Antigua Guatemala

Day Trips

Upon arrival in Antigua, take some time to get settled into your cozy accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café where you can sample traditional Guatemalan dishes. Afterward, stroll through the charming cobblestone streets and get your first glimpse of the stunning colonial architecture.

In the afternoon, visit the iconic Santa Catalina Arch and the vibrant Central Park, where you can observe daily life mingling with the enchanting scenery. Explore the nearby Mercado de Artesanías to purchase unique handicrafts and souvenirs made by local artisans. Enjoy a refreshing drink at a nearby cafe while soaking in the surrounding beauty.

As the sun sets, head to one of Antigua's rooftop restaurants to savor delicious local cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views of the city. After dinner, take a leisurely walk to see the lit-up ruins of La Merced Church. Conclude the evening with a visit to a local bar to experience Antigua's lively nightlife.

Start your day with a visit to the stunning San Francisco Church, known for its beautiful baroque architecture and serene atmosphere. Afterward, wander through the streets to view other historic churches and ruins that highlight Antigua's colonial past. Pay a visit to the Antigua Guatemala Cathedral to admire its intricate designs and rich history.

In the afternoon, explore the Casa Santa Domingo, a museum that houses art and history amid the ruins of a former convent. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring local flavors while reflecting on the morning's discoveries. Attend a workshop focusing on traditional Guatemalan crafts, such as pottery or weaving.

As evening approaches, take a guided walking tour to learn about the ghosts and legends that haunt Antigua's history. Enjoy a candlelit dinner at a local restaurant known for its authentic dishes, which will provide a comforting ambiance. After dinner, wind down with a nightcap at a lively local bar.

Set out early for a guided hike up the Pacaya volcano, where you can marvel at breathtaking views and perhaps witness volcanic activity. Pack a light breakfast to enjoy at a scenic spot along the way, experiencing the thrill of nature first-hand. The fresh morning air and panoramic vistas will invigorate your spirit and energize your day.

After descending, treat yourself to a hearty lunch at a nearby restaurant known for its local cuisine. Spend the afternoon exploring the lush landscapes surrounding Antigua, including coffee plantations where you can take a tour and learn about the coffee-making process. Sample some of the world-famous Guatemalan coffee to refuel yourself.

Return to Antigua in the evening for a relaxing dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that utilizes local ingredients. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a traditional Guatemalan cultural performance or dance show. Enjoy the evening by reflecting on your day, gathering with fellow travelers, and sharing your experiences.

Visit the Centro Cultural la Antigua to learn more about the local art and culture through exhibitions and workshops. Engage in a morning class focusing on traditional Guatemalan cooking, where you'll learn how to make local delicacies. Savor the fruits of your labor as you enjoy your homemade meal.

Spend the afternoon exploring the picturesque village of San Juan del Obispo, where you can find beautiful local artworks and craft shops. Join a guided tour of a chocolate factory to learn about the chocolate-making process and sample some delightful treats. Take some time to relax in a hammock at a local café while enjoying the village's laid-back atmosphere.

Return to Antigua for dinner at a cozy local eatery that offers dishes made with fresh, organic ingredients. After dinner, indulge in some chocolate or gelato from a local shop as you explore the quaint streets of Antigua under the starlit sky. Experience the warmth of local hospitality at a gathering spot where community members often come together.

Start your day early by visiting the bustling market in Antigua, where you can observe the vibrant array of fruits, vegetables, textiles, and handicrafts. Engage with local vendors as you browse and taste some fresh tropical fruits. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby diner, featuring local ingredients and flavors.

Spend the afternoon visiting the town of Chichicastenango, known for its famous market where you can shop for unique artisan goods. Explore the colorful stalls filled with textiles, pottery, and masks, soaking in the lively atmosphere and cultural exchanges. Indulge in local street food for lunch, sampling tamales and other delicious Guatemalan snacks.

Return to Antigua in the evening to relax after the day's adventures with dinner at a lively local restaurant. Reflect on the day over drinks at a courtyard bar filled with locals and travelers alike. Embrace the sounds of music and laughter as evening festivities begin to unfold around you.

Visit the Museo de Arte Colonial to delve into Antigua's rich artistic heritage, showcasing works from the colonial period. Spend time absorbing the intricate details and stories behind each piece. Consider taking pictures of the unique architecture that frames the museum, perfect for your travel album.

After a cultural morning, enjoy lunch at a traditional Guatemalan restaurant known for its delicious pepián. Post-lunch, embark on a walking tour to discover hidden murals and street art around the city. Engage with local artists if you have the chance, learning about their influences and messages.

As the day winds down, dine at an upscale restaurant that offers a contemporary twist on traditional dishes. Experience a cooking demonstration if available, showcasing the local culinary skills. Conclude the night by visiting a local coffee shop to enjoy a cup of artisan coffee while reflecting on your artistic explorations.

Treat yourself to a rejuvenating morning by attending a yoga class in a serene setting, surrounded by nature's beauty. Spend some time meditating or practicing mindfulness to fully embrace the peace of Antigua. Enjoy a healthy breakfast at a wellness-focused cafe, featuring smoothies and farm-fresh ingredients.

Indulge in pampering by visiting a local spa for a traditional Mayan massage or beauty treatment in the afternoon. Allow your worries to melt away in a tranquil atmosphere while reconnecting with your mind and body. After your treatment, take a leisurely walk through beautiful gardens or parks in the area.

For dinner, choose a vegetarian or health-conscious restaurant that emphasizes fresh, organic food options. Share your wellness journey with potential new friends as you dine under the warm evening light. Reflect on the positive energy of the day while unwinding at a cozy lounge, perhaps with herbal tea or refreshing drinks.

Embark on an early morning trip to Lake Atitlán, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and surrounding volcanoes. Enjoy a scenic drive that provides fantastic photo opportunities of stunning landscapes along the way. Arrive at the lake and take a boat ride to explore various indigenous villages scattered along its shores.

Spend the afternoon visiting the village of San Pedro, known for its vibrant culture and stunning views. Optional activities include hiking or visiting local coffee farms for a tour and tasting. Find a lakeside café for lunch, where you can appreciate the mesmerizing views of the lake and volcanos.

Return to Antigua in the evening, reflecting on your day by the lake while enjoying dinner at a popular restaurant. Choose a dish that incorporates local ingredients to savor the flavors of the region. Conclude the journey by enjoying the famous views of the Fuego Volcano, possibly seeing it erupt in the distance as night falls.

Take the morning to revisit favorite spots in Antigua and do any last-minute shopping for souvenirs and gifts. Stroll through the local streets that have become familiar, capturing final photographs of the beauty around you. Enjoy breakfast at a beloved café that holds memories from your trip.

Spend the afternoon visiting any missed cultural sites or simply relax in a park, reflecting on your experiences during your stay. Lunch at a local eatery, savoring flavors one last time before departure. Make sure to take time to interact with locals, embracing the hospitality that Antigua offers.

As your time in Antigua draws to a close, have a final dinner at a romantic restaurant known for its stunning views of the city, allowing you to toast to new memories and friendships made. After dinner, enjoy a final walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the ambiance one last time. Prepare to leave with your heart and soul filled with the vibrant culture and traditions of Antigua.