Antigua, Guatemala Travel Guide: Things to Do, Itinerary & More

12 Favorite Experiences I Think are worth it in Antigua

1. Hike Acatenango & Fuego Volcanoes 👍 Must Do

Hiking Acatenango and Fuego Volcanoes is, hands down one of the most epic hikes you can do, not just in Guatemala, but in Central America! This multi-day hike will take you all the way up to 3,976 m (13,045 ft) at the top of Acatenango Volcano, where you get a clear view of the active Fuego Volcano, which regularly erupts throughout the day and night, sending plumes of smoke and lava into the sky.

I have hiked several volcanoes across Indonesia and South America, but I have never seen a volcano erupt as spectacularly and as regularly as Fuego Volcano. This was the first time I had ever witnessed a volcano actively erupting, with huge plumes of smoke and bursts of lava lighting up the sky right in front of me.

The hike is definitely challenging, not because of the technical difficulty of the trail, but because, to experience it fully, you'll need to complete two long hikes of around 4–5 hours each in a single day. The best time to witness Fuego's eruptions is at night, as the lava's orange glow is much harder to see during the day.

This means you'll have to push through the long climb to base camp, where you'll then have around an hour rest before you have to descend Acatenango and hike up to the Fuego ridge for a closer view of the eruptions. After waiting until sunset to see the volcano light up, you'll make the climb back down at night, and up Acatenango again to spend the night at camp.

I did the whole thing, and here's how it went: We started the hike around 10:30 AM at the trailhead, arrived at the base camp around 3 PM, taking about 5 hours, with around 4 - 5 rest stops, which is plenty. The trail to the base camp was steep from start to almost finish when the trails even out towards the end as you go around the crater to your campsite.

Once we arrived at the campsite, we rested for about an hour before starting the hike to Fuego again at 4 PM. The trail begins with a steep and slippery descent for about an hour before climbing uphill for another hour toward the Fuego ridge. We arrived at the viewpoint around 6 PM, after a 2-hour hike, just in time to watch the sunset over the volcano.

We waited and watched the sunset and the eruptions, which happened every 15–20 minutes and were incredible! Some of them were massive, and we were all cheering while hoping the debris wouldn't fall on us 😬. At around 7 PM, we put on our headlamps and headed back to base camp.

It took us another 2 hours to complete the trek back, which was the toughest part, as the hike back up was extremely steep. Combined with the exhaustion and having to navigate the trail at night, it was hell on earth, to be honest. We got back at the camp at 9 PM, where we had our late dinner and hot cocoa, thank god, and we retreated for bed immediately.

It was a long 11-hour day hike, and it was one of the toughest hikes I have ever done, and I've done a lot in my life. In the morning, you also have the option to hike up Acatenango summit at sunrise, which starts at 4 AM and you will climb loose rocks straight up from the base camp to the top. I didn't do this one because I was completely exhausted from Fuego, but if you have the energy, you might want to do that too.

By 7 AM, we were already heading down, and we got back to Antigua around 1 PM. It was the most fun and challenging hike I've done so far, and even though I complained the whole time I was hiking, it was well worth the effort and if you are able, I highly recommend you do the trek!

Instead of going with a reputable company like most people did, I went with this one, and I'm glad I did. We were a group of around 18 people, which was small enough for us to get to know each other well and spend time together.

Meanwhile, some of the more popular companies, like Tropicana, had much larger groups, with some tours accommodating around 40–60 people. It looked way to chaotic and loud for me. My campsite also had a great view of the volcano, and the sleeping arrangement was 4–8 people per accommodation. While that may sound like a lot, having 8 people in the hut I stayed in was actually perfect, as it kept us warm throughout the night!

If you're looking for a tour company to do the hike with, I recommend this one. Hiking Acatenango is one of the best experiences you can have in Central America, so don't miss it! The climb is tough, and there will be moments when you want to give up every few minutes, but you'll forget all about the struggle the moment you witness the incredible eruptions from Fuego Volcano.

For a more detailed guide to hiking Acatenango, check out:Hiking Acatenango & Fuego Volcanoes in 2026

Where to Stay in Antigua?

Budget

Ojala

$ | Dorm

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👍 Top Pick

Mid-Range

Casa del Sol

$$ | Double Room

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High-End

Villa Las Mil Flores

$$$ | Deluxe Suite

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2. Hike Pacaya Volcano ☀️ Great Day Trip

If Acatenango feels too challenging or you don't have enough time for an overnight trek, hiking Pacaya Volcano is a great alternative. This hike is located about an hour from Antigua, and it is one of Guatemala's most accessible active volcanoes and makes for an easy half-day trip from the city.

Standing at 2,552 m (8,373 ft), Pacaya is much lower and less demanding than Acatenango, but it still offers an incredible volcanic landscape. The hike takes around 2–3 hours round trip along a very easy trail that gradually descends into pine forests, volcanic rocks, and as the trails gets flatter, you have arrive at the lava fields, where you can see nearby volcanoes like Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango on clear days.

One of the highlights of the hike is reaching the black volcanic terrain near the summit, where you can feel the heat coming from the ground and, depending on recent volcanic activity, see steam vents and glowing lava flows. Some tours even let you roast marshmallows over the warm volcanic rocks!

To hike Pacaya, you will have to join a guided tour, which includes round-trip transportation from Antigua and takes around half a day, usually leaving at 6 AM and returning around 2 PM. The hike is very easy, and almost anyone can do it. I hiked Pacaya hoping it would prepare me for Acatenango, which it was a nice introduction to, but honestly, it was far too easy to prepare my knees for the onslaught that was the Acatenango hike 🤣.

3. Experience Semana Santa in Antigua ♥️ Must See

If there is one time of the year when Antigua truly comes alive, it is during Semana Santa (Holy Week). Celebrated in March or April each year, this is one of the most spectacular Easter celebrations in the world and I just happened to be here, by accident, during the holy week, and boy was it an unforgettable experience!

During Holy Week, the entire historic center transforms into a massive celebration of faith, art, and tradition. The cobblestone streets are covered with colorful alfombras (carpets) made from dyed sawdust, flowers, fruits, and other natural materials, each featuring incredibly detailed designs that take hours or even days to create before being walked over during religious processions.

Throughout the week, massive processions make their way through the streets at all times from day to night, with participants carrying enormous religious floats accompanied by music and crowds of locals and tourist.

The atmosphere was unlike anything I've seen in Central America, with the colonial streets filled with incense, flowers, music, and thousands of people coming together to witness this centuries-old tradition, at all hours from sunrise all the way into the night.

On certain days, depending on the schedule, which you can often get from the tourist information center in Parque Central, the main events are held in front of Antigua Cathedral, where all the parades, processions, locals, and tourists come together to experience the celebration.

As a photographer, I was everywhere, at all hours, capturing photos of the events, and I had an absolute blast! There was so much life, so much energy, and so much festivity that it is impossible to describe in words. You simply have to experience it for yourself! Semana Santa usually takes place in late March or early April, and the exact dates are often announced a few months in advance, so be sure to keep an eye out and plan your visit accordingly.

4. Explore Parque Central

Parque Central is the heart of the city and the perfect place to begin your exploration of Antigua. Surrounded by some of the city's most important landmarks, including Antigua Cathedral and the Palacio de los Capitanes Generales, Parque Central is where I often came to relax and hang out throughout the day, as the square offers a different atmosphere depending on the time you visit.

During the day, the park is a great place to sit under the shade of the trees, watch locals go about their daily routines, and admire the beautifully preserved colonial architecture surrounding the plaza. You’ll often find street vendors selling snacks, local handicrafts, and traditional treats, adding to the lively atmosphere.

The park becomes especially magical in the evening when the historic buildings are illuminated and locals gather to enjoy the cooler weather. Grab a coffee from a nearby café, find a bench, and simply take in the views of Antigua's charming streets with the volcanoes towering in the background. I was there during Semana Santa and this is where the processions end, so tons of people were here in the square to watch, it was incredible!

My favorite time to visit, though, is early in the morning, when most tourists are still asleep, the summit of Agua Volcano is often clear of clouds, and the morning light bathes the streets in a beautiful glow. The square is quiet, with barely anyone around, allowing you to enjoy places like Santa Catalina Arch almost entirely to yourself, which is nearly impossible during the day. This is why mornings are my favorite time to visit the park.

5. Take Photos with the Santa Catalina Arch

Santa Catalina Arch is easily the most iconic landmark in Antigua and one of the most photographed spots in Guatemala. Built in the 17th century, the bright yellow arch once connected the Santa Catalina convent to a school, allowing nuns to cross the street without being seen by the public.

Today, the arch has become a symbol of Antigua, with the towering Agua Volcano often perfectly framed in the background. It is one of those places that looks beautiful at any time of the day, but the best time to visit is early in the morning when the streets are quiet and you can capture the arch without the crowds.

During the day, the area around the arch becomes one of the busiest parts of the city, filled with tourists, street vendors, and photographers waiting for the perfect shot. If you want the classic photo with fewer people, arrive around sunrise when the soft morning light illuminates the colonial buildings and the volcano is more likely to be visible.

Even if you are not into photography, Santa Catalina Arch is worth visiting simply to experience one of Antigua's most recognizable views and a perfect introduction to the city's charming colonial streets. There are also many awesome shops and cafés along the street, so be sure to take some time to explore the area around Santa Catalina Arch.

6. Walk Around Antigua Cathedral Ruins

While you explore Parque Central, be sure to drop by and check out Antigua Cathedral, is one of the most impressive historical sites in Antigua. Originally built in the 16th century, the cathedral was repeatedly damaged by earthquakes over the centuries, with the devastating 1773 Santa Marta earthquakes leaving much of the structure in ruins.

While the restored front façade still stands proudly facing Parque Central, the real highlight is exploring the cathedral ruins behind it. You can access them through the side entrance, where you can walk through massive stone arches, collapsed walls, and open-air chambers that give you a glimpse into the true scale of what was once one of the most important churches in colonial Central America.

The ruins is open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily and the entrance fee is 20 GTQ (2.5 USD). It should take you around 30–45 minutes to explore the premise, so make sure you drop by here and check it out as you explore Parque Central.

7. Check Out the View from Cerro de la Cruz

If you are looking for a great viewpoint of the city and the volcanoes surrounding it, Cerro de la Cruz is one of the best viewpoints here. From up there, you will have a stunning panoramic view over the entire city with the towering Volcán de Agua perfectly framed in the background. The best part is, it is located just a short distance from the historic center, and it doesn't require much effort to get to as the hike is pretty short and easy.

The hike begins from this trailhead, and it should take you no more than 5 minutes to reach the top. The walk from the historic center to the trailhead actually takes longer than the hike itself. 🤣

At the viewpoint, you will find a large cross overlooking the city, and a platform where you can witness Antigua's colorful colonial buildings, surrounding mountains, and volcanoes creating a breathtaking backdrop in its full glory. The best time to visit is in the morning, which the weather is often nice and clear and the summit of Agua volcano should be visible. There are many benches up here you can sit and relax at as well as small shops selling drinks and snacks you can buy from.

The place is open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily, so this is not a good place for sunset as it is close way before sunset most days. Don't worry, I have another great place for sunset in the next section! The entry is free. If you are looking for a nice viewpoint over the city, be sure to come check Cerro de la Cruz out.

8. Watch the Sunset from the Rooftop of Iglesia de la Merced

Talking about sunset, one of the best places to experience the golden hour in Antigua is at the rooftop of Iglesia de la Merced, which is one of the most beautiful churches in the city and has a great view over the main street of Antigua with the Agua volcano in the backdrop.

The church itself has a stunning yellow Baroque façade and intricate architectural details throughout the interior. Inside, you can find a beautiful courtyard with intricately designed fountains, as well as several exhibitions that are worth visiting in their own right. However, the highlight here is definitely the rooftop access.

I highly recommend coming around sunset, as the view is best during the blue hour after sunset, when the sky is painted purple, the streets of Antigua are illuminated by artificial lights, and, if the weather permits, you might even be able to see eruptions from Fuego Volcano in the distance once it gets dark enough but not too dark.

It does get quite busy around that time though and there might be a queue at the entrance, but trust me, it is well worth it and definitely way better than during the day. Me and my friend, went up there right after sunset, and there weren't as many people queuing when we enter, but queue started to form right as we got down.

The church is open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM, and the entrance fee is 35 GTQ (around 5 USD) for rooftop access. For the views you get from up there, I think it is well worth the price! If you're looking for the best sunset spot in Antigua, this is definitely the place to be.

9. Stroll Around Convento Santa Clara

Convento Santa Clara is one of the most impressive ruins in Antigua and a must-visit for anyone interested in the city's colonial history. Originally built in the 18th century, the convent was home to the Order of Poor Clare nuns before being heavily damaged by the devastating earthquakes that struck Antigua in 1773.

Unlike some of the other ruins in the city, Convento Santa Clara feels more like a hidden archaeological site, with a maze of stone corridors, towering arches, and peaceful courtyards and gardens where you can sit and hang out. The scale of the complex is incredible, and surprisingly peaceful as there wasn't a whole lot of people when I was there.

The highlight of the convent is its beautiful inner courtyard, surrounded by elegant arches and detailed stonework. There are many benches where you can sit and take in the view, or you can do what many visitors do and simply relax on the grass while enjoying the sunshine, picnic-style.

Expect to spend around 30–45 minutes here, as it is much larger than it looks from the outside, and there is quite a lot to see once you get inside. The entrance fee is 40 GTQ (around 5 USD), and it is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.

10. Visit Museo Nacional de Arte de Guatemala 🏛️ Best Museum

If you are looking for a great museum to explore, Museo Nacional de Arte de Guatemala is one of the best art museums in the country, where you can truly appreciate just how beautiful and rich of the art and cultural heritage of Guatemala are.

The museum is located inside a beautifully restored colonial building in Antigua, not too far from Parque Central, which makes for a nice attraction to combine as you explore the historic center. Inside, you will find a fascinating collection of artwork spanning Guatemala's history, from pre-Hispanic influences to the colonial period and modern interpretations.

From religious paintings, sculptures, to decorative works that reflect the country's blend of Maya traditions and Spanish colonial influences, the museum should provide you a good understanding of Guatemala's identity and how art has evolved through centuries of cultural exchange.

The museum is not very large and can be explored in around 30–45 minutes, but what makes it worth a visit is the beautiful courtyard with a view of Agua Volcano perfectly framed right in the center. I was completely blown away when I first stepped out onto the balconies overlooking the backyard.

If you enjoy history, art, or photography, this museum is worth a visit and offers a nice change of pace from hiking and exploring ruins. The museum is open from 10 AM to 6 PM every day except Mondays, and admission is free. You only need to show your passport and register your name at the entrance, and that's it!

11. Shop for Souvenirs at Nim Po’t

If you are looking to buy some souvenirs back home, I highly recommend you check out Nim Po’t, a massive, warehouse-style shop that sells a vast variety of souvenirs that you can imagine, all at a reasonable price, unlike many other souvenir shops in Antigua that may inflated prices for tourists.

Inside, you’ll find everything from traditional Maya textiles and woven fabrics to clothing, bags, jewelry, pottery, wooden crafts, and small gifts to bring home. The selection is huge, and it can take you over 30 minutes to browse everything they have to offer here. Thanks to its large selection, it makes it very easy for us to compare different styles and find unique souvenirs without having to visit multiple shops.

What I love about Nim Po’t is that it offers a more relaxed experience compared to some of the street markets, with clearly displayed prices and a wide variety of products under one roof. You can simply grab a basket and pick whatever you like without having salespeople following you around or trying to sell you things. The shop is open from 9 AM to 9 PM daily and is located right next to Santa Catalina Arch, so be sure to drop by while there.

12. Go Cafe-Hopping 🥘 Place to Eat

One of my favorite things to do in Antigua is to go café-hopping. Thanks to its cool climate, charming colonial architecture, and relaxed atmosphere, the city has developed an incredible café culture, with countless coffee shops hidden inside beautiful courtyards, historic buildings, and colorful streets.

Guatemala is one of the world's best coffee-producing countries, and Antigua is surrounded by some of the most famous coffee-growing regions in the country. Many cafés serve locally grown beans, often sourced directly from nearby farms, making it a great place to experience Guatemala's coffee culture while supporting local producers.

When you combine the greatness of Guatemala coffees and the rich history of Antigua and its beautiful colonial streets, you get one of the most beautiful and atmospheric places that is prime for cozy and relaxing cafes, perfect for those who are looking to take a break from exploring the city or hiking volcanoes.

Some of my favorite cafés in Antigua include Alegría Café, Cafe Boheme, and El Viejo Café, but honestly, you can hardly go wrong with whichever café you stumble upon while wandering the city streets. Go out and explore to your heart's content!

What to Eat & Drink in Antigua

1. Drink Coffee at Alegría Café

Alegría Café is one of my favorite cafés in Antigua that I often frequent when I am looking for breakfast, or a quiet place to have a cup of coffee during my rest days, in between hiking volcanoes here. The café has a lovely backyard area where you can sit surrounded by colorful decorations, plants, and a glimpse of a historical church ruins located nearby.

The coffee here is excellent, with a variety of drinks made from Guatemala's famous locally grown beans. They also have food, with my favorite being their Breakfast Burrito! The staff are also incredibly friendly and welcoming and I went there so often they knew exactly what I want to order 🤣.

The price range at Alegría Café is around average to slightly expensive compared to other cafés in Antigua, but I think it is worth paying a little extra for the atmosphere, quality coffee, and overall experience. The café is open from 8 AM to 5 PM from Monday to Thursday, while from Friday to Sunday, it is open from 8 AM to 7 PM.

2. Hang Out at Cafe Boheme

Cafe Boheme is another of my favorite cozy little café in Antigua that I really enjoyed, thanks to its cozy space at the rooftop with a great view of Fuego and Acatenango Volcanoes. The interior is beautifully designed with warm décor, comfortable seating, and a charming bohemian style that makes it a great place to grab a coffee, read a book, or spend a few hours working.

At the rooftop area, you will find plenty of seats and tables surrounded by plants and vintage decors, while enjoying a lovely view over of Fuego and Acatenango Volcanoes rising in the distance, if the weather permits.

The price range at Cafe Boheme is around average compared to other cafés in Antigua and the café is open daily from 7:30 AM to 8 PM, so if you are looking for a place to come have early morning breakfast and coffee, this is a good place to be.

3. Enjoy a Drink with a view at Cafe Sky Bar

Cafe Sky Bar is one of my favorite rooftop spots in Antigua that offers an unobstructed 360-degree view of Antigua, with the colorful colonial city stretching out below and the surrounding volcanoes towering in the distance.

From the rooftop, you can see all three of Antigua's iconic volcanoes, Agua Volcano, Fuego Volcano, and Acatenango Volcano, which make for a pretty awesome backdrop as you enjoy a selection of their drinks. The view of the city itself is just as impressive, with landmarks like San Francisco the Great Sanctuary visible in the distance and the historic center stretching far beyond.

The price range at Cafe Sky Bar leans toward the expensive side compared to other cafés and restaurants in Antigua, but you are paying for one of the best views in the city. The bar is open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM, so if you are looking for a place with a view to grab a drink in the evening, make sure to drop by here.

When to Visit Antigua?

Thanks to its elevation of around 1,500 m (4,900 ft), Antigua enjoys pleasant spring-like weather year-round, which I found to be a welcome change compared to many of its neighboring countries. Days are typically warm and sunny, while evenings can be cool, so it's worth packing a light jacket.

November to April (Dry Season): This is the best time to visit Antigua. Expect sunny days, clear views of the surrounding volcanoes, and ideal conditions for sightseeing and hiking. It's also the best season for tackling popular hikes like Acatenango and Pacaya Volcano. Since this is the peak tourist season, especially around Christmas, New Year, and Semana Santa, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance.

May to October (Rainy Season): During the rainy season, the surrounding landscapes become lush and green, and you'll encounter fewer tourists and lower accommodation prices. Rain typically falls in the afternoon or evening, leaving plenty of time to explore the city in the mornings. However, if you're planning to hike volcanoes like Acatenango or Pacaya, you'll have a lower chance of getting clear weather, and trail conditions can be more challenging.

Semana Santa (March or April): If you want to experience Antigua at its best, visit during Holy Week. I visited during this time, and the entire Old Town was converted into a pedestrian-only zone, with religious processions taking place throughout the day.

The streets were filled with people, parades, and colorful carpets made from dyed sawdust and flowers. Semana Santa in Antigua is, hands down, the most spectacular Easter celebration in Latin America and it is well worth aligning your visits. Again, it is also the busiest time of year, so make sure to reserve your accommodation at least a few weeks in advance.

How to Get to Antigua?

Antigua doesn't have its own airport, so most travelers arrive via La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City, located about 40 km (25 miles) away. Depending on traffic, the journey to Antigua usually takes between 1 and 2 hours.

By Shuttle: The easiest and most popular way to get to Antigua is by shared shuttle. Many hotels, hostels, and tour operators offer direct transfers from La Aurora International Airport or Guatemala City to Antigua for around 25 - 30 USD for shared shuttles. If you'd rather book your transfer in advance, you can reserve a shared shuttle here.

By Uber (Skip the Taxis): Uber is widely available from Guatemala City Airport and is usually cheaper and more reliable than airport taxis. It's a comfortable option if you're traveling with a group or arriving on an early morning or late-night flight. Depending on traffic, expect to pay around 350 GTQ (45 USD) for the journey to Antigua.

By Chicken Bus: Budget travelers can take a local "chicken bus" from Guatemala City's main bus terminal to Antigua. While it's the cheapest option, at around 20 GTQ (2.5 USD) it can be confusing for first-time visitors and isn't recommended if you're carrying large luggage or arriving late in the day.

By Rental Car: Renting a car is a good option if you plan to explore more of Guatemala, such as Lake Atitlán, Semuc Champey, or Flores. However, driving in Guatemala City can be hectic, and parking inside Antigua's historic center is limited, so I only recommend renting a car if you're planning to travel beyond the city. You can rent the car from here.

Coming from Other Countries: If you're traveling from neighboring countries like El Salvador or Honduras, you can use Gekko Trails Explorer, which operates shared shuttle services between destinations such as Santa Ana in El Salvador and Copán Ruinas in Honduras to Antigua on most days of the week. You can easily book your shuttle online in advance here.

How to get Around Antigua?

On Foot: Most of Antigua's main attractions are within a 10 to 20-minute walk of one another. Keep in mind that the city's beautiful cobblestone streets can be uneven, so comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.

By Shuttle: If you're planning day trips to places like Acatenango, Pacaya Volcano, or Lake Atitlán, most tour operators include round-trip transportation from Antigua. You can also browse and book day tours and shuttle services here before your trip.

How many days to spend in Antigua?

While you can see many of Antigua's highlights in a single day, I recommend spending at least 2–3 days here to fully appreciate its laid-back atmosphere, colonial architecture, vibrant café scene, and nearby attractions. The city also serves as an excellent base for volcano hikes and day trips around central Guatemala.

1 Day: Explore the historic center, visit landmarks like Santa Catalina Arch and Parque Central, enjoy a few cafés, and catch sunset from Cerro de la Cruz.

2–3 Days (Recommended): Visit museums and churches, go cafe-hopping, and enjoy the city's many restaurants and rooftop bars. You can also fit in a day trip to Pacaya Volcano.

4–5 Days (+ 1 day for rest): If you have extra time, hike the incredible Acatenango & Fuego Volcanoes, one of the most epic trekking experiences in Central America. The hike typically takes two days and make sure to add another day if you wish to rest a bit. Trust me, you will need it.

Is it safe in Antigua?

Yes, Antigua is generally considered one of the safest destinations in Guatemala and is well accustomed to international travelers. During my visit, I felt comfortable walking around the historic center throughout the day and into the evening, thanks to the constant presence of tourists, locals, and the fact that it was Semana Santa Holy Week when I was there.

That said, it's still important to take the usual precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas, avoid displaying expensive valuables, and be cautious when using your phone near busy streets. If you're walking late at night, stick to well-lit streets or take an Uber if you're staying outside the city center.

If you're planning to hike Acatenango or other nearby volcanoes, always go with a reputable tour operator that will assure your safety and well fed and rested. Weather conditions can change quickly, and organized tours provide guides, transportation, and the necessary safety equipment. It gets really REALLY cold up at the top of Acatenango at night, so make sure you have enough layers!