$200 Avg/night
Rate based on Check-in: Jan 4, 2013 Check-out: Jan 6, 2013

Hotel El Convento

4 stars
100 Calle Cristo, Old San Juan, 00901

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Guests

Room 1
Ages of children at time of trip (for pricing, discounts)
Rates do not include taxes and fees, are based on 2 adults, and are subject to change based on length of stay and number of guests. Minimum night requirements may apply.
Hotel Overview
Reviewer score
4.5
out of 5
112 reviews
atmosphere and ambiance

Imagine walking back to your room in the evening. lighted only by small lamps on tables for two... See full review

  • ready to go
  • Dec 17, 2012
Couldn't have chosen any better

Loved this small boutique hotel. Very clean, great architecture, absolutely no complaints. Wine and... See full review

  • JustMi
  • Sep 11, 2012
Old San Juan hotel sets the standard for historic elegance
The historic Hotel El Convento was opened as a convent in 1651 and reopened as a hotel in 1963 by an heir to the Woolworth fortune. Rita Hayworth and Ethel Merman are among its famous guests. The hotel sets the standard for luxury in Old San Juan. This gem of Spanish Colonial architecture was meticulously restored with handcrafted tiles, thick mahogany beams, velvet settees and hand-carved chairs. A lushly landscaped interior courtyard is lit by Old World wrought-iron lanterns. Modern conveniences include a rooftop plunge pool, sundeck and free Wi-Fi.
Highlights
  • Historic character and architecture in luxury AAA Four Diamond setting
  • Rooftop sundeck and pool
  • Footsteps from Old San Juan hot spots
  • Complimentary wine and hors d'oeuvres nightly
  • Three on-site restaurants
Location

Hotel El Convento lies in the center of Old San Juan, across the way from the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista and two blocks from La Fortaleza, the governor's home.

Rooms

Hotel El Convento has 58 finely appointed guest rooms, each more luxurious than the next. These warm, charming rooms include ornate handcrafted furniture, Andalusian terra-cotta tile floors, fine linens, goose-down pillows and elegant marble bathrooms. Captivating views of San Juan Bay and the city are enjoyed from every room. Expect a spacious desk, Bose radio and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Features

The small, luxury Hotel El Convento is the oldest member of the Historic Hotels of America and is rated a AAA Four Diamond property. Extras include a library with high-speed Internet access. Spa services and personal trainers are also available.

Dining

There are three on-site dining options at Hotel El Convento including El Picoteo, overlooking the hotel's courtyard. The restaurant offers tapas and paella for lunch and dinner. Nuevo Latino CaƱa is the posh spot to see-and-been-seen under a high, wood-beamed ceiling. CaƱa is open for lunch and dinner. Patio del Nispero is named for its open-air courtyard setting shaded by a historic fruit tree. Breakfast and lunch includes refreshing menu choices such as the Jibarito salad, mixed greens with avocado, fried local farmers' cheese and red onions.

Recreation

There is a plunge pool and Jacuzzi on the bougainvillea-draped fourth-floor rooftop deck with breathtaking views of San Juan Bay and the city. The El Convento Beach Club offers beach and pool privileges at sister properties. The fitness center is free.

Transportation
  • Luis MuƱoz MarĆ­n International Airport (7.5 mi/12 km)
Attractions
  • El Morro Fortress (0.3 mi/0.4 km)
  • Isla Verde Beach (0.6 mi/10 km)
  • Fort San Cristóbal (0.6 mi/0.9 km)
  • Puerto Rico Convention Center (2.3 mi/3.7 km)
  • Condado Beach (2.7 mi/4.4 km)
  • Museum of Art of Puerto Rico (3.6 mi/5.8 km)
  • Plaza Las AmĆ©ricas (4.2 mi/6.7 km)
Business
  • Business center with printing, copying and faxing available
  • Seven meeting rooms
  • Executive board room
  • Full catering available
  • Audiovisual equipment and support available
  • High-speed Internet access in all meeting areas
Policies & fees

A major credit card will be needed at check-in for incidentals.

This is not a comprehensive list of fees. Any amounts listed above may not include taxes and are subject to change.

Hotel El Convento Rooms

Queen Deluxe Room
Queen Deluxe Room includes: One queen bed and City view from French balcony (no step-out space). Open-air-corridor seating facing interior garden courtyard. Spanish-antique and antique-replica furniture, including desk, dining set, reading chair. Tile floor. Small marble bathroom with pedestal sink, shower/tub, bathrobes/slippers, telephone. 32-inch LCD HDTV. Bose CD player, radio. Complimentary high-speed wireless internet access. Compact refrigerator with complimentary bottled water. Smoking not permitted in room. Rollaway bed needed for a 3rd person in room ($35 extra nightly charge).
Vista Room
Vista Room includes: One Queen bed with full view of San Juan Bay from French balcony (no step-out space). Open-air-corridor seating facing interior garden courtyard. Spanish-antique and antique-replica furniture, including desk, dining set, reading chair. Tile floor. Small marble bathroom with pedestal sink, shower/tub, bathrobes/slippers, telephone. 32-inch LCD HDTV. Bose CD player, radio. Complimentary high-speed wireless internet access. Compact refrigerator with complimentary bottled water. Smoking not permitted in room. Rollaway bed needed for a 3rd person in room($35 extra nightly charge).
Double Deluxe Room
Double Deluxe Room includes: Two double beds with City view from French balcony (no step-out space). Open-air-corridor seating facing interior garden courtyard. Spanish-antique and antique-replica furniture, including desk, dining set, reading chair. Tile floor. Small marble bathroom with pedestal sink, shower/tub, bathrobes/slippers, telephone. 32-inch LCD HDTV. Bose CD player, radio. Complimentary high-speed wireless internet access. Compact refrigerator with complimentary bottled water. Smoking not permitted in room. Rollaway bed not allowed in room.
Superior Room
Superior Room includes: One queen bed or two twin beds (run of house)and limited view from French balcony (no step-out space). Open-air-corridor seating facing interior garden courtyard. Spanish-antique and antique-replica furniture, including desk, dining set, reading chair. Tile floor. Small marble bathroom with pedestal sink, shower/tub, bathrobes/slippers, telephone. 32-inch LCD HDTV. Bose CD player, radio. Complimentary high-speed wireless internet access. Compact refrigerator with complimentary bottled water. Smoking not permitted in room. Rollaway bed needed for a 3rd person in room ($35 extra nightly charge).

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Hotel Map

18.4659 -66.1184
Area served
Old San Juan, Condado, Hato Rey, Rio Piedras, Guaynabo, Bayamon, Isla Verde.
Nearby airports
Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU): Approximate driving time is 20 minutes and distance is 9 miles.
Area description
The hotel's location in historic Old San Juan makes walking the best way around to the numerous shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Hopping on and off the district's open-air trolleys is free. Nearby attractions: San Juan Cathedral - across street / San Juan Gate - 1 block / Puerto Rico Indian Museum - 1 block / La Fortaleza (governor's mansion) - 2 blocks / Casa Blanca museum & garden - 2 blocks / African Heritage Museum - 3 blocks / Pablo Casals Museum - 3 blocks / San Felipe del Morro fortress - 0.5 mile / San Cristobal Castle - 0.5 mile / Plaza Las Americas (shopping, dining) - 7 miles / Pinones forest (bicycling, hiking, surfing) - 12 miles / El Yunque Rainforest - 31 miles.

Nearby points of interest

  • Bacardi Rum Factory: 0 mi
  • Castillo San Felipe del Morro: 0.5 mi
  • Port of San Juan: 0.6 mi
  • Arecibo Observatory: 42.5 mi

Amenities

  • Concierge
  • Conference facilities
  • Fitness center
  • Handicapped rooms/facilities
  • Health club
  • High-speed internet
  • Meeting/Banquet facilities
  • Pool
  • Restaurant
  • Room service
  • Spa services
  • Wireless internet

Meeting facilities

Meeting Info
Hotel El Convento offers superb meeting and banquet facilities. With close proximity to the financial center in San Juan, and 7 multi-use meeting rooms of varying sizes, the hotel is the perfect venue for banquets, charity events, and high-level corporate affairs. The 2700 sq. ft. Salon Campeche is a spectacular ballroom and can accommodate from 250 - 300 people for classroom/banquet seating. For smaller gatherings and corporate functions, choose from Salon Oller which accommodates 75 people for a seated event; Salon Paoli, perfect for a group of 50; Salon Zafiro, for a group of 35, the Executive Boardroom which seats 12. Two additional rooms are available for up to 40 people. The hotel has every amenity the business traveler needs to assure a successful trip from audiovisual facilities, computer ports, dual-line data port phones in each guest and banquet room, Internet access, and valet parking. Restaurants are located within the hotel and we also provide expert catering services.

Dining

Pizza E Birra
Pizza e Birra offers a taste of classic Italian and American-Italian dishes, but the main attraction is definitely Pizza perfection. For the perfect combination Pizza e Birra features over 20 different craft beers from all over the world. The Pizzeria embodies all the eclectic elements that characterize the cobblestone city, with a cool modern spark
Patio del Nispero
Shaded by Hotel El Convento's famous 300-year old nispero fruit tree, Patio del Nispero is located on the ground floor of the stately open-air courtyard in the hotel. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, Patio del Nispero is a welcome culinary treat serving international gourmet fare in casual yet elegant surroundings. From the best banana nut pancakes,to creative and hearty sandwiches and salads, with even traditional Puerto Rican dishes, alfresco dining has never been more tasteful!
El Picoteo
There's something cooking in Old San Juan where the food is inventive, the service never misses a beat, and the wine list is exceptional. The atmosphere at El Picoteo is all about food and mood. Hot or cold, tapas warm you up for mas tapas de picotear. El Picoteo offers a cornucopia of choice without parallel on the island. After a sampling of delectable tapas, try the paella - voted best on the island! The gazpacho, tortillas, empanadillas, croquetas, specialty pizzas are all fantastico. The wine list fills classic bistro slots with imaginative producers and delectable desserts round out the eclectic menu. This is the place that defines the tapas and paella experience.

Hotel Policies

Check-in:
1500
Check-out:
1200

Terms and conditions

Rates quoted in currencies other than the hotel's base currency are subject to the rate of the international exchange. Rate may change throughout stay. Rate may reflect average nightly rate. Extra charges may apply. Incidental charges, such as room service, are not included in the rate.

The amenities and/or facilities may not be located at the hotel, but within a reasonable distance, and additional charges may apply for use.

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Guest Reviews (112)

Ratings and reviews for Hotel El Convento

Overall score

4.5 / 5
112 out of 112
Amenities:
4.4
Room cleanliness:
4.7
Hotel staff:
4.7
Room comfort:
4.5
Location:
4.8
Value:
4.3

96% would recommend to a friend.

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Review this hotel
Review of Hotel El Convento

Reviewer score

4
no frills traveler 33
Brooklyn, NY
Dec 23, 2012

Wonderful Experience, Perfect Location

I really felt lucky to be staying at Hotel El Convento. It is gorgeous, located in the heart of Old San Juan. The staff is top-notch. They speak both English and, of course, Spanish, fluently. They care very much about your experience as a guest. I was there just before Christmas time, and there were some parties happening in the center open area of the hotel. It was fun. There was some noise trying to go to sleep, but it didn't bother me. The rooms are relatively small, very clean, and lovely. (I stayed in a single, and am sure that the rooms are larger if you are staying with more people. Obviously.) I really liked it and would absolutely recommend it.

Hotel features (5 = best, 1 = worst):
Amenities:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel staff:
5
Room comfort:
4
Location:
5
Value:
4
Dining tip: Short walk from hotel

If you are willing to splurge on a meal (and it is a splurge), I HIGHLY recommend eating at Marmalade. Everybody I spoke to said it was the best restaurant in Old San Juan and, from my limited experience, I would certainly agree. Every bite of food, every sip of drink was a delicious experience.

Review of Hotel El Convento

Reviewer score

5
ready to go
Clearwater, Fl
Dec 17, 2012

atmosphere and ambiance

Imagine walking back to your room in the evening. lighted only by small lamps on tables for two along the courtyard balcony draped with philodendron and bougainvillea, music wafting up from the patio or second level tapas bar. You've just left the complimentary wine and cheese gathering and gazed over the city from a number of vantage points. This is a lovely, tranquil oasis with every staff member ready to assist with a smile.

Hotel features (5 = best, 1 = worst):
Amenities:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel staff:
5
Room comfort:
5
Location:
5
Value:
4
Sightseeing tip: Short walk from hotel

La Fortelaza, the governor's palace, has the best guide and what you learn about the island's history sets you up for your entire visit.

Review of Hotel El Convento

Reviewer score

3
Emmann
Chicago
Sep 30, 2012

First in Puerto Rico

Loved the location of El Concento; I was able I walk to all the historical sites and was less than 2 blocks away from the fortress walls! It was a great spot to hot restaurants and get to experience Old San Juan. If you want the beach though, this is not the hotel for you. The pool is small, and you would have to get on the bus to reach the beach. It simply depends on what sort of experience you are looking for. It is not a "resort" hotel but you can't beat the history it has!

Hotel features (5 = best, 1 = worst):
Amenities:
4
Room cleanliness:
4
Hotel staff:
5
Room comfort:
5
Location:
5
Value:
5
Dining tip: Short walk from hotel

Go to Cafe St. Germain for the best lunch/dinner! In walking distance and the staff is very friendly. Look for the cute cafe on the corner!

Review of Hotel El Convento

Reviewer score

4
Maxwell Smart Traveller
Adelaide, South Australia
Sep 29, 2012

Spur of the moment decision...no hurricanes predicted

All the reviews made this Hotel a must. It was like being at a Caribbean Raffles. Wide terraces on every floor, overlooking the central restaurant and courtyard. Potted plants in abundance. The well-appointed rooms left nothing to be desired.. Private courtyards a bonus, as was the roof-top Jacuzzi and plunge pool. All this right in the heart of the delightful Old Town.

Hotel features (5 = best, 1 = worst):
Amenities:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel staff:
5
Room comfort:
5
Location:
5
Value:
5
Review of Hotel El Convento

Reviewer score

5
JustMi
DC
Sep 11, 2012

Couldn't have chosen any better

Loved this small boutique hotel. Very clean, great architecture, absolutely no complaints. Wine and cheese every day on the terrace. The wedding on Saturday night did not create any issues, as the rooms are perfectly insulated and isolated, even just steps away from the restaurant.

Hotel features (5 = best, 1 = worst):
Amenities:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel staff:
5
Room comfort:
5
Location:
5
Value:
5
Review of Hotel El Convento

Reviewer score

5
celebrating 60
Indiana
Sep 1, 2012

More than expected

Staff was excellent. Couldn't have been more helpful. Hotel is old and quaint. Delightful! Food was fabulous. Had the seafood paella one night. Can't even find words to describe how wonderful it was!! Pool side breakfast was a nice treat. Would definately recommend this hotel! Had a wonderful stay.

Hotel features (5 = best, 1 = worst):
Amenities:
5
Room cleanliness:
4
Hotel staff:
5
Room comfort:
4
Location:
4
Value:
5
Sightseeing tip: Long walk from hotel

Some attractions were further than we thought, but worth the travel time

Review of Hotel El Convento

Reviewer score

5
janicebr
vancouver, wa
Aug 22, 2012

Perfect way to end our trip!

Hotel El Convecto is beautiful! There are 3 resturants to choose from. It has an open air courtyard where you can sit and enjoy a cool drink. The staff is very friendly and helpful. I definitely recommend this hotel!

Hotel features (5 = best, 1 = worst):
Amenities:
5
Room cleanliness:
4
Hotel staff:
5
Room comfort:
5
Location:
5
Value:
4
Sightseeing tip: Short walk from hotel

Ask for directions to the fort before you try to find it yourself.

Review of Hotel El Convento

Reviewer score

5
Cmwoobie
West Point NY
Aug 14, 2012

Great Location

Hotel is in a great location in Old San Juan. It is within a few blocks of historic sites, restaurants, and shopping. The staff are very friendly and helpful. Wine and cheese reception every evening at 6pm. Plunge Pool is very small but take advantage of the beach privileges at the sister hotel. The only drawback is the $25. taxi fare each way. If you are staying in OSJ for more than 2-3 days, I recommend renting a car to get out and see the island. After you see the historical sites, plazas, and museums, there is not much left to do in the city and the taxis are a fortune to get anywhere.

Hotel features (5 = best, 1 = worst):
Amenities:
4
Room cleanliness:
4
Hotel staff:
5
Room comfort:
4
Location:
5
Value:
4
Money-saving tip: Not Applicable

Rent a car. Taxis are too expensive to get anywhere outside of Old San Juan.

Review of Hotel El Convento

Reviewer score

4
Pacman75050
Dallas
Jul 26, 2012

Awesome place to Honeymoon

Really a special place to stay in Old San Juan. Doesn't get much better. So much to see and do in this area and you are away from a lot of the resort non sense. Free wine and cheese every night. Free coffee and water on 4th floor. Staff is very friendly and food is excellent. My only gripe is no shuttle to sister properties with private beach access, but taxi ride is $15 or cheaper if you car pool like we did with other hotel guests.

Hotel features (5 = best, 1 = worst):
Amenities:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel staff:
4
Room comfort:
5
Location:
4
Value:
4
Dining tip: Short walk from hotel

Got to go to La Tortuga- short walk up the hill, hang a right...best breakfast and very reasonable

Review of Hotel El Convento

Reviewer score

5
Jr44
Ohio
Jul 25, 2012

AMAZING HOTEL!!!!

This hotel was perfect in all areas! The hotel room, down to the staff. I absolutely will returen and stay anytime I'm in Puerto Rico. Loved every day of our stay. I tried all restuarants they have at the hotel and even ate at the pizza place 3 times lol. Only issue they might have a small electrical issue on one of their plugs in my room, my phone no longer works after plugging it in to recharge. Small price to pay for a perfect vacation they provided for me. Don't forget to visit their sister properties!

Hotel features (5 = best, 1 = worst):
Amenities:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel staff:
5
Room comfort:
5
Location:
5
Value:
5
Dining tip: In Hotel

Allof their restuarants are extremely good and well priced!

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