Travel Guide • Antigua Guatemala

Discover Antigua Guatemala: Top Things to Do, Best Hotels & Travel Guide

UNESCO-listed colonial streets, baroque ruins, coffee culture, and volcano views. Plan the perfect trip—safely and smartly—with honest guides on attractions, hikes, day trips, food, weather, and where to stay.

Safety
Volcano Hikes
Coffee Tours
Best Hotels
Day Trips
Spanish Schools
Plan Your Trip
See Best Hotels
Top things to do

Why Antigua Guatemala Should Be Your Next Destination

Nestled between the Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango volcanoes, Antigua blends history and nature like nowhere else. Explore colonial landmarks, vibrant markets, and cafés serving some of the world’s best coffee—all within a walkable, traveler-friendly city.

  • Santa Catalina Arch & Colonial Landmarks
  • Coffee Tours & Chocolate Workshops
  • Volcano Hikes: Pacaya & Acatenango
  • Markets, Jade & Textiles
  • Cultural Experiences & Museums
Why Antigua Guatemala Should Be Your Next Destination

Top Things to Do in Antigua Guatemala

From iconic photo spots to hands-on cacao classes and sunrise volcano views—start here.

Attractions

Iconic Landmarks & Photo Spots

Santa Catalina Arch, La Merced, San Francisco Church, and the city’s most charming streets.

See full guide →

Outdoors

Volcano Hikes: Pacaya & Acatenango

Day hike Pacaya or camp on Acatenango for sunrise views over Fuego’s eruptions.

Compare tours →

Coffee & Chocolate

Coffee Tours & Chocolate Workshops

Meet local producers, learn the process, and taste world-class Guatemalan coffee and cacao.

Plan tastings →

Shopping

Markets, Jade & Textiles

Handmade crafts, colorful textiles, and authentic souvenirs at local markets.

Where to shop →

Best Places to Stay in Antigua Guatemala

Colonial charm or modern comfort—filter by style and budget.

Boutique

Best Boutique Hotels

Intimate stays in restored mansions with dreamy courtyards and rooftop views.

All hotels →

Luxury

Top Luxury Stays with Volcano Views

Upscale amenities, excellent service, and terraces facing the volcanoes.

See luxury picks →

Budget

Affordable & Hostels Near the Center

Great value options close to landmarks, cafés, and transport hubs.

Save on stays →

Safety & Practical Tips

Antigua is traveler-friendly. Use common sense, book reputable transport, and avoid isolated areas late at night. Getting here is simple: 45–60 minutes from Guatemala City’s airport (GUA).

Is Antigua Guatemala Safe?

Neighborhood tips, emergency info, and realistic on-the-ground advice.

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Airport to Antigua

The easiest ways to get from GUA: shuttles, private transfers, ride-hailing.

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Money, SIM & Tipping

ATMs, exchange, eSIMs, and what to expect when paying around town.

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Where to Eat & Drink

Taste Guatemalan classics like Pepián and Kak’ik, sip single-origin coffees, and watch sunset from a rooftop bar.

Restaurants

Best Restaurants & Rooftops

Editor’s picks by cuisine, budget, and neighborhood.

Coffee

Can’t-Miss Coffee Shops

Third-wave cafés, pastries, and slow mornings with volcano views.

Traditional

Guatemalan Food 101

What to try: Pepián, Kak’ik, Hilachas, rellenitos and more.

Volcano Adventures & Day Trips

Hikes

Pacaya Day Hike

Family-friendly adventure with warm lava fields and panoramic views.

Overnight

Acatenango Overnight

Sunrise above the clouds with front-row views of Fuego’s eruptions.

Excursions

Lake Atitlán

Villages, boats, and mountain scenery—an easy getaway from Antigua.

Best Time to Visit

Dry season brings clear views and major events like Semana Santa; rainy months are greener and quieter. Choose your vibe.

Weather by Month

Rainfall, temperature, and travel tips for each month.

Semana Santa in Antigua

Processions, carpets, and planning advice for peak season.

Spanish Schools, Long-Stays & Digital Nomads

Top Spanish Schools

Immersive lessons in one of the world’s most beautiful places to study.

Cost of Living

Budget ranges, neighborhoods, and what to expect month-to-month.

Coworking & Wi‑Fi

Reliable internet, work-friendly cafés, and the local nomad scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

Antigua is one of Guatemala’s most traveler-friendly cities. Use common sense, choose reputable transport, and avoid isolated areas late at night. See our detailed safety guide for local tips and emergency info.

It usually takes 45–60 minutes depending on traffic. We recommend pre-booked shuttles or private transfers for convenience and safety.

Dry season brings clear views and major events like Semana Santa; rainy months are greener and quieter. Check our month-by-month weather.