Guide to visit Antigua Guatemala

tourist destinations including Lake Atitlan, Xela, the Pacific Coast and Semuc Champey, Antigua is a popular first stop when traveling around the country and the region.

In Antigua, you can find it all: volcano hikes, cooking classes, coffee tours, volunteer opportunities, local nightlife, and much more! Here are some of Antigua’s top attractions and tours to discover:

Central Park

At the heart of Antigua, lies the parque central or the Central Park Plaza. A hive of activity and colonial charm, the Plaza Central Park is centric to the city and the lives of Antigueños. The park is the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll, observe locals as they go about their days or enjoy a coffee from the neighboring cafes.

Santa Catalina Arch

The Arco de Santa Catalina is Antigua’s iconic yellow arch. Built in 1694, the arch served as a bridge between convents allowing nuns to cross the street without being seen. Nowadays the arch provides a colorful backdrop for photos - be sure to get one with Agua Volcano in the background - and is a staple attraction in the walking tours of Antigua.

La Merced Church

Antigua has many breathtaking churches but Iglesia La Merced might be the prettiest of them all. This well-preserved Baroque style church, has a stunning yellow facade with ornate white stucco, making it one of Antigua’s most recognizable sites. You can also visit the ruins of the convent next door for a small entrance fee.

Cerro de la Cruz

Positioned at the north of Antigua is Cerro de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross). A short, half-hour walk up or easily accessible by car or tuk-tuk, Cerro de la Cruz provides panoramic views of Antigua and its surrounding pueblos, hills and volcanoes. This spot is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. The view is best enjoyed in the morning for clear skies and uninterrupted views of the dramatic scenery.

Antigua’s Local Market

Walking through Antigua, you’ll find artisan markets on nearly every corner. The mercado local, however, is truly authentic. Here within a maze of stalls, you’ll find vendors selling produce, homewares, secondhand clothes, woodwork, and much more. Try to visit on a market day - Monday, Thursday or Saturday - for the full experience.

Learn Spanish

Antigua is a famous spot for learning Spanish and visitors can choose from a plethora of schools around the colonial city. Most schools teach classes one-on-one and prices are accessible for most budgets. Whether you want a crash course in survival Spanish for your travels or are looking to do some more serious studying of the language, Antigua is THE destination.

Learn Salsa Dancing

Antigua has a decent salsa dancing scene and for those seeking some evening fun and cultural immersion, many of Antigua’s dance studios offer free classes throughout the week for beginners. If you are traveling alone, the classes are also a great way to meet fellow travelers and locals alike!

Volcano Hikes

Antigua is surrounded by volcanoes and easily accessible from Antigua are two of Guatemala’s famous volcano hikes - Pacaya and Acatenango. Pacaya offers visitors a half-day, accessible trek with incredible views and an up-close encounter with a live volcano - visitors can witness molten lava and toast marshmallows over hot volcanic rocks during the tour. Those seeking a more challenging hike, can climb the Acatenango volcano overnight, and witness magnificent eruptions of the nearby Fuego Volcano and breathtaking views above the clouds.