Antigua – Travel Guide
Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a charming colonial city surrounded by volcanoes in the central highlands of Guatemala. Its cobblestone streets are lined with beautifully preserved Spanish Baroque architecture, colorful buildings, and historic churches. Landmarks like the Santa Catalina Arch and the ruins of La Merced Church showcase the city`s rich history. Visitors can explore vibrant markets, artisan shops, and coffee plantations offering tastings of Guatemala`s world-famous coffee. The backdrop of Volcán de Agua, Volcan de Fuego, and Acatenango provides breathtaking views. With its blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, Antigua is a captivating destination.
All about Antigua
Getting around Antigua
By Walking
Walking is the best way to explore the historic central area.
By Tuk-Tuk
Tuk-Tuks are open-air buggies that are plentiful throughout the city. They work the same as a taxi. You’ll want to use these the most to go anywhere within a few miles radius or perhaps just over to the next town. The rides are a bit bumpy over the cobblestone streets, but they will get you where you need to be within a close vicinity.
By Taxi
A taxi will take you a bit further than a tuk-tuk; for example, a ride to the airport. If you need to go to a few towns over, a taxi is your best option.
Uber is available in Antigua.
By Chicken Bus
These are equivalent to an American school bus that has been refitted with new parts, and decorated with bright paint, lights, etc. You really can’t miss them. Chicken buses are public transportation that go between cities. If you’re comfortable with public transportation and can determine where you need to get on and off, this option is likely going to be cheaper than a taxi for longer distances.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
Antigua FAQ
Where is Antigua located in Guatemala and what is it known for?
Antigua is located in southwest Guatemala, in the Sacatepéquez Department, just 25 miles from Guatemala City, the country’s capital.
Antigua’s official name is La Antigua Guatemala which translates in Spanish as ‘The Old Guatemala’, reflecting its former title as the capital of Guatemala. Antigua is known as one of the most charming cities in Guatemala with its iconic pastel yellow arch and clocktower, beautiful volcano views, Spanish-influenced architecture and ruins, vividly-colored buildings, colonial churches, quaint cobblestone streets, artisan crafts, and welcoming locals. The entire historic center has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its excellent example of Spanish colonial architecture and urban design.
How do I get to Antigua?
Antigua is a common starting point for travel in Guatemala. The country’s only international airport is located in the nearby capital, Guatemala City. The GUA – La Aurora International Airport is 25 miles away from Antigua, but the trip can take anywhere between 1 – 3 hours, depending on the chaotic city traffic. If you have not booked a private transfer with us, you will have a few options:
There are affordable shared shuttles between the airport and various tourist spots in the country, which operate several times a day, or the local chicken buses which many tourists will not find as helpful.
Uber is another option that operates at the airport. Depending on what time you arrive, this can be an easy and affordable option, but the prices go way up during rush hour and a taxi becomes the cheaper option.
Taxis are available day and night and are always a reliable option at the airport. There is a taxi booth with fixed prices to Antigua.
How do I get around Antigua?
Antigua is a very walkable city and this is the easiest way to get around. The city is mostly flat, there are a lot of sidewalks as well, so this is the best way to see the sights.
Uber is available and plentiful. It’s a great way to get to destinations on the outskirts of the city as long as you’re not going too far away you should be able to pick up a driver for your return journey as well.
Tuk-tuk are all over the city as well as taxis, though make sure you negotiate a price ahead of time as most aren’t metered.
You won’t need a car during your stay in Antigua, as the city is highly walkable and parking can be tricky. However, if you plan to explore surrounding areas and prefer driving over using private transfers or shuttles, renting a car could be a convenient option.
What is the legal drinking age?
The legal drinking age in Guatemala is 18 years old.
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What is the weather like? When is the best time to visit?
Antigua and the Western Highlands of Guatemala are known as ‘the land of eternal sprint’ with a beautiful temperate climate year-round. That said, Antigua does still experience a wet and dry season, although the wet seasons are far less severe than in the tropical areas of the country. The dry season (November to April) is the most popular time to visit due to pleasant weather. You can expect cool temperatures in the mornings and evenings, and warm, sunny days. Due not that during the Semana Santa and the Easter holidays, the town can become very busy. So if you are looking for less crowds, then we suggest visiting during either January or February.
I don’t speak Spanish. Will many people speak English?
The official language of Guatemala is Spanish, and it is of course, widely spoken in Antigua. However, a lot of people do speak English as it is such a cosmopolitan tourist town. If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture and be able to talk and interact with local people, you should be able to speak some Spanish. We recommend you get a good guidebook and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, please, thank you, excuse me, and numbers 1-10.
Is Antigua a safe place to visit?
Yes, Antigua is a safe city and that’s part of the reason it’s such a popular tourist destination. It’s much more polished and tourist-friendly than the gritty capital, Guatemala City. Of course, always take the usual safety precautions – avoid walking alone at night in less-populated areas and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded spaces.
Is it safe to drink water?
No, it is not safe to drink the tap water in Guatemala. To avoid getting sick drink bottled water and only eat peeled fruits like oranges and bananas. Bottled water is widely available in grocery stores, restaurants, and hotels.
What is the local time zone?
Guatemala observes Central Standard Time all year.
Can I pay/tip in US dollars?
Guatemala uses the Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ or Q for short). Although some tourism companies will price and accept USD for expensive things, it’s not very common, and the Quetzal is the primary form of payment. It’s a modern city and most restaurants, hotels, tour companies, etc. offer credit card payment without any fees. ATMs are plentiful all over Antigua.
Guatemala isn’t a huge tipping culture in general, so tip modestly but a lot of places charge a 10% service charge so in that case you don’t need to add extra unless the service was exceptional.
What is the nightlife like?
Antigua has a lively nightlife scene with many bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city has many rooftop bars, an excellent craft beer scene, and plenty of places to dance with the locals.
What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?
Guatemala’s emergency medical services can be reached by dialing 110 or 122, but response times may vary.
There are several clinics and hospitals in Antigua for medical emergencies and general health concerns.
Hospital Hermano Pedro: A private hospital offering a range of services, including emergency care.
Centro Médico Antigua: A modern clinic with English-speaking staff, offering general medicine and minor emergency care.
Top Attractions
Arco de Santa Catalina
Is one of the most recognizable places in the city of Antigua Guatemala. It is visited annually by thousands of tourists.
Cerro de La Cruz
Elevated spot with a 1930s cross & sweeping views, including an unobstructed view of Volcan Agua.
Iglesia de la Merced
Iconic church dating to 1767 featuring an ornate yellow facade & adjacent convent ruins.
Convento Capuchinas
Ruins of an 18th-century nunnery, with a church, courtyards, a tower & some of the nuns` cells.
Unique Experiences
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Adventure in Pacaya Volcano: Amazing endemic forest, and the great experience to climb an active volcano, (lava rivers if is a season), melting marshmallows, the great experience to walk on the cold lava, is an environment like been in another planet.
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ATV Sunset Tour: You`ll start at El Cerro de la Cruz, the popular lookout spot, before heading to a local eco-lodge and avocado plantation in a little village in the mountains. You`ll then journey onto Hobbitenango, where you`ll feel like you`ve stepped into another world.
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What to expect while traveling
