Volcan Pacaya. :-). A mix of the charming, modern, and tried and true. Each room is luxuriously decorated and features a minibar, private bathroom, and telephone. 17 Best Restaurants Not to Miss in Antigua Guatemala - Bucketlist Bri My boyfriend and I are currently in Yangshuo, China which is definitely a stop on the backpacker trail. Dont miss dinner at La Cueva, the propertys restaurant, which serves dishes such as fresh mango, shrimp and avocado salad and creamy oyster pasta beneath a vaulted stone ceiling. It was my first stop and I didnt want to shop and then carry around everything for the next month. I wrote a free and comprehensive Guatemala Travel Guide. We ended up going to ChiChi as well and I really loved it there. In 1979, Unesco designated Antigua a World Heritage Site, ensuring the protection of its architectural and cultural legacy. (1,004 reviews) Glad to hear that you liked it too Laura! Left: Molly Berry. Your RSS feeds suddenly appeared in my reader over the weekend, all at once! Most tourists dont stay in the city, especially when gorgeous, safer, and cooler Antigua isnt very far at all (around an hour depending on traffic). As you walk through the door, youll be transported into a world full of traditional cultures. Whats funny is they only seem to have rebuilt the critical parts, meaning much of the church is still in ruins at the back of the building. The city is magical, and although I had six days, it still wasnt nearly enough to get to everything. From cheap hostels to lux rooms! Also, there really is a great expat community there, soyou would be in good company! Bao privado, balcn, llena de luz, color y detalles! (obviously) :-) There is no denying the tourists, but there is also no ignoring the pretty architecture and fun vibe. Catedral de Santiago in Antigua Guatemala. So if you see photos of people with red hot lava behind them, that might not be the case for you unless theres current activity. Fun Life Crisis. Great post Shannon! A Little Adrift is wholly owned by Shannon O'Donnell; all opinions and suggestions are my own. A total knowledge dump from my months traveling Guate. Visit a coffee plantation just outside of Antiguathis is an excellent way to spend half a day if you want another short day trip near the city. Glad that I've added a place to your list Antigua is definitely a greatplace to check out and with Guatemala City so close, getting to and fromis really a cinch! Once you've made your way through the caves, dry off and continue your journey. From 2001-2003, I called the colonial town and former Guatemalan capital my home, during which time the love affair blossomed. With its Baroque architecture and thriving textile scene, this former colonial capital is among Central Americas most beguiling destinations. Obviously the Irish bar stands out, but there should be no guilt involved. There are plenty of tour companies that will give you the best and safest hiking experience, but this one is the most recommended and the company I went with. One major highlight is a hike up Temple 216, the site's tallest temple at 98 feet (30 m). The winter high season (November-March) is the best time for festivals and dry weather. On your hike, youll traverse high farmland, high alpine forest, cloud forest, and volcanic temperate zones, so youll be experiencing a lot of the Guatemalan landscape in one hike. It's a fun day trip from the city and really under-visited by travelers in Antigua considering it's a mere 10 minute bus ride outside of town. Places to see, ways to wander, and signature experiences. Why a confession? All tourism is good but one has much more of an economic Inpact on the place than the other. She loves talking about how to work abroad and online to travel longer! There are also taxis roaming around town but I really didnt find them necessary to get anywhere within Antigua. 15 Best Places to Stay in Antigua Guatemala with Kids or Without! (2023) Antigua is not short of stunning views, so it makes sense to have many places to admire them. I think seeing the spectrum tells you more than anything about the variety that exists within every culture and location. A download on everything I learned from backpacking across Guatemala. Hours: Monday-Wednesday 10AM-9PM, Thursday-Sunday 8:30AM-9PM. However, there are limited facilities, so expect a rugged camping experience. They were so knowledgable about the culture and history of Guatema", Traveled to Guatemala as a group in January, 2024, "Our guide, Esteban, was incredible. for nearly as long. Later, participate in a local cooking class where you'll learn to prepare traditional Guatemalan cuisine. We ended up doing a bunch of things together for the rest of my time in Antigua. There are the daily infusion of typical backpackers, yes that's for sure. Cerro de la Cruz Cerro de la Cruz translates as "hill of the cross", and it is quite clear to see why. The cost of living has gotten so high in Sarasota. This morning, transfer from Antigua to Lanqun, located in Guatemala's central highlands. Also plan to visit Antiguas Hotel Casa Domingo on the grounds of the Santo Domingo Monastery. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Overall though, I absolutely loved Guatemala and would go back again in a heartbeat. RELATED: 17 Adventurous Things To Do in Guatemala + Tips For Your Visit! You could spend a day exploring the citys churches and interesting ruinsbecause Antigua is an earthquake zone, there are many photogenic ruins around town. Definitely a hidden gem in Antigua. I stomped through the forests of Tikal, and I found remote regions, too. Thanks Shannon for sharing about our beloved country! Afterwards, cross the border to Belize to visit the Caracol ruins and enjoying some sun & sand on Ambergris Caye. A mighty cross stands imposingly atop a massive hill just outside the city. Youre probably going to be coming from Guatemala City, possibly from the airport, just like me! 7. This country's food is a mixture of conventional colonial Spanish and Maya cooking that is delicious and fun to make. Highly recommend this one for an easy in with the bonus of meeting friends. Exclusive Villa with Pool / Hot Tub / Gated Community, Casa Santa Catarina -Antigua's Central Hidden Secret w/Pool (2 of 4) +Free Night, Casa Serenidad - Spacious & Artistic Oasis - Rooftop 360 Degree Volcanic Views, APT1 - Colonial villa with 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom - Apartamentos los Nazarenos, APT5 - Colonial villas with 2 bedrooms 2 bathrooms - APARTAMENTOS LOS NAZARENOS, Casona Colonial, Habitacion con vista al Volcan, Classic Cultural Walking City Tour of Antigua Guatemala, Pacaya Volcano at night and Guatemala City Private Tour, Tikal Day Trip Including Round Trip Flights from Antigua with Lunch, Iximch Ruins and Antigua City Tour from Guatemala City, Guatemala City & Antigua Guatemala Private Tour. But its really worth it to stroll around and get this great view with Volcan de Agua in the back. Your Guide to Exploring Lake Atitlan, Guatemala, Chichicastenango and Lake Atitlan Tour From Antigua, Chichicastenango and Iximche Pyramids Private Day Tour, From Antigua or Guatemala: Coffee & Culture Full-Day Tour, From Antigua Guatemala: Tikal Full-Day Tour by Air, From Antigua: 3-Day Cobn & Semuc Champey Tour, Your Guide to El ParedonGuatemala's Surf Town, whereintheworldisnina.com/about-nina-ragusa-travel-blogger-and-nomadic-expat/. Allegra Zagami 6 September 2022 View Not for nothing is the town of Antigua, in Guatemala's central highlands, hailed as one of the country's finest tourist destinations. Here are the 8 best things to do in Antigua, Guatemala. Active Highlights of Guatemala: Kayaking, Hiking & Tubing Caribbean Guatemala & Maya Ruins - 11 Days, Luxury & Maya Culture in Guatemala - 8 Days, Best of Guatemala: Antigua, Lake Atitln & Tikal - 8 Days, 5 Days in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas, 1 Week in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas, 10 Days in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas, 2 Weeks in Guatemala - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas, Guatemala in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More, Guatemala in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More, Guatemala in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More, Guatemala in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More, Guatemala in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More, Guatemala in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More, Guatemala in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More, 2 Weeks in Guatemala - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas, Adventurous Family Trip to Guatemala & Belize - 14 Days. The handcrafted products found on the packed shelves come from different regions around the country so that you can sample a little bit of everything. Traveling Guatemala is not inherently safethere are more risks than other places. The city has slowly and steadily built a strong tourism industry to cater to the droves of tourists passing through this Guatemalan hub. To the far west of the city is a local market too. Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip. The hike to the top covers an elevation gain of around 1,500 feet and takes around 2 hours, depending on your fitness level. Its a lovely city and youll enjoy just soaking in the vibes. Caoba Organic Farms Prices: $$+ | Q100-200 ($15-20+ USD) Menu: Organic farm to table brunch-style fare Location: 5 Avenida Sur Final (south of Antigua - directions) Hours: 8-4 pm (closed Mondays) Caoba Farms is one of the best restaurants in Antigua that is if you enjoy a sustainable, farm-to-table meal! At this all-day cafe in downtown Antigua, the chef Laura Ayyoub produces colorful Middle Eastern comfort food made from Guatemalan ingredients. The best times to visit Guatemala - Lonely Planet Although pretty challenging, Acatenango is the most famous volcano hike near Antigua. I went to Reillys Irish Tavern and its one of the top spots for a good night in town. Sometimes if these aren't initially visible, they declare it as not real and go searching for what you want to find. Its not recommended to attempt a Lake Atitlan day tour yourself, the logistics will leave you with little time to enjoy. This stunning lake should be a travel destination in itself, and you could spend weeks on the shores and not see all that it has to offer. Listen to the call of market traders and marvel at the brightly colored textiles, feeling the soft fabric between your fingers. There are some excellent hostels in Antigua, though Maya Papaya is right up there as the best hostel. There are tons of cute spots to choose from in Antigua. I'm with you it's all real! I will raise my eyebrows right back at those who want to start a pissing contest with me, because no matter where I go, I am always able to learn something new. 1. Best Hotel in Antigua Guatemala: Hotel Museo Casa Santo Domingo. You can also visit social enterprises in Guatemalamost are located right in Antigua and this a great option for responsible travelers. How could you not fall in love with such stunning architecture and the cobblestone streets? Dont forget to book travel insurance for your time in Guatemalaa great policy provides coverage in case your personal effects are stolen or lost, in case of medical emergencies, contains adventure sports rides, and more. There are also many shady squares begging for you to cozy up under a tree with a good book. Museo del Libro contains a replica of Central Americas first printing press, while Museo de Santigo has weapons on display and sits where the prison once was. If you only have limited time, then a day trip will have to do, but chances are youll be swept up in the lakes magic and will be back. (3 Day Itinerary), The Ultimate Digital Nomad Guide to Guatemala, Living in Lake Atitln as a Digital Nomad, The Perfect 3 Days in Oaxaca City, Mexico (Itinerary), 3 Days in Jaisalmer, India + Camel Safari in The Thar Desert, How to Ethically Swim & Snorkel with Whale Sharks in La Paz. You can use these day trip ideas, and you wont even have to check out of your hotel in Antigua, saving you some time! There are many places in Guatemala that are off the beaten path, check them out in Instagram thanks to the pandemic. Thank you for articulating so well the beauty and charm of Antigua. Its also worth noting, only book a day tour if you have no time to go for a few days to visit yourself! Essential Antigua Do Places to see, ways to wander, and signature experiences. One of the most beautiful cities to retire in Guatemala is Antigua. Go with a guide to get the most out of your trip, and youll come back filled with knowledge, ready to tell anyone who will listen. Catherina did a wonderful job planning a week in Guatemala with an itinerary that was customiz", Traveled to Guatemala as a family in April, 2023, "Catherina put together a great trip for us and was very responsive to our feedback and worked super hard to give us a unique trip within budget. As a completely free thing to do in Antigua, it is worth a visit, especially as the grounds are so beautiful. 1. Enjoyed your insights. Things to do in Taipei Aside from admiring the architectural wonders, you can find yourself shopping for local treasures, getting up high at the rooftop bars and viewpoints, and getting even higher by hiking up the surrounding volcanoes (highly recommend)! Instead, there are two high seasons separated by two low seasons. During a tour of the property, which is certified by the Rainforest Alliance, coffee enthusiasts can see how the raw fruit which grows in dense, shaded rows of trees is cultivated, harvested and processed. The tour is well done demonstrates the entire process of making coffee, from picking the coffee cherries to roasting the beans and then serving up a fresh, hot cup o joe. If you have a higher budget, VRBO has some truly gorgeous properties in and around Antigua that would make a great base for your explorations. :-). If you arrive late and have to stay in Guatemala City for the night, Id recommend GuateFriend Hostal. At least you can still visit to get a taste. Antigua Best for architecture, history and volcanoes Just a 45-minute drive from Guatemala's main international airport, Antigua is most travelers' first and last stop in Guatemala, and it rarely disappoints. There are so many things to do in Antigua, Guatemala! Along the way, learn about the Spanish conquest and the region's rich history, including the Indigenous Maya way of life. And in the case of Typhoid, its not your hand-washing thats a concern. The farms store also sells locally made produce, ranging from raspberry jam to fresh kombucha and hibiscus juice. Casa Santa Cruz - Antigua's Central Hidden Secret w/pool (4 of 4) + Free Night. Visit the local market Among the most popular things to do in Antigua, visiting the market is definitely a must. The hikes in the park are often overshadowed by some of the more impressive hikes in the vicinity, but not everyone wants to climb a volcano; it isnt for everyone. :) (Also, I was born and raised in St. Pete, but live in Spain for similar reasonslove the food, culture, and its affordable!). The owners are very embedded in the local community so your money is also going to good work employing locals and helping conserve the local enviroment. Helmed by the chef Mattia Bellucci, this organic restaurant in downtown Antigua is known for its hyper-local renditions of Italian classics, such as cibreo de higado, chicken liver made both savory and sweet with a flambed and caramelized crust. Although it used to be pretty active, you can rest assured that it has now been declared dormant. Copyright 2023 Where in the World is Nina? I bet that stops them in their tracks :-) Anyway, as you said they are tourist activities for a reason and usually because they're pretty freakin neat things! I'm starting to get weary of this argument between authentic or not. Book this tour: Chichicastenango and Lake Atitlan Tour. Located right in the heart of town, the Antigua Market is basically where local life happens, and where you will find everything you may be looking for. There are so many amazing properties in Antigua for all budgets. Hike up one of the volcanoes for magnificent views, watch the sunset while on an evening cruise, enjoy a thermal bath, hire a kayak, and explore. A portion of the plantations profits benefits local education programs focused on the preservation of the environment and Guatemalan culture. Guatemala Travel. By the way, have you ever gone to the Philippines? Near the structures courtyard framed by an arched colonnade and a wall of bougainvillea is a museum that houses one of the citys most important permanent exhibitions of colonial-era art and pre-Hispanic pottery. Locals gather here all week long but especially on weekends, when there is live music and a farmers market, and when Rincon Tpico, a second restaurant, offers Guatemalan cuisine prepared with an artisanal twist, such as steamed masa tamales served with farm-grown Swiss chard, avocado and black beans. There is a lot of history and culture residing within the many arches and stone columns. 15 of The BEST Things To Do in Antigua, Guatemala Nice! The Best Boutique Hotels in Antigua, Guatemala - Culture Trip If you are a real lover of chocolate, you may want to consider a few of the activities that the museum offers, such as the Bean to Bar workshop, where youll make your chocolate creation, try and prepare a range of drinks and take your creation home with you. He listened to what we wanted, made as many modifications as ", Traveled to Guatemala as a couple in June, 2023, "My husband and I booked our trip to Guatemala for Holy Week. (My Guatemala Travel Guide more deeply covers the core safety concerns for Guatemala as a whole.). Youll have your fill of Baroque architecture and charming, low-slung buildings. It was so much fun and I made friends right away on the tour. They've visited over 20 countries together (and counting) in the last ten years! When to go November - April. 27 BEST Things to Do in Antigua, Guatemala - Two Wandering Soles The market takes place every Thursday and Sunday, so you have a couple of chances to visit this vibrant market and overload your senses in a good way. Like the sweet Rio Dulce and the adventure waterfall destination of Semuc Champey. Peak hotel prices generally start between March and May. It features an outdoor pool and sauna as well as a BBQ and picnic area. I get it, because, well, my son and I have been living here for the last six months! The Plaza is the center of the original ruling bodies of Antigua from the 1500's. 2023. Photo Credit: The Best Travel Gifts. A Guide to Antigua, Guatemala: A Candy-Colored City Framed by Volcanoes You'll start in a kayak, paddling westward along the north shore of Lake Atitln for roughly two hours. Later in the day, a driver will take you back to Antigua from Panajachel at Lake Atitln. There are dorms and private . Grab and go dining at Saberico Delicatessen. There wasnt lava when I was here, but it was still worth the trip! The best place to snap photos near the terraces is atop a natural limestone bridge that rises 100 feet (30 m) above the water. However, I still want to go :). These are also great options for those who dont have enough time to go much further into Guatemala. Lastly, Centro Comercial la Fuente is a beautiful spot with some handicrafts and cute cafes in a courtyard setting. So perhaps make it a point to stay another night here to shop before heading out. A small mistake I made was not rolling through Antigua again before leaving Guatemala. Sure, there are vendors in Antigua selling these two locations as day trips, but if you have the time, ignore all of that. Today's journey will take you from Cobn to the colorful town of Flores, located on an island on Lake Petn Itz. There are certainly expat communities there and you could get to know them, they would help you get the lay of the land. Nestled in the forested hills of southern Guatemala, the small city of Antigua was once the most prominent seat of Spanish colonial government between Mexico City and Lima, Peru. It is so easy to take a day trip to Pacaya from Antigua. Some are even the same price as a hotel for better vibes and a full kitchen. Get a quote with the best and easiest travelers insurance: Safety Wing. :-). Now, the citys cobbled streets arranged in an easy-to-navigate grid, with views of the imposing Volcn de Agua to the south and the twin peaks of Volcn de Fuego and Acatenango to the west are lined with farm-to-table restaurants, contemporary art galleries and design studios. If you chose not to get them, I totally get it, and in that case I would assess it based on time of year. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Antigua - Tripadvisor And so many of the twenty-somethings I encountered felt like they have something to prove to backpackers visiting their country. It was during this period that its canary-colored Santa Catalina Arch, built in 1694 as a walkway for nuns, received its domed clock tower, becoming Antiguas most iconic monument. I loved Bagel Barn. Antigua was our first stop in Latin America. Each suite including the two-story grand master suite, which has a lush interior garden, a private terrace and a hot tub faces onto a central courtyard, where a 100-year-old tempisque tree hangs over a tiled lap pool. I am jealous of your China travels and look forward to looking through your photos! Since Im crazy, I went for the volcanos but this was high on my list, I just ran out of time. Courtesy of Hotel Casa Santo Domingo / Expedia. Norte 29, Calle del Arco, Antigua 03001, Guatemala,+50278320504. It is also known as Antigua City Hall, once a jail and the seat of the Spanish colonial government. Cheers to the rest, it's managing expectations and going with an open mind that could be the key to travelpre-concieved notions should just be a dirty word ;-). That was a very real issue in my many conversations with locals. Visit the Macadamia Farm Outside of Antigua. 35 Incredible Things to Do in Antigua Guatemala + Tips - Boundless Roads Who cares if it's a tourist hot spot. Some travelers and websites recommend day tripping to Lake Atitlan or Chichicastenango, but you should not! We were fortunate enough to stay with a woman we had met hiking in Laos two years prior and she turned out to be from a family with money. This volcano is around an hour and 15 minutes from Antigua. Also check out my additional recommended pre-trip Guate readings. This one is easy, by foot or tuk-tuk! It is one of the tastiest things to do in Antigua, Guatemala. "La atencin el cuidado de cada una de las personas que hicieron posible un tour maravilloso para mi hermana y para mi fue genial con personas geniales cada G", Traveled to Guatemala as a family in June, 2023, "Chris was incredibly attentive and insightful when it came to planning the perfect trip for us! An ideal year-round climate, picturesque scenery, and affordable living costs . Next, visit the Iximch Maya ruins and Chichicastenango Market, followed by a day of relaxation by Lake Atitln, where you can go kayaking and hiking. The low-slung buildings are a rainbow of neatly painted cookie-cutter storefronts. Besides the main dishes, you'll also prepare handmade tortillas and a dessert. Protected by a reef, this crescent of fine white sand in the blue sea backed by natural foliage offers excellent snorkelling on calm days. San Francisco Church is one of the most notable things to see in Antigua, and its worth penciling this into your itinerary of things to do. The architecture is astounding, with a mix of cute boutiques and cafes, Baroque Antigueo styled buildings, and ruins from earthquakes that hit the country. A mighty cross stands imposingly atop a massive hill just outside the city. Its not the safest, it will take the longest, and can sometimes be a bit dangerous. Jan. 21, 2019. Top Picks Luxury & Special Occasions Classes & Workshops Water Sports Air, Helicopter & Balloon Tours Water Tours Special Offers Holiday & Seasonal Tours Shopping Tours Ways to tour Antigua Book these experiences for a close-up look at Antigua. Although it is a bit of a challenge, it is slightly more accessible than some of the other volcano hikes in the area, like Acatenango (wait for it. The interiors are pleasingly minimalist colorful wool throws handmade by a local weaving cooperative complement whitewashed walls and palo-blanco wood furnishings and many rooms feature private patios, open-air showers and expansive mezzanines. Then book your transfer to Antigua for the following day! I've worked abroad and remotely to support my adventure travel addiction, and now I'm sharing all my travel hacks, travel job opportunities, and ways you can travel longer! Afterward, head to the traditional Maya town of Chichicastenango for a guided walk through its famous (and massive) market. Founded in the early 16th century, it served as Guatemalas capital for almost 300 years, until 1773, when it was abandoned by crown officials following a series of devastating volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and floods. To the hardcore backpacker, what guatemalans want is irrelevant. Once here, embark on a 45-minute uphill hike to El Mirador. Go here for the breakfast and plan out the rest of your trip with their tasty coffee and fast wifi. As an expat, most I have met who would adopt such a monicker are self-indulgent and insufferable. If you plan to hike Pacaya, you must dress appropriately, and that includes wearing the right shoeswear hiking boots or shoes with a thick sole. Antigua, Guatemala, is the vibrantly colored and charming cultural hub of the country. If you want to wander around souvenirs, nick nacks, and grab some local produce; this is the spot. [Sign up here for the T List newsletter, a weekly roundup of what T Magazine editors are noticing and coveting now.]. Nestled in the forested hills of southern Guatemala, the small city of Antigua was once the most prominent seat of Spanish colonial government between Mexico City and Lima, Peru .