Guatemala City – Travel Guide
Guatemala City, the bustling capital of Guatemala, is a vibrant blend of modern urban life and rich cultural heritage. The city features impressive museums, including the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, which houses remarkable Mayan artifacts. Visitors can explore the historic Centro Historico with its colonial buildings, the grand Metropolitan Cathedral, and Constitution Plaza. Food lovers will enjoy local markets and trendy restaurants offering traditional Guatemalan cuisine. The city`s Zona Viva is a hotspot for nightlife, shopping, and entertainment. As a gateway to the country`s cultural and natural wonders, Guatemala City offers a dynamic and multifaceted experience.
All about Guatemala City
Getting around Guatemala City
By Walking
Guatemala City is not very conducive to exploring by foot. The city is spread out, and many of the major attractions are far from one another. Walking around zonas 1, 4, 9, 10, and 13 is relatively safe during the day. However, you should never walk around Guatemala City at night. Those few exceptions include the most developed parts of Zona 10, or the Zona Viva, and the strip of bars and restaurants in Zona 4, known as Cuatro Grados Norte.
By Car
Driving in the city is very hectic and we don’t recommend it. It’s easier to leave the driving to others. If you drive around Guatemala City, go slow, as pedestrians and vehicles can appear out of nowhere.
By Taxi
Taxis are plentiful in the city. It is not possible to hail them in the street so you have to call ahead of time. They will ask for an address and typically a phone number, so it might be wise to have someone call on your behalf from a restaurant or establishment. With Taxi Amarillo (yellow cabs), every trip is logged, they are supposed to be metered, and riding is considered safe. However, you will find that taxis are rarely metered; always negotiate the price beforehand.
Other taxis are white. With these taxis, you have to negotiate a price, and as you are a foreigner, they will most likely try to get more money from you as you will be viewed as a rich foreigner. These taxis are unregistered, unlicensed, or stolen. If you do find a white taxi who is decent, the driver will be happy to give you a card and pick you up if you call in advance. Many locals who can afford the odd taxi have their favorite “taxista” whom they call, and the drivers themselves can refer you to another reliable driver should they be busy.
By Bus
Taking the bus around the city is one of the most common ways to get around the city. However, be aware that they are often driven by aggressive drivers, and that buses are the popular stamping ground for pickpockets and muggers.
TransMetro runs on dedicated lanes separated from other traffic, on a fixed route basis, and only stop at a limited number of stations where passengers pay the fare while waiting. The vehicle and stations are guarded by municipal police and the drivers carry no money. This is the closest thing to a ‘metro’ in Guatemala City.
Chicken Buses are the colorfully painted repurposed school buses. They are cheap, but very chaotic, crowded, and less safe.
By Ride-Hailing Apps
Uber is a reliable option in the city. A car is almost always just a few minutes away and it is cheaper and safer than a taxi. Especially in the late hours of the night, it is advisable to use Uber instead of hailing a taxi. Uber is also a great way to get between zones to avoid the need to navigate unfamiliar areas.
Didi and InDriver are alternative ride-sharing apps in the city.
Safety Tips
Always stick to well-known, central areas and avoid venturing into unsafe zones.
Always have local currency (Quetzales) in small denominations.
Use ride-hailing apps or private drivers late at night.
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.
Guatemala City FAQ
Where is Guatemala City located in Guatemala and what is it known for?
Guatemala City is located in the south-central part of the country, nestled in a mountain valley called Valle de la Ermita (Hermitage Valley). The city serves as the economic, governmental, and cultural epicenter of the nation of Guatemala. The city also functions as Guatemala’s main transportation hub, home of an international airport, La Aurora International Airport, and serving as the origination or end points for most of Guatemala’s major highways.
How do I get to Guatemala City?
If you are flying, you will arrive at La Aurora Airport, which is fairly close to everything since it is in the middle of the city. You will want to make sure you have transportation booked from the airport to your accommodations.
The transportation options vary, but many good shuttles can transport travelers between popular destinations. Rental cars are widely available and in some places, the easiest way to get around is by boat. Public buses go virtually everywhere in Guatemala and offer an inexpensive and authentic option (although crowded).
What is the layout of the city?
The city is divided into 21 zones (zonas). Zona 1 is the old historic center. Here are the national palace, the presidential palace, the cathedral, the main plaza, and the Central Market. South of Zona 1 is Zona 4, with many of the official buildings like the national bank, the national theatre, and the tourist board. Further south in Zona 10 and Zona 9, divided by Avenida La Reforma. Zona 10 hosts most of the high-end hotels, restaurants, bars, and shopping. A small part of Zona 10 is called Zona Viva (the lively zone) because of its nightlife.
How do I get around in the city?
Guatemala City is not very conducive to exploring by foot. The city is spread out, and many of the major attractions are far from one another. Plus, street crime is a problem. It’s relatively safe to walk around zonas 1, 4, 9, 10, and 13 by day. However, we advise to never walk the streets at night.
We do not recommend driving in the city.
The best way to get around is by Ubers and the Transmetro. The Transmetro are the city buses. There are other city buses, but we strongly advise you not to use them since they are considered unsafe.
Guatemala also has an extensive network of buses servicing almost every little town and village in the country, including the major tourist destinations. Unfortunately, the system is very complex and entirely decentralized.
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Is Guatemala City safe?
Safety is a serious issue in Guatemala. While parts of the city are safe for tourists, others have high crime rates. Stick to well-known tourist areas such as Zona 10 (Zona Viva), Zona 14, and Zona 1 during the day. Avoid walking alone at night.
Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and verify taxi prices beforehand. Use official transportation and avoid unsolicited offers of help. Always use common sense and street smarts. Don’t wear flashy jewelry or wave wads of cash around. Be aware of your surroundings, and avoid people and places that make you feel uncomfortable.
Can I drink the water in Guatemala City?
No. We only recommend drinking bottled water and be especially careful to do so when traveling outside the capital, as waterborne diseases are very common in this country.
What are the must-visit attractions in Guatemala City?
-National Palace of Culture
-Metropolitan Cathedral
-Relief Map
-Ixchel Museum of Indigenous Textiles and Clothing
-Popol Vuh Museum
What is the shopping like and where can I buy traditional handicrafts?
There are two main markets in the city: The Central Market (Mercado Central), and the Artisan Market (Mercado de Artesanias), located near La Aurora Zoo. Both are huge markets offering a wide range of arts, crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. There is also a large concentration of shops in the Zona Viva. These shops tend to be higher-end, and you’ll often pay a premium price for the same goods available at the markets.
Guatemala is famous for its textiles. In the city you should be able to find textiles from all over the country.
What are some customs to be aware of in Guatemala?
Always greet people with a polite “Buenos dias” or “Buenas tardes.”
Be sure to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
Bargaining is common in markets, but do so respectfully.
What is the weather like and when is the best time to visit?
Guatemala City has a subtropical highland climate with mild temperatures year-round, ranging from 50°F to 77°F. The rainy season is from May to October.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April.
I don’t speak Spanish. Will many people speak English?
The official language of Guatemala is Spanish.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.
What is the currency in Guatemala?
The Guatemalan currency is the quetzal (Q). The US dollar is widely accepted, but it is still recommended to have Guatemalan quetzals on hand at all times. It can be difficult to break large bills in smaller towns and at local restaurants, for this reason, it is always a good idea to keep some smaller bills in your wallet.
You’ll have no trouble finding a bank in Guatemala City. Numerous bank branches can be found all over zonas 1, 4, 9, 10, and 13. Banks are usually open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4 pm, although many have begun to offer extended hours. Credit cards are increasingly being accepted throughout Guatemala. Even so, they are still mainly only accepted in larger cities, major tourist destinations, and at upscale hotels, restaurants, and shops.
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. Tourist Police, dial 1500 if you need help navigating medical services as a traveler. This will connect you to Asistur, which will have a bilingual operator, who in turn can put you in contact with the police, fire department, or ambulance service, as necessary.
Guatemala City has both public and private hospitals. Private hospitals are recommended for better facilities and quicker service, but they can be expensive. Some private hospitals include:
-Hospital Centro Medica (English-speaking doctors on staff)
-Hospital Cuidad de Guatemala
-Hospital Universitario Esperanza
-Hospital Herrera Llerandi
Public Hospitals:
-Hospital San Juan de Dios (more affordable but busier) – This is the biggest and best equipped public hospital in the city.
-Hospital General de Guatemala
Pharmacies are widely available and often open 24/7. Many medications that require prescriptions in other countries may be available over the counter.
Top Attractions
La Aurora Zoo
Founded in 1924, the zoo features native & exotic animal habitats, plus demonstrations & activities.
Palacio Nacional de la Cultura
Iconic, ornate building housing a museum of Guatemalan artwork, culture & history.
IRTRA Mundo Petapa
Upbeat amusement park offering family-friendly entertainment, from water slides to bumper cars.
Nacional Museum of Mayan Art
Stately Guatemalan history & culture museum, with educational displays & Mayan artifacts.
Unique Experiences
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Pacaya Volcano Day Trip from Guatemala City: This popular Pacaya Volcano day trip from Guatemala City is the perfect way to experience the beauty of the country`s most active volcano. Follow your expert local guide to the top of this fiery mountain and look out over stunning views of Guatemala countryside.
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Guatemala City Afternoon Sightseeing Tour: Get your bearings in Central America`s biggest city, as you follow your guide around landmarks like the Avenue of the Americas, Constitution Plaza and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Learn more about the city`s rich history and heritage as you admire the murals and mosaics.
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What to expect while traveling
