Antigua Guatemala
Colonial city, UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by impressive volcanoes.
Antigua Guatemala is one of Central America's most enchanting colonial cities. Founded in 1543 as the capital of the Captaincy General of Guatemala, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is framed by three magnificent volcanoes — Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango. Its cobblestone streets, pastel-colored facades, and baroque church ruins make it a photographer's paradise and a cultural treasure trove. Whether you're learning Spanish at one of the many language schools, hiking Volcán Acatenango for sunrise views over erupting Fuego, or simply sipping locally grown coffee in a centuries-old courtyard, Antigua delivers an unforgettable Central American experience.
🎯 Top Things to Do — Antigua Guatemala
Hike Volcán Acatenango for sunrise views of erupting Volcán de Fuego
Explore the ruins of Cathedral de Santiago and Iglesia de La Merced
Shop for handwoven textiles and jade jewelry at the Mercado de Artesanías
Take a chocolate-making workshop using Guatemalan cacao
Stroll the iconic Santa Catalina Arch — the city's most photographed landmark
Study Spanish at world-renowned language schools from $150/week
📅 Best Time to Visit
November to April is the dry season with clear skies and comfortable temperatures (18-25°C). Semana Santa (Holy Week, March/April) features spectacular processions but book accommodation months ahead.
✈️ Getting There
Antigua is 45 minutes from Guatemala City's La Aurora International Airport (GUA). Shuttle services run frequently ($10-15 USD). Private transfers cost $30-50. Chicken buses from Guatemala City's central terminal cost under $1.
💰 Average Daily Budget
Budget travelers: $25-40/day. Mid-range: $60-100/day. Luxury: $150+/day. Antigua is excellent value — a full meal at a local comedor costs $3-5, while upscale restaurants charge $15-25.
Use our free budget calculator →💡 Travel Tips
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Learn basic Spanish — locals appreciate the effort and prices improve
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Carry small bills (Q5, Q10, Q20) for markets and street vendors
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Book Acatenango hikes through reputable agencies (Old Town Outfitters, Tropicana)
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The best coffee shops are De La Gente, Artista, and Fernando's Kaffee
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Walk everywhere in the historic center — it's compact and flat
🏨 Where to Stay
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