Antigua is usually at the top of everyone’s list to visit in Guatemala, and for good reason! This charming colonial city, quite beautifully located between three volcanoes, is probably the most tourist-friendly destination in Guatemala.
We spent quite a few days here when I was travelling with my best friend Ellie in Guatemala in 2024, and I can tell you that whether you’re staying for a few days or a few months (like many people do, like digital nomads or Spanish school students), you’ll quickly fall in love with Antigua’s cobblestone streets and colourful buildings.
If you’re planning to visit Antigua (which you absolutely should), you’ll be pleased to know that it’s actually quite small and very walkable. The entire historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and you can explore most of it on foot. Do be aware, however, that you are still in Central America, and it’s not somewhere you should walk alone at night, particularly if you’re a woman.
Contents
- Getting to Antigua
- Where to Stay in Antigua
- Best Things to Do in Antigua
- Volcano Hikes from Antigua
- FAQs About Antigua
- Conclusion
Getting to Antigua
Most people arrive in Antigua from Guatemala City, either directly from the airport or after spending some time in the capital (though you’ll know if you’ve read any other articles around here that I don’t recommend staying in Guatemala City!). The journey from Guatemala City takes 1-2 hours depending on traffic and the mode of transport you take. When I did the journey at peak rush hour, it took us even longer!
🇬🇹 Read more: 6 Ways to Get from Guatemala Airport to Antigua
Where to Stay in Antigua
One of the best things about Antigua is that because it’s so compact, you can’t really go wrong with location. Pretty much everywhere is within walking distance of the central park. The only area to be avoided is around the market and the bus station, because those areas felt a bit more rough around the edges. We stayed in a couple of different hostels when we were in Antigua:
Budget-Friendly Options
Hostal de la Fuente was the first place we stayed in Antigua, and we loved it there because it was quite social and they offered free breakfast and dinner, which was both great for our budget and a great way to get chatting with other travellers.
We also stayed in Central Hostel, which is not particularly central, to be honest, but we really liked it because the staff were friendly and they really went the extra mile with us when we got back from the Acatenango Volcano Hike.
Mid-Range Hotels
For something a bit more comfortable, Hotel Casa del Parque is perfectly located right on the central park. The rooms are beautiful, and the rooftop terrace has incredible views of the volcanoes (when they’re not hidden by clouds!).
Spanish Schools with Accommodation
If you’re planning to study Spanish (which is what brings many people to Antigua), lots of schools offer accommodation either in their own buildings or with local families. I have generally heard mixed experiences about homestays with Spanish schools – some people have a great time, whereas other people are ignored or made to feel uncomfortable by their families.
🇬🇹 Read more: Where to Stay in Antigua
Best Things to Do in Antigua
Walking Tour
Start your visit with a walking tour – it’s the best way to get your bearings and learn about the city’s history. Most tours start from the central park and take you around the main sites, including the famous Santa Catalina Arch and the ruins of various churches and monasteries destroyed by earthquakes over the centuries.
Cerro de la Cruz
This viewpoint above the city gives you stunning views of Antigua with Volcán de Agua in the background. It’s about a 30-minute walk uphill, but you can also take a tuktuk if you’re not feeling energetic. The path is well-policed and safe during daylight hours (which cannot be said for all walking trails in Guatemala, by the way).
Visit the Markets
The local market is a must-visit, especially on weekends when it’s in full swing. There’s also the artisan market near the bus station where you can buy traditional textiles and crafts. They seem a little daunting from the outside but are quite safe inside.
Chocolate Making Workshop
ChocoMuseo offers chocolate-making workshops where you learn about the history of chocolate in Guatemala and make your own bars to take home. It’s a bit touristy, but it’s actually really fun and informative.
🇬🇹 Read more: Best Things to Do in Antigua
Volcano Hikes from Antigua
Antigua is famous for its volcano hikes, and there are several options depending on your fitness level and sense of adventure:
Pacaya Volcano
This is the easiest and most popular volcano hike. It takes about 2 hours up and 1 hour down, and you can roast marshmallows in the volcanic vents at the top! You can book this through any tour agency in town.
Acatenango Volcano
This is the big one – literally and figuratively. It’s a challenging overnight hike, but watching Volcán de Fuego erupt from your campsite is a truly unforgettable experience, and one of the best things I have ever done. Make sure you book with a reputable company and rent proper warm gear – it gets very very very cold up there at night.
🇬🇹 Read more: A Guide to the Acatenango Volcano Hike
FAQs About Antigua
Why is Antigua Guatemala so famous?
Antigua is renowned for its Spanish colonial architecture, UNESCO World Heritage status, and stunning location surrounded by three volcanoes. It’s also famous for its Spanish language schools, vibrant cultural scene, and as a base for adventure activities.
Is it worth visiting Antigua Guatemala?
Definitely! Antigua has a walkable city centre, excellent restaurants, colourful architecture, and proximity to active volcanoes; it’s considered one of Guatemala’s most popular destinations for travellers.
How far is Antigua Guatemala from the beach?
The closest beaches to Antigua are on Guatemala’s Pacific coast, about 80-100 km away. The most popular beach destinations, like Monterrico, can be reached in approximately 2.5-3 hours by car or shuttle.
How long to spend in Antigua Guatemala?
I’d recommend a minimum of 3-4 days is recommended to explore the city’s highlights and perhaps do a volcano hike. However, many visitors end up staying longer, especially if you decide to take Spanish classes or use it as a base for day trips.
What’s the best time to visit Antigua?
The dry season (November to April) offers the most reliable weather for outdoor activities and volcano hikes. However, the city is beautiful year-round, and the rainy season (May to October) brings lush greenery and fewer tourists.
Is Antigua safe for tourists?
While Antigua is one of Guatemala’s safest cities for tourists, normal precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly if you’re a woman, and stick to well-lit, populated areas. The tourist police maintain a visible presence in the historic centre.
Conclusion
Antigua completely deserves its reputation as one of Central America’s most enchanting destinations. From its cobblestone streets and colourful colonial architecture to the dramatic volcanoes that frame the skyline, the city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure. While it’s become increasingly popular with tourists and digital nomads, the city maintains its authentic character and serves as an easy introduction to everything Guatemala has to offer.