Antigua - Discovering Guatemala

Travelling to Antigua

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Antigua, a pretty good destination in Guatemala (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Antigua and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Antigua, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Guatemala, here's everything to know about Antigua for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Antigua

Antigua is a small city located in the central highlands of Guatemala, about 25 miles (40 km) southwest of Guatemala City. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its well-preserved colonial-era architecture. The city was founded in the early 16th century by Spanish conquistadors and served as the capital of Guatemala until 1773 when it was destroyed by earthquakes. Today, Antigua is a popular tourist destination known for its charming streets, colorful architecture, and vibrant culture. It is also surrounded by volcanoes, making it a great destination for hiking and outdoor activities.

What to visit in Antigua

1. Santa Catalina Arch: A beautiful landmark of Antigua, this arch was built in the 17th century to connect a convent to a school. It's now the most recognizable symbol of Antigua and a popular spot for photos. 2. Plaza Mayor: The central plaza of Antigua, surrounded by colonial buildings and the cathedral. It's a great spot to relax and people watch. 3. Antigua Cathedral: A stunning baroque-style cathedral that was built in the 16th century. It has a rich history, having been damaged by earthquakes and rebuilt several times. 4. Volcán de Agua: A massive volcano that towers over Antigua. You can hike to the top for a stunning view of the city and the surrounding landscape. 5. Cerro de la Cruz: A hill that overlooks Antigua, with a large cross at the top. The hike up is steep but worth it for the panoramic views. 6. La Merced Church: Another beautiful colonial church in Antigua, known for its intricate facade and Baroque interior. 7. San Francisco Church: A large, historic church that was built in the 16th century. It's now a museum that showcases Antigua's history and culture. 8. Jade Museum: A small museum that showcases the history and cultural significance of jade in Guatemala. You can also purchase jade jewelry and souvenirs here. 9. Antigua Market: A bustling market filled with colorful textiles, traditional handicrafts, fresh produce, and delicious street food. It's a great place to immerse yourself in Antigua's culture and pick up some souvenirs. 10. ChocoMuseo: A chocolate museum where you can learn about the history of chocolate in Guatemala and how it's made. You can also take a chocolate-making workshop and sample some delicious chocolate treats.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Guatemala, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Antigua.

When to go on holiday to Antigua

The best time to visit Antigua, Guatemala is during its dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, you can enjoy sunny and warm days with comfortable temperatures that are perfect for exploring the city's historic streets and landmarks. The months of December and January are particularly busy due to the Christmas and New Year's celebrations, with many tourists coming to Antigua during this time. If you prefer to avoid crowds but still want pleasant weather, consider visiting in April, just before the wet season kicks in. However, keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for some occasional showers even during the dry season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Antigua

Antigua, Guatemala is a popular tourist destination located about an hour away from Guatemala City, the country's capital. To get there, you can: 1. Fly to Guatemala City's La Aurora International Airport and then take a shuttle, taxi or private transfer to Antigua. This is a popular option, as there are many daily flights to Guatemala City from several major cities around the world.
2. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus from Guatemala City's Terminal de la Zona 4. There are several companies that offer this service, including Litegua, Fuente del Norte and Transportes Marquensita.
3. Some tour companies also offer guided day-trips to Antigua from Guatemala City. This can be a convenient option if you want to see the city's highlights in a short amount of time.
Whichever mode of transportation you choose, make sure to plan ahead and book your tickets or reservations in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Antigua, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Antigua

Antigua, Guatemala is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine. Here are some typical foods that you may try when you visit: 1. Pepián – A hearty and rich stew made from chicken or beef, vegetables, and spices. Often served with rice and tortillas.
2. Chiles Rellenos – A dish made of large bell or poblano peppers stuffed with meat, cheese, or vegetables and then fried or baked.
3. Tamales – These are made of corn masa dough stuffed with meat, vegetables, or cheese, and then steamed or boiled in a corn husk.
4. Kaq Ik – A spicy traditional dish made from turkey cooked in a red sauce made of tomatoes, tomatillos, and spices.
5. Jocón – A type of green sauce made of green vegetables like tomatillos, cilantro, and peppers, often served with grilled meats.
6. Rellenitos – These are sweet fried plantain dough balls filled with black bean paste or sweetened mashed plantains.
7. Pollo en Jocón – A chicken dish cooked in a green sauce similar to Jocón using Tomatillos and Green chillis.
8. Fiambre – A colorful and elaborate salad made from various meats, vegetables, and fruits.
9. Chuchitos – Similar to tamales, these are small corn dough pockets filled with meat, cheese, or beans, and then steamed.
10. Coffee – Not exactly a food, but Antigua is known for its excellent coffee due to the high altitude, volcanic soil, and perfect weather conditions for growing coffee beans.
You can find general info about typical foods in Guatemala here.

Is Antigua an expensive destination for tourists?

Antigua, Guatemala can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists compared to other places in Guatemala. Prices for accommodation, food, and activities tend to be higher due to its popularity as a tourism destination, particularly among foreign travelers. However, the cost of traveling to Antigua can vary depending on the type of accommodation, restaurants, and activities you choose. If you plan your trip carefully and stay in budget accommodation, eat at local restaurants, and explore the city on your own, you can still enjoy a wonderful time in Antigua without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Antigua

Antigua, Guatemala is a small city, so there are plenty of good options for accommodation. The best areas to find accommodation in Antigua would be in the historic center or within walking distance of the city's main attractions. The areas around Parque Central, Calle del Arco, and La Merced Church are particularly popular. There are also some nice options further-out from the city closer to Volcano Agua and Volcano Fuego, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Ultimately, it depends on the type of experience you want to have while visiting Antigua, but staying in or near the historic center is a great way to explore the local culture and landmarks.
You can check hotel prices at Antigua here:
Booking.com

Is Antigua a safe destination for tourists?

Antigua, Guatemala is generally a safe place for tourists, as long as appropriate safety precautions are taken. Like any tourist destination, there are certain risks associated with traveling in Antigua, such as petty theft and pickpocketing, so it is important to exercise common sense and keep an eye on your belongings. It is also recommended to avoid walking alone at night and to stick to well-lit areas. Additionally, it is advised to be aware of any political or social unrest in the area and to avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings. Overall, tourists who take precautions and use common sense when traveling in Antigua should have a safe and enjoyable experience.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Guatemala here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Antigua.

What type of travelers will enjoy Antigua the most?

Antigua, Guatemala is a versatile destination that can appeal to various types of travelers. Couples may enjoy the romantic atmosphere and colonial charm of Antigua's old streets, architecture, and cozy restaurants. They can also go for walks and hikes, take a coffee plantation tour, or enjoy a sunset view from the hilltop viewpoint of Cerro de la Cruz. Young people looking for fun may enjoy Antigua's vibrant nightlife, which includes bars, clubs, and live music performances. They can also take Spanish language and cultural classes, go on adventure tours, or try local cuisine in trendy places.
Families can enjoy Antigua's family-friendly environment, which offers activities such as making chocolate, painting ceramics, and watching traditional performances. They can also explore kid-friendly museums, climb volcanoes or visit nearby nature reserves. Overall, Antigua offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that can appeal to a wide range of travelers.

How to get around Antigua

The most common and convenient modes of transportation in Antigua, Guatemala are walking, taxis and tuk-tuks. Walking is a great option for short distances, but for longer distances, you can opt for a taxi or a tuk-tuk. Tuk-tuks are small motorized rickshaws that are cheaper than taxis and are ideal for short distances. You can also rent a car or a scooter to move around, but it is not recommended due to the narrow streets and heavy traffic in Antigua.

What to see around Antigua

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Antigua: 1. Lake Atitlan 2. Chichicastenango Market 3. Pacaya Volcano 4. Iximche Mayan Ruins 5. Coffee Plantations in the surrounding hills 6. Ciudad Vieja (The Old City) 7. Earth Lodge 8. Hobbitenango & Cerro de la Cruz 9. Alotenango Hot Springs 10. Santa Maria de Jesus I hope these suggestions help!
For every travel information about Guatemala you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel and this page was partly created with the help of AI: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.