Looking for the best things to do in Antigua, Guatemala? You’re in the right place. I’ve spent time in this colonial city and put together this guide to help you plan your trip.
Antigua sits between three volcanoes and offers cobblestone streets, ruins from the 1700s, and some of Central America’s best coffee.
This post covers 33 activities across six categories: cafes, restaurants, historic sites, outdoor adventures, hands-on workshops, and local markets.
I’ll also share where to stay and practical tips for your visit.
How to Get Around & Best Time to Visit
Walking works best for the city center. Tuk-tuks cost 10 to 30 quetzales for short trips. Uber operates here with fixed pricing for longer distances.
Most visitors arrive from Guatemala City, about an hour away. Shuttle services run daily between the two cities. Book through your hotel or tour company.
November through April offers dry weather and clear volcano views. May through October brings afternoon rain but fewer crowds. December, January, and Semana Santa (Holy Week) are busiest, so book ahead.
Top 33 Things to Do in Antigua, Guatemala
From colonial ruins and volcano hikes to coffee shops and cooking classes, here’s your complete guide to Antigua.
Cafes & Coffee Experiences
- Visit El Gran Café: This spot serves strong Guatemalan coffee in a relaxed setting. The beans come from local farms, and you can taste the difference in every cup.
- La Rosona Cafe: A small cafe with outdoor seating. Order their espresso drinks and watch people walk by on the cobblestone streets.
- 12 Onzas: Known for their pour-over coffee and light breakfast options. The baristas know their craft and take time with each order.
- Alegría Cafe: A cozy space with comfortable seating and good wifi. Great for working or catching up with friends over coffee.
- Enjoy Desayuno Típico at El Comalote: Try a traditional Guatemalan breakfast here. You’ll get eggs, beans, fried plantains, and fresh tortillas. It’s filling and authentic.
- Try Chuchitos on weekends: These steamed corn dumplings filled with meat or cheese show up at weekend markets. Locals line up for them early.
- La Casa de Las Sopas (Traditional Stews): This restaurant specializes in Guatemalan stews. The portions are large and the flavors are homestyle cooking at its best.
- La Cuevita de Los Urquizú (Local Stews): Another spot for traditional stews and soups. The family recipes have been passed down for generations.
- Rincón Antigüeño (Roasted Chicken Plates): Order the roasted chicken with rice and salad. The chicken is seasoned well and comes with warm tortillas.
- Kombu Ramen (Ramen and Katsu): A mix of Japanese and local flavors. The ramen broth is rich, and the katsu is crispy.
- Arco de Santa Catalina: This yellow arch is Antigua’s most photographed spot. It dates back to the 17th century and frames the Agua volcano perfectly.
- Parque Central: The central park sits in the heart of the city. Locals gather here, vendors sell snacks, and it’s a good place to rest between activities.
- Convento Santa Clara: Walk through the ruins of this old convent. The arches and courtyard give you a sense of what life was like centuries ago.
- Other Colonial Ruins: Several other ruins are scattered around the city. Most charge a small entrance fee and offer quiet spaces to walk around.
- Tanque La Unión: This public washing area has been used since colonial times. Women still come here to wash clothes in the stone basins.
- Museums (MUNAG & Museo Casa Del Tejido Antiguo): MUNAG shows Guatemalan art from different periods. Museo Casa Del Tejido Antiguo focuses on traditional textiles and weaving techniques.
- Cerro de la Cruz (City & Volcano Views): Hike up this hill for views of Antigua and the surrounding volcanoes. Go in the morning or late afternoon for the best light.
- Sunset ATV Tour to Hobbitenango: Ride an ATV to this hillside park with hobbit-style houses and swings overlooking the valley. The sunset views are worth the trip.
- Hike Acatenango Volcano: This overnight hike is challenging but rewards you with views of the active Fuego volcano erupting nearby. Bring warm layers.
- Visit Pacaya Volcano: A shorter hike than Acatenango. You can walk near active lava flows and roast marshmallows over volcanic heat.
- Irita Beach (Relax & Surf Watch): Head to the coast for a day at this black sand beach. Watch surfers or just relax by the water.
- Chocolate Making Workshop (ChocoMuseo, Maya Cacao, Ek Chuah): Learn how cacao becomes chocolate in these hands-on workshops. You’ll grind beans, make your own bar, and taste samples.
- Spanish Immersion Classes (Antiguena Spanish Academy): Take private Spanish lessons for a few hours or a full week. Teachers adapt to your level and focus on conversation.
- Coffee Farm Tour: Visit a working coffee farm to see the process from plant to cup. You’ll learn about growing, harvesting, and roasting beans.
- Cooking Class at La Tortilla Cooking School: Make traditional Guatemalan dishes like pepián and handmade tortillas. The class includes a market tour and eating what you cook.
- Caoba Farms Restaurant (Farm-to-Table & Butterfly Exhibit): Eat lunch surrounded by a butterfly garden. The food comes from their farm, and you can walk through the butterfly house after your meal.
- Glacy Cream (Ice Cream Flavors): Try flavors like avocado, cardamom, or rose. The ice cream is made fresh daily with local ingredients.
- Toko Baru (Pitas, Sweet Potato Fries, Beef Rendang): Indonesian and Middle Eastern fusion food. The beef rendang is tender and the sweet potato fries come with tasty dipping sauces.
- Kombu Ramen Shop (Curry & Spicy Ramen): Order the spicy ramen or curry bowls. The portions are generous and the broth has depth.
- Go on a Walking Tour (Free or Guided): Join a free walking tour to learn the city’s history. Guides share stories about earthquakes, colonial life, and local legends.
- Self-Guided Exploration of Antigua Streets: Walk around without a plan. The city is small enough to seek on foot, and you’ll find hidden courtyards and interesting buildings.
- Visit Local Markets (Mercado Central & Artisan Market): Browse produce, spices, and handicrafts at Mercado Central. The artisan market has textiles, jewelry, and handmade goods.
- Find Vendors at Iglesia de la Merced: This baroque church has vendors out front selling textiles and crafts. The church interior is worth seeing too.
Traditional Guatemalan Food & Restaurants
Historic & Cultural Sites
Scenic Views & Outdoor Activities
Hands-On Experiences
Interesting Experiences & Treats
Walking & Exploration
Where to Stay in Antigua
Maya Papaya is popular with backpackers, offering dorm beds, private rooms, and group activities. Hotel Las Marías and Hotel la Galería are mid-range options with colonial charm.
Meson de Maria is family-run with breakfast included. Camino Real Antigua offers higher-end rooms in a converted convent.
For Airbnbs, Casa Flores and Casa del Rosario work well for groups. Casa Santa Inés sits near Parque Central with a full kitchen. Cozy Central House has rooftop access and is walking distance to everything.
Tips for Visiting Antigua
These practical tips will help you get around Antigua safely and make the most of your time there.
- Keep valuables in front pockets or secure bags. Walk in groups at night and use registered taxis or ride apps. Tourist police patrol main areas during the day.
- Spanish is the main language. Download a translation app and learn basic phrases. Locals appreciate when you try to speak Spanish, even just greetings.
- Bring cash for markets and small restaurants. ATMs are common in the city center. The local currency is the quetzal, but some places accept US dollars.
- Cobblestone streets are uneven. Bring comfortable, broken-in shoes with good support.
- The altitude makes the sun stronger. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Mornings and evenings get cool, but midday can be warm. Bring a light jacket or sweater.
- Rain comes suddenly, especially from May to October. Bring a reusable water bottle since tap water isn’t safe to drink.
Conclusion
Antigua offers more than just pretty streets and old buildings. The city has real character, good food, and activities that fit different interests.
I found that mixing historic sites with outdoor hikes and local markets gave me a well-rounded experience.
Take your time walking around, try foods you haven’t heard of, and chat with people you meet.
Have you been to Antigua? Drop a comment below with your favorite spot or what you’re most excited to see.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need in Antigua Guatemala?
Three to four days is enough for main sites and a volcano hike. Plan a week if you want Spanish classes or multiple day trips.
Is Antigua Guatemala safe for tourists?
Yes, Antigua is safe for tourists. Stick to well-traveled areas, avoid walking alone late at night, and watch your belongings.
What is the best time to visit Antigua?
November through April has dry weather and clear volcano views. May to October brings rain but fewer crowds and lower prices.
Can you drink tap water in Antigua?
No, tap water isn’t safe to drink. Use bottled or filtered water for drinking and brushing teeth.
Do I need to speak Spanish in Antigua?
Basic Spanish helps at local markets and small restaurants. Many tourism workers speak some English, but key phrases make things easier.