Things To Do
in Antigua Guatemala
Antigua Guatemala is a beautifully preserved colonial city set in a lush valley beneath looming volcanoes. Its pastel facades, stone churches, and cobblestone streets render a quintessential Central American tableau and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1982. The city thrives with color, culture, and a strong coffee and textile heritage that permeates daily life.
Surrounded by active volcanos and volcanic scenery, Antigua is a compact town best explored on foot with plenty of viewpoints and nearby day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Antigua, take some time to get settled into your cozy accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café where you can sample traditional Guatemalan dishes. Afterward, stroll through the charming cobblestone streets and get your first glimpse of the stunning colonial architecture.
In the afternoon, visit the iconic Santa Catalina Arch and the vibrant Central Park, where you can observe daily life mingling with the enchanting scenery. Explore the nearby Mercado de Artesanías to purchase unique handicrafts and souvenirs made by local artisans. Enjoy a refreshing drink at a nearby cafe while soaking in the surrounding beauty.
As the sun sets, head to one of Antigua's rooftop restaurants to savor delicious local cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views of the city. After dinner, take a leisurely walk to see the lit-up ruins of La Merced Church. Conclude the evening with a visit to a local bar to experience Antigua's lively nightlife.
Start your day with a visit to the stunning San Francisco Church, known for its beautiful baroque architecture and serene atmosphere. Afterward, wander through the streets to view other historic churches and ruins that highlight Antigua's colonial past. Pay a visit to the Antigua Guatemala Cathedral to admire its intricate designs and rich history.
In the afternoon, explore the Casa Santa Domingo, a museum that houses art and history amid the ruins of a former convent. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring local flavors while reflecting on the morning's discoveries. Attend a workshop focusing on traditional Guatemalan crafts, such as pottery or weaving.
As evening approaches, take a guided walking tour to learn about the ghosts and legends that haunt Antigua's history. Enjoy a candlelit dinner at a local restaurant known for its authentic dishes, which will provide a comforting ambiance. After dinner, wind down with a nightcap at a lively local bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within Antigua | $2-6 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich colonial heritage and dramatic volcano scenery
- Compact, walkable town with abundant day trips
- Strong coffee, textile, and culinary traditions
- Good value for money and abundant street food
- Cobblestones and hills can be hard on ankles and wheelchairs
- Seasonal crowds in peak travel times
- Occasional service or Wi-Fi inconsistencies in smaller venues
- Traffic to and from Guatemala City can be congested
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Antigua Guatemala
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic pink-and-blue arch framing the street, perfect for classic Antigua photos and golden-hour shots.
Elevated viewpoint offering sweeping panoramas of Antigua with the volcanoes in the distance.
A grand Baroque church set against lush greenery; stunning interiors and exterior details for photography.
Quaint plazas and cobblestone lanes lined with pastel houses—great for street photography and candid shots.
Atmospheric remnants and surrounding market life provide historic backdrop and texture.
Food in Antigua Guatemala
Antigua Guatemala Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, spicy guatemalan sauce made with roasted peppers and spices served over chicken or pork with vegetables.
Must-Try!
A traditional turkey stew with a deep red broth and aromatic spices, often served with tortillas and rice.
Sweet plantain dumplings stuffed with mashed beans and cinnamon, fried until crispy.
Small tamales made with masa and meat, wrapped in corn husks and steamed.
Potato-based tamales typically filled with seasoned meat and served with sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market halls offering fresh produce, local snacks, tamales, and fruit. Try freshly pressed juice, roasted corn, and small savory bites between sightseeing.
Market focused on textiles, jade jewelry, and artisan crafts; great for gift shopping and sampling quick street bites.
Look for elotes (grilled corn), tostadas, and fresh fruit skewers around the central streets—excellent for a quick, flavorful bite on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common; address adults with Señor/Señora. Dress modestly when visiting churches and sacred sites; modest clothing is appreciated in religious spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Antigua Guatemala
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is customary if service is not included. For small cafes or street vendors, rounding up the bill is appreciated but not required.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with blue skies and plentiful sunshine; ideal for outdoor hikes and city walking. Pack sun protection, stay hydrated, and expect cooler evenings due to altitude.
Rainy season brings regular afternoon showers and lush greenery; mornings can be clear and cool. Pack a lightweight rain jacket, quick-dry clothing, and waterproof footwear.
Antigua Guatemala at Night
Hiking in Antigua Guatemala
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Volcano nearby with scenic trails and a gentle-to-moderate climb, offering striking views of Antigua from above.
Active volcano near Antigua with accessible hiking and lava views on clear days; popular half-day trek.
Challenging multi-day hike offering dramatic panoramas of nearby volcanos and the volcanic activity of Fuego on clearer days.
Local hillside routes offering quieter hikes with countryside views and coffee finca landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Antigua Guatemala by plane.
Guatemala City’s main international gateway, about 1-1.5 hours by road from Antigua depending on traffic. Taxis, shuttles, and private transfers are common ways to reach Antigua.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents with a mix of Indigenous Mayan and European heritage, maintaining traditional crafts, markets, and daily life in the city and surrounding villages.
A diverse mix of backpackers, volunteers, and travelers drawn to Antigua’s culture, language schools, and day trips.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Guatemala with local clubs and informal play across communities.
Popular in schools and local gyms; casual street basketball scenes occasionally found around markets.
Historical and regionally enjoyed; more common in other parts of Guatemala but seen in sporting events and youth leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Antigua Guatemala.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are increasingly common in Antigua; ask for “vegetariano” or request no carne. Many places can adapt traditional dishes (pepian, chiles rellenos) to vegetarian versions with vegetables, beans, or cheese.