Antigua is a beautiful, walkable city, the former Spanish capital of Central America and a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with great restaurants, bars, historic architecture, incredible coffee, and views of the surrounding volcanoes. Whether you are arriving early, staying a few extra days, or just exploring between wedding events, see below for a list of our favorite things to do, eat, and drink in Antigua. Click into the map for a full list of our curated recommendations by category.
Walkable Sightseeing
Santa Catalina Arch
Antigua's most iconic landmark and a great photo spot
Santa Clara Ruins
Ruins of an 18th-century convent with one of the most beautiful courtyards in Antigua, quieter than the bigger sites.
La Merced Church
The city's most recognizable church
Cerro de la Cruz
A short stair climb to the best view of the city and volcanoes
Hiking & Tours
Pacaya Volcano Hike
Moderate half-day guided hike up an active volcano.
Acatenago Volcano Hike
Challenging overnight hike. Apparently very intense but rewarding.
Coffee Farm Tour
Multiple just outside of the city to see how some of the world’s best coffee is made.
Trip to Lake Atitlán
If you have extra time, Lake Atitlán is one of the most beautiful places in Guatemala (~3h away).
Eat & Drink
Coffee, Breakfast, & Lunch
Artista de Café
We love this coffee shop. Great coffee, food, pastries, and ambiance. Really nice breakfast spot.
Posada de Don Rodrigo
Traditional Guatemalan breakfast in a nice garden setting.
Ta'Cool
Great tacos, margaritas, live music. Easy lunch.
Caoba Farms
A farm-to-table spot just outside the center.
Samsara
Relaxed vegetarian option with great bowls and juices.
Pollo Campero
A Guatemalan fast food staple.
McDonald’s
We had to include the world’s nicest McDonald’s…
Dinner
Mesón Panza Verde
An elegant dinner inside one of Antigua's most beautiful boutique hotels. Great garden sanctuary.
Clio's Antigua
Refined Western-Guatemalan cuisine with a diverse menu in a beautiful 16th-century property.
Casa Escobar
Great Guatemalan steakhouse with a properambiance.
27 Adentro
Restaurant close to Camino Real with creative dishes.
Drinks & Going Out
Casa Santo Domingo
Have a drink inside a cool bar ensconced in a candlelit 17th-century monastery. Worth wandering the grounds of the hotel as well.
Antigua Brewing Company (ABC)
A rooftop brewery with volcano views and a casual vibe.
Ulew Cocktail Bar
Speakeasy with live music. Same building as ABC.
Café No Sé
Home of Ilegal Mezcal, which was born in its back bar. Start or end your night here.
El Barrio
Multi-bar complex with a rooftop. Fun spot to hang out at.
