco de Santa Catalina — the city's iconic yellow colonial arch — and within easy walking distance of the Parque Central and the ruins of major colonial churches.
The building's conversion from a religious convent to a boutique hotel preserved the original cloister, stone archways, hand-carved wooden doors, and interior courtyards that define colonial religious architecture in Central America. Rooms and suites are distributed around these courtyards, combining colonial-era stonework and exposed wooden ceiling beams with contemporary amenities including climate control, fine linens, and marble bathroom fittings. The conversion is widely regarded as one of the more architecturally sensitive in Antigua's competitive boutique hotel sector.
The rooftop pool is among the hotel's most celebrated features, offering uninterrupted views of Volcán de Agua to the south and Volcán Acatenango to the west — views that are particularly striking at sunrise and in the late afternoon when the volcanic cones catch the golden light. A terrace bar adjacent to the pool serves cocktails, wines, and light snacks throughout the day.
The restaurant serves Guatemalan and contemporary Latin American cuisine prepared with local ingredients including chayote, black beans, plantain, and highland herbs. The dining room is housed in the former refectory, with stone walls and vaulted ceilings providing an atmospheric setting for evening meals. Full breakfast is generally included in room rates.
An on-site spa provides Swedish massage, traditional Mayan temascal steam ceremonies, and body treatments using Guatemalan botanicals. The concierge team is highly regarded for organising day trips to Tikal, Chichicastenango market, and coffee finca tours in the surrounding Sacatepéquez highlands.
Amenities
- rooftop pool
- restaurant
- bar
- spa
- colonial architecture
- concierge
- volcano views
Location
4a Avenida Norte 29, Antigua Guatemala
14.5628, -90.7341 View on map
Highlights
- Beautifully restored 16th-century convent with original stone arches, carved wooden doors, and colonial courtyards
- Rooftop pool with panoramic views of Volcán de Agua and Volcán Acatenango above Antigua's rooftops
- Fine dining in the atmospheric former convent refectory serving contemporary Guatemalan cuisine
- Full-service spa with Mayan temascal ceremonies and botanical treatment options
- Prime central location in Antigua, steps from the Arco de Santa Catalina and Parque Central
Tips for visiting
- Request a suite on the upper courtyard level for the best balance of natural light and colonial ambiance.
- The rooftop pool is most dramatic at sunrise — arrive before 7 a.m. to enjoy the volcano views without crowds.
- Antigua's cobblestone streets are uneven; flat shoes are recommended for any sightseeing beyond the hotel's grounds.
- Book the temascal treatment in advance — it requires preparation time and has limited daily availability.
- The Thursday and Sunday markets in Chichicastenango are a full-day excursion; arrange with the concierge the evening before.
Accessibility
El Convento's historic convent structure includes cobbled courtyards, stone steps between levels, and uneven surfaces throughout the property. While some ground-level areas are accessible, full wheelchair access is significantly constrained by the heritage building fabric. Guests with mobility requirements are strongly advised to contact the hotel in advance to identify the most accessible room options and routes.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How far is El Convento from Antigua's central park?
Parque Central is approximately three to four blocks south of the hotel along 4a Avenida Norte, a walk of around five to seven minutes on Antigua's flat colonial grid.
Is full breakfast included in the room rate?
A full breakfast is typically included in room rates at El Convento, served in the restaurant or courtyard. Specific inclusions depend on the rate type booked; confirm at the time of reservation.
Which airport serves Antigua Guatemala?
Guatemala City's La Aurora International Airport (GUA) is approximately 45–50 minutes from Antigua by car. The hotel concierge arranges private airport transfers.
Can the hotel arrange day trips to Tikal or Chichicastenango?
Yes, the concierge specialises in Antigua-based excursions including flights to Flores for Tikal, shuttle transfers to Chichicastenango market, and guided coffee finca tours in the surrounding Sacatepéquez highlands.
Is there parking available at El Convento for guests arriving by car?
Parking in central Antigua is very limited due to the narrow colonial streets. The hotel can advise on the nearest secure parking facilities; guests arriving by car should confirm options when booking.