Antigua Guatemala Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Travel Tips, and Hidden Gems from a Local

Welcome to my Antigua Guatemala Travel Guide! As a native Guatemalan who grew up visiting this magical city, I’m excited to share everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip — including the best things to do in Antigua Guatemala, hidden gems, top festivals, day trips, where to eat, when to visit, and insider travel tips.

Table of Contents

Unlike most Antigua guides written after just a short stay, this guide is based on a lifetime of exploring Antigua’s cobblestone streets, colorful markets, colonial ruins, and vibrant traditions.

Antigua, Guatemala, is a mesmerizing blend of history, beauty, and vibrant culture. Nestled in the central highlands of Guatemala, this UNESCO World Heritage site will captivate you with its beautifully preserved Spanish Baroque architecture (known locally as Barroco Antigüeño) and stunning volcanic backdrop. For me, returning to Antigua always feels like revisiting a beloved friend — and I’m thrilled to share why I love it so much and why you’re sure to fall in love too.

Antigua Guatemala arch of Santa Catarina

Why I Love Antigua Guatemala (And Why You Will Too!)

Growing up in Guatemala City, we would visit Antigua often during my childhood; my fondest memories are of stopping at Doña María Gordillo’s candy shop to get the most amazing traditional Guatemalan candy (more on that later — and you can also read my full guide to Guatemalan traditional sweets here). Later, when I was in college, my mom and stepdad had a house in Antigua and spent most of the week there.

I loved escaping the hustle and bustle of the city and roaming the cobblestone streets early in the morning. As an architecture student, I would stop in front of churches and ruins like La Merced Church and San Francisco Church, marvel at the intricate baroque details, and take hundreds of photos of Antigua’s doors and windows.

Now that I live in Florida, I travel to Guatemala at least twice a year. Whether we’re visiting family or I’m there to write about new destinations from Semuc Champey to Tikal, I always make time to spend at least one day in Antigua. No matter how many times I’ve visited, there is always something new to discover — from a hidden courtyard café to a vibrant new artisan shop.

Why You Should Visit Antigua Guatemala

If you’re wondering if Antigua Guatemala is worth visiting, here’s why it continues to capture my heart — and why I believe it will capture yours too:

Timeless Beauty: Few places in the world offer such a perfect blend of natural and architectural beauty — towering volcanoes, pastel colonial facades, vibrant bougainvillea spilling over ancient walls.
Walkability: Antigua is wonderfully compact, making it easy (and joyful) to explore entirely on foot, uncovering hidden gems around every corner.
Cultural Vibrancy: Festivals, traditions, and artisan crafts are woven into everyday life. Every visit brings new experiences, whether it’s a traditional celebration, a pop-up market, or a local concert.
Authentic Experiences: From sipping coffee sourced from nearby farms to shopping directly from artisans, your experiences in Antigua feel real and connected to the people and land.
Gateway to Adventure: Whether you want to hike a volcano, explore Mayan ruins, or relax by Lake Atitlán, Antigua makes the perfect base for day trips and longer adventures.

If you’re looking for a destination that’s historic yet alive, colorful yet peaceful, easygoing yet endlessly fascinating, Antigua Guatemala will steal your heart — just like it stole mine.

A Brief History of Antigua Guatemala

Founded in the early 16th century, Antigua served as the capital of the Spanish colony of Guatemala for more than 200 years. Despite facing natural disasters — including devastating earthquakes in 1773 and 1976 — Antigua’s dedication to safeguarding its architectural and cultural heritage remains strong.

The Santa Marta earthquakes of 1773 were particularly destructive, leading to the relocation of the capital to present-day Guatemala City. However, many determined residents stayed behind, slowly restoring the city’s crumbled beauty over the centuries.

San José Cathedral ruins, Antigua Guatemala

Today, as you stroll through Antigua’s cobblestone streets and admire its colonial architecture, you witness a living testament to resilience. From the intricate facades of churches like La Merced to the ruins of San Francisco Church and the imposing Palacio de los Capitanes Generales, history is not only preserved but celebrated in daily life.

The Colonial Charm of Antigua Guatemala

Antigua’s architecture is a stunning example of Spanish Baroque influence, adapted to the region’s seismic conditions — a style known as Barroco Antigüeño.Wandering through the city, you’ll find colorful colonial facades, intricately carved stonework, and hidden courtyards. Each building holds a piece of the past, telling stories of Antigua’s days as the flourishing capital of Central America.From the pastel-colored arches to the heavy wrought-iron window grilles, the city’s visual charm is endless.

One of the things I love about Antigua is that it’s not just about the architecture. From the sounds of traditional marimba music to the aromas of local food markets, and the rhythm of daily life blending with centuries of history, it’s an immersive experience that transport you back in time.

Beyond sightseeing, Antigua offers so many opportunities to immerse yourself in its rich cultural traditions, whether joining a Semana Santa procession, shopping for Mayan textiles at artisan markets, or enjoying a traditional meal of pepián or piloyada antigüeña at a local restaurant.

Best Time to Visit Antigua Guatemala

The best time to visit Antigua Guatemala depends on what you’re looking for. The dry season (November to April) offers clear skies and pleasant temperatures, ideal for exploring the city’s cobblestone streets, colonial ruins, and surrounding volcanoes.

This period also includes major celebrations like the Semana Santa in Antigua festivities (Holy Week) and the Flower Festival, making it an unforgettable time to experience Antigua’s cultural traditions firsthand. However, it is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher accommodation prices.

The rainy season (May to October) brings fewer tourists and lush, green landscapes. Mornings are often sunny, with rain showers typically in the afternoon. If you want to experience the city’s quieter side and enjoy lower travel costs, visiting during the rainy season can be a wonderful option.

No matter when you visit, Antigua’s charm is timeless. For a detailed seasonal breakdown, check out my full guide to the Best Time to Visit Guatemala.

Top Festivals and Celebrations in Antigua Guatemala

Whether it’s the solemnity of Semana Santa or the colorful streets during the Flower Festival, Antigua Guatemala’s festivals offer an incredible glimpse into the rich cultural traditions of the country.

You can find full guides to many of these events linked below to help you plan your visit!

Antigua Jazz Festival (February/March)

A gathering of local and international jazz musicians, offering performances in various venues around the city. It’s a great event for music lovers and those interested in cultural exchange.

Semana Santa alfombras sawdust carpets in Guatemala

Semana Santa (Holy Week) (March or April)

The most famous festival in Antigua, celebrated with colorful alfombras (sawdust carpets), religious processions, and traditional music. It’s a week-long event leading up to Easter, showcasing the city’s religious heritage and artistic devotion. Get all the details in my Complete Holy Week in Antigua Guatemala Guide.

Corpus Christi Celebration (May/varies)

Just 30 minutes from Antigua, the town of San Antonio Aguas Calientes hosts vibrant Corpus Christi celebrations, including folk dances like El Torito, La Conquista, and performances by Gigantes and Diablos. Learn more about Guatemala’s colorful folk dances in my Folk Dances of Guatemala Guide.

Los Gigantes or Cabezudos folk dance in Guatemala — *Los Gigantes or Cabezudos folk dance in town of Parramos Guatemala near Antigua Guatemala. Giant puppet folk dancer called a gigante walks past church & processional carpet during Corpus Christi mass.*

Saint John the Baptist Celebration (June 24th)

In San Juan Alotenango, located just 30 minutes from Antigua Guatemala, the celebration honoring Saint John the Baptist is a lively blend of social, cultural, and sports events, including an array of folk dances, including ‘El Torito’, ‘La Conquista’, ‘Moros’, ‘Venados’, ‘Convite’ or masked dances, the “Diablos” (devils), and Napoleon.

El Torito folk dance in Guatemala. The Torito (bull) is made with a wooden frame that holds fireworks.

Celebration of Antigua’s Patron Saint Santiago Apóstol (Saint James) (July 25th)

Antigua Guatemala celebrates its patron saint with a vibrant mix of social, cultural, and sporting events. This festive day is marked by an exhibition of local handicrafts and features a range of folk dances, including the ‘Convite’ or ‘Enmascarados’ (masked dances) and ‘Gigantes’ (giants) or ‘Cabezudos’ (big head), which are dances involving large, oversized figures.

Antigua Guatemala festivals and folkloric dances — Antigua, Guatemala -Folk dancers wear traditional masks & costumes on St Jame’s Day, Antigua’s patron saint day, outside cathedral.

El Festival del Maíz (Corn Festival) (August)

A celebration of one of Guatemala’s staple foods, featuring corn-based dishes, traditional dances, and music. It’s a tribute to the agricultural heritage and culinary traditions of the region.

Independence Day Celebrations (September 15th)

Marking Guatemala’s independence from Spain, this day is celebrated with parades, music, and cultural events. Streets are filled with patriotic decorations and festivities.

Giant Kite Festival in Sumpango (November 1st)

Held on All Saints’ Day, the Giant Kite Festival takes place in Sumpango and Santiago Sacatepequez and features huge, vibrant colored kites made of paper featuring intricate designs. Following the festival, these kites are usually displayed in Antigua’s Parque Central on November 2nd and 3rd, adding a colorful touch to the city. You can also take a day tour to the Sumpango Giant Kite Festival. You can learn more about the Day of the Dead celebrations in Guatemala here, and be sure learn more about the barriletes de Guatemala here to plan your visit!

Festival de las Flores (Flower Festival) (November changes)

One of Antigua’s most beautiful festivals, filling the city with stunning flower displays, art installations, and concerts. Discover all the tips in my Complete Festival de las Flores Guide.

Christmas Celebrations (December)

Antigua transforms into a festive wonderland with lights, nativity scenes, and special events. Posadas, or processional reenactments of Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging, are common.

La Quema del Diablo (Burning of the Devil) (December 7th)

A unique tradition where locals burn effigies of the devil to cleanse their homes of evil spirits and prepare for the Christmas season. Learn more about this tradition in my article Quema del Diablo and see a photos of the Quema del Diablo here.

Quema del Diablo Guatemala — Paper Devils burning during the Quema del Diablo celebration. Photo by Pedro Pepió. All Rights Reserved.

How to Get to Antigua Guatemala

Most travelers arrive in Antigua Guatemala via La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City, which has good connections to major cities across the Americas. Antigua is located just about 45 minutes from the airport by car, depending on traffic.

Transportation Options from the Airport to Antigua

Shuttle Services: Shared and private shuttles are the most popular and convenient options. You can pre-book online or arrange transportation at the airport upon arrival.
Taxis and Uber: Both are available at the airport. Uber is usually cheaper and easier if you have cell service. Always confirm the fare in advance if using a taxi.
Rental Car: If you’re planning to explore beyond Antigua, renting a car is a good option. Roads between the airport and Antigua are generally safe and well-traveled, but driving in Guatemala City can be hectic.
Chicken Buses: For the adventurous traveler, colorful local buses known as chicken buses offer the cheapest transportation option. However, they can be crowded and less secure. I recommend them only if you’re an experienced traveler in Latin America and speak basic Spanish.

Best Things to Do in Antigua Guatemala

There are so many great things to do in Antigua, here I will share a few of the main attractions, some of my favorite hidden gems in Antigua, and the best day trips and weekend trips from Antigua.

Take a walking tour

Antigua, with its cobbled streets and rich history, is a city best explored on foot. The first thing I would recommend is to take a walking tour, this will help you familiarize yourself with this small city and highlight the most important historic buildings so you can later revisit some of the things you liked the most in the walking tour. Don’t miss the parque Central and the iconic Santa Catalina Arch, a symbol of the city’s heritage.

Explore Antigua’s colonial ruins

Don’t miss the chance to explore the ruins of Antigua’s numerous churches and convents, like La Merced, Capuchinas and San Francisco, each telling a story of the past. A visit to Casa Santo Domingo, a hotel and museum showcasing a blend of colonial art and modern installations, is a must for art lovers. You might encounter street musicians and local artisans while strolling through the vibrant Parque Central. Learn more about Antigua’s colonial past in my Guide to the Best Colonial Ruins in Antigua Guatemala.

Get the best views of the city.

For a breathtaking view of Antigua and its surrounding volcanoes, hike up to the Cerro de la Cruz viewpoint, which is especially enchanting during s sunset. You can also enjoy lunch while watching the volcanos. Some of my favorite restaurants with great volcano views include El Tenedor del Cerro, Café Sky, and Lava.

Cerro de la Cruz view point in Antigua Guatemala.

Visit a museum

There are a few museums in Antigua Guatemala, but without a doubt, the new MUNAG museum is a must-see! The MUNAG, Antigua Guatemala’s latest museum, opened in 2021, and offers a captivating journey through 3,000 years of Guatemalan history. Housed in the Palacio de los Capitanes Generales in the Parque Central, it showcases an impressive collection of pre-Hispanic, Colonial, and Republican era artifacts. The museum includes remarkable jade pieces from King K’utz Chman’s burial at Tak’alik Ab’aj, stucco faces from El Mirador Basin, and exquisite paintings by Thomas de Merlo, Cristóbal de Villalpando, and Juan José Rosales. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm, it provides audio guides in Spanish, English, and Kakchikel.

A few other options include Casa Popenoe, a restored colonial house museum, Centro Cultural La Azotea which is located in a coffee plantation 5 minutes from Antigua and includes a textile exhibit, a musical instrument exhibit as well as a coffee museum. Hotel Museum Casa Santo Domingo is also a great option, the hotel housed in at the ruins of a 18th century convent has six permanent museums and two art galleries, all of them are free.

Take a class

Learn to cook local dishes like rellenitos de plátano, Guatemalan tamales colorado or Guatemala’s national dish pepián or you can learn about the importance of cacao in Mayan culture, make a traditional Mayan cacao drink, and chocolates. I have taken the pepián class and the Chocomuseo bean to bar class; both were fantastic!

Cooking class in Antigua Guatemala

There are also many other exciting ways to get hands-on experience and get immersed in Guatemalan culture, from taking a carve your own jade class to learning to make worry dolls or even trying your hand at designing and making your own leather sandals; these experiences are truly unique and so much fun.

Try Local Coffee

In Antigua, you’re in the heart of one of the world’s best coffee regions. The city is famous for its high-quality coffee, renowned for its rich flavor and aroma. Take the opportunity to visit one of the many cozy local cafés and savor a cup of freshly brewed Guatemalan coffee. You can also visit a coffee finca to learn more about local coffee, participate in a coffee workshop or do a coffee workshop.

Visit the Craft Markets

When you’re in Antigua, a visit to the local markets is a must-do. These vibrant spaces are brimming with unique souvenirs, beautifully crafted textiles, and handmade items that reflect the rich culture of Guatemala. As you browse through the stalls, don’t forget to engage in a bit of respectful haggling – it’s part of the fun and tradition here. It’s a great way to interact with local artisans and find some special gifts to take home.

Explore the Surrounding Villages

Venturing into the villages surrounding Antigua Guatemala offers a unique and authentic glimpse into local life. These nearby communities, each with their distinct charm and traditions, provide a less touristy and more genuine experience. You can observe traditional weaving techniques, taste homemade foods, and interact with the friendly locals. Each village has something special to offer, from the vibrant textiles of San Antonio Aguas Calientes and the beautiful and colorful church in Jocotenango to the pottery of San Juan del Obispo.

Best time to visit Guatemala — Jocotenango church, near Antigua Guatemala.

Where to Eat in Antigua Guatemala

Antigua’s food scene is as colorful as its streets. The city’s culinary offerings are a feast for the senses, from traditional Guatemalan dishes to innovative fusion cuisine. The local markets are a hub of activity, where you can taste the freshest produce and traditional foods. Restaurants and cafes tucked away in charming colonial buildings offer everything from local flavors and fusion cusine to great vegetarian restaurants. Whether it’s enjoying Guatemalan tamales, indulging in a cup of world-renowned Antiguan coffee, or discovering innovative fusion cuisine, there’s something for everyone.

The Best Restaurants for Traditional Guatemalan Food

La Fonda de la Calle Real: For a taste of local food, try La Fonda de la Calle Real, which is known for serving some of the best authentic Guatemalan dishes. They make the best pepián, Guatemala’s national dish, a chicken stewed in a tomato-based sauce with toasted seeds and chiles. This restaurant has been so successful with locals and visitors that it has opened three restaurants in Antigua Guatemala; my favorite is the original one located on la called del Arco (the street of the arch) referred to by locals as La Fondita.
La Cuevita de los Urquizú: For a more affordable option, La Cuevita de los Urquizú is a favorite with Antigueños. As you enter the restaurant you are greeted with different stews showcased in huge ceramic pots so you can choose. Here you will have the opportunity to try truly unique dishes like revolcado, a stew made with pig’s head and offals cooked in a thick and delicious tomato base sauce or tongue in tomato sauce, my favorite! Check out my guide to Guatemalan food so you know what to order, and if you’re truly adventurous, you can try one of Guatemala’s unique and bizarre foods.

La Cuevita de los Urquizú restaurant in Antigua Guatemala serving traditional Guatemalan dishes.

Doña Maria Gordillo’s candy store: This is a Guatemalan institution; Doña Maria Gordillo has been making candy and using their secret recipes for over a 100 years. Many stores sell traditional candy in Antigua, and if you’re on a tight budget, you might want to try the candy at El Sombreron instead, but although pricy, the candy at Doña Maria Gordillo is sublime! Try the nuegados, the canillitas de leche, the candied figs, the naranjitas (little orange balls), the chilacayote, the cocadas realescocadas reales and the tamarind balls (my favorite).

Other Great Restaurants in Antigua

There are so many fantastic restaurants in Antigua it’s hard to choose just a few, but here are some of my favorite ones.

Epicure: With outdoor seating in the beautiful garden and great food, Epicure is where I take visitors every time. This farm to table restaurant also has a gourmet store and an international menu.

Best restaurants in Antigua Guatemala — Epicure restaurant in Antigua Guatemala.

Cafe Sky: For some of the best volcano and sunset views,, head to Café Sky. This rooftop terrace has great breakfasts and is famous for its nachos and drinks. It’s very popular, so if you’re planning to watch the sunset, be there early to grab a table.
El Tenedor del Cerro: With beautiful views of the active Pacaya volcano, don’t be surprised if you get to witness some volcanic activity like puffs of smoke or maybe even some lava. The breakfast here is great and mornings are usually less cloudy providing better views. The restaurant is a bit overpriced but remember you’re paying for the views. If you go on a weekend there is usually a long wait so reservations are recommended.

El Tenedor del Cerro restaurant in Antigua Guatemala with smoking volcano in the background.

Samsara: With lots of delicious vegetarian and vegan options as well as gluten-free dishes, including gluten-free bread and desserts, the menu has something for everyone, and every single dish is delicious.
Café Condesa: Facing the Parque Central, Café Condesa is tucked away behind a bookstore and has so much colonial charm. It’s one of those restaurants that has stood the test of time, I have been going there since I was a kid. It’s the best place to enjoy a cup of coffee and some homemade pie.

Where to Stay in Antigua Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala offers a wide variety of accommodations, from historic luxury hotels set in colonial ruins to charming boutique hotels and budget-friendly hostels. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family-friendly resort, or a vibrant hostel experience, Antigua has something for every type of traveler. Here are some of my favorites:

Best Luxury Hotels in Antigua

Hotel Museo Casa Santo Domingo: This is a wonderful resort-type hotel set in the ruins of a fifteenth-century monastery. The location is excellent, the grounds are exquisite, and besides the hotel being an important historic landmark, it also houses various museums and art galleries. The charming pool area is set among the colonial ruins, the restaurant is excellent, and their spa is the best one in Antigua. The hotel itself is an art gallery showcasing modern art from the best Guatemalan painters and sculptors. If you want a luxury experience in a breathtaking historic setting, this is your best choice.
Hotel Mesón Panza Verde: For those seeking a beautiful boutique hotel, the Hotel Panza Verde Hotel is a fantastic choice. Known for its artistic flair and elegance, Hotel Panza Verde is a favorite among creative souls and romantic travelers and perfect for couples or solo travelers. Its exquisite décor, rooftop terrace views, and fine dining make it a top choice for a sophisticated stay in Antigua. This is also one of my favorite hotels to stay at, it’s chic and cozy ambiance keeps me coming back and the fantastic restaurant has been a favorite since I was a kid and ate there with my parents for special ocassions.

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Antigua

Porta Hotel Antigua: Perfect for families and travelers seeking a blend of tradition and modernity. Porta Hotel Antigua provides spacious rooms, the largest pool in Antigua, and beautiful gardens, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay amidst the city’s historic charm. It’s a great choice if you’re traveling with children, and it’s where I stay when I go to Antigua with my kids. You can see my complete review of Porta Hotel Antigua here.

Best Boutique Hotels and Hostels

The Good Hotel Antigua: A private mansion in the heart of Antigua turned boutique hotel with an innovative concept, offering premium hospitality with a cause. Good Hotel Antigua provides a luxurious hotel experience while making a positive social impact on the local community.
Adra Hostel: Considered the best hostel in Antigua, Adra has a fun vibe without being noisy at night. The rooms and common areas have a fun design and are always clean. The breakfast is great and they have a nice rooftop bar with great views of volcan de Agua.

Best tips for visiting Antigua Guatemala

Pack for Cobblestone Streets: Antigua is famous for its cobblestone streets and the sidewalks can also be uneven. Wear comfortable walking shoes that can handle uneven surfaces.
Stay Hydrated at High Altitudes: Antigua sits at a high altitude. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help prevent altitude sickness, specially if you are not used to high altitudes.
Be Prepared for Volcanic Activity: With several active volcanoes nearby, it’s wise to stay informed about any volcanic activity during your visit. Don’t worry, none of the active volcanoes are really a safety threat as Antigua is not too close to them but increased volcanic activity could interfere with flights, road closures and once every 20 years or so volcanic ash from an eruption will reach Antigua making it hard to get around.
Respect Local Customs: Antigua has a rich cultural heritage. Be respectful of local traditions, especially during religious festivals like Semana Santa.
Use Local Currency: While many places accept dollars, it’s often better to use Guatemalan Quetzals for smaller purchases. It’s also a good idea to take advantage of ATMs in Antigua before heading to other destinations or smaller towns as ATMs are limited and you may have trouble exchanging money or getting cash when traveling to destinations that are less popular.
Beware of Pickpockets: Like in many tourist destinations, watch out for pickpockets, especially in crowded areas
Learn Basic Spanish: Knowing some basic Spanish phrases will enhance your experience and interactions with locals.
Plan for the Weather: Antigua’s weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers and a raincoat, especially if you’re traveling during the rainy season (May to October).
Be Early at Tourist Spots: Popular sites like La Merced Church or Santa Catalina Arch can get crowded. Visit early to avoid the crowds.
Learn How to Haggle and Where to Haggle: Haggling is common and expected at local markets but prices at shops, stores and restaurants are not negotiable. When haggling take into consideration how much you would pay for the craftsmanship and offer artisans a fair price.

What Not to Do in Antigua Guatemala: Things to Avoid

Avoid the weekends, if possible.

Antigua is a very popular weekend destination for Guatemalans. On Saturday and Sunday, people from Guatemala City, a sprawling urban metropolis with millions of people, flock to Antigua Guatemala. The cobblestone streets are packed with cars, and the best restaurants are packed with people. It’s hard to walk on the narrow sidewalks without bumping into someone or hitting your head on the protruding wrought iron window cages, seriously look out for those. Although a lot of people visit just for the day, many people stay the entire weekend, which means hotels will usually be substantially more expensive on the weekends. If you are spending more than a few days in Antigua, which I recommend, opt for taking a day tour to destinations that are not as popular with locals during the weekends. Some recommendations include visiting the Mayan ruins of Iximche, which are less than two hours away, taking a tour to climb the Pacaya volcano, or taking a tour of a nearby coffee plantation.

Best guide to visiting Antigua Guatemala

Don’t visit Antigua without doing a little research.

Before arriving in Antigua, a bit of research goes a long way. The city’s unique architecture, characterized by thick walls encasing homes and historic buildings, often conceals its most enchanting sights. Many of Antigua’s exquisite fountains, gardens, and colonial ruins are tucked away, easily missed if you’re not looking carefully. Exploring beyond these walls reveals a world of hidden beauty, so it’s worth peeking inside or joining guided tours for a deeper understanding and appreciation of Antigua’s rich heritage.

Don’t take photos of the locals without their permission.

Be respectful when taking photographs, especially of the local people. You may come across residents dressed in traditional Mayan attire, adding to the city’s picturesque charm. However, it’s important to remember that these are not just images; they’re people with their own stories and privacy. Always ask for permission before photographing locals, especially children. This respectful approach not only ensures you’re being considerate but often leads to more meaningful interactions and understanding of the vibrant cultures in Antigua.

Best Things To Do Near Antigua

While Antigua is a treasure trove of attractions, its surroundings offer equally enchanting experiences. The nearby villages, each with its unique traditions and crafts, provide a glimpse into Guatemala’s rural life. The majestic volcanoes surrounding the city, like Volcán de Agua and Volcán de Fuego, are natural wonders that beckon adventurers.

Climb an Active Volcano – Climbing Pacaya Volcano:

Embark on an adventurous climb to the summit of Pacaya, one of Guatemala’s most active volcanoes. This experience offers not only a thrilling yet relatively easy hike but also the chance to witness volcanic activity up close. The panoramic views from the top are breathtaking, making it a rewarding challenge for nature enthusiasts.

Pacaya volcano hike — My husband and teen son hiking the Pacaya volcano.

Take a Day Trip to a Mayan Ancient City – Iximche Archaeological Site:

Just an hour’s drive from Antigua, Iximche offers a glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization. This well-preserved archaeological site features ruins, temples, and plazas that tell the story of a once-thriving city. It’s a fascinating and educational excursion for those interested in history and culture.

Ultimate Guide to the Iximche Mayan Ruins in Guatemala — Iximche Mayan ruins, Guatemala

Visit the Viewpoints Near Antigua Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala is surrounded by several developed viewpoints, each offering stunning vistas of the volcanoes that frame this historic city. Whether you’re planning to spend a leisurely half-day, enjoy a meal, or just capture the perfect photo, these viewpoints with their restaurants and Instagram-worthy props are a must-visit.
- Hobbitenango: A dream destination for J.R.R. Tolkien fans, Hobbitenango is a hobbit town-inspired retreat. With two restaurants, 26 different areas to explore, and three hobbit-style houses available for overnight stays, it offers incredible views of the valley and volcanoes. On weekends, enjoy activities like axe throwing, mini-golf, and archery. It’s a great place to disconnect and immerse yourself in a fantasy world and in nature.

- Altamira: Altamira is the perfect spot for relaxing with family and enjoying the majestic views of the Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango volcanoes. This park features accommodation and a restaurant, making it ideal for an extended visit. The wooden hand and golden hand viewpoints are particularly popular for Instagram photos, offering a unique perspective over the valley.
- Los Celajes: This ecological park boasts breathtaking panoramic views of Antigua Guatemala and its volcanoes. With a restaurant on-site and various Instagram props including wings, a heart, and a door, Los Celajes is the perfect spot for those seeking a picturesque setting for their social media. It’s an excellent choice for capturing those memorable moments against a backdrop of natural beauty.

Los Celajes volcano viewpoint near Antigua Guatemala

Take a Day Trip to Lake Atitlán:

For those pressed for time, a day tour from Antigua to Panajachel provides the perfect opportunity to witness the beauty of Lake Atitlán. Panajachel serves as a gateway to the lake’s magnificent scenery and vibrant local culture. The journey to this lakeside town itself is an experience, offering stunning views and an insight into the region’s natural beauty.