Antigua, Guatemala Uncovered: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting This Colonial Gem
Antigua is a small city surrounded by volcanoes in southern Guatemala. It’s renowned for its Spanish colonial buildings, many of them restored following a 1773 earthquake that ended Antigua’s 200-year reign as Guatemala’s colonial capital. Notable architectural examples include baroque La Merced church. It’s an integral part of the city’s famous Semana Santa, a holy week with parades and rituals.
How to Get to Antigua
Depending on the route in to or through Guatemala you are taking, there are several options for how to travel to Antigua.
🚗Private Driver
From Guatemala City, the drive takes about 1 hour and the average cost is $35-$50 depending on company and number of passengers. These can be booked online or via your accommodations. Many hostels also offer private or small group transfers between the cities for great rates.
From Panajachel (Lake Atitlan) the journey takes 5.5-6 hours and costs approximately $115 (varies by company and number of passengers)
From Flores private drivers start at approximately $100 per group, with the journey taking approximately 10-12 hours.
🚕Taxi or Uber
From Guatemala City an Uber will cost anywhere from $30-$50 depending on time and demand.
*If you have 2 or more people, this is generally the most convenient and cost effective option with the most flexibility, as the tourist shuttles can add up to the same amount. My friend and I took an Uber from Guatemala City and this worked perfectly for us.
🚌Bus
This will be your cheapest option. The chicken buses run quite frequently between popular destinations (like Flores, Lake Atitlan, and Guatemala City) and Antigua.
From Guatemala City, the chicken bus takes 1.5-2 hours and costs $2-$3
From Panajachel (Lake Atitlan) or Flores, the chicken buses (yes, multiple are required) cost approximately $8-$10 in total.
This is not the recommended route for long distances for several reasons: the routes are not available online, the drivers generally only speak Spanish so language barrier may be an issue, the buses are crowded, and the journey is very long with frequent stops.
🚐Tourist Shuttle
From Guatemala City tourist shuttles run very frequently between the 2 cities and with the average cost per person being $15-$20.
From Panajachel (Lake Atitlan) the tourist shuttle takes approximately 3 hours and prices range from $15 to $25. I found Gekko Tours on line and booked directly for $15 (plus $1.75 booking fee) which was the best price I found on line.
From Flores tourist shuttles run 3-4 times per day with the journey taking approximately 12 hours and costing an average of $35.
✈️From Flores, you can fly in to Guatemala city (base fares start around $70) then take the bus, Uber, shuttle, etc to Antigua.
Where to Stay in Antigua
I had an array of stays in Antigua since I first came with a friend and we split the cost of an airbnb, then I stayed an additional night on my own before heading to Lake Atitlan, and then came back to Antigua for 2 nights before heading to Semuc-Champey.
My stays took me to three different areas of the city and I can confidently say there is no bad area to stay near the center of Antigua. Everything was very walkable and accessible, with shops, restaurants, and cafes in abundance in every area.
One of the great things about Antigua is that there is a stay at every price point. It is a backpacker’s paradise with endless hostels, but also offers luxe 5 star hotels and every thing in between.
The Airbnb we stayed in was pretty mid budget, and then I stayed in 2 different hostels (1 private room with shared bath and one private room with en suite).
🏠Our Airbnb was no-frills but comfortable and in a great location. If you are looking for a good space for multiple people in a very walkable area, I would recommend it.
Total for 4 nights was $283.01
🛏️Before heading to Lake Atitlan, I stayed one night at Socialtel Hostel. The draw to this property was the pool, outdoor space and great bar/restaurant reviews. None of those things disappointed and I was pleasantly surprised by how big the room was and the overall comfort of the hostel.
A private room with shared bathroom (booked last minute) was $77.00
🛏️When I returned to Antigua after Lake Atitlan for 2 nights, I opted for a budget hotel/hostel with a private room and private bathroom. Why Not Hotel offered a no-frills but comfortable room with a great rooftop and calm, quiet setting at a great rate (dorms starting as low as $8/night).
I paid about $45 for my 2 night stay.
Guatamala Currency
Guatemala uses the Guatemalan quetzal (Q or GTQ).
While some places will take USD or Euro (change given in quetzal), you will need local currency when traveling in Guatemala.
Antigua is one of the few places that took credit cards at the majority of businesses but be aware that many places charge rather significant amounts to use a credit card (5-10%).
🏧ATMs offer decent rates and have fees ranging anywhere from $4-$8 per withdrawal. I was told the Banco Industrial (BI) ATMs were the best bet for exchange rates and fees, so that is what I went with. Others say “5B” machines (found everywhere) have better rates.
💵I always prefer to avoid the ATM game and just exchange cash. There are several cash exchange places near Parque Central de Antigua Guatemala, that offer varying rates.
I found the best rates at a random Money Gram in the back of an appliance store, but you can also use a local bank.
Some important notes on cash exchange:
🛂ID - Passport is required to exchange cash
💵Money with ANY rips, tears, or excessive wear will not be accepted.
⭐Pro tip: If you don’t have your passport on you or need to exchange money that is not in the best condition - See Isabella. She can be found on the corner in the square in Parque Central Selling lottery tickets and will exchange any bills without ID.
What To Do In Antigua
Take a Free Walking Tour
I love taking a free walking tour in any new city to get a feel of the layout and get a glimpse of all the major points of interest to return to. My friend and I struck gold when we were 2 of 4 on our tour and had the most incredible guide who took us all over the city and gave us some amazing insights and recommendations.
We booked through GuruWalk and really lucked out with Victor Antonio who was a life long local filled with knowledge, recommendations and terrible but endearing jokes.
I cannot recommend this guide enough, but make sure you allot extra time because he likes to add several stops (we went over by an hour - but it was well worth it).
Convento Capuchinas
Popularly known as Convento Sor Juana de Maldonado, a seventeenth-century building, it is part of the Convent of the Clean and Immaculate Conception, an order to which Sor Juana de Maldonado y Paz, a poet and writer of the sixteenth century, belonged.
🗺️2a Avenida Norte y 2a Calle Oriente esquina. Antigua Guatemala Sacatepéquez, Antigua Guatemala 03001
🕰️Daily 9a-5p
💵Foreign visitors Q 40 (approx $5.20)
🌐For more information
I visited the Convent on my last day in Antigua and it was a truly beautiful place. Packed with history and stunning architecture, it is absolutely worth a visit.
There is a peaceful garden in the back where you can sit and relax a bit and feel like you are in another place entirely.
Arco de Santa Catalina
🗺️5a Avenida Norte 28, Antigua Guatemala
This yellow landmark archway dating to the 1600s & topped by a clock built in the 1800s, became my North Star due to it’s central location and being the “gateway” to the night time food market.
A great place to snap some iconic photos, it is surrounded by numerous bars and restaurants. A very large souvenir market can also be found just passed the arch.
Iglesia de la Merced
The Church and Convent of La Merced is a Catholic church located in the city of Antigua Guatemala in Guatemala. The architect Juan de Dios Estrada was in charge of its construction from 1749. The church was inaugurated in 1767.
🗺️ H768+F3X &, 1a Calle Poniente, Antigua Guatemala
💵Free to enter, 30Q to go up to the roof/visit convent
🕰️I found SO much varying information on hours, but it appears visitors are welcome daily from 9-6pm
Just passed the Arco de Santa Catalina, you will find this stunning Catholic Church with awe inspiring detail on it’s yellow facade.
I opted not to go inside due to time restraints and passing by during mass times, but if the outside is any reflection of the inside, it is worth popping in to. Due to its location, the views from the roof are guaranteed to wow on a clear day.
⭐This is also where you will find the night food market, offering a variety of traditional Guatemalan street food like búfalo, shuco, and chalupas, perfect for an authentic culinary experience. More on that below.
Parque Central de Antigua
Quite literally the center of the city, Parque Central de Antigua is surrounded by historic buildings, churches, cafes, banks and shops. It is nearly impossible to not to find yourself passing through this beautiful little park while in Antigua.
*This is also the meeting point for many walking tours and shuttle services.
Camino a Hobbitenango
Hobbitenango is a theme park in Vuelta Grande, Antigua Guatemala, ideal for nature and adventure lovers. We offer a restaurant, bar, hobbit-themed accommodation, impressive viewpoints and exciting activities such as a swing at 2,500 meters high. It is a magical place to live unforgettable experiences!
🕰️Daily 8a-5p
💵Q50 (€6) for adults and Q30 (€3.5) children between 4 and 10 years old
If you don’t opt for the ATV tour, you can still easily visit this amazing site.
The most recommended way is by tour. Which provides transportation all the way to the site. The final stretch of road is inaccessible by private vehicle, and a tour will provide proper transportation. Most tours provide round transportation and 2-2.5 hours to explore on your own.
The drive is only about 20 minutes from the city center. You will need to park in one of the nearby lots (at a small cost) and either walk or take a provided vehicle (also a small cost) the remainder of the way up Vuelta Grande to the site.
You can also take a taxi to Vuelta Grande (the final stretch of road) and then walk or take the provided vehicles.
Cerro de La Cruz
For the best views of the city, head up to Cerro de La Cruz, located on a hillside on the far north of Antigua, offering views of the city, the historic center, and Volcán de Agua.
🗺️Cerro de La Cruz, H779+P7H, Antigua Guatemala
🕰️Daily 7a-6p
💵Free
Getting there
🥾Hike
The starting point is the Cacique Tulian Square. From there, you only need to walk one block down Libertad Street until you reach the intersection with Rey del Bosque Street. At this point, you will find a sign indicating the beginning of the trail for the ascent to the hill. The hike is described as:
Short hike. Easy, but can be challenging. Uphill with steps and some flat walkways.
🚗Drive
It is a short drive from the city center, and there is a parking lot available. A short walk is required from the parking lot.
🚕Taxi
It is a short taxi ride to the entry (and minimal cost). There are taxis and tuktuk there to take you back down.
🏍️ ATV Tour (see below)
Take an ATV Tour
To see both Camino a Hobbitenango and Cerro de La Cruz, as well as visit a chocolate factory - you can take an ATV tour.
This was my birthday activity and one of the highlights of my time in Antigua. There are several tours available, but we opted for a day time tour that made stops at: Cerro de la Cruz, Camino a Hobbitenango, and San Juan del Obispo.
We booked through Viator because I had a great cashback offer, but you can also book directly through the company. We used Simoon Rentals & Tours and were really happy with our experience.
They also offer tours and experiences in Lake Atitlan.
Other Antigua tour options we considered and I would book in the future: Sunset ATV tour and Volcano Tour.
Volcanos
Antigua Guatemala is situated near four volcanoes: Agua, Fuego, Acatenango, and Pacaya, two of which you can hike.
Pacaya Volcano, known for its accessibility and lava fields, and Acatenango Volcano, offering panoramic views and the chance to see the active Fuego Volcano.
Here's a more detailed look at each (with a little help from Google)
Pacaya Volcano:
Accessibility: Pacaya is a popular choice for a day trip from Antigua due to its relatively easy hike and proximity.
Activities: You can hike through lava fields, see solidified lava, and even roast marshmallows on the volcanic rocks.
Active: It's one of the active volcanoes in Guatemala.
Family-friendly: The hike is considered relatively straightforward, making it suitable for families.
Acatenango Volcano:
Views: The hike to Acatenango offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding region, including the active Fuego volcano.
Challenge: The hike is a more challenging adventure, requiring good physical condition.
Overnight: Many people choose to do an overnight hike to Acatenango to witness the spectacular lava show of Fuego at night.
Fuego: You can hike to Acatenango first, then hike to Fuego to experience the active volcano.
Pacaya
You can visit Pacaya with a private or group tour or drive/taxi to the base yourself.
⭐A certified guide is required to ascend Pacaya and can be booked via a group or private tour, or hired on arrival.
Entry is 100Q (approximately $13) and is not included with tours or transportation.
My friend wasn’t quite up for the overnight adventure, so we chose to do the afternoon Pacaya hike. We were hoping for some sunset views, but had a foggy day, which hindered any views, though it was still well worth it and beautiful.
We booked a “tour” that included transportation and a guide.
While the hike was beautiful and being in the lava fields was truly a magical experience, there were some downfalls of doing the hike with a tour. The hike is quite challenging in some areas (regardless of many claims of it being ‘relatively easy’), and the members of our group were at varying levels of ability and experience, which made keeping a pace difficult.
There were also people who opted to take the horses up the mountain, which created a great deal of dust as they ascended ahead of us (it was also devastating seeing these animals struggle). I would recommend a gator or scarf to protect your face from the dust.
A benefit to the group was that we met some awesome fellow travelers that I ended up meeting up with later on my trip.
Overall, we had a great hike and experience, but may opt for a smaller group if we were to do it again.
Where to Eat in Antigua
I have heard a lot of varying reviews and feedback on Guatemalan food, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Personally, I think a lot of people set themselves up for disappointment expecting Mexican cuisine and don’t appreciate the regional cuisine for what it is.
Antigua truly has something for everyone. Here you will find a huge variety ranging from traditional to modern fusion, vegan to steak houses, street food to upscale, and everything in between. As much as it pains me to admit, even the McDonalds are beautiful and far superior to the US.
It would take a month to get through all the eateries in Antigua, but these are the ones I managed to get to:
Breakfast/Brunch
AM BKFST- Breakfast all day
🗺️Calle de Los Duelos 8A, Antigua Guatemala 03001
🕰️Sun 7a-9p, Mon-Wed 7a-3p, Thurs 7a-9p, Fri-Sat 7a-10p
🥬Veggie Friendly
A bit outside the main tourist area, AM BKFST is absolutely worth the short walk. The portion sizes are huge and plentiful, the menu has something for everyone, the service is warm and friendly, and the setting is beautiful: what else could you want in a brunch spot? Oh! Very affordable prices, they have that too.
Lunch & Dinner
Por Qué No? Cafe
🗺️2a Avenida Sur y 9 Calle Oriente Casa 9 Antigua Guatemala, 03001
🕰️Daily 6p-10p
🌐For reservations (send a DM)
🥬Veggie Friendly
Por Qué No? Cafe came highly recommended and we were lucky to snag the last table available on my birthday.
We met a couple on our ATV tour and ended up having drinks with them then all headed to this tiny little restaurant in hopes of getting a walk in table for 4. We got very lucky and did (highly recommend a reservation, as others were turned away).
After having sampled half the menu, it was clear why this place was so highly recommended.
⭐This place is tiny-tiny and the majority of the tables are upstairs, which requires climbing a ladder and sitting on some pretty little stools.
Maxan
🗺️1a Avenida Sur 8, Antigua 03001 Guatemala
🕰️Tues-Thurs 12p-10p, Fri-Sat 12p-11p, Mon - Closed
🥬Veggie Friendly
Two words: mushroom croquettes.
The setting here is lovely, and though we were pretty sure it was his first day our waiter was very kind and attentive. The food was tasty and the menu offered great options for seafood lovers, vegetarians, and meat, lovers alike.
Laurel Bistro
🗺️1a Calle Poniente 9, Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala
🕰️Mon-Thurs 8a-9p, Fri-Sat 8a-10p, Sun 8a-8p
Laurel was my last night in Antigua, date not for one, splurge.
The setting was beautiful, the staff was kind and friendly, and the food was good. It didn’t knock my socks off, but was good and I would certainly go back and try some other dishes.
The bar was also beautiful, and had I not had a very early pick and long transfer the next morning, I would have popped in there after my dinner.
🗺️6 avenida Sur No.7, Antigua Guatemala
🕰️Sun 8a-9p, Mon-Wed 9a-10p, Thurs-Dat 8a-11p
🥬Veggie Friendly
I found Los Tres Tiempos when google searching “best nachos in Antigua” and we ended up not even ordering nachos.
What we did order hit the spot with tasty veggies, tacos and sangria after our Volcano hike. The setting is gorgeous and feels a bit elevated, but we were more than welcomed in our hiking gear and (more than) a little grimy.
The menu is huge, as is the restaurant, so there is something for everyone and every size party.
🥬Vegan
Wachuma
🗺️5a Calle Oriente 12, Antigua Guatemala
🕰️Daily 11a-9p
I found Wachuma when I googled “Best cheap eats” in Antigua and was not only impressed by the price point, but also the overall quality of the food, as well as the huge portions. I definitely felt like I got my bang for my buck in this cozy little space that serves up some delicious bowls.
La Bruja
🗺️3 Avenida Sur 1A, Antigua Guatemala 03001
🕰️Thurs-Tues 12p-9p, closed Wed
My friend and I both took note of this place when we passed on our ATV tour, then our walking tour host suggested it so we knew we needed to go. The atmosphere is beautiful and bright and so is the food. We sampled from both the smoothie bar and restaurant and enjoyed every bite.
Once Once
🗺️2a Calle Oriente #22, Antigua Guatemala
🕰️Tues-Sat 8:30a-3:30p, 6p-9p, Sun/Mon - closed
This one of the best meals I had in Antigua. Everything about it was dreamy from the garden setting to the wonderful service to the absolutely delicious food and lemonade.
I had the al pastor tacos and they were some of the best tacos I have ever had.
Sweet Treats
Doña María Gordillo Candy Store
Discover the iconic Doña María Gordillo, a family-owned business since 1872, offering a variety of traditional Guatemalan sweets and treats
🗺️H749+WC6, Poniente, Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala
🕰️Mon-Fri 9:30a-2p, 2:45p-5:30p. Sat-Sun 9:30a-5:30p
It was both a blessing and a curse that we did not discover this magical place was just around the corner from out Airbnb, because I would have been here every day… multiple times.
If you are looking for unique, traditional, local candies this it the place for you. Our walking tour guide took us in here and we had a small sampling of what Doña María Gordillo offers. Our few bites was enough to have me wanted to go back ASAP.
La Cremeria Antigua
🗺️1a avenida sur casa 23 Antigua Guatemala Antigua, Guatemala 03000, Guatemala
🕰️Wed-Mon 10a-7p, Wed- closed
🥬Vegan (and lactose free) friendly
This was the perfect lunch on a hot day in Antigua. I settled on a coffee ice cream, but sampled many other flavors and they were all fresh and delicious. I could have had a cone from here every day.
Best Bars in Antigua
Ulew Cocktail Bar
🗺️Ulew Cocktail Bar, 3 Poniente, Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala
🕰️Daily 2p-12a
🌐Ulew
When our very fun flight attendant recommended Ulew, we knew we needed to move it to the top of our list.
It ended up being the perfect spot to have some beautiful and tasty drinks with our new friends from a tour on my birthday.
With a really fun and interesting menu, quirky “coasters”, friendly staff and a really cool setting, Ulew just might be the perfect cocktail bar.
Mancha
🗺️7a Calle Poniente 15B, Antigua Guatemala 03001, Guatemala
🕰️Tues-Dat 6p-1a, Sun 6p-11p, Mon - Closed
You know if I was too busy taking birthday shots, discussing the world’s best hot sauce and talking to the bartender to take pictures, the place was great.
Mancha is super unassuming, tucked in to the side of the restaurant (which also looks delicious) but feels like stepping in to your grandmother’s living room with it’s old-timey feel and picture frames adorning that walls… that is until you take a closer look at the pictures in those frames.
The bartender is a local celebrity, and for good reason. He will keep you both tipsy and thoroughly entertained.
Whisky Den & Coffee Bar
🗺️1a Avenida Sur 7, Antigua Guatemala
🕰️Sun 12p-11p, Mon-Thurs 4p-11p, Fri-Sat 12p-1a
This was the first bar we went to upon arriving in Antigua and it really set the bar high. The staff was super friendly and welcoming, that cocktails were strong and delicious, and the bar is beautiful.
As a bonus, it was 100 steps away from our Airbnb.
Cafe No Se
🗺️1st Avenida, Antigua 03001, Guatemala
🕰️Daily 2p-1a
In a city filled with open, airy, and bright bars, Cafe No Se stands in dark contrast with it’s moody, dark, divey vibes in the best way.
With it’s speakeasy-meets-dive bar feel, amazing mezcal cocktails, and just overall cool atmosphere, this is a must stop in for any bar lover.
Be sure to take time to read the walls, there are some gems written there.
For the Best Sunsets
Aqua
🗺️4a Avenida Norte #16, Antigua, Guatemala 03001
🕰️Tues-Sun 11a-11p, Mon 11a-10:30p
🌐Aqua
I came across Aqua when looking for a pool day pass, then found out it had a great rooftop from our walking tour guide.
The rooftop is lovely and offers stunning views, even on an overcast evening. The drinks are on the pricier side, but were strong and delicious. We had dinner plans so opted not to get food, but the menu was tempting and the portions look huge from what we saw around us.
Cafe Sky
🗺️1a Avenida Sur 15, Antigua Guatemala 03001
🕰️Daily 8a-10p
Sky Cafe offers amazing views, decent cocktails, and a great crowd. Upon the recommendation of our tour guide, and reviews, I opted not to eat here (thought they are said to have a good breakfast) and just enjoyed the sunset with a local beer and a few fellow travelers I met.
Antigua Markets
The street food in Antigua is top notch and a great way to try local food and save some cash.
I sampled numerous street foods from the markets and street vendors with no issues and had some of the tastiest bites.
🚫While I highly recommend trying some street food, it was strongly recommended by our tour guide to avoid the strawberries and lettuce sold on the street. While the strawberries look absolutely divine, we took this advice to heart and avoided them.
Mercado Central Antigua Guatemala (and Mercado de Artesanías)
🗺️Antigva, Gvatemala, Poniente 4, Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala
🕰️Daily 7p-6p
You can find absolutely anything here. Literally, anything. From heaps of fresh produce, meat, bread, cheeses, to delectable street food, to any and every souvenir you didn’t know you needed, electronics, clothes, shoes… everything.
The stalls in this market go on and on and you can easily spend hours browsing them and taking in all the sights, smells, and tastes of this huge market.
Antigua Food Market
Located just outside Iglesia de la Merced, this food spot had offerings throughout the day, but really comes alive at night. During the day, you will find grilled corn, fruit vendors, and a couple of stands selling traditional food, but at night you will find several vendors selling a much more vast variety.
This is a great place to try a variety of foods on a minimal budget.
Be sure to have cash and small bills.
No matter when or how you visit Antigua, as a backpacker, luxury traveler or anything in between, you are sure to fall in love with this colonial Latin America city.
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