If you only have time to visit one place in Guatemala, then I suggest it be Antigua. I was taken aback by its colorful houses, cobble stoned streets, and volcanoes that add to its landscape. It felt very different from the rest of the country but in the best way. I spent 3 full days here, but I could have easily spent many more. Below are the top things to do in Antigua, Guatemala!
My visit to Guatemala was a week solo trip in March of 2023. I chose Guatemala for a few reasons: I had never visited before so it was new to me and I was able to use airline points to get a basically free flight via Spirit. I only had to pay the taxes which came out to just under USD$60.
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Things to do in Antigua, Guatemala
Walking Tour
My preferred way of getting to know a city is by doing a walking tour. This way you get used to the city layout and guides usually have additional tips they’re happy to share with participants.
Santa Catalina Arch
The most picturesque spot in Antigua is most definitely the Santa Catalina Arch. If you come from the main square you’ll have the Church of the Merced in the background. I suggest taking photos from the other side so that on a clear day you can have the Agua (Water) Volcano as part of your backdrop right under the arch. Unfortunately the days I was there were sunny, but not clear enough at the volcano top to get such an epic shot. I hope you’re luckier than I was!
Parque Central
Parque Central is right in the middle of the city and a local hangout spot with food vendors, a large fountain and surrounding restaurants and stores.
Walking around here in the morning is calming and relaxing. You can hear the birds chirping away and people on their way to work. It’s the perfect time to get photos if you prefer them without others in them.
In the afternoon/evening, it’s a lively place to be with teenagers hanging out, kids chasing pigeons, and couples enjoying a stroll. This park really is the heart of the city.
Convento Santa Clara
Most of the convent is in ruins, but you could tell it was beautiful in its day. It was built in 1700 and was partially destroyed in 1773 by an earthquake. Some of the original structure survived the quake and stands to this day. The details on the facade are impressive and deserve a view up close. Give yourself an hour to explore the grounds and take in the baroque style architecture.
The Santa Clara Convent is one of the biggest and most stunning venues in Antigua. Weddings are held here often. I even got to witness one in progress when I visited.
San Francisco the Great Church and Museum del Hermano Pedro
This church has history dating back to the 16th century and takes up four city blocks. There are regularly scheduled services and masses of people who pay homage to Santo Hermano Pedro by visiting. The museum is dedicated to the Saint which is within the ruins of the monastery. The complex has withstood multiple earthquakes and restorations over the years which shows how remarkable the original construction was.
Entrance fee of 30 Quetzales for foreigners or 10 Quetzales for Central Americans.
Convento Capuchinas
What’s left of the Capuchinas Convent is ruins of an 18th century nunnery with a church, courtyards, a tower, and some of the nun’s cells. The central open area has a fountain and colorful bougainvillea.
Inside the convent there is a museum. I visited on a Monday which I don’t recommend as the museum and second floor are closed to the public. Entrance is 40 Quetzales and must be paid in cash.
Street Food
Trying street food is a must when I travel. There are many food stands in Merced park. I got a churrasqueira de chorizo for 25 Quetzales paid in cash. You can eat nearby on a bench or leaning against the area surrounding the fountain. It’s a great place to people-watch while having delicious food! This is a great tour to try different foods and where to get them.
Learn how to cook authentic Guatemalan food with a cooking class!
San Jose Cathedral and Ruins
Located on the southeast of Antigua’s central park is the San Jose Cathedral. The outside facade is beautifully decorated with statues. The cathedral is still operating and can be visited. Behind are ruins of the old cathedral.
The ceiling of the ruins is gone, but most of the columns are still standing which you can walk around. Compared to other convents and places to visit in Antigua, I personally didn’t find it as intriguing, but for 20 Quetzales (USD$3), it’s definitely beautiful to visit. Entrance must be paid in cash.
Cerro de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross)
Just outside of the center of the city is the Hill of the Cross. From here you get an amazing panoramic view of the city with volcanoes Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango in the background. The earlier you go, the less people there will be so you can enjoy it for yourself.
Starbucks Antigua
I’m not much of a Starbies girl, but the aesthetics of this one make it definitely worth a visit. This one is considered one of the prettiest Starbucks in Central America and it doesn’t disappoint.
Day Trip Options
With lots of things to do in Antigua, Guatemala you may not have time to explore beyond the city. If you like fun and unique experiences then check out the list below.
- Coffee Farm Experience
- 2 Day hike to Acatenango Volcano
- Explore the villages of Lake Atitlan
- Day trip to Chichicastenango
- ATV Mountain tour with Hobbitenango Entry
- Street Food Walking Tour with Tastings
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