20 Best Places to Go in Antigua, Guatemala

With its vibrant colors, charming Baroque churches, majestic volcanoes, and rich history, Antigua exudes an irresistible allure. There are countless places to go in Antigua Guatemala, and I challenge you not to fall in love with this enchanting city.

As one of Guatemala’s most popular destinations, alongside Lake Atitlan, Antigua never fails to impress. Its entire historic center, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is adorned with quaint cobblestone streets, stunning colonial architecture, and captivating ruins that tell stories of the past.

Nestled between three towering volcanoes, Antigua’s geography is nothing short of remarkable. Among them is Volcan Fuego, Central America’s most active volcano. For the adventure-seekers, hiking up Volcan Acatenango, located just next to Fuego, offers one of the most thrilling places to see in Antigua Guatemala, giving you an up-close view of this natural spectacle.

Best Things to Do in Antigua Guatemala

No visit to Guatemala is truly complete without spending time wandering through Antigua’s charming cobblestone streets and marveling at its well-preserved colonial architecture that spans centuries.

But that’s just the beginning. Antigua also offers a wide array of unique shopping experiences, cozy cafés serving some of the finest coffee Guatemala is famous for, and the chance to explore the base of a few mighty, active volcanoes.

Keep reading to discover not only the top places to go in Antigua Guatemala, but also a complete travel guide to help you plan your ultimate trip to this extraordinary city.

1. Join a Walking Tour

If you’re looking for one of the best places to go in Antigua Guatemala, a walking tour is an excellent way to begin your adventure. Strolling through the charming historic center of Antigua is best done on foot, and joining a guided walking tour will immerse you in the rich culture and history of this remarkable city.

You’ll uncover the stories behind the vibrant colonial architecture, explore historic ruins, and learn about the unique geography that surrounds Antigua, including its awe-inspiring volcanoes. Through the eyes of a knowledgeable local guide, a walking tour offers an in-depth look at Antigua’s fascinating past, making it the perfect way to start your journey in this beautiful city.

2. Snap a Photo with the Santa Catarina Arch

One of the most iconic places to see in Antigua Guatemala is the Santa Catarina Arch, a landmark that stands out as a symbol of the city. Famous for its bright yellow color, this stunning arch is not only a photographer’s dream but also carries a fascinating history.

Built in the late 17th century, the arch was originally constructed to allow nuns, who had taken a vow of seclusion, to cross between convents on either side without being seen. Despite many earthquakes that ravaged the city, including the devastating quakes of 1773 and 1976, the Santa Catarina Arch has remarkably stood the test of time.

To capture the best shot, I recommend visiting in the morning. Not only will you avoid the crowds and passing cars, but you’ll also get a spectacular view of Volcan Agua, perfectly framed by the arch. It’s a sight that shouldn’t be missed during your trip to Antigua!

3. Admire the Iglesia de la Merced

Among the many beautiful churches in Antigua, the Iglesia de la Merced truly stands out and is often considered one of the top places to see in Antigua Guatemala. Its striking yellow facade, with intricate Baroque details, is a sight you won’t want to miss. Make sure to take some time to admire the exterior and, of course, snap a few photos!

The church’s Baroque architecture was thoughtfully designed to resist earthquakes, with its low structure and wide columns. Despite the devastation caused by two major quakes, Iglesia de la Merced remains standing as a testament to the city’s resilience.

While the exterior is impressive, don’t forget to venture inside. The church also features a lovely cloister area that’s worth exploring, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the historic beauty of Antigua.

4. Explore the City’s Ruins

Antigua’s unique geography makes it particularly vulnerable to earthquakes, and the city has endured numerous tremors over the centuries. One of the most devastating was in 1773, which left many buildings in ruins.

While some structures have been rebuilt, standing as a testament to the city’s resilience, others remain as captivating ruins that offer a glimpse into Antigua’s storied past. These ruins are among the most fascinating places to visit in Antigua Guatemala, where history and architecture intertwine in an unforgettable way.

Here are Some of the Ruins to Check Out in Antigua

Antigua is home to many fascinating ruins that provide a glimpse into its rich history and resilience after centuries of earthquakes. Here are some of the must-see spots:

1. Catedral San Jose (Antigua Guatemala Cathedral or Catedral de Santiago): This Roman Catholic church has stood since the 1500s and has been rebuilt multiple times after various earthquakes. Though only partially rebuilt after the 1773 quake, its tall arches remain stunning.
2. Convento de las Capuchinas: Once a vibrant convent, it was abandoned after the 1773 earthquake. Today, it stands as a well-preserved example of an 18th-century convent, complete with tranquil gardens and beautiful rooftop views.
3. Convento Santa Clara: Founded around 1700, this convent was damaged by two major earthquakes and finally abandoned after the 1773 disaster. The ruins, including the church interior and gardens, are worth exploring.
4. Iglesia de San Francisco: Built in the 16th century, this church has been destroyed and rebuilt several times. Though much of the original structure no longer stands, it remains an important religious and cultural site in Antigua.
5. El Carmen: This once lavish Catholic church survived the 1773 earthquake relatively well, thanks to its Baroque facade. However, it was later damaged by earthquakes in the 20th century. The church is no longer active, but there is a popular handicrafts market here.

5. Go Rooftop Hopping

One of the best ways to soak in Antigua’s charm is by spending time on one of the many rooftop spots scattered throughout the city. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail or enjoying a delicious meal, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Antigua’s historic ruins and vibrant streets below.

These rooftops also offer some of the best vantage points to take in the magnificent volcanoes that encircle the city. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of Fuego erupting in the distance – an awe-inspiring sight that adds to the magic of your time in Antigua!

Here are Some Rooftops to Check Out While in Antigua

Antigua is full of rooftop spots that offer breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. Here are a few that you shouldn’t miss:

1. Cafe Sky: This was hands down my favorite rooftop view in Antigua. From here, you get a picture-perfect panorama of the volcanoes. We visited for both early dinner/drinks and breakfast, and I recommend coming in the morning when the skies are clearer. Watching Fuego puffing smoke while enjoying breakfast was an unforgettable experience!
2. Rooftop Antigua: We absolutely loved the cocktails here! The rooftop offers great views of the city’s ruins and volcanoes, which often become visible after sunset. The menu includes pastries, coffee, sandwiches, and more, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal.
3. Antigua Brewing Company: Situated in the heart of the historic center, this spot offers spectacular views of the city and its volcanoes. We came for dinner and were treated to the surreal sight of Fuego casually spewing lava in the distance. Their menu features classic pub fare and craft beers brewed on-site. Be sure to try a beer flight to sample a variety!
4. Cafe Boheme: This cozy terrace, with its French-inspired atmosphere, offers distant views of Acatenango and Fuego. The menu includes sandwiches, salads, coffee, smoothies, acai bowls, and pastries – perfect for a light meal or snack.
5. Cafe Estudio: Offering incredible views of the entire city and all three volcanoes, Cafe Estudio has a particularly romantic ambiance with its string lights. It’s a great place to relax and take in the beauty of Antigua.

6. Grab a Cocktail at a Speakeasy

Did you know that Antigua has its very own speakeasy? If you know where to look, you’ll find Ulew Cocktail Bar, hidden within the Antigua Brewing Company. This secret spot offers a unique experience with its creative, handcrafted cocktails.

There’s no menu here – simply let the bartender know what kind of drink you’re in the mood for, and they’ll craft the perfect cocktail just for you. It’s all about personalized, tailored drinks in a cozy and mysterious setting.

To access Ulew, head to the phone booth downstairs at the brewery. I wish I had known about this hidden gem when I was in Antigua, but now you know, so don’t miss out!

7. Conquer the Acatenango Volcano Hike

The Acatenango volcano hike is one of the most exhilarating adventures you can embark on near Antigua, Guatemala. While it’s not for the faint of heart, this challenging hike offers the once-in-a-lifetime experience of standing atop one of Central America’s tallest volcanoes, Acatenango, with an incredible close-up view of its fiery neighbor, Fuego.

For me, this was hands down one of the most unforgettable travel experiences I’ve ever had. Witnessing Fuego’s thunderous eruptions, feeling the ground tremble beneath my feet, and watching sparks of lava shoot into the night sky every 15 minutes was nothing short of awe-inspiring. I’ve never experienced anything quite like it!

That said, the hike is no easy feat. With over 5,000 feet of elevation gain, it’s a steep and relentless climb. At times, I found myself questioning why I had chosen this adventure, especially while trudging up sandy paths, winding through dense rainforest, and sliding on volcanic sand. But the moment I emerged above the clouds and caught my first up-close glimpse of Fuego, it was all undeniably worth it.

Although it’s possible to complete the hike in one day, I highly recommend the overnight hike. Watching Fuego erupt at night is a breathtaking (literally and figuratively!) experience. Joining a guided tour is a must – I went with Wicho & Charlie’s and highly recommend them. Their A-frame cabins built right into the mountainside made the overnight experience much more comfortable!

8. Toast Marshmallows on The Pacaya Volcano

If the Acatenango hike feels a bit too intense, don’t worry – there’s another volcano hike that’s just as thrilling but far more manageable. Hiking Volcan Pacaya is one of the top things to do near Antigua and offers the exciting experience of hiking an active volcano with significantly less effort.

Located about an hour and a half from Antigua, Pacaya is known as one of the most accessible volcanoes in the area. You can choose between an overnight hike or a sunrise tour, both offering spectacular views.

The hike itself is around 5 kilometers (about 3 miles) with an elevation gain of 1500 feet, making it a moderately challenging trek that takes roughly two hours to complete. One of the best parts about Pacaya is that its unique formation allows you to get close to the crater without much risk.

And here’s the real highlight – once you reach the top, you can toast marshmallows over the hot volcanic rocks! It’s an unforgettable experience that combines adventure with a sweet reward.

9. Hike to Cerro de la Cruz

Cerro de la Cruz is Antigua’s most iconic viewpoint, offering a panoramic view of the entire city along with the majestic volcanoes that surround it. The viewpoint is marked by a large stone cross at the top of the hill, giving it its name.

While you can easily take a tuk-tuk or an Uber to reach the viewpoint, I recommend hiking up. The hike is only about a mile long and takes roughly 30 minutes to reach the top. Though it’s a bit steep with plenty of stairs, it’s a short and manageable trek.

For me, this hike was a great way to get familiar with the city and “warm up” for my volcano hike the next day. Admittedly, I found myself out of breath on the way up, which made me a bit nervous for Acatenango, but I made it to the top just fine, hahah!

To get there, head north on 1A Avenida from the city center. You’ll soon see a sign that says “Bienvenidos a Cerro de la Cruz.” From there, just follow the trail to the summit.

Some people recommend visiting Cerro de la Cruz at sunset, but I think the morning is best. The skies tend to be clearer in the morning, and as the day progresses, clouds often roll in and obscure the volcanoes.

10. Go on a Food Tour

I’ve become a huge fan of food tours during my travels, as they not only allow you to sample the best dishes from top eateries, but also give you a deeper understanding of a city’s unique culture.

One of the best experiences in Antigua is the Antigua Foodie Tour, which offers 10 tastings at some of the top restaurants in the city. During the tour, you’ll get a crash course on Guatemala’s traditional dishes, learning more about its flavors, textures, ingredients, and culinary influences. It’s a delicious and informative way to connect with the local culture!

11. Wander the Mercado Central

Antigua’s Central Market, or Mercado Central, is a bustling hub of local life and a must-visit for anyone wanting to dive into the city’s vibrant culture. It’s a maze of vendors selling everything imaginable – from fresh produce, meats, and spices to flowers, clothing, housewares, electronics, and even medicines.

The sheer size of the market can be overwhelming, but if you want to experience local culture and get a glimpse of daily life, this should be at the top of your list. I found it truly fascinating!

If you’re feeling hungry, there are plenty of food vendors offering traditional Guatemalan street food, so you can grab a bite while exploring.

The market is open every day from 8am to 5pm, but the busiest days are Monday, Thursday, and Saturday. On these days, the market is alive with activity, which can either be thrilling or a bit chaotic, depending on what kind of experience you’re seeking.

12. Shop for Traditional Handicrafts

There’s something truly captivating about the vibrant colors and intricate textures of Guatemalan handicrafts. Unsurprisingly, I couldn’t resist bringing home a few traditional pieces as souvenirs. Each item, from textiles to handmade dolls, carries with it the craftsmanship and culture of the artisans.

While bargaining is common, remember to pay a fair price – don’t lowball! These artisans put a lot of hard work into their craft and don’t earn much, so it’s important to be respectful when negotiating.

Here are a few artisanal markets I visited:

1. Mercado de Artesanias: Located right across from Mercado Central and surrounding a beautiful courtyard, this market has vendors selling everything from traditional textiles and pompoms to leather goods, jewelry, handmade dolls, wooden paintings, and more.
2. Mercado de Artesanias El Carmen: Situated at the El Carmen ruins, this market offers a wide variety of items. During the week, it’s held indoors, but on weekends, the market takes place among the ruins themselves, making it a unique shopping experience.
3. Nim Pot’: This is a retail store where local artists sell their products on consignment. It’s a great place to get an idea of the handicrafts available elsewhere and to gauge fair prices, but I encourage you to buy directly from the artisans at the markets.

13. Take a Trip to the Chichicastenango Market

Chichicastenango is THE market to visit in Guatemala and one of the most famous in all of Central America. If you’re in town on a Sunday or Thursday, you’ll have the chance to experience one of the most unique things to do near Antigua!

Locals from surrounding regions flock to the market to sell their goods, and you’ll find a huge variety of items – from colorful textiles and wooden boxes to pottery, paintings, local food, medicinal plants, and even live chickens. It’s a true sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells.

While it’s possible to take the iconic “chicken buses” to get there, I’d recommend going as part of an organized tour for convenience and ease.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t in town on the market days, but I’m already planning a return trip to Antigua just to visit Chichicastenango!

14. Take a Cooking Class

Taking a cooking class is an amazing way to dive into the local cuisine and food culture. Not only will you get to taste some of Guatemala’s most beloved dishes, but you’ll also learn how to make them yourself!

Guatemalan cuisine has its roots in Mayan culture and is known for its unique flavorings, textures, and ingredients. During the class, you’ll learn to prepare several authentic Guatemalan dishes, such as Pepian, and after all your hard work, you’ll enjoy a relaxing meal on a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes.

Beyond just cooking, the class offers insights into traditional cooking techniques and ingredients, while also providing a deeper understanding of Guatemalan culture and daily life.

15. Make Your Own Chocolate Bar

Chocolate lovers, rejoice! As one of Guatemala’s key exports, chocolate plays a big role in the country’s culture. So why not dive deeper into its history and even make your very own chocolate bar to take home as a souvenir?

The ChocoMuseo is a small museum and shop located in the center of town, dedicated to all things chocolate. Here, you’ll find a variety of chocolate products, some featuring exotic ingredients like chili. You can sample the treats, shop for chocolate bars, and even enjoy a delicious chocolate beverage.

For one of the most enjoyable activities in Antigua, I highly recommend joining the bean-to-bar workshop where you’ll get to craft your own chocolate bar! You’ll learn about different types of cacao beans, the production process, and see firsthand how they are transformed into the chocolate we all love.

16. Take a Day Trip to Hobbitenango

Taking a day trip (or even a half-day trip) to the quirky Hobbitenango is one of the best things to do near Antigua. Even if you’re not a huge fan of the Hobbit (I’m not either), this unique Hobbit-themed eco-park is worth a visit. You’ll find plenty of photo-worthy spots, fun activities, and stunning mountain views.

One of the park’s most famous features is the giant stone troll hand that overlooks the volcanoes and valley – perfect for an Instagram shot! But beyond that, Hobbitenango has plenty to keep you entertained for a day. Activities include a tree swing, archery, axe throwing, mini-golf, hiking trails, and shopping at the artisan markets. There’s also an on-site restaurant and bar for when you want to relax.

For those looking for a unique stay, Hobbitenango also offers adorable little Hobbit houses where you can spend the night, making for a truly memorable accommodation experience!

Located about 10km outside of Antigua, Hobbitenango is easy to reach. Shuttles are offered from an office in Antigua, but when we went, they weren’t running, so we took an Uber from the city. A heads-up though – Ubers are scarce on the way back, so we had to grab a taxi to return to town.

Once you arrive, you’ll be dropped off at the main ticket office, where you’ll pay the 50Q entrance fee. From there, you’ll take a 4×4 shuttle up to the park itself. And let me tell you – it’s an adventurous ride! The dirt roads are narrow, steep, and very bumpy, so get ready for a fun trip!

17. Visit Caoba Farms

Just 10 minutes outside Antigua’s historic center, Caoba Farms is a delightful organic farm, restaurant, and marketplace. Known for its farm-to-table brunch, the meals here are made with fresh, organic ingredients sourced directly from the farm – similar to Flora Farms in San Jose del Cabo!

You can enjoy a delicious meal in their beautiful patio area, surrounded by lush greenery, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing brunch. On weekends, you can also enjoy live music while you dine.

Beyond the food, Caoba Farms offers a variety of activities. They have a farmer’s market, a butterfly sanctuary, farm tours, and host events like sunrise yoga and aerial silk classes. It’s a wonderful place to spend a peaceful and enjoyable day.

18. Explore Hotel Casa Santo Domingo

Yes, you read that right – one of Antigua’s top tourist attractions is actually a hotel. But Hotel Casa Santo Domingo is far from your average accommodation!

This luxurious hotel is located on the site of a former monastery, which was once one of the most significant and impressive in all of the Americas. Like many buildings in Antigua, the monastery was destroyed during the 1773 earthquake, but the ruins of the convent remain, along with various artifacts and relics recovered from it.

There’s so much more to explore at Casa Santo Domingo beyond the ruins. The hotel features beautiful gardens, crypts, an archaeological museum, art galleries, a top-notch restaurant, a spa, and plenty more to discover. It’s not just a place to stay – it’s an immersive experience into Antigua’s rich history and culture.

19. Ride a Chicken Bus

The chicken buses of Guatemala are nothing short of iconic. If you’ve ever wondered what happens to old school buses from North America, they find new life here, getting painted in vibrant colors and adorned with flashy designs to serve as public buses.

And the name “chicken bus” isn’t just for fun – it comes from the fact that passengers sometimes transport live chickens (and other goods) alongside them.

If you’re not up for navigating the chicken buses on your own, one of the most unique things to do in Antigua is to join a chicken bus & schools tour. This experience takes you on a chicken bus ride to the nearby town of Ciudad Vieja, which is home to a chicken bus factory. You’ll even get the chance to tour the factory and see how these iconic buses are transformed.

The tour also includes a visit to local schools run by Niños de Guatemala, a nonprofit organization that provides education to local children. The best part? All profits from the tour are donated to this cause, so you’re directly supporting the community while having an amazing cultural experience.

It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in local life while contributing to a meaningful cause!

20. Wander Around Parque Central

The lush Parque Central is one of the main gathering spots in Antigua. Dating back to the 16th century, this charming square is surrounded by historically significant buildings, as well as a variety of restaurants, cafes, shops, and attractions.

Both locals and tourists gather here, making it a lively place to relax and soak in the atmosphere. The park is shaded by plenty of trees and shrubs, and there are benches where you can sit, unwind, and people-watch. In the center of the park, you’ll find a beautiful fountain decorated with mermaids spouting water.

If you’re in the mood for some Guatemalan street food, Parque Central is an excellent spot to sample the local flavors, with vendors offering a variety of tasty treats. You can also browse the artisan market, where vendors sell traditional handicrafts.

21. Visit the Cooperacion Espanola

I stumbled upon the Cooperacion Espanola by accident, and it turned out to be one of the prettiest spots in Antigua! This former monastery has been beautifully restored and now serves as an arts and culture center run by the Spanish embassy.

The site features a stunning courtyard and gardens, along with several galleries that showcase art, photography, and cultural exhibits. They also host a variety of events, such as cinema nights, dance performances, lectures, and more.

The best part? Admission is free, and it’s usually not crowded, making it a peaceful and worthwhile stop during your visit to Antigua!

22. Admire the Courtyards of Antigua

One of my favorite things to do in Antigua was admiring the beautiful courtyards scattered all around the city – and there are so many of them!

While many of Antigua’s top attractions have stunning courtyards built into them, you’ll also find these hidden gems in numerous restaurants, hotels, and cafes.

I know it sounds surprising, but I highly recommend stopping by Taco Bell, McDonald’s, and Starbucks while you’re in town. Yes, they’re your typical chain restaurants, but trust me, these are probably the most beautiful ones you’ll ever visit! The courtyards in these locations are truly remarkable.

23. Try Guatemalan Coffee

Guatemala is renowned for having some of the best coffee in the world, so trying a cup is a must! One of my fondest memories of Antigua was sipping on my morning coffee, which was honestly some of the best I’ve ever had.

There are plenty of charming cafes throughout the city, but two of the top spots to check out are Fat Cat Coffee House and Artista de Cafe. Both serve exceptional coffee and offer cozy atmospheres to relax and enjoy your brew.

For those who want to dive deeper into Guatemala’s coffee culture, taking a coffee tour is a great option. This tour usually involves visiting a local coffee plantation via ATV, where you can taste freshly brewed local coffee and learn about the entire production process, from bean to cup.

I didn’t get a chance to do one in Antigua, but I did a similar tour in Nosara, Costa Rica, and it was such a cool experience! You really start to appreciate all the hard work that goes into producing the perfect cup of coffee.

24. Take a Day Trip to Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan is often regarded as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, with its stunning blue waters surrounded by three majestic volcanoes. The lake is dotted with over a dozen vibrant villages, each with its own unique culture and charm.

If you can, I’d highly recommend spending more than just one day at Lake Atitlan – there is so much to explore! But even if you only have one day to spare, it’s absolutely worth the trip, as this region is one of the most beautiful and fascinating areas of Guatemala.

For a day trip, the best option is to book a one-day tour. This is a convenient way to experience Lake Atitlan, as it includes round-trip transportation from Antigua and a boat tour that allows you to explore some of the lakeside villages.

It’s the perfect way to take in the breathtaking beauty of the area, sample a bit of village life, and experience the traditional Mayan culture that thrives around the lake.

Is Antigua, Guatemala Worth Visiting?

YES!!! Antigua is an incredibly charming city, with its colorful colonial buildings lining the cobblestone streets. In fact, the entire historic center of Antigua is a UNESCO World Heritage site!

Once the capital of Guatemala, the city boasts a rich history and unique geography, with fascinating ruins resulting from the need to rebuild after several major earthquakes.

Antigua is also surrounded by three volcanoes, including Volcan Fuego, the most active volcano in Central America. From many spots in the city, you can witness Fuego erupting and spewing lava, which is an absolutely breathtaking sight!

Beyond the history and natural wonders, Antigua also has a vibrant culture, welcoming locals, and delicious food. It’s a place where history, nature, and culture come together, making it an unforgettable destination!

How Long Should You Spend in Antigua, Guatemala?

There’s so much to do in Antigua, Guatemala, that I’d recommend spending at least three days to fully appreciate the city and experience its main highlights. This will give you enough time to explore the historic center, visit the ruins, enjoy the local food, and take in the vibrant atmosphere.

If you’re interested in hiking one of the nearby volcanoes, like Acatenango or Pacaya, I suggest adding an extra day for that epic adventure!

If you’re pressed for time, you can condense your trip into two days, but it might feel a bit rushed trying to fit everything in.

Best Time to Visit Antigua, Guatemala

Guatemala is often called the “land of eternal spring” due to its year-round, spring-like temperatures, so there’s really no bad time to visit!

That said, Guatemala does have a dry season and a rainy season. The best time to visit Antigua is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, you’ll experience sunny days and dry weather, perfect for outdoor activities like the epic volcano hikes Antigua is known for.

The rainy season lasts from May to October, and while it’s still worth visiting during these months, you can expect clear mornings, overcast skies as the day progresses, and heavy rain for an hour or two in the late afternoon. One advantage of visiting during the rainy season is the cheaper accommodations and tours, plus fewer crowds.

Traveling to Antigua

To reach Antigua, you’ll first need to fly into Guatemala City. The city’s La Aurora International Airport (GUA) is the main international gateway for the country and offers flights to and from many global destinations.

Coming from Southern California, I found plenty of affordable flight options. I initially booked a round-trip flight for $400, but it dropped to $200 the next day, so I canceled and rebooked for the lower fare.

Once in Guatemala City, you have several options for getting to Antigua:

1. Tourist Shuttle: This is a popular and affordable option, costing around $15-20 one way. Two recommended shuttle companies are GuateGo and Atitrans. Be sure to check their schedules to ensure it fits with your flight. In my case, it didn’t, so I opted for Uber instead.
2. Uber: This is what I used and highly recommend. It’s the fastest option and cost me around $30 USD. I prefer Uber over traditional taxis for its tracking features, which are handy if there’s a language barrier. Uber pickups are easy just outside the terminal, but keep in mind that the airport doesn’t have WiFi, so you’ll need to use mobile data. The trip to Antigua can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. It took me about an hour.
3. Private Transfer: Hiring a private driver is a convenient and direct way to get to Antigua, especially if you’re traveling with a group. In some cases, this may be more cost-effective than a shuttle.
4. Chicken Bus: If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly (and adventurous) option, the chicken bus is the way to go. These brightly colored buses are a Guatemalan icon, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable, with limited safety measures. There’s also no proper luggage storage, so your bags may be thrown on top of the bus. Unless you’re on a tight budget, I’d recommend skipping this option.

Getting Around in Antigua

Most of Antigua’s top attractions are located in the historic center, which is very compact and easy to explore on foot. You can walk from one end of town to the other in about 20 minutes.

However, keep in mind that the streets in Antigua are made of cobblestones and can be very bumpy and uneven – even compared to Europe or Mexico. Make sure to wear proper footwear; flat sandals or sneakers are your best options here. Fancy wedges or heels are not ideal! Also, you might want to avoid rolling a giant suitcase around town due to the uneven streets.

Uber is available in Antigua and is a convenient choice for visiting attractions just outside the city (like Hobbitenango), heading to Lake Atitlan, or getting back to the airport in Guatemala City. While you can also use Uber for getting around within the town, I found it unnecessary since most places are walkable. However, it’s a good option if you have mobility issues.

Another popular way to get around is by tuk-tuk. These little three-wheeled vehicles are great for quick trips, especially to hilly areas like the Cerro de la Cruz viewpoint.

Is Antigua, Guatemala Safe?

Yes, I know – Guatemala doesn’t exactly have a reputation for being one of the safest countries in the world. So, you might be wondering – is it safe to visit Antigua?

Guatemala has had a turbulent history, and there are definitely parts of the country that remain unsafe for tourists. Crime is still an issue, but things have improved in recent years.

That said, the areas most frequented by tourists, including Antigua, are generally considered safe to visit. During my time in Antigua, I never once felt unsafe. I even spent a day exploring on my own, and while I was initially a bit anxious, I quickly felt comfortable navigating the city solo.

The perception of Guatemala as a “super dangerous” country can deter people from traveling there, but don’t believe everything you hear, especially from those who have never been there. While there are still areas of Guatemala that should be avoided, Antigua is not one of them.

Of course, nowhere is 100% safe – not even at home. As with traveling anywhere, you should always take basic safety precautions:

1. Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid flashing valuables.
2. Keep a close eye on your belongings.
3. Avoid walking around alone at night.
4. Don’t overindulge in alcohol.
5. Don’t go off with strangers.
6. If your flight into Guatemala City arrives late at night, stay in a nearby hotel and travel to Antigua the next morning.

More things to know about Antigua, Guatemala

Money + Currency

The official currency of Guatemala is the Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ). As of now, $1 USD is roughly equal to 8 GTQ (or 100 GTQ is about $13 USD).

While many businesses around Antigua, especially those catering to tourists, accept credit cards, it’s still a good idea to carry cash. You’ll need cash for entrance fees, shopping at local markets, street food, tips, and for tuk-tuk or taxi fares.

I typically withdraw cash upon landing at the airport. In Guatemala City, there’s an ATM in the ticketing area, but it’s a bit tricky to access from the arrivals terminal. However, there’s another ATM located in the parking garage across from the terminal. Once in Antigua, you’ll find plenty of ATMs around town.

The most common ATMs in Guatemala are the yellow 5B machines, and they usually accept foreign debit cards without issue. However, I’ve heard that some other ATMs may not work as reliably for foreign cards. Keep in mind that 5B ATMs charge a high convenience fee – about 60 Quetzales (~$8 USD). So, be strategic about how often you withdraw cash to avoid racking up fees.

Language

The official language of Guatemala is Spanish. While you may encounter some English in Antigua, I found that I primarily had to rely on my Spanish during my time there (and in Guatemala overall).

Because of this, I highly recommend brushing up on your Spanish through apps like Duolingo, as knowing basic Spanish will be incredibly helpful! I was personally grateful for my high school Spanish classes. In fact, being in Guatemala inspired me to improve my Spanish skills even further!

Antigua is also a fantastic place to practice your Spanish – the locals are incredibly friendly, and the town is home to numerous Spanish language schools, making it a popular activity for visitors.

Other Antigua, Guatemala Travel Tips

• Water Safety: The water in Antigua (and Guatemala in general) is not safe to drink. Many accommodations provide filtered drinking water, but if that’s not available, opt for bottled water. Alternatively, consider bringing a LifeStraw or Steripen for safe drinking water.
• Elevation: Antigua sits at over 5,000 feet above sea level. If you find yourself struggling to catch your breath, that’s likely the reason! If you’re sensitive to altitude, it’s a good idea to bring some medication to help you adjust.

Where to Stay in Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua offers a wide range of accommodation options, from charming boutique hotels to hostels and everything in between, catering to various tastes and budgets. In general, accommodation in Antigua (and Guatemala overall) tends to be quite affordable – you can find boutique hotels for around $100 per night, and even the town’s luxury hotels were less than $200 per night during my stay.

Here are some recommended places to stay in Antigua:

1. Hotel Aurora: This is where we stayed, and we absolutely loved it! It’s a beautiful boutique hotel with lovely grounds, featuring a charming courtyard and garden. The location is central, so you’re close to everything! The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and breakfast is included for free.
2. Good Hotel: I love the concept of Good Hotel and would have stayed here if there had been availability. It’s a super stylish boutique hotel that also gives back to the community by donating profits to help disadvantaged children attend school.
3. Ojala: We stumbled upon Ojala while having coffee, and I ended up staying a night here at the end of my trip. The courtyard is beautiful! It’s a boutique hostel, but they offer private rooms as well (which I stayed in). The beds are incredibly comfortable, and my room even had a rain shower!
4. Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo: This is Antigua’s most luxurious hotel, built on the grounds of a former monastery. The property is stunning, with a restaurant, gardens, a pool, museums, and much more to explore.

Have you ever visited Antigua? What are your favorite activities to do in Antigua, Guatemala?