Antigua is a city in Guatemala where you will never run out of things to do and see. Its stunning colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and rich cultural heritage will undoubtedly charm you. Once the bustling capital of the Spanish Kingdom of Guatemala, Antigua is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dive into our guide to discover the best things to do in this timeless city.
- Walk Around the Cobblestone Streets
- Explore the Historic Ruins and Churches
- Visit the Santa Catalina Arch
- Relax in Parque Central
- Explore the Local Markets
- Visit Museums
- Watch the Sunset at Cerro de la Cruz
- Visit the Picturesque McDonald’s and Starbucks
- Try Local and International Restaurants
- Day Trips from Antigua – Acatenango Volcano Hike, Hobbitenango, Chichicastenango
1
Walk Around the Cobblestone Streets
It might sound boring to just walk around, but when the streets are this beautiful, it’s worth it. One of the advantages of Antigua is that everything is so close, and you can walk almost anywhere. Take time to wander through the historic center, particularly Calle del Arco, which leads to the famous Santa Catalina Arch. Along the way, you’ll pass vibrant colonial buildings, boutique shops, and small cafés, offering endless photo opportunities.
2
Explore the Historic Ruins and Churches
This activity offers a fascinating journey into the city’s colonial past, and the beautiful ruins will leave you in awe. Antigua’s architecture is impressive, and its churches are no exception. If you love history, you’ll find the ruins especially captivating. Here are some must-see landmarks:
Iglesia de La Merced: Known for its stunning yellow and white Baroque-style façade, this is one of the most photographed landmarks in Antigua. The church itself is still active, and you can enter to admire its detailed interior.
Catedral de San José (or de Santiago): After earthquake damage, this cathedral has been reconstructed multiple times. Visitors can explore the ruins of the original structure behind the main cathedral, where you’ll find beautiful stone arches and relics from Antigua’s past.
Ruinas Convento De San Francisco El Grande: These ruins are a significant historical and architectural landmark. Walking through the peaceful ruins allows you to imagine the grandeur of the original structures. Make sure to visit the museum dedicated to Hermano Pedro, Guatemala’s first saint.
Hotel Casa Santo Domingo: Though it’s now a luxury hotel, the Santo Domingo complex houses incredible museums and art galleries in the remains of an ancient monastery. Even if you’re not staying there, you can visit the grounds to appreciate the mix of history and modern architecture.
3
Visit the Santa Catalina Arch
You can’t visit Antigua without taking a picture with the iconic Santa Catalina Arch! Built in the 17th century, the arch originally connected a convent to a school, allowing the nuns to pass unseen between the two buildings. Today, it’s a popular spot for tourists. Nearby, you’ll find several artisan shops, restaurants, and small art galleries, making it a great area to explore further.
4
Relax in Parque Central
Parque Central has been the main square of Antigua since the city’s founding in the 16th century. It’s the perfect spot to relax on a bench, soak in the peaceful atmosphere, and do some people-watching. At the center of the park, you’ll find the Fountain of the Sirens, a great spot for photos. The park is also surrounded by historic buildings, including the Antigua Cathedral and the Palace of the Captains General. If you’re visiting in the evening, you might even catch some live music or local performances.
5
Explore the Local Markets
Visiting the markets in Antigua isn’t just about shopping; it’s about immersing yourself in local culture and engaging with the community. The Mercado de Artesanías is the best place to shop for handmade souvenirs like textiles, jewelry, and ceramics. For a more authentic experience, visit the bustling Antigua Municipal Market, where locals buy fresh produce, meats, and traditional food. This is a great opportunity to taste regional specialties, such as tamales and fresh fruit juices, while observing daily life in the city.
6
Visit Museums
Antigua is home to several fascinating museums, each offering unique perspectives and experiences. While we’ve already mentioned the Casa Santo Domingo museums, here are some others to consider:
- Museo del Jade (Jade Museum): Learn about the significance of jade in Mayan culture and browse through exquisite pieces of jewelry and artifacts.
- Museo de Arte Colonial (Colonial Art Museum): Features a collection of religious art from the colonial period housed in a beautiful old building.
- Museo Casa del Tejido Antiguo (Old Textile Museum): This museum is dedicated to the history and art of traditional Guatemalan weaving. You can even watch local artisans at work.
- Museo de Santiago (Santiago Museum): Located in the old city hall, this museum showcases Antigua’s history and important artifacts from its colonial past.
- ChocoMuseo (Chocolate Museum): Learn about the history of cacao in Guatemala and even take part in a workshop to make your own chocolate.
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7
Watch the Sunset at Cerro de la Cruz
The viewpoint at Cerro de la Cruz is breathtaking, especially at sunset. You can reach it by a short 20-30 minute trek from the city center. The trail is moderately steep but manageable. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes. If you prefer to avoid the crowds at sunset, consider visiting early in the morning for a quieter experience with the same stunning view. The area is safe for visitors during the day, but it’s advisable to go with a group for added security.
8
Visit the Picturesque McDonald’s and Starbucks
It might seem odd, but Antigua is known for having one of the most beautiful Starbucks in the world and a particularly scenic McDonald’s. Starbucks is located in a colonial-style building with an outdoor courtyard that blends perfectly into the historic architecture of Antigua. Similarly, the McDonald’s has a lovely garden with fountains and seating, offering an unexpectedly serene atmosphere. You don’t need to make a purchase—just visit to admire the architecture and take photos.
9
Try Local and International Restaurants
Guatemala is known for its delicious food, and Antigua is no exception! Stay tuned, a detailed article about our favorite restaurants in Antigua is coming soon!
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Day Trips from Antigua – Acatenango Volcano Hike, Hobbitenango, Chichicastenango
Antigua is not only full of things to do but also serves as a starting point for three amazing day trips. Here’s a quick overview:
- Acatenango volcano hike – This challenging two-day hike takes you to the summit of one of Guatemala’s most famous volcanoes. From the top, you can see incredible views of the active Fuego volcano. Be sure to prepare for the cold temperatures and high altitude.
- Hobbitenango – A unique eco-lodge and park inspired by the world of The Hobbit. It’s a fun and family-friendly destination offering stunning views, adventure activities, and quirky hobbit house accommodations.
- Chichicastenango market – Known for being the largest indigenous market in Central America, Chichicastenango is a colorful town where you can shop for textiles, handicrafts, and traditional Mayan goods. It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Antigua.
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