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Antigua, Guatemala, is a beautiful town in Latin America surrounded by volcanoes. With its cobblestone streets and old buildings, it feels like stepping into a history book. But Antigua is not just about history!
You can climb the volcanoes (if you’re up for an adventure), stroll through the lovely streets, taste delicious food, and learn about Guatemalan culture. There are so many things to do in Antigua, and this guide will help you find the best activities for your trip!
Best Things to Do in Antigua, Guatemala
1. Explore Parque Central
Explore Parque Central, the vibrant heart of Antigua! Known locally as Plaza Central, this park is filled with energy, combining shops, history, and a touch of nature. It’s like stepping into a living museum that tells the stories of Antigua’s rich history. Wander among colonial-era buildings adorned with pastel facades and intricate details, soaking in the community’s warm spirit as you watch daily life from a park bench.
Parque Central also features a central fountain and a replica of a historic 1738 building, adding a historical charm to its lively atmosphere. Around the edges, vendors will tempt you with delicious snacks and refreshing drinks. Grab a treat, find a quiet spot, and enjoy your time here.
PRO TIP: The best way to visit Antigua’s highlights is to take a walking tour!
2. Visit Iglesia de La Merced
Next, visit Iglesia de La Merced. It’s not your ordinary church though, it is super strong! It is bright yellow and looks almost like it’s glowing. Believe it or not, this church has been through two earthquakes and is still standing. Pretty impressive, right? This church rose from the ashes (literally) in the 1500s, only to be rebuilt even stronger in the 1700s. Talk about resilience!
Step through the grand entrance and prepare to be amazed by the intricate details adorning the walls, each telling a story about the church’s rich history. Look up at the ceiling, too, for an incredible sight: it’s covered in magnificent mosaics of saints made from tiny tiles. The main altar is a mix of colonial architecture and religious art.
Once you head outside the church, you’ll find a peaceful courtyard, a perfect escape from the city noise. There’s a lovely fountain with calming water to help you relax.
3. Climb Cerro de la Cruz
Want to see stunning views of Antigua? Hike up Cerro de la Cruz “Hill of the Cross!” It’s a short and easy climb on a paved trail with stairs.
The higher you go, the more beautiful the view gets. Antigua’s charming colonial buildings shrink beneath you, and you’ll get a stunning view of the city bathed in the warm glow of the sunset. You might even glimpse Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango volcanoes peeking up in the distance!
Don’t forget your camera! You’ll want to capture the beautiful view from the top, with the tall white cross and the colorful city stretching out below. This is your chance to connect with nature and experience Antigua’s beauty in a new way.
PRO TIP: Don’t feel like climbing? Take a tuk-tuk instead for an affordable, easy option! Or combine it with a Sunset ATV Tour!
4. Tour the Coffee Plantations
For coffee lovers, make sure to add this to your itinerary! Antigua’s volcanic soil and perfect climate have grown exceptional coffee beans for centuries. Join a coffee tour and discover the secrets behind this delicious drink. A fun way to do it is with an ATV coffee tour.
Your expert guide will walk you through the entire process, from planting tiny coffee seeds all the way to harvesting the ripe beans. See how they carefully extract the seeds from the bean and then learn about the drying process that makes all the difference in the final flavor. The best part might be the smell! As you get closer to the roasting room, the aroma of freshly roasted beans will hit you.
Finally, the moment you’ve been waiting for: coffee tasting! You’ll get to try different Antiguan coffees and learn to identify the unique flavors and smells that make a great cup. Before you leave, don’t forget to grab a bag of freshly roasted beans to take home. Every sip will remind you of your memorable Antigua coffee adventure!
5. Explore the Antigua Cathedral (San Jose Cathedral)
There are two churches just off Central Park – the old Cathedral, destroyed in a 1773 earthquake, and the current church.
Step back in time and explore the dramatic ruins of Antigua Cathedral. This 16th-century powerhouse was once a grand landmark, but now it serves as a hauntingly beautiful reminder of the city’s colonial history.
Massive earthquakes may have destroyed its walls, but the cathedral’s spirit remains. Soaring arches surround dramatic views of the Guatemalan sky, while thick vines reclaim their territory, adding a touch of life to the weathered stone.
Step inside the cathedral and let the sunlight cast an ethereal glow on the uneven ground. Explore the cool, dark passageways of the catacombs, a hidden world beneath the cathedral whispering stories of lives lived long ago. Keep an eye out for fascinating details – intricate carvings, faded artworks, and maybe even a fragment of a stained-glass window – all hinting at the cathedral’s rich history.
6. Visit the Jade Museum
If you want to discover a fascinating connection between the past and present, visit Antigua’s Jade Museum, a museum filled with fascinating stories about jade. You’ll be surrounded by ancient Mayan artifacts, marveling at their precise carvings and the stories carved into the stone. Imagine the lives these pieces touched centuries ago!
The museum doesn’t just focus on history. It also showcases stunning modern jade jewelry by Guatemalan artists. Bold colors, intricate carvings, and beautiful patterns bring the jade to life in a new way. Even better, the museum offers a selection of these gorgeous pieces for sale. So you can take a little piece of Guatemalan artistry home with you!
7. Stroll Through the Artisan Market
Get ready to shop ‘til you drop (or your bag fills up) at Antigua’s Artisan Market! This vibrant marketplace is a sensory delight, overflowing with colorful textiles, handcrafted goods, and local charm.
You can browse through rows of colorful fabrics, created by skilled local artisans. Traditional Mayan designs come alive in every shade you can imagine. You’ll also find beautiful leather goods like bags and wallets, perfect for everyday use or as a unique souvenir.
Bargaining is expected here! You might score a hidden treasure with a smile and a polite approach. While doing so, please take the opportunity to engage in conversation and learn about their skills. Trust me, you’ll appreciate the passion they put into each piece more.
Grab a cup of freshly brewed Guatemalan coffee or explore the local spices in between shopping sprees. Soak up the lively atmosphere and enjoy the unique experience ofthe Antigua Artisan Market!
PRO TIP: Not a bargainer? That’s okay – there are plenty of souvenir shops in town. My favorite was Nim Pot, next to the Santa Catalina Arch, selling many local products and no bargaining required!
8. Take a Cooking Class
Ditch the restaurant menus and participate in Guatemalan culture with a traditional cooking class in Antigua! This unforgettable experience will transform you from a tourist to a temporary chef. Learn from friendly local chefs who will share their passion and knowledge of Guatemalan cuisine, including some family recipes passed down for generations.
The adventure often starts at a bustling local market. Your guide will transform it into a classroom, teaching you to spot the freshest seasonal produce, fragrant spices, and unique local ingredients.
Get ready to master popular dishes like Pepián, a flavorful stew simmered to perfection, and Tamales, a Guatemalan staple. You’ll learn how to blend spices, craft the perfect masa dough, and create delicious fillings.
After all your hard work in the kitchen, gather around the table and enjoy the fruits (or should we say vegetables?) of your labor. Skip the pre-made meals and savor the delicious food you created yourself!
PRO TIP: Not a cook? Don’t worry! Take a food tour instead, like this one I took, and you’ll discover all the best Guatemalan foods in villages in the surrounding areas!
9. Visit Hotel Casa Santo Domingo
Step back in time and experience luxury at Hotel Casa Santo Domingo! This unique hotel perfectly blends the beauty of the past with modern comfort, offering an unforgettable stay.
Wander through the aged courtyards and churches of a 17th-century convent. This isn’t a museum exhibit – it’s the hotel’s foundation! Built in 1989, Casa Santo Domingo carefully restored the convent’s remains, creating an elegant hotel that complements the fascinating on-site museums.
Speaking of museums, there are six to explore! Immerse yourself in Guatemalan history through exceptional colonial art, religious paintings, detailed sculptures, and even archaeological artifacts from ancient Mayan civilizations. Marvel at the dazzling collection in the Silverware Museum, or learn about Guatemalan pottery’s rich artistry throughout time at the Pottery Museum.
At Hotel Casa Santo Domingo, you can truly have it all. This unique combination allows you to have the best of both worlds! Immerse yourself in the captivating history within the museum walls before relaxing in the timeless comfort and elegance of the hotel itself.
PRO TIP: If you’re on a budget, visit the hotel and enjoy a meal instead of staying overnight.
10. Go on a Chocolate Tour
Have you ever dreamed of being Willy Wonka? You can turn that dream into a delicious reality on a Guatemalan chocolate tour!
Get ready to explore a museum entirely dedicated to Guatemala’s chocolate history. Interactive exhibits will take you on a journey through time, revealing the ancient Mayans’ love for this “food of the gods” and its transformation into the modern chocolate we crave.
But the real magic happens next! Join a chocolate-making workshop led by expert chocolatiers. They’ll guide you as you transform raw cacao beans into your very own chocolate masterpieces. Experiment with different flavors and textures, from classic dark chocolate to unique blends infused with local spices and fruits.
This is the moment you’ve been waiting for: savoring your own creations! Every bite is proof of your newfound skills and a celebration of Guatemala’s rich chocolate heritage.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. As a sweet reward for your hard work, you’ll receive a one-of-a-kind souvenir: a box of handcrafted chocolates, a delectable reminder of your unforgettable Guatemalan adventure.
11. Hike Pacaya Volcano
Ready for an exciting adventure? Hike Pacaya Volcano, an active giant that rises over Antigua! This breathtaking (literally!) hike will leave you with thrilling memories.
Conquer a volcanic landscape as you follow a trail carved from hardened lava. Feel the thrill of being near to nature’s raw power as you see rows of smoke rise from the crater. Along the way, your experienced guide will reveal the mysteries of Pacaya. Learn about the dramatic history of eruptions, the unique ecosystem that survives on its slopes, and the volcano’s cultural importance to the Guatemalan people.
As you climb higher, the Guatemalan landscape unfolds before you in a stunning view on a clear day. When you reach the peak, you’ll notice jagged black lava flows in contrast to the steam from the crater, where you can feel the heat radiating from the ground. An overnight hike is a favorite activity.
Depending on volcanic activity, you might even toast marshmallows over volcanic vents—a truly unique (and carefully supervised) experience!
12. Explore the Santa Catalina Arch
Don’t miss the iconic Santa Catalina Arch in Antigua! This bright yellow landmark, just a block from the main square, is a colorful piece of Antigua’s colonial history. Step back in time as you admire the 17th-century archway. It stands proudly against the backdrop of Antigua’s charming colonial buildings.
The arch was built for a very unique reason. In the 17th century, nuns lived on one side of the street in the Santa Catalina Convent. They also ran a school on the other side. To avoid ever having to go out in public, the nuns cleverly built this archway to connect the convent and the school. It’s a testament to both their dedication and architectural creativity!
Take a moment to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere under the arch. It’s a popular place to snap a photo with the golden frame as a backdrop or stand beneath it and enjoy the panoramic view of the city. The Santa Catalina Arch is a quick and easy stop that shouldn’t be missed!
13. Shop in the Central Market
If you’re looking for something memorable to take home, visit Antigua’s Central Market and let your senses guide you through this unique destination’s sights, sounds, and flavors.
Wander through rows upon rows of fresh, local produce. Abundant tropical fruits you’ve never seen before mix with vegetables, showcasing the region’s abundant agricultural riches. Textiles in eye-catching designs spill from stalls like a mini-explosion of color. Each piece is a masterpiece created with generations of tradition.
Of course, no trip to a new place is complete without sampling the local street food, and Antigua’s Central Market doesn’t disappoint! Sizzling hot tamales will tempt you with their delicate corn shells with savory fillings. Bite into a crispy chuchito, a deep-fried pocket of deliciousness bursting with flavorful meats or veggies.
Feeling the Guatemalan heat? Cool down with a refreshing cup of freshly squeezed fruit juice. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try a cup of pinole, a frothy beverage made from pulverized maize, sometimes sweetened with cinnamon or chocolate. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone – that’s what travel is all about! Embrace the new and enjoy the unique flavors Antigua has to offer.
14. Grab a tall cool one at Antigua Brewing Company
As a beer lover, I had to visit Antigua Brewing Company. Home to local and foreign brewers, ABC offers a large selection of artisanal brews. One of the most popular beers is their IPA, Fuego, named after one of the local volcanoes. The aroma of passion fruit gives you the full feel of this tropical beer.
If your visit coincides with a major sporting event (I visited during Copa America 2024), this is THE spot to cheer on your favorite team!
15. Or a new favorite cocktail at U’lew.
If you’re into speakeasy vibes, then check out U’lew. Access to this unique cocktail bar is through the red phone booth inside the Antigua Brewing Company. These aren’t your typical bartenders; they’re cocktail masters!
Don’t look for the drink menu because there isn’t one. Instead, wait staff will ask you for your favorite flavors and types of alcohol. The cocktail masters then create a drink that is uniquely you!
PRO TIP: Sit at the bar where you can see these masters at work for a unique perspective!
16. Explore the Santa Clara Convent
Built in 1700 and destroyed in 1773 by an earthquake, the site is being refurbished by the government. Take a guided tour (they offer varying lengths depending on your time and budget) to learn about life in the convent throughout the centuries.
As one of the largest ruins in the area, it is easy to understand the importance of the Catholic church and its influence. While earthquakes have taken a toll, the ruins are a testament to the architectural wonders that remain.
Today, the Convento de Santa Clara is a tourist’s favorite photo spot and a fantastic wedding and other celebration environment for locals.
17. Visit the Museum of Colonial Art
Explore Antigua’s rich history at the Museum of Colonial Art, in the former University of San Carlos. This captivating museum offers a glimpse into Guatemala’s colonial past through a stunning collection of artwork and artifacts.
Wander around the museum’s hallways to learn about the past. Admire a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and religious items, each reflecting the artistic expression and cultural influences that shaped colonial Guatemala. The museum’s collection includes works by well-known Guatemalan artists, and fascinating everyday objects used during the colonial period. Discover the stories behind these pieces and gain a deeper understanding of life in Antigua centuries ago.
The building itself holds historical significance. Initially established in the 17th century, the University of San Carlos was one of the first universities in Central America. Explore the beautifully preserved architecture and imagine the scholars who once walked these halls.
18. Visit Hobbitenango
If you look at photos of Antigua, chances are that many of them will feature people sitting on a giant hand. That is Hobbitenango. The park even provides a photographer that will use your own camera.
Wander through the paths leading guests to hobbit houses and various scenic outlooks. If you’re lucky, the Fuego Volcano will show off in the background for fantastic photos. Adventurous souls should try out the bungee swing. Or test your aim with axe throwing.
Whether or not you’re a fan of The Hobbit, you won’t want to miss an opportunity to miss Hobbitenango! This eco-friendly resort features lots of photo spots among fun activities. I visited as part of an ATV Sunset Tour that I highly recommend!
19. Tanque de la Union
Travelers through Guatemala will note that every village and town offers communal wash basins since some of them do not offer running water and washing machines are limited. These wash basins were central to the community and an opportunity to catch up with your neighbors on what was happening.
Although more people have their own washing options these days, the wash basin in Antigua, located just outside the Santa Clara Convent, is a fabulous photo opportunity. Visitors can reflect on what it must have been like to chat with their neighbors while washing their weekly laundry.
20. Attend a Festival
Antigua, a city rich in history and culture, comes alive all year with various festivals. From the solemn procession of Holy Week to the thrilling rhythms of Antigua Carnival, there’s a celebration for every taste.
Witness Antigua transform during Semana Santa, a profoundly spiritual and traditional festival leading to Easter. Impressive processions wind through the cobblestone streets, adorned with colorful carpets and towering “alfombras” made from dyed sawdust and flowers.
If you’re fortunate enough to be in Antigua during Holy Week, you must experience this powerful festival. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the city’s deep faith and rich cultural traditions.
But there’s more! Here’s a glimpse of what you might encounter throughout the year:
● Antigua Carnival (July): Lose yourself in the infectious energy of Antigua Carnival, a vibrant explosion of music, dance, and colorful costumes.
● Jade Festival (various times): Explore the world of Guatemalan jade, a precious stone that has been adored for centuries. This festival showcases jewelry and artifacts, along with cultural demonstrations.
● Food Festivals (various times): Treat your taste buds at Antigua’s food festivals, celebrating the city’s rich culinary heritage. Sample traditional dishes, learn about local ingredients, and enjoy live music and entertainment.
Festivals offer an authentic glimpse into Antigua’s spirit. Participating will give you a deeper appreciation of the city’s rich culture and heritage.
21. Admire the Church La Campana de Jesus
Built between 1690 and 1698, this Baroque-style church and Jesuit monastery was destroyed during one of the many earthquakes that plagued the region.
But it is one of the most beautiful sites in a city full of them! I found several quinceñeras posing for photos here. If you have the chance, also stop by at night when it is all lit up.
22. Explore the surrounding villages.
While Antigua is the main attraction, it is surrounding by wonderful villages that highlight something unique about the area. Each village’s main plaza serves as the center of commerce and community.
If you’re looking for some incredible leather boots, then you’ll want to stop in Pastores. Discover incredible street food in Jocotenango – especially in the evenings when it seems like the entire town is out for dinner!
Visitors have many options, from joining a local food tour, riding an ATV, or riding in the comfort of a car or minivan to discover these beautiful locales.
Day Trips from Antigua, Guatemala
Lake Atitlan
This is a controversial choice! The most popular day trip from Antigua is likely a visit to Lake Atitlan. The reason the choice is controversial is that a day trip only allows you to get a small taste of this amazing area. Many people recommend spending at least a night or two in Lake Atitlan.
If your time is limited, select the day trip that will cover the most popular villages – generally San Juan La Laguna, San Pedro, and Santiago Atitlan. The boat tour begins in Panajachel and depending on the option you chose, may include a typical breakfast. This tour is a wonderful option if you want to see the best of the area but are short on time.
PRO TIP: The road to Panajachel is extremely torturous. If you are at all prone to motion sickness, plan on taking something before your drive. Many people get physically ill from the road’s sharp twists and turns.
Guatemala City
Depending on the time of day you choose, a one to two-hours drive will take you to the current capital, Guatemala City. International flights arrive and depart in Guatemala City so many visitors opt to start or end their Guatemala trip in the capital.
The capital since 1773, Guatemala City is the political and economic center of the country. Visitors can experience everything that a large city offers – cultural and historical museums, art galleries, a 125-year-old brewery, and don’t miss the Guatemala City Cathedral. If you’ve got the time, explore the revitalized capital.
PRO TIP: Two of the main streets downtown are pedestrian on Sundays, so plan your visit for a Sunday!
Iximche
Fans of Mayan ruins should schedule a half-day trip to Iximche, the first capital of what is now Guatemala. The drive from Antigua to Iximche is about 1.5 to 2 hours each way. You’ll spend an hour or more exploring the area with a guide who will explain everything that you’re seeing.
Know Before You Go to Antigua, Guatemala
Weather
The best time to visit Antigua is from December to April, the dry season, when the temperatures are coolest. Of course, as an advocate of off-season travel, I recommend the rainy season – from mid-June to mid-November.
Travel in July meant afternoon thunderstorms and the occasional rain. But it passed pretty quickly.
How to Get There
Visitors to Guatemala arriving by air will likely fly into Guatemala City. You can get to Antigua by riding one of Guatemala’s famous chicken buses. But, if you’re like me and value your time and comfort, arrange for a private ride or shuttle bus to your hotel.
Currency
Most transactions in Guatemala will likely be billed to your no foreign-fee credit card like this one (you may as well earn points while traveling!). Cash transactions require Guatemalan Quetzals, named after the national bird.
While U.S. dollars are widely accepted, I recommend carrying some local currency. Your best bet for exchange is at a national bank and you’ll need to show your passport.
How Many Days Do You Need?
I spent three days in Antigua and wished I had another one or two extra! Yes, you can cover most of the sights in 2-3 days but a few more would allow for exploration of nearby areas.
Where to Stay in Antigua
Antigua offers lots of accommodations, no matter your preference or budget.
Luxury: Hotel Casa Santo Domingo – As mentioned above, the grounds of this hotel are historic and amazing. Service gets high marks at this hotel. Guests rave about the spa, sauna, and pool – a perfect place to relax.
Mid-Range: Casa Mia Hotel – This quaint hotel was where I stayed. The property is basic but room rates include a basic Guatemalan breakfast. The pool is tiny and mostly for show. The hotel is on a busy road (so there is traffic noise) but it is in a great location to access all the sites.
Budget: Barbara’s Boutique Hostel – Antigua is home to many hostels but Barbara’s gets high praise. Guests can opt for a shared dormitory room or private rooms. The common areas get high marks as well as the cleanliness of the property.
Where to Eat in Antigua
Antigua’s food is fresh and affordable, so enjoy as much as you can! Here are some of the favorites I personally enjoyed:
Rinconcito Antigüeño – Sometimes listed as Rincon Antigueno, this is THE place for an affordable lunch option for less than $10. Opt for one of the rotating daily specials to get the most bang for your buck as it will include a drink.
La Cuevita de los Urquizú – Another affordable option to try so very many Guatemalan favorites! Start at the front of the restaurant where guests pick out their main and side dishes. They will be brought to your table by the friendly waitstaff.
El Tambor el Hato – A bit out of town but a wonderful place to watch the sunset while eating local food. Located on an avocado farm, you’ll get to taste delicious fresh flavors.
Barriga Llena – If you’re looking for a modern take on Guatemalan food, then visit Barriga Llena (which means full belly).
Even if you’re craving a taste from home – like McDonalds, Taco Bell, Wendy’s – your experience at these fast foods in Antigua will taste fresher and more filling. Give them a try for comparison sake!
Final Thoughts on Best Things to Do in Antigua, Guatemala
I loved my few days in Antigua, Guatemala. This former colonial capital, full of historical sites, features beautiful colonial architecture. I loved exploring the historic buildings that have made this small town a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The city of Antigua is full of friendly locals and a safe place to visit. If you’re not into the party atmosphere, you may want to avoid the weekends when residents of Guatemala City descend on the city.
But Antigua was one of my favorite destinations and a wonderful way to spend my birthday!
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Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
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Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.