Antigua Guatemala Guatemala 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Antigua Guatemala Itinerary

This itinerary assumes you’re flying into La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City.

Day 1: Arrival & Antigua Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at GUA and arrange transportation to Antigua.
  • Afternoon: Settle into your charming hotel or guesthouse. Consider staying in the heart of Antigua for easy access to attractions, like:
    • Boutique Hotels: Hotel Palacio de los Arcos, Casa Santo Domingo, The Yellow House
    • Guesthouses: Posada del Sol, Selina Antigua, Hostal Casa Nima

Evening: Explore the Parque Central, the vibrant heart of Antigua.

  • Dinner: Enjoy traditional Guatemalan cuisine at Cafe San Augustin (renowned for its Pepian), El Patio (delicious ambiance and courtyard dining), or La Cocina de Doña Maria for a home-cooked feel.

Day 2 - 7: Tailor Your Experience!

Antigua is a beautiful city with a lot to offer, so this itinerary focuses on the core experiences and leaves room for customization.

Morning:

  • Day 2-3: Learn about Antigua’s history and culture by visiting its historical landmarks like:
    • Antigua Guatemala’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Explore the colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant markets of Antigua Guatemala.

Afternoon:

  • Day 2: Hike up Cerro de la Cruz for stunning panoramic views of the city.

  • Day 3: Take a cooking class at a local school like Antigua Culinary Institute.

  • Day 4-5: Explore the surrounding volcanoes (Pacaya, Acatenango) or take a day trip to a nearby town like:

    • San Juan del Lago (for its beautiful lake views and charming atmosphere)

  • Day 6: Visit Antigua’s vibrant central market, Mercado de Artesanías for an authentic Guatemalan experience.

Days 3-5:

  • Explore Antigua’s Ruins: Spend the afternoon exploring the ruins of Antigua’s colonial past.
    • Option 1: Cerro de la Cruz Hike: Enjoy breathtaking views from the top of a volcano.

Day 6:

  • Learn about Mayan Weaving: Take a workshop or tour to witness the traditional art of Mayan weaving and learn how local artisans create beautiful textiles.

Day 7:

  • Relax and Reflect: Enjoy a peaceful day in Antigua, perhaps visiting a coffee plantation or attending a yoga class.
    • Coffee Plantation Tour: Immerse yourself in the process of growing and harvesting coffee at one of the local plantations.

Things to know:

  • Altitude: Antigua is located in a valley at an elevation of 1530-1532 meters (4,690-4,800 feet) above sea level, making it ideal for exploring coffee plantations and learning about the coffee production process.
  • Currency: The official currency of Guatemala is the Quetzal (GTQ), but US dollars are also widely accepted.

Where to Eat:

  • Traditional Cuisine: Antigua is known for its delicious traditional cuisine. For a truly authentic experience, try:
    • El Balcón: Enjoy traditional Guatemalan dishes with a modern twist at this popular restaurant.
  • Cafe La Antigua: A cozy and charming cafe with a focus on local ingredients and flavors.
  • The Chocolate Room: Indulge in handcrafted chocolates and delicious desserts made with locally sourced cacao.
  • Coffee & Cuisine: Experience the best of both worlds with a coffee tasting and lunch at a traditional restaurant.

Things to do:

  • Explore the Ruins of Antigua’s Churches: The city is home to numerous beautiful churches, including the Cathedral of San José, which are worth visiting for their historical significance and architectural grandeur.
  • Visit the Mercado de la Merced: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of a local market where you can find fresh produce, street food, and traditional crafts.

Where to stay:

  • Luxury Hotels: For a comfortable and luxurious experience, consider staying at:

  • Hotel Casa Palopó: Known for its stunning views and beautiful colonial setting.

  • Boutique Hotels:

    • Casa Santo Domingo Hotel & Spa: Offers unique rooms within the historical walls of a former convent.

Things to Consider:

  • Safety: Antigua is generally a safe city, but it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against theft, such as not displaying expensive items and keeping valuables secure.
  • Currency Exchange: While US dollars are widely accepted, you’ll get better prices and deals if you pay in Quetzals.

Transportation:

  • Walking: Antigua is a very walkable city, with many of the main attractions located within a few blocks of each other.
  • Shuttle Services: Convenient for traveling between popular destinations like the airport or surrounding towns. Many hostels and hotels offer shuttle services to and from the airport.

Things to do:

  • Explore Antigua’s Ruins: Visit the ruins of the Convento de las Capuchinas, a beautiful 17th-century convent that offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial past.
  • Hike to a Volcano: Hike up the slopes of Volcan de Agua for breathtaking views.
  • Visit the Antigua Cathedral: Explore the majestic architecture and learn about its history and reconstruction.
  • Climb Cerro de la Cruz: A challenging but rewarding hike that culminates in stunning panoramic views.

Things to eat:

  • Traditional Guatemalan Food: Try a delicious meal of pepián, the national dish, at a local restaurant like:

    • Casa de las Flores: Offers authentic Guatemalan cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and traditional recipes.

  • Local Market Experience: Enjoy delicious and affordable street food at the Mercado de la Artesanías

Things to consider when choosing a food stall:

  • Look for Fresh Ingredients: The best food stalls in the market use high-quality, fresh ingredients.
  • Try a Variety of Dishes: Antigua’s cuisine is known for its diversity and rich flavors. Don’t be afraid to sample different dishes from various vendors.
  • Ask about the Cooking Process:

Inquire about how the food is prepared and cooked to ensure freshness and hygiene.

  • Talk to the Locals: Ask for recommendations from the friendly vendors in the market, they often know the best places for traditional food.

Stay Safe:

  • Be aware of your surroundings when walking around the market.

  • Keep your belongings close to you at all times.

  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and be careful about where you keep your phone and wallet.

  • Only buy from vendors who look trustworthy.

  • Coffee & Chocolate: Enjoy a delicious cup of coffee or chocolate in the vibrant atmosphere of the Antigua’s Chocolate Room

For a safe and enjoyable experience, it’s best to stick to the following:

  • Local Transportation:

  • Shuttle Services: Recommended for transportation between the airport and the city.

  • Taxis: Use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps, especially for longer journeys.

  • Uber/Cabify: Not readily available in Antigua, but these services can be utilized for transportation to and from the city.

Remember:

  • Negotiate Prices: If you’re taking a taxi, always agree on a price beforehand.

Enjoy the local flavor:

  • Guatemalan Cuisine:

    • La Merced Market: Explore the market stalls for delicious and authentic Guatemalan food options like pupusas (thick corn tortillas filled with cheese or beans), tamales, or fresh fruit juices.

Safety Tips:

  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times.**

  • Avoid walking alone in the dark.

  • Don’t carry large amounts of cash or flash expensive items.

  • Use a reputable travel agency for tours and transportation to

  • Volcano Chocolate Tour:

Experience the traditional process of making chocolate, from bean to bar. Visit Antigua’s historical heart and learn about the city’s rich history and culture. Enjoy a delicious coffee and chocolate tasting experience in a beautiful colonial setting.

Things to do:

  • Coffee Tasting Experience:

Learn about the history of coffee cultivation in Antigua. * Explore a local market for fresh, homemade treats. * Visit the ruins of the city’s colonial churches and monasteries for

Travel Safety Tips:

  • Guatemala City is generally safe for tourists during the day.

However, it’s important to exercise caution at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone. Stay in a safe area and choose secure transportation options.

  • For a Safe Trip:

  • Avoid carrying a lot of cash and don’t show off your valuables.

  • Be aware of pickpockets and scams, especially in tourist areas.

  • Always be polite but firm with the vendors.

  • Be sure to tip your guides (10% is standard).

Remember:

  • Travel insurance: It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance.

Always Remember:

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

  • Learn basic Spanish phrases for ordering food and interacting with locals.

  • Be aware of the altitude:** Antigua is located in a valley at an elevation of 1,530-1,5,300 meters (depending on the location). This means that you might need to acclimate to it before attempting any strenuous hikes.

  • Be cautious and use common sense:

Don’t carry all your money with you. Keep a close eye on your belongings in crowded places. Carry a photocopy of your passport, not the original.

This is just a sample itinerary, so feel free to adjust it based on your interests and how much time you have.

Enjoy your trip!