Antigua Guatemala,
Antigua Guatemala is a charming colonial town located in the central highlands of Guatemala. It is known for its well-preserved Spanish architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant cultural scene. The town is surrounded by three impressive volcanoes, adding to its picturesque setting.
Antigua is a popular destination for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in Guatemala's rich history and culture.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Antigua
morning:Start the day with a visit to the Arco de Santa Catalina, an iconic yellow archway that frames the Volcán de Agua. Afterwards, take a stroll through the vibrant Mercado de Artesanías for some local crafts. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at Café Sky with panoramic views of the city and surrounding volcanoes.
afternoon:In the afternoon, visit the stunning ruins of the Convento de las Capuchinas, a powerful reminder of Antigua's colonial history. Then, head to Rainbow Café for a delicious lunch in a peaceful courtyard setting. Don't miss the vegetarian lasagna!
evening:For a relaxing evening, unwind at the lively Café No Sé where you can savor some signature cocktails and catch live music performances.
Cultural Immersion
morning:Embark on a guided tour of the Casa Santo Domingo Museum to explore its extensive collection of colonial and religious art. Delight in a delightful breakfast at the charming Fernando's Kaffee, known for its delectable pastries and specialty coffee.
afternoon:In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk to the Museo del Jade and admire its fascinating displays of jade artifacts and Mayan culture. Refuel with a tasty lunch at Hector's Bistro, a cozy spot with a delightful garden setting.
evening:Experience a captivating evening at La Cueva de San Martín, a rustic bar housed in a historic cave. Enjoy the enchanting atmosphere and sip on creative cocktails.
Nature and Wellness
morning:Spend the morning with a serene walk at the Cerro de la Cruz, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. For a nourishing breakfast, head to Sabe Rico for a delightful assortment of fresh juices and traditional Guatemalan dishes.
afternoon:Indulge in a therapeutic experience at an indigenous sauna and temazcal ceremony with local healers at Las Cañas. Afterward, savor a healthy lunch at Roots, a vegetarian restaurant known for its delectable salads and smoothie bowls.
evening:Unwind in the evening with a calming yoga session at Yoga Antigua Shakti Shala, followed by a peaceful meditation to conclude the day.
Gastronomic Delights
morning:Start the day with a visit to the Mercado Central to witness the bustling activity and sample some local produce and snacks. Follow it with a delightful breakfast at El Sabor del Tiempo, a charming café known for its delectable pastries and specialty coffees.
afternoon:In the afternoon, embark on a chocolate-making workshop at ChocoMuseo Antigua where you'll learn about the history of chocolate in Guatemala and create your own sweet treats. Indulge in a gourmet lunch at Epicure, renowned for its fusion cuisine and delightful desserts.
evening:Treat yourself to a culinary adventure at Hectors by night for a gourmet dinner experience featuring an exquisite menu and eclectic cocktails.
Antigua Guatemala Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Pepian
A rich, spicy stew made with meat, vegetables, and a variety of aromatic herbs and spices. It's often considered the national dish of Guatemala. You can try authentic Pepian at Rincon Tipico, a popular restaurant in Antigua.
Must-Try!
Kak'ik
A flavorful turkey soup with a red broth, flavored with roasted tomatoes, chilies, and traditional Mayan spices. You can savor the authentic taste of Kak'ik at La Cuevita de los Urquizu, a family-owned restaurant known for its traditional Guatemalan cuisine.
Tamales
These are a staple of Guatemalan cuisine and are made of corn dough filled with savory or sweet fillings, wrapped and cooked in banana leaves. For delicious tamales, visit the Mercado de Artesanias for various options and flavors.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Mercado de Antigua
This bustling market is a food lover's paradise, offering a diverse array of fresh produce, local snacks, and traditional street food. You can sample delights like chuchitos (similar to tamales), garnachas (fried tortillas with a variety of toppings), and traditional atol blanco (a warm, sweet corn drink) here.
Things to do in Antigua Guatemala
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Antigua Guatemala
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!