A Complete List of the 22 Best Things to do in Antigua, Guatemala
Last updated on October 26th, 2024 at 07:16 pm
Ready to explore a colorful city surrounded by active volcanoes, friendly locals, and unbeatable scenery? Then it sounds like Antigua, Guatemala should be your next destination! Antigua is a small and charming city nestled in southern Guatemala. It is located approximately 25 miles (40km) from the country’s capital city of Guatemala City. Known for its beautiful colonial architecture, active volcanoes, and gastronomy, it is a popular stop for travelers exploring Guatemala and Central America more broadly.
I recently took a solo trip to Guatemala (my first visit ever to Central America) and am excited to share with you a complete guide to the best attractions and things to do in Antigua including restaurants, volcano hiking, coffee tours, a day trip to Lake Atitlán, and more! When planning your Antigua itinerary, I recommend spending three full days in the city in order to fully immerse yourself in the culture, history and cuisine.
Keep in mind that this site contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. However, this does not impact my honest reviews and comparisons. I only make recommendations based on personal experience(s), in order to help you make the best decisions while traveling!
The 22 Best Things to do in Antigua, Guatemala
Ps. Looking for a place to stay in Antigua?
I exclusively use Safara to book all of my hotels ever since Hotels.com changed their loyalty program (which is absolute crap now). Their rewards program used to be great but now you barely get any points or rewards even if you spend thousands with them. Safara immediately gives you $100 for signing up and up to 10% cash back on every single booking. It’s also a really cool startup that my old coworker’s husband created so I love getting to support them at the same time.
Seriously – run don’t walk to Safara Travel.
1. Check out the Santa Catalina Arch
You probably already knew this was going to be #1 on the list as it’s one of Antigua’s most recognizable landmarks (pictured above)! One of the most iconic landmarks in Antigua, this 17th century arch was originally built to connect two parts of the Santa Catalina Convent, allowing the nuns to pass from one area of the convent to another without having to step outside. Today, it survives as a beautiful example of colonial architecture, combining Spanish Baroque with Mudejar Muslim styles. The arch offers travelers views of the Agua volcano and is often decorated with flowers during festivals and other events in the city. I highly recommend getting here early as it gets PACKED with tourists later in the day. There’s also plenty to do around the Arch including restaurants, souvenir shops, and more.
2. Embark on a coffee tour
Antigua is widely renowned for its coffee culture – which is such a benefit to a caffeine addict like myself. There’s nothing worse than drinking bad coffee in the morning when traveling. The surrounding countryside is home to a large number of coffee farms and plantations, many of which are open to visitors. During an Antigua coffee tour, you can expect to learn about the process of coffee cultivation and processing, as well as enjoy the chance to sample some of the best and freshest coffee around. It’s better than Starbucks I promise! Also, what’s better than cruising around on an ATV and drinking extremely good coffee along the way?
3. Eat your way around Antigua on a food tour
Another way to embrace the culinary delights of Antigua is to join a local food tour in the city. There are so many options available, each with their own unique experiences. I met a few girls that told me they went on this one and loved it! They got to sample a bunch of different exotic fruits and Guatemalan street food! They also said that the local vendors were so friendly and they got extra samples of everything they tried. On the tour, you’ll get a chance to taste regional meals, drinks, and snacks and learn about the food culture in Antigua and in Guatemala more widely.
4. Explore Hobbitenango eco park
This was probably one of the most random things I’ve ever done in my life! Hobbitenango is a restaurant, amusement park and hotel complex located approximately 20 minutes by car from Antigua. I actually met up with another travel blogger who happened to be in Guatemala at the same time!
Even if you’re not a Lord of the Rings fan (I most certainly am not), Hobbitenango is still a fun, quirky place to visit. There are more than 26 different areas to explore at the park, which include ‘hobbit-holes’ styled on the popular Lord of the Rings franchise and it only costs $7 USD to visit! There are also hiking trails, more than 10 viewpoints over the surrounding area, games including archery, minigolf, axe-throwing, and a fairground. You can also dine at the onsite buffet restaurant and stay overnight in a traditional casita.
For my instagrammers, this is also a great place for some unique photo ops! The whole place is very photogenic and there are endless views of the mountains. Unfortunately, we got super unlucky and it was so foggy and cold when we went, but I hear the view is great on a sunny day haha.
5. Hike one (or all) of the active volcanoes
Within around one hour by car or bus from Antigua, there are several active (and extinct) volcanoes that can be hiked, depending on the conditions at the time of your visit. Pacaya is one of the most popular hiking options, due to its relatively easy accessibility and the chance to see lava flows. Acatenango volcano is a more difficult climb, as is nearby Fuego, which is far more active and often not possible to hike. Fuego can also only be climbed with the company of licensed guides. The final option is Agua, which is the closest volcano to Antigua and takes travelers through lush forests before offering sweeping views back to the city.
6. Take an Antigua to Lake Atitlan day trip
In Guatemala’s western highlands lies Lake Atitlan, the country’s third largest freshwater lake. When I went, I joined this day tour and really enjoyed it. The drive there and back takes about 3 hours so be prepared for an extremely long day but I promise you it’s 100% worth it. I seriously wish I stayed for the entire week.
Not only did we get to see the lake but we took a boat across Atitlán as well. There was also a lot of free time for lunch so I got some delicious food and shopped around for some souvenirs. There’s also a nearby Selina which had a pool area (pictured above), so I hung around there for a little bit before it was time to head back to Antigua. Be warned that the drive home is long but I made friends with some of the people in my group so it went by faster than expected.
7. Visit Caoba Farms and taste farm-fresh dishes
Literally one of the best meals I had in Antigua! Caoba Farms definitely gets bonus points for being so fresh AND healthy!
This organic working farm offers tours and even volunteering for those staying in Antigua for a while. The farm operates its own farm-to-table restaurant and if visiting on Saturdays or Sundays there is a popular farmers market. There’s a bunch of different vendors selling local crafts and a few street dogs running around the property as well. It is also a live music venue and hosts a rotation of weekly and monthly events and activities such as yoga classes too!
8. Get the adrenaline pumping on an ATV tour
ATV (all terrain vehicle) tours are a popular activity for those staying in Antigua, as they allow you to head out of the city and see more of the surroundings. If you book with a reputable local provider then you will be accompanied by an expert guide, who will take you on a fun-filled tour. You will stop at viewpoints to enjoy volcano vistas and learn more about the history and culture of Antigua. You can also kill 2 birds with 1 stone by doing the ATV + Coffee Tour I mentioned earlier!
9. Discover the San Francisco Church
Another important landmark that should be on any Antigua, Guatemala itinerary is the San Francisco Church. It is one of the oldest churches in the city and has survived numerous earthquakes, having been repaired several times. The most significant damage was caused in 1773, when the original church structure was fully abandoned. However, despite this damage, it is an impressive landmark and one that you are sure to want to visit during your Antigua trip.
10. Relax with a drink at Café Sky
One of the best rooftop bars in Antigua – Café Sky is such a great place to grab. drink and watch the sunset over the mountains. I was lucky in that Café Sky was literally right down the street from where I was staying (The Good Hotel) so I came here two nights in a row to watch the sunset.
They offer a great selection of beers, wines and cocktails plus a breakfast, lunch and dinner menu. There is also complimentary Wi-Fi connection for all guests to enjoy.
11. Watch the sunset at Cerro de La Cruz
For another beautiful sunset spot, make sure to head north from the centre of Antigua to Cerro de La Cruz. This hilltop viewpoint offers amazing views of the surrounding volcanoes and is the perfect spot to enjoy sunset on a clear day. I was busy spending my sunsets at Café Sky so I personally visited Cerro de La Cruz during the middle of the day.
12. Shop for handicrafts at Mercado de Artesanias
If you have some souvenir shopping to do in Antigua, then there are few better places than the Mercado de Artesanias. It is home to numerous local vendors and small businesses selling traditional handicrafts and other wares. It’s a great location to practice bargaining as the vendors tend to start with high prices, so make sure to agree a price that is fair for both you and the local vendor!
13. Join a guided walking tour
Discover the hidden treasures of Antigua on a guided walking tour. Visit the Church of Mercy, Church of San Francisco, and other sites while hearing about the city’s culture and history. The tour itself is very affordable ($20 USD) and only lasts ~2 hours, making it the perfect morning or afternoon activity to see the entire town!
14. Indulge your sweet tooth at the ChocoMuseo
The chocolate museum in Antigua makes for a wonderful day trip for anyone interested in this sweet treat. Well-located in the city centre, it charts the history of chocolate making, all the way back to the Aztecs and Mayans. With a range of interactive exhibits, guests can learn about the chocolate making process and join a chocolate-making workshop. There is of course also the opportunity to taste and purchase some of Guatemala’s finest chocolate.
15. Get a surprise customized cocktail at Ulew Cocktail Bar
One of the coolest cocktail bars I’ve ever visited! For a completely different drinking experience in Antigua, you have to try Ulew Cocktail Bar. What sets this place apart is that there is no menu! Simply tell the mixologist of the sort of drink you like, and they will create you something totally unique using fresh fruit, a range of local and international liquors and sculpted ice.
The best part? They have the wackiest coasters made out of hot glue and random trinkets. I got a coaster with a dog on it and it was sitting on some coffee beans. It was so weird but cool!
16. Enjoy a day trip to El Hato village
Travellers looking to escape Antigua for the day can take a short drive outside the city to the village of El Hato. Home to a number of eco lodges and restaurants, it is also the start point for many of the hiking trails up Agua volcano. Although popular with tourists, El Hato also maintains a traditional charm, and visitors can take the chance to meet local indigenous communities, all whilst uncovering the blissful scenery of the area.
17. Dine at the Valhalla Macadamia Farm
Just a 15-minute drive or taxi ride from the city, the Valhalla Macadamia Farm is a great place to visit for nut enthusiasts! Primarily a restaurant, it is recommended to sample the macadamia pancakes, made using the freshest produce grown on location at the farm. If you can’t tell by now, I really love my educational tours. I love learning and walking away from every country I visit with a new piece of information! So it’s fitting that you can also take a free tour of the farm to learn about the growing and processing of macadamia nuts, and can enjoy a macadamia oil facial, to discover the benefits of this natural product on the skin.
18. Eat a delicious steak from Fermento
Looking for high-quality food with an exceptional atmosphere and a decent price-tag? Then you need to check out Fermento. Some have claimed Fermento to be one of the best restaurants in all of Antigua. I enjoyed a delicious steak and glass of red wine here. It was easily one of my favorite dinners while in Antigua. The heart of Fermento is in the main hall near the bar. The open kitchen concept also means that you can see the chefs in action, cooking your steak and other dishes to perfection.
19. Discover the works of Efrain Recinos
Even the most learned of art enthusiast may not be familiar with Efrain Recinos. However, in Guatemala he is known as the ‘Guatemalan Picasso’. Many of his most famous works, and those of other local artists, are housed in the Santo Domingo del Cerro in Antigua, which can be visited for free by anyone interested in learning more about the artist or his work.
20. Find a restaurant to try Pepian
Pepian is Guatemala’s most famous regional dish, and it simply has to be on the menu for every visitor to Antigua. Most local restaurants and homestays will offer the chance to try this delicious meal, which is a flavoursome chicken stew, most often served with rice or tortillas.
21. Book a jade carving class
Guatemalan jade is a renowned and rare mineral that was deemed incredibly important by the Mayans, connecting them to their gods. In Antigua, it is possible to book jade carving lessons, during which you will be taught how to carve a lump of this mineral into an intricate design. The best thing – you get to take your creation away with you as an everlasting reminder of your visit to Antigua.
22. People watch in Central Park
Lastly, Parque Central is Antigua’s main green space. It is a hub in the city, popular with dog walkers, joggers and travellers looking to soak up their surroundings. It a great spot to relax on a bench with an ice cream and watch the world go by. There are several pretty ornamental fountains and a number of restaurants, coffee shops and bars are located around the edge of the park. It’s also right next to important Antigua landmarks, such as the Santiago Cathedral.
For a small city, Antigua offers a wealth of attractions and things to do. With a wealth of historic attractions, museums and restaurants to enjoy, visitors can also discover the surrounding volcanoes, or head further afield on day trips to nearby wonders such as Lake Atitlán. One thing is for sure, you won’t run out of places to see or activities to enjoy!
Did you check out any of these places on the list? Let me know in the comments below!
Looking for travel inspiration to somewhere else?
Last updated on October 26th, 2024 at 07:16 pm
Ready to explore a colorful city surrounded by active volcanoes, friendly locals, and unbeatable scenery? Then it sounds like Antigua, Guatemala should be your next destination! Antigua is a small and charming city nestled in southern Guatemala. It is located approximately 25 miles (40km) from the country’s capital city of Guatemala City. Known for its beautiful colonial architecture, active volcanoes, and gastronomy, it is a popular stop for travelers exploring Guatemala and Central America more broadly.
I recently took a solo trip to Guatemala (my first visit ever to Central America) and am excited to share with you a complete guide to the best attractions and things to do in Antigua including restaurants, volcano hiking, coffee tours, a day trip to Lake Atitlán, and more! When planning your Antigua itinerary, I recommend spending three full days in the city in order to fully immerse yourself in the culture, history and cuisine.
Keep in mind that this site contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. However, this does not impact my honest reviews and comparisons. I only make recommendations based on personal experience(s), in order to help you make the best decisions while traveling!
The 22 Best Things to do in Antigua, Guatemala
Ps. Looking for a place to stay in Antigua?
I exclusively use Safara to book all of my hotels ever since Hotels.com changed their loyalty program (which is absolute crap now). Their rewards program used to be great but now you barely get any points or rewards even if you spend thousands with them. Safara immediately gives you $100 for signing up and up to 10% cash back on every single booking. It’s also a really cool startup that my old coworker’s husband created so I love getting to support them at the same time.
Seriously – run don’t walk to Safara Travel.
1. Check out the Santa Catalina Arch
You probably already knew this was going to be #1 on the list as it’s one of Antigua’s most recognizable landmarks (pictured above)! One of the most iconic landmarks in Antigua, this 17th century arch was originally built to connect two parts of the Santa Catalina Convent, allowing the nuns to pass from one area of the convent to another without having to step outside. Today, it survives as a beautiful example of colonial architecture, combining Spanish Baroque with Mudejar Muslim styles. The arch offers travelers views of the Agua volcano and is often decorated with flowers during festivals and other events in the city. I highly recommend getting here early as it gets PACKED with tourists later in the day. There’s also plenty to do around the Arch including restaurants, souvenir shops, and more.
2. Embark on a coffee tour
Antigua is widely renowned for its coffee culture – which is such a benefit to a caffeine addict like myself. There’s nothing worse than drinking bad coffee in the morning when traveling. The surrounding countryside is home to a large number of coffee farms and plantations, many of which are open to visitors. During an Antigua coffee tour, you can expect to learn about the process of coffee cultivation and processing, as well as enjoy the chance to sample some of the best and freshest coffee around. It’s better than Starbucks I promise! Also, what’s better than cruising around on an ATV and drinking extremely good coffee along the way?
3. Eat your way around Antigua on a food tour
Another way to embrace the culinary delights of Antigua is to join a local food tour in the city. There are so many options available, each with their own unique experiences. I met a few girls that told me they went on this one and loved it! They got to sample a bunch of different exotic fruits and Guatemalan street food! They also said that the local vendors were so friendly and they got extra samples of everything they tried. On the tour, you’ll get a chance to taste regional meals, drinks, and snacks and learn about the food culture in Antigua and in Guatemala more widely.
4. Explore Hobbitenango eco park
This was probably one of the most random things I’ve ever done in my life! Hobbitenango is a restaurant, amusement park and hotel complex located approximately 20 minutes by car from Antigua. I actually met up with another travel blogger who happened to be in Guatemala at the same time!
Even if you’re not a Lord of the Rings fan (I most certainly am not), Hobbitenango is still a fun, quirky place to visit. There are more than 26 different areas to explore at the park, which include ‘hobbit-holes’ styled on the popular Lord of the Rings franchise and it only costs $7 USD to visit! There are also hiking trails, more than 10 viewpoints over the surrounding area, games including archery, minigolf, axe-throwing, and a fairground. You can also dine at the onsite buffet restaurant and stay overnight in a traditional casita.
For my instagrammers, this is also a great place for some unique photo ops! The whole place is very photogenic and there are endless views of the mountains. Unfortunately, we got super unlucky and it was so foggy and cold when we went, but I hear the view is great on a sunny day haha.
5. Hike one (or all) of the active volcanoes
Within around one hour by car or bus from Antigua, there are several active (and extinct) volcanoes that can be hiked, depending on the conditions at the time of your visit. Pacaya is one of the most popular hiking options, due to its relatively easy accessibility and the chance to see lava flows. Acatenango volcano is a more difficult climb, as is nearby Fuego, which is far more active and often not possible to hike. Fuego can also only be climbed with the company of licensed guides. The final option is Agua, which is the closest volcano to Antigua and takes travelers through lush forests before offering sweeping views back to the city.
6. Take an Antigua to Lake Atitlan day trip
In Guatemala’s western highlands lies Lake Atitlan, the country’s third largest freshwater lake. When I went, I joined this day tour and really enjoyed it. The drive there and back takes about 3 hours so be prepared for an extremely long day but I promise you it’s 100% worth it. I seriously wish I stayed for the entire week.
Not only did we get to see the lake but we took a boat across Atitlán as well. There was also a lot of free time for lunch so I got some delicious food and shopped around for some souvenirs. There’s also a nearby Selina which had a pool area (pictured above), so I hung around there for a little bit before it was time to head back to Antigua. Be warned that the drive home is long but I made friends with some of the people in my group so it went by faster than expected.
7. Visit Caoba Farms and taste farm-fresh dishes
Literally one of the best meals I had in Antigua! Caoba Farms definitely gets bonus points for being so fresh AND healthy!
This organic working farm offers tours and even volunteering for those staying in Antigua for a while. The farm operates its own farm-to-table restaurant and if visiting on Saturdays or Sundays there is a popular farmers market. There’s a bunch of different vendors selling local crafts and a few street dogs running around the property as well. It is also a live music venue and hosts a rotation of weekly and monthly events and activities such as yoga classes too!
8. Get the adrenaline pumping on an ATV tour
ATV (all terrain vehicle) tours are a popular activity for those staying in Antigua, as they allow you to head out of the city and see more of the surroundings. If you book with a reputable local provider then you will be accompanied by an expert guide, who will take you on a fun-filled tour. You will stop at viewpoints to enjoy volcano vistas and learn more about the history and culture of Antigua. You can also kill 2 birds with 1 stone by doing the ATV + Coffee Tour I mentioned earlier!
9. Discover the San Francisco Church
Another important landmark that should be on any Antigua, Guatemala itinerary is the San Francisco Church. It is one of the oldest churches in the city and has survived numerous earthquakes, having been repaired several times. The most significant damage was caused in 1773, when the original church structure was fully abandoned. However, despite this damage, it is an impressive landmark and one that you are sure to want to visit during your Antigua trip.
10. Relax with a drink at Café Sky
One of the best rooftop bars in Antigua – Café Sky is such a great place to grab. drink and watch the sunset over the mountains. I was lucky in that Café Sky was literally right down the street from where I was staying (The Good Hotel) so I came here two nights in a row to watch the sunset.
They offer a great selection of beers, wines and cocktails plus a breakfast, lunch and dinner menu. There is also complimentary Wi-Fi connection for all guests to enjoy.
11. Watch the sunset at Cerro de La Cruz
For another beautiful sunset spot, make sure to head north from the centre of Antigua to Cerro de La Cruz. This hilltop viewpoint offers amazing views of the surrounding volcanoes and is the perfect spot to enjoy sunset on a clear day. I was busy spending my sunsets at Café Sky so I personally visited Cerro de La Cruz during the middle of the day.
12. Shop for handicrafts at Mercado de Artesanias
If you have some souvenir shopping to do in Antigua, then there are few better places than the Mercado de Artesanias. It is home to numerous local vendors and small businesses selling traditional handicrafts and other wares. It’s a great location to practice bargaining as the vendors tend to start with high prices, so make sure to agree a price that is fair for both you and the local vendor!
13. Join a guided walking tour
Discover the hidden treasures of Antigua on a guided walking tour. Visit the Church of Mercy, Church of San Francisco, and other sites while hearing about the city’s culture and history. The tour itself is very affordable ($20 USD) and only lasts ~2 hours, making it the perfect morning or afternoon activity to see the entire town!
14. Indulge your sweet tooth at the ChocoMuseo
The chocolate museum in Antigua makes for a wonderful day trip for anyone interested in this sweet treat. Well-located in the city centre, it charts the history of chocolate making, all the way back to the Aztecs and Mayans. With a range of interactive exhibits, guests can learn about the chocolate making process and join a chocolate-making workshop. There is of course also the opportunity to taste and purchase some of Guatemala’s finest chocolate.
15. Get a surprise customized cocktail at Ulew Cocktail Bar
One of the coolest cocktail bars I’ve ever visited! For a completely different drinking experience in Antigua, you have to try Ulew Cocktail Bar. What sets this place apart is that there is no menu! Simply tell the mixologist of the sort of drink you like, and they will create you something totally unique using fresh fruit, a range of local and international liquors and sculpted ice.
The best part? They have the wackiest coasters made out of hot glue and random trinkets. I got a coaster with a dog on it and it was sitting on some coffee beans. It was so weird but cool!
16. Enjoy a day trip to El Hato village
Travellers looking to escape Antigua for the day can take a short drive outside the city to the village of El Hato. Home to a number of eco lodges and restaurants, it is also the start point for many of the hiking trails up Agua volcano. Although popular with tourists, El Hato also maintains a traditional charm, and visitors can take the chance to meet local indigenous communities, all whilst uncovering the blissful scenery of the area.
17. Dine at the Valhalla Macadamia Farm
Just a 15-minute drive or taxi ride from the city, the Valhalla Macadamia Farm is a great place to visit for nut enthusiasts! Primarily a restaurant, it is recommended to sample the macadamia pancakes, made using the freshest produce grown on location at the farm. If you can’t tell by now, I really love my educational tours. I love learning and walking away from every country I visit with a new piece of information! So it’s fitting that you can also take a free tour of the farm to learn about the growing and processing of macadamia nuts, and can enjoy a macadamia oil facial, to discover the benefits of this natural product on the skin.
18. Eat a delicious steak from Fermento
Looking for high-quality food with an exceptional atmosphere and a decent price-tag? Then you need to check out Fermento. Some have claimed Fermento to be one of the best restaurants in all of Antigua. I enjoyed a delicious steak and glass of red wine here. It was easily one of my favorite dinners while in Antigua. The heart of Fermento is in the main hall near the bar. The open kitchen concept also means that you can see the chefs in action, cooking your steak and other dishes to perfection.
19. Discover the works of Efrain Recinos
Even the most learned of art enthusiast may not be familiar with Efrain Recinos. However, in Guatemala he is known as the ‘Guatemalan Picasso’. Many of his most famous works, and those of other local artists, are housed in the Santo Domingo del Cerro in Antigua, which can be visited for free by anyone interested in learning more about the artist or his work.
20. Find a restaurant to try Pepian
Pepian is Guatemala’s most famous regional dish, and it simply has to be on the menu for every visitor to Antigua. Most local restaurants and homestays will offer the chance to try this delicious meal, which is a flavoursome chicken stew, most often served with rice or tortillas.
21. Book a jade carving class
Guatemalan jade is a renowned and rare mineral that was deemed incredibly important by the Mayans, connecting them to their gods. In Antigua, it is possible to book jade carving lessons, during which you will be taught how to carve a lump of this mineral into an intricate design. The best thing – you get to take your creation away with you as an everlasting reminder of your visit to Antigua.
22. People watch in Central Park
Lastly, Parque Central is Antigua’s main green space. It is a hub in the city, popular with dog walkers, joggers and travellers looking to soak up their surroundings. It a great spot to relax on a bench with an ice cream and watch the world go by. There are several pretty ornamental fountains and a number of restaurants, coffee shops and bars are located around the edge of the park. It’s also right next to important Antigua landmarks, such as the Santiago Cathedral.
For a small city, Antigua offers a wealth of attractions and things to do. With a wealth of historic attractions, museums and restaurants to enjoy, visitors can also discover the surrounding volcanoes, or head further afield on day trips to nearby wonders such as Lake Atitlán. One thing is for sure, you won’t run out of places to see or activities to enjoy!
Did you check out any of these places on the list? Let me know in the comments below!
I love Guatemala 🇬🇹
Me too! Such a beautiful country