Antigua Guatemala is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant atmosphere. Nestled among volcanoes, it offers historical exploration, cultural experiences, and access to adventurous activities like volcano hikes.
Parque Central is a central gathering point, surrounded by various cafes, restaurants, and bars. The city offers a relaxed social atmosphere with trendy bars and coffee shops. Certain hostels cater to a lively backpacker scene, and some hidden spots exist for late-night socializing.
Top 7 Things to do in Antigua Guatemala
Activities in Antigua Guatemala offer a blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion, and opportunities for outdoor adventure.
1. Explore Antigua's Colonial Architecture and Ruins
Wander through the cobblestone streets to immerse yourself in Antigua's rich history and admire its well-preserved Baroque colonial architecture. Key sites include the iconic Santa Catalina Arch, a 17th-century structure with a distinctive clock tower that frames views of Volcán de Agua, and the Central Park (Parque Central), a vibrant hub surrounded by significant buildings like the Cathedral of San José and the Palace of the Captains General. Explore the atmospheric ruins of former convents and churches, such as Convento Santa Clara, Convento de las Capuchinas, and the remnants of La Recolección. These partially restored sites offer a poignant glimpse into the city's past, particularly the impact of the 1773 earthquakes, and provide excellent photography opportunities. Consider joining a guided walking tour to gain deeper insights into the city's history and cultural significance.
Cost: Free to explore the streets and many public areas independently. Entrance fees for specific ruins vary: Cathedral of San José ruins: Q20 (approximately $3 USD). Convento Santa Clara: Q40 (approximately $5 USD). Convento de las Capuchinas: Q40 (approximately $5 USD). Ruinas de La Recolección: Q40 (approximately $5 USD). Iglesia de San Francisco ruins: Q10 (approximately $1.30 USD). Guided walking tours typically cost between $25 and $90 USD per person, with some available on a tip-based system.
Transport: All mentioned sites are within walking distance of Antigua's city center.
2. Hike Pacaya Volcano
Embark on a journey to Pacaya Volcano, one of Guatemala's most active and accessible volcanoes. The hike typically involves a 1.5 to 2-hour ascent through diverse terrain, including cloud forests and volcanic ash. While recent lava flows are no longer visible, the experience of traversing volcanic landscapes and enjoying panoramic views from the summit is unique. A popular activity at the top is roasting marshmallows over heat vents from the volcano. The hike offers incredible 360-degree vistas of the surrounding countryside and other volcanoes.
Cost: Tours are highly recommended and usually include transportation and a local guide. Shared shuttle tours typically cost around $18-$20 USD. The national park entrance fee is Q100 (approximately $13 USD) per person, payable in cash at the entrance. Private taxi services from Antigua to Pacaya can range from $29-$35 USD one way.
Transport: Pacaya Volcano is about an hour's drive from Antigua. Most tours include round-trip transportation from hotels or designated pick-up points in Antigua. Public transportation is generally not available for this route.
3. Visit Cerro de la Cruz
Ascend to Cerro de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross) for the most iconic panoramic views of Antigua Guatemala and the majestic Volcán de Agua. This accessible viewpoint offers a fantastic opportunity for photography, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is most favorable. It is a popular spot for both locals and visitors to relax and take in the beauty of the city nestled against the backdrop of the volcanoes.
Cost: Entry to Cerro de la Cruz is free. A tuk-tuk ride from the city center typically costs around Q30 (approximately $4 USD). If driving, there may be a nominal parking fee of Q15.
Transport: Cerro de la Cruz is approximately a 20-minute walk from Antigua's city center, offering a pleasant walk through the colorful colonial streets. Tuk-tuks are readily available for those who prefer not to walk.
4. Take a Coffee Plantation Tour
Delve into Guatemala's rich coffee culture by visiting a local coffee plantation. These tours provide a comprehensive understanding of the coffee-making process, from the cultivation of the beans in the fields to the roasting and grinding. You will learn about the sustainable practices used by local producers and often get to sample freshly brewed coffee. Some tours offer additional experiences such as an advanced coffee tasting or can be combined with other activities like ATV rides or cycling for a more adventurous exploration of the surrounding areas.
Cost: Tour prices vary based on the plantation and inclusions. Expect to pay between $20-$60 USD per person. For example, a two-hour tour at Finca Filadelfia costs around $20 USD, while De La Gente offers tours for $38 USD which include transportation and a bag of roasted coffee. Some tours may offer a combined coffee tour and cooking class for an additional fee.
Transport: Some plantations, like Finca Filadelfia, offer free shuttles from the city center, or a moderate walk is possible. Tours from organizations like De La Gente often include round-trip transportation from Antigua.
5. Participate in a Guatemalan Cooking Class
Immerse yourself in the flavors of Guatemala by taking a hands-on cooking class. These classes typically involve preparing traditional dishes such as Pepián, Guatemala's national dish, from scratch. You will learn about local ingredients, traditional cooking techniques, and the cultural significance of the cuisine. The experience often concludes with enjoying the meal you have prepared. Many schools can accommodate various dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free.
Cost: Prices for cooking classes generally range from $35-$60 USD per person, depending on the number of dishes prepared and inclusions. Some schools offer market tours as an optional add-on for an extra fee.
Transport: Cooking schools are usually located within or very close to the city center. Some classes that are slightly outside the main area include round-trip transportation.
6. Take a Chocolate Making Workshop
Discover the ancient history and delicious process of chocolate making in a hands-on workshop. Starting from the cacao bean, you will learn about the entire 'bean-to-bar' process, exploring how cacao was used by the ancient Mayans and how it evolved into modern chocolate. Participants typically get to taste different stages of chocolate and create their own chocolate bars and confections to take home. This activity is engaging and educational for all ages.
Cost: Workshops typically cost between Q190 and Q210 (approximately $25-$32 USD) per person, which usually includes all materials and the chocolate you create.
Transport: Chocolate museums and workshops, such as ChocoMuseo, are centrally located within Antigua, making them easily accessible by foot.
7. Explore Local Markets
Experience the vibrant daily life of Antigua by visiting its bustling local markets. The Mercado Central is a large, labyrinthine market where locals shop for everything from fresh produce and food to clothing and household goods. Adjacent to it, the Mercado de Artisanal focuses on a wide array of local handicrafts and souvenirs, including colorful textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. Wandering through these markets provides a sensory-rich cultural experience and an opportunity to find unique, authentic keepsakes.
Cost: Entrance to the markets is free. Costs will vary depending on purchases made.
Transport: The main markets are located on the edge of Antigua's city center and are easily accessible by walking.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
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