Antigua Guatemala Travel Guide

Why Antigua Is an Unforgettable Destination

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Stepping into Antigua is like walking through a living museum. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, the city is a masterclass in Spanish colonial urban planning and architecture. Its grid of cobblestone streets is lined with meticulously restored, pastel-hued buildings, grand churches, and private homes with enchanting, hidden courtyards. This preservation effort allows visitors to experience a city that has largely maintained its 18th-century character.

Antigua’s story is also told through its magnificent ruins. A series of powerful earthquakes throughout its history as Guatemala’s colonial capital left many of its most ambitious structures—convents, cathedrals, and monasteries—in a state of romantic decay. Today, these hauntingly beautiful ruins stand as open-air monuments, their massive arches and toppled pillars overgrown with greenery, offering a tangible connection to the city’s dramatic past. Far from being a static relic, Antigua is a vibrant community where daily life unfolds against this extraordinary historical backdrop, creating a unique and deeply atmospheric setting.

The Stunning Natural Backdrop

The city’s man-made beauty is dramatically framed by the power of nature. Antigua is nestled in the Panchoy Valley, watched over by three colossal volcanoes: the serene, perfectly conical Volcán de Agua to the south, and the twin peaks of Acatenango and the ever-active Volcán de Fuego to the west. Their imposing presence defines the skyline and provides a breathtaking view from nearly every street corner, rooftop, and plaza.

This volcanic landscape creates an incredibly fertile environment, resulting in lush, green hillsides, dense forests, and the perfect conditions for growing some of the world’s best coffee. The contrast between the orderly, colorful city and the wild, powerful nature surrounding it is a key part of Antigua’s allure. This proximity also makes it a premier base for adventure, offering direct access to world-class hiking, from challenging overnight Acatenango treks to leisurely walks through coffee plantations. For more on the diverse terrain and natural wonders of the country, explore our guide to the Geography of Guatemala.

A Hub for Culture and Language

For decades, Antigua has been one of Latin America’s foremost destinations for Spanish language immersion. The city is home to dozens of highly regarded language schools that attract students from around the globe, creating a dynamic and international atmosphere. The opportunity to learn from local teachers and practice in a welcoming, real-world environment is unparalleled.

This cultural richness extends to its thriving artisan traditions. The city’s markets, particularly the Mercado de Artesanías, are treasure troves of handmade goods reflecting centuries of Maya craftsmanship. Here, you can find vibrant hand-woven textiles, intricate jade jewelry, carved wooden masks, and detailed ceramics. Antigua serves as a cultural crossroads where local Maya heritage is proudly displayed alongside influences from a global community of artists, travelers, and expatriates, resulting in a city that feels both authentically Guatemalan and remarkably cosmopolitan. To truly immerse yourself in the local culture, consider exploring the Music and Dances in Guatemala.

Planning Your Trip: The Essentials

A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your journey to Antigua is as smooth as its famous coffee. From navigating your arrival to choosing the perfect season for your visit, these essential tips will help you plan an unforgettable trip. For a comprehensive overview of what to do, check out our guide to the Best Things to do in Guatemala.

Getting to Antigua

Most international visitors arrive via Guatemala’s main airport. The journey from the capital to the colonial city is a well-trodden path with several reliable transport options. For a detailed look at all your travel options within the country, consult our guide on How to get around in Guatemala.

Flying In

Your entry point will be La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City. Located approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Antigua, the drive typically takes between 60 to 90 minutes, though this can vary significantly with traffic.

Transportation from GUA to Antigua

Choosing how to get from the airport to Antigua depends on your budget, schedule, and travel style. Here is a comparison of the most common options:

• Shared Shuttles: These are a popular and cost-effective choice. Several companies operate regular services directly from the airport arrivals area.
  • Cost: Generally the most budget-friendly option, priced per person.
  • Convenience: Shuttles run on a fixed schedule, so you may have to wait for the next departure. They also make multiple stops to drop off other passengers in Antigua.
  • Safety: Reputable shuttle companies are considered very safe and are a standard for tourist travel.
• Private Transfers: For maximum convenience, you can pre-book a private car or van to meet you upon arrival.
  • Cost: The most expensive option, but can be reasonable for groups who can split the fare.
  • Convenience: This is the most direct and comfortable way to travel. Your driver will be waiting for you, and you’ll be taken directly to your accommodation without any detours.
  • Safety: Highly safe, as you are traveling with a vetted, professional service.
• Ride-Sharing Apps: Services like Uber are available at GUA and offer a good middle ground.
  • Cost: Often cheaper than a private transfer but more expensive than a shared shuttle. Pricing is dynamic and can surge during peak hours.
  • Convenience: You can book on demand, but you will need to have data or Wi-Fi access at the airport. You’ll also need to find the designated pick-up area.
  • Safety: Generally safe, with the standard app features like driver tracking and ratings.

Bus Travel from Other Central American Countries

For those traveling overland, several international bus companies (such as Tica Bus or Hedman Alas) offer comfortable, long-distance services connecting major cities in Mexico, Belize, El Salvador, and Honduras to Guatemala City. From the bus terminal in the capital, you can then take a taxi, ride-share, or local bus to Antigua.

The Best Time to Visit

Antigua’s climate is often described as “eternal spring,” but it has two distinct seasons. The timing of your visit can shape your experience, from the clarity of volcano views to the vibrancy of cultural festivities. For budget-conscious travelers, understanding the financial aspects of a trip is key; consult our guide on the Budget to Visit Guatemala and Make Your Dream Trip a Reality.

Dry Season (November to April)

This is the most popular time to visit. You can expect warm, sunny days and cool, clear nights with very little rain. The consistent good weather is ideal for hiking volcanoes and exploring the city’s ruins. This is peak tourist season, so book accommodation and tours in advance, especially around Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter.

Wet Season (May to October)

Also known as the “green season,” this period brings lush, vibrant landscapes. Mornings are typically bright and sunny, with rain showers arriving in the afternoon. These downpours are often brief but intense. The benefits of traveling during this time include fewer crowds and often lower prices on accommodation. The clouds can sometimes obscure volcano views, but the city is beautiful in the rain.

Special Events

Antigua is renowned for its grand celebrations. If your travel dates are flexible, consider aligning your trip with one of these unique cultural events.

• Semana Santa (Holy Week): The week leading up to Easter is Antigua’s most famous festival. The city transforms with solemn religious processions that move through streets covered in intricate, colorful carpets (alfombras) made of sawdust, flowers, and pine needles. It is a deeply moving and visually stunning spectacle.
• Festival of Santiago (Saint James): On July 25th, the city celebrates its patron saint with parades, music, traditional dances, and fireworks. It’s a lively event that offers a wonderful glimpse into local traditions.

Navigating the City

Antigua’s historic center is compact and laid out on a grid, making it exceptionally easy to navigate.

On Foot

Walking is, without a doubt, the best way to experience Antigua. The city is meant to be explored slowly, allowing you to appreciate the colonial architecture, peek into hidden courtyards, and discover charming cafes and shops along the way. Be sure to wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, as the cobblestone streets can be uneven.

Tuk-Tuks

For shorter distances, or when your feet need a rest, the city’s three-wheeled auto-rickshaws, known as tuk-tuks, are a convenient option. They are readily available throughout the city. Always agree on the fare with the driver before you begin your journey.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber operates in Antigua and can be a reliable and easy way to get around, particularly for trips to the outskirts of town, like the viewpoint at Cerro de la Cruz. It offers the convenience of in-app payment and transparent pricing.

“Chicken Buses” (Camionetas)

For the adventurous traveler looking to visit nearby towns like Jocotenango or Santa María de Jesús, the “chicken bus,” or camioneta, is an authentic local experience. These are colorfully decorated, decommissioned North American school buses that serve as Guatemala’s primary form of public transport. They are incredibly cheap and always lively. For tourists, they are best used for short, daytime trips. Be mindful of your belongings, as the buses can get very crowded, and be prepared for a bumpy, fast-paced ride.

Where to Stay: Accommodation for Every Budget

Antigua’s accommodation landscape is as varied and captivating as its history. From restored convents turned luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses and social hostels, there is a place to stay that suits every travel style and budget. Most options are located within the historic center, making it easy to explore the city’s treasures on foot.

Luxury and Boutique Hotels

For those seeking an immersive and refined experience, Antigua’s luxury hotels are destinations in themselves. Many are housed within meticulously restored colonial mansions and convents, offering a direct connection to the city’s past. These properties provide a tranquil escape with world-class amenities and service.

Prominent examples include the Hotel Casa Santo Domingo, which is built on the grounds of a 17th-century convent and incorporates archaeological sites and museums into its grounds. Another excellent choice is Porta Hotel Antigua, known for its beautiful gardens, large pool, and classic colonial elegance.

• Atmosphere: Historic grandeur, serene courtyards, and sophisticated design.
• Amenities: Often feature swimming pools, full-service spas, and acclaimed fine dining restaurants.
• Best for: Travelers seeking comfort, history, and impeccable service.

Charming Mid-Range Guesthouses

The heart of Antigua’s lodging scene lies in its collection of charming mid-range guesthouses, or posadas. These smaller, often family-run establishments offer an authentic and intimate atmosphere that larger hotels cannot replicate. They typically feature beautiful central courtyards filled with flowers and fountains, providing a peaceful setting to relax after a day of exploring.

Properties like El Convento Boutique Hotel offer elegant suites and a serene rooftop terrace, while Mesón Panza Verde is renowned for its romantic ambiance and exceptional restaurant. These guesthouses strike a perfect balance between comfort, character, and value.

• Atmosphere: Intimate, authentic, and welcoming with personalized service.
• Amenities: Characterized by unique decor, courtyard gardens, and often include excellent on-site cafes or restaurants.
• Best for: Couples, solo travelers, and anyone looking for a memorable, character-filled stay.

Budget-Friendly Hostels and Airbnbs

Antigua is a well-established destination for backpackers and long-term travelers, supported by a wide array of high-quality hostels and affordable private rentals. Hostels in Antigua are known for being clean, social, and centrally located, offering both shared dormitories and private rooms. They are an excellent way to meet fellow travelers from around the world.

Well-regarded options include Selina, which combines co-working spaces with a vibrant social scene, and Adra Hostel, known for its beautiful design and comfortable common areas. Airbnb also offers a broad selection of rooms and entire apartments, providing a more independent and local living experience.

• Atmosphere: Social, communal, and energetic.
• Amenities: Shared kitchens, common areas, organized tours and activities, and a mix of dorms and private rooms.
• Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, backpackers, and those looking to connect with others.

Top Things to See and Do in Antigua

Antigua is a city that invites exploration. Its compact historic center is a treasure trove of colonial history, vibrant culture, and unexpected discoveries. Whether you spend your days wandering through majestic ruins or mastering the art of chocolate making, the city offers a rich tapestry of experiences that connect you to its unique past and present.

Explore the Historic Center

The best way to get a feel for Antigua is to simply walk. The city is laid out on a grid, making it easy to navigate its cobblestone streets and soak in the atmosphere. Every corner reveals a new photo opportunity, a hidden garden, or a piece of living history.

Parque Central (Central Park)

The social and geographical heart of Antigua, Parque Central is where the city comes to life. Shaded by jacaranda trees, the park is centered around the beautiful Mermaid’s Fountain (Fuente de las Sirenas). It’s the perfect place to sit on a bench, enjoy an ice cream, and watch the world go by. The park is flanked by significant buildings, including the San José Cathedral, the Palace of the Captains General, and the City Hall, grounding you in the city’s colonial legacy.

Santa Catalina Arch

Undoubtedly the most iconic landmark in Antigua, the Santa Catalina Arch is a must-see. Originally built in the late 17th century, it connected the Santa Catalina convent with a school across the street, allowing the cloistered nuns to pass from one building to the other without entering the public street. Today, with the magnificent Volcán de Agua framed perfectly in its archway, it is the city’s signature image.

• Getting the perfect photo: For the best light and fewest crowds, arrive early in the morning shortly after sunrise.
• Find the right angle: Stand in the middle of the street (watching for traffic) to capture the classic symmetrical shot with the volcano in the background.
• Be patient: It’s a popular spot, so you may need to wait a few moments for a clear shot.

Walk the Cobblestone Streets

One of the greatest pleasures of Antigua is aimless wandering. The city’s streets are a spectacle of color, with beautifully restored colonial facades painted in hues of ochre, terracotta, and deep blue. Heavy, ornate wooden doors open into hidden courtyards revealing lush gardens, fountains, and boutique shops. Allow yourself to get lost and discover the small artisan workshops, quiet cafes, and stunning architecture that make Antigua so enchanting.

Discover Antigua’s Majestic Ruins

A series of powerful earthquakes, most notably in 1773, shaped Antigua’s landscape, leaving behind a collection of monumental ruins. These churches, convents, and monasteries have been beautifully preserved in their state of romantic decay, offering a powerful glimpse into the city’s former splendor.

Convento de las Capuchinas

Arguably one of the best-preserved ruins in the city, the Convento de las Capuchinas provides a fascinating look into convent life. It is particularly known for its unique circular tower, the “Torre de Retiro,” which contains 18 small cells for the nuns. The expansive courtyards, intact fountains, and serene atmosphere make it a peaceful and compelling place to explore.

La Recolección Architectural Monument

For a truly dramatic sense of the earthquake’s power, visit La Recolección. This massive church and monastery complex was left largely as it fell. You can wander among colossal collapsed arches and enormous sections of fallen walls, now overgrown with vegetation. The sheer scale of the rubble gives you a profound appreciation for the forces of nature that shaped this city.

San Francisco Church and Ruins

This complex is both a functioning church and a sprawling ruin. It holds deep religious importance for many Guatemalans as it is the final resting place of Saint Hermano Pedro de San José Betancur, Central America’s first saint. Pilgrims from all over the country visit his tomb to pray. The adjacent ruins feature a beautiful courtyard and remnants of the original monastery, offering a quiet space for reflection.

Immerse Yourself in Local Culture

Antigua is more than just a historical monument; it’s a vibrant hub of Guatemalan and international culture. From bustling markets to world-class language schools, there are countless ways to engage with the city’s living traditions.

Mercado de Artesanías (Artisan Market)

Located near the main bus terminal, the Artisan Market is a colorful labyrinth of stalls selling handmade goods from all over Guatemala. It’s the ideal place to shop for souvenirs, including vibrant hand-woven textiles, intricate jade jewelry, carved wooden masks, and leather goods. Feel free to engage with vendors and practice polite bargaining, which is an expected part of the experience.

ChocoMuseo

Discover the rich history of cacao in Guatemala at the ChocoMuseo. This fun and interactive museum offers free exhibits on the journey of the cacao bean from tree to chocolate bar. For a more hands-on experience, sign up for a “Bean-to-Bar” workshop, where you can create your own chocolates. Don’t leave without tasting a traditional Mayan hot chocolate, a rich and slightly spicy drink unlike any other. You can learn more about the gastronomy of Guatemala.

Learn Spanish

Antigua is one of the most popular and respected destinations in Latin America to learn Spanish. The city is home to dozens of language schools offering affordable, high-quality instruction. The local accent is known for being clear and easy to understand, making it an ideal environment for students. Many schools offer one-on-one tutoring and immersive homestay programs with local families, providing a fantastic opportunity to practice your skills and experience daily life in Guatemala.

Adventure and Nature Beyond the City

While Antigua’s colonial charm can captivate you for days, the city’s true magic lies in its dramatic natural setting. The towering volcanoes that frame the skyline are not just for admiring from a distance; they offer some of Central America’s most memorable adventures, from accessible day hikes to challenging overnight treks. Beyond the peaks, the fertile volcanic soil gives rise to world-class coffee plantations that welcome visitors to explore their craft.

Hike an Active Volcano: Pacaya

For an accessible and rewarding volcanic adventure, the hike up Volcán Pacaya is an excellent choice. As one of Guatemala’s most active volcanoes, Pacaya offers a unique landscape of dried lava flows and volcanic rock. The trek is considered relatively easy and is typically organized as a half-day trip from Antigua, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

The experience involves walking across a stark, otherworldly terrain. While you won’t see molten red lava flows up close, the ground is often hot enough in certain spots to roast marshmallows over geothermal vents—a novel treat provided by most tour guides. The panoramic views from the ascent, looking out over neighboring volcanoes, are spectacular.

Booking a tour is simple, with numerous agencies in Antigua offering daily trips. Here’s what to consider:

• How to Book: Tours can be arranged through your hotel, a local travel agency, or online. They typically include transportation and a guide.
• What to Bring: Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes or hiking boots. Bring a light jacket as it can be windy and cool at the summit, along with sunscreen, a hat, and at least a liter of water.
• Park Entrance Fee: Note that the national park entrance fee is usually not included in the tour price and must be paid in cash upon arrival.

The Ultimate Challenge: Acatenango Overnight Trek

The overnight trek up Volcán Acatenango is one of Guatemala’s defining travel experiences. This demanding two-day hike takes you to a campsite near the summit of the dormant Acatenango, which offers a direct, front-row view of the adjacent and perpetually erupting Volcán Fuego. From this vantage point, you can watch Fuego spew plumes of ash by day and brilliant streams of lava by night—a truly humbling display of nature’s power.

It is crucial to understand that this is a strenuous and challenging undertaking. The trail is steep, and the altitude gain is significant, reaching nearly 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). The weather can change rapidly, with temperatures dropping below freezing at night. Success and safety on this trek are highly dependent on proper preparation and choosing a reputable tour operator who provides experienced guides, adequate food, and high-quality gear (including warm clothing, sleeping bags, and tents). Do not attempt to find the cheapest option; invest in a company known for its safety standards and ethical treatment of guides and porters.

Experience Guatemala’s Coffee Culture

The highlands surrounding Antigua produce some of the world’s most celebrated coffee. The combination of high altitude, rich volcanic soil, and a temperate climate creates ideal growing conditions. Exploring a local coffee plantation, or finca, provides fascinating insight into the journey of the coffee bean from plant to cup.

Visit a Coffee Finca (Plantation)

Many fincas near Antigua offer guided tours that walk you through the entire process. You’ll learn about cultivation, harvesting, de-pulping, drying, and roasting. Most tours conclude with a coffee tasting, allowing you to sample the distinct flavor profiles of freshly brewed, locally grown coffee. It’s an educational and sensory experience that deepens your appreciation for your morning ritual.

Several plantations are easily accessible from the city:

• Finca La Azotea: Located just a short ride from the center, this finca offers comprehensive coffee tours and also houses several small museums on site.
• De La Gente: This cooperative offers a more intimate experience, connecting you directly with small-scale, independent coffee producers for a tour of their personal farms.

Get the Best View: Cerro de la Cruz

For a postcard-perfect panorama of Antigua, a visit to Cerro de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross) is essential. This viewpoint, marked by a large stone cross, sits on a hill just north of the city. It offers an unobstructed, sweeping view of Antigua’s grid-like streets and tiled roofs, perfectly framed by the majestic profile of Volcán de Agua in the background.

You can reach the viewpoint via a 20-30 minute walk up a marked path or by taking a short tuk-tuk or taxi ride from the city center. The best time to go is in the morning when the air is typically clearest, providing the sharpest views of the volcano before afternoon clouds roll in. For safety, it is recommended to visit during daylight hours when tourist police are present, and to avoid carrying conspicuous valuables.

A Taste of Antigua: What to Eat and Drink

Antigua’s culinary scene is a vibrant reflection of its culture, blending ancient Mayan traditions with Spanish colonial influences. From hearty, traditional stews to world-renowned coffee brewed to perfection, the city offers a rich palette of flavors waiting to be discovered. Dining here is not just about sustenance; it’s an integral part of the travel experience.

Must-Try Guatemalan Dishes

To truly understand Antigua, you must taste its traditional cuisine. Many local restaurants, known as comedores, serve authentic dishes that have been passed down through generations. Be sure to seek out these local specialties:

• Pepián: Often considered Guatemala’s national dish, Pepián is a rich, savory stew with a deep, complex flavor. It typically features chicken, beef, or pork simmered in a thick sauce made from roasted tomatoes, tomatillos, pumpkin seeds (pepitas), and a blend of spices. It’s usually served with rice and tortillas.
• Kak’ik: This traditional Mayan turkey soup is a dish of pre-Hispanic origin. Its distinct red color comes from achiote and chilies, and it’s flavored with a mix of spices, including coriander and cloves. It is a hearty and warming meal, perfect for an evening in the highlands.
• Rellenitos de Plátano: A popular dessert or snack, rellenitos consist of a ripe plantain dough filled with sweetened, refried black beans. The balls are then fried until golden and often served with a sprinkle of sugar or a dollop of cream. The combination of sweet and savory is truly unique.
• Tostadas: A simple yet ubiquitous snack, Guatemalan tostadas are crispy, fried corn tortillas topped with a variety of ingredients. Common toppings include fresh guacamole, a tangy tomato salsa (salsa chapina), or refried black beans sprinkled with dry cheese.

The World-Famous Coffee Scene

Guatemala’s highlands, with their rich volcanic soil and ideal altitude, produce some of the world’s most celebrated coffee beans. Antigua is at the heart of this coffee culture, and you are never far from an expertly prepared cup. The local coffee is known for its full body, bright acidity, and complex notes of chocolate, citrus, and spice. Exploring the city’s cafes is an essential part of any visit.

For a memorable coffee experience, consider visiting these establishments:

• Artista de Café: A favorite among coffee purists, this cafe focuses on specialty brewing methods and high-quality, single-origin beans.
• Café Sol: A cozy and welcoming spot known for its friendly baristas and consistently excellent coffee, from a simple espresso to a carefully crafted pour-over.
• Fernando’s Kaffee: A long-standing institution in Antigua, Fernando’s roasts its own beans on-site and also produces its own chocolate. It’s a great place to experience the bean-to-cup process.

Best Restaurants and Rooftop Bars

Antigua’s dining options cater to all tastes and budgets, from elegant courtyards offering refined cuisine to lively rooftop terraces with stunning volcano views.

Fine Dining

For a special occasion or a sophisticated meal, these restaurants offer exceptional ambiance and culinary artistry, often set within beautifully restored colonial buildings.

• Mesón Panza Verde: Renowned for its romantic atmosphere, with candlelit courtyards and live music, this restaurant serves international cuisine with a Guatemalan influence.
• Welten Restaurant: Tucked away in a serene garden setting, Welten offers a creative menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients in a tranquil and elegant environment.

Casual & Local Eats

To experience the authentic flavors of the city, head to the places where locals eat. These spots provide delicious, unpretentious food in a relaxed setting.

• Rincón Típico: This bustling eatery is famous for its traditional Guatemalan barbecue and classic dishes like Pepián, served in generous portions at reasonable prices.
• La Cuevita de los Urquizú: A unique dining experience where you can see a variety of traditional stews simmering in large clay pots and choose your meal directly from the kitchen.

Rooftop Bars with Volcano Views

One of the great pleasures of visiting Antigua is enjoying a drink while gazing at the majestic volcanoes that frame the city. Sunsets are particularly spectacular from these elevated perches.

• Café Sky: A popular spot offering panoramic 360-degree views of the city and all three volcanoes. It’s an ideal place for a sunset cocktail or a casual meal.
• Lava Terrace: Known for its clear, unobstructed views of Volcán de Fuego, this rooftop bar is a prime location to watch the volcano’s frequent, fiery eruptions after dark.
• Antigua Brewing Company: Combining craft beer with an excellent rooftop setting, this brewery offers a relaxed atmosphere and great views of the cityscape and surrounding landscape.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your visit to Antigua is as seamless as it is memorable. Keep these practical considerations in mind as you finalize your plans.

Safety and Security

Antigua is generally considered one of the safest destinations in Guatemala, but like any popular tourist area, it requires common-sense precautions. The city’s charm invites exploration, and being mindful of your surroundings will allow you to do so with confidence.

• General Awareness: Always be conscious of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like markets or Parque Central. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, cameras, or large amounts of cash.
• Navigating After Dark: While the central streets are well-lit and active in the evenings, some of the quieter side streets can be very dark. It is advisable to take a registered tuk-tuk or use a ride-sharing app for any significant distance after sunset. For more on how to navigate the country, check out our guide on how to get around in Guatemala.
• Hiking Safety: For any volcano hike or nature excursion, booking with a reputable and well-reviewed tour company is essential. They provide experienced guides, proper equipment, and understand the local conditions. Never hike alone, especially on more challenging treks like Acatenango. Discover other thrilling outdoor activities in our guide to the best things to do in Guatemala.

Currency, Budgeting, and Tipping

Understanding the local currency and customs will make your daily transactions much smoother. While Antigua is accommodating to tourists, being prepared with the right payment methods is key. For a comprehensive understanding of travel costs, consult our guide on the budget to visit Guatemala and make your dream trip a reality.

• The Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ): The official currency is the Quetzal. While some tourist-focused hotels and tour operators may accept US dollars, you will need Quetzales for most daily expenses. It’s best to carry a mix of smaller and larger bills.
• Credit Cards vs. Cash: Major hotels, upscale restaurants, and large shops typically accept credit cards (Visa and Mastercard are most common). However, cash is essential for tuk-tuks, local eateries, market stalls, and small purchases.
• ATMs and Banks: ATMs are widely available throughout the city center, particularly around Parque Central. For safety, prefer using ATMs located inside banks or vestibules during daylight hours. Inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid any issues with your cards.
• Tipping Etiquette: In restaurants, a 10% service charge (propina) is often included in the bill. If it is not, a 10% tip is customary for good service. For tour guides, tipping is not required but is greatly appreciated for an excellent experience; a tip of around 10% of the tour cost per person is a good guideline.

Health and Wellness

Staying healthy will ensure you can fully enjoy everything Antigua has to offer, from its culinary delights to its high-altitude adventures. Consider visiting the stunning Atitlan Lake or exploring the ancient ruins of Tikal for a well-rounded Guatemalan experience.

• Hydration: Antigua’s altitude (over 1,500 meters or 5,000 feet) and warm climate make it easy to become dehydrated. Drink plenty of bottled or filtered water throughout the day.
• Food and Water Safety: Do not drink tap water. Stick to bottled or purified water, even for brushing your teeth. Most restaurants and cafes catering to tourists maintain high standards of hygiene. Be selective with street food; choose vendors that are busy and appear clean. For more on staying healthy, refer to our vaccination for Guatemala guide.
• Vaccinations and Medications: It is recommended to consult with your doctor or a travel clinic 4-6 weeks before your trip to discuss recommended vaccinations, such as Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Pack a small first-aid kit with any personal medications, as well as basics like pain relievers and stomach remedies.

Essential Spanish Phrases

While many people in the tourism industry speak English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases will enrich your interactions and is always appreciated by locals. If you’re venturing further afield, perhaps to the Caribbean coast near Livingston, knowing some Spanish will be particularly helpful.

• Greetings:
  • Hello: Hola
  • Good morning: Buenos días
  • Good afternoon: Buenas tardes
  • Good evening/night: Buenas noches
  • Please: Por favor
  • Thank you: Gracias
  • You’re welcome: De nada
• Practical Questions:
  • How much does it cost?: ¿Cuánto cuesta?
  • Where is the bathroom?: ¿Dónde está el baño?
  • The check, please: La cuenta, por favor
• Numbers:
  • One, two, three: Uno, dos, tres
  • Four, five, six: Cuatro, cinco, seis
  • Seven, eight, nine, ten: Siete, ocho, nueve, diez