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, here are some of our recommendations.
Things to Do
Antigua is a walkable city and the best way to experience it is on foot. Spend some time wandering the cobblestone streets, exploring colorful buildings, popping into courtyards and shops, and stopping wherever catches your eye.
A few highlights you can easily walk to:
Santa Catalina Arch: Antigua's most iconic landmark and a great photo spot
Parque Central: nice little park in the middle of the city with a waterfall and some vendors
Santa Clara Ruins: the 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
Convento de las Capuchinas: a beautiful historic convent ruin
Cerro de la Cruz: a short stair climb to the best view of the city and volcanoes
Acatenango Volcano Hike
For the adventurous, the overnight Acatenango hike is one of the best volcano hikes in the world. It's a challenging climb rewarded with views of Volcán Fuego erupting through the night. We have not done it ourselves yet but have heard this is quite rewarding and intense! Plan it for days before or after the wedding weekend, and give yourself a recovery day.
Pacaya Volcano Hike
An easier alternative to Acatenango. Pacaya is a moderate half-day guided hike up an active volcano, where you can walk the lava fields and roast marshmallows over volcanic heat. This is a day trip.
Trip to Lake Atitlán
If you have extra time, Lake Atitlán is one of the most beautiful places in Guatemala — a volcano-ringed lake dotted with traditional Mayan villages. It is about three hours each way, so save it for a full free day.
Coffee Farm Tour
Guatemala produces some of the world's best coffee. A farm tour just outside the city is a great way to see the process and enjoy the scenery. A great half day.
Where to Eat & Drink
Coffee and Breakfast — Our Favorites
Artista de Café
We love this coffee shop. Great coffee, food, pastries, and ambiance. Really nice breakfast spot.
Y Tu Piña También
Casual, all-day breakfast spot serving up eggs any style and fresh smoothies.
Posada de Don Rodrigo
Traditional Guatemalan breakfast in a nice garden setting.
Hotel El Convento, Hotel Camino Real, Hotel Santo Domingo
Nice hotel breakfasts.
Coffee and Breakfast — Other Good Options
Fat Cat Coffee House, Fernando's Kaffee, and 12 Onzas
Casual / Lunch — Our Favorites
Ta'Cool
Great tacos, margaritas, live music. Easy lunch.
La Barriga Llena
Easy spot for lunch with a rotating menu of daily specials.
Pollo Campero
A Guatemala fast food staple
Casual — Other Good Options
Caoba Farms
A farm-to-table spot just outside the center.
Pappy's BBQ
Good barbecue in the middle of Antigua.
Rincón Típico
Local favorite if you want some traditional Guatemalan food.
Samsara
Relaxed vegetarian option with great bowls and juices.
McDonald's
World's nicest McDonald's. Please trust us and go clog your arteries with a quarter pounder in the beautiful courtyard under Volcán de Agua.
Dinner — Our Favorites
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 in a beautiful 16th-century property. Really nice spot with a diverse menu (traditional dishes, pastas, pizzas, steaks).
Casa Escobar
Great Guatemalan steakhouse with a proper ambiance.
Dinner — Other Good Options
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 in a beautiful 16th-century property. Really nice spot with a diverse menu (traditional dishes, pastas, pizzas, steaks).
Casa Escobar
Great Guatemalan steakhouse with a proper ambiance.