Antigua Guatemala: what to do?

When I went to Guatemala for a few weeks, city ​​of Antigua was my first stop. It is often said that this is the most beautiful city in the country. This city and its monuments are classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Indeed, I was not disappointed when I came to visit this small town.

Trust me, you'll have plenty to keep you busy for a few days in this small colonial town. 

Antigua Guatemala: a bit of history

Antigua Guatemala, also called more simply Antigua (Antilles), is theancient capital from Guatemala. The city was founded in 1543 by the Spaniards under the name of Santiago de los Caballeros from Guatemala with the intention of becoming the third capital of the Kingdom of Guatemala. Developing during the Golden Age, it was recognized as the third most beautiful city in the Spanish Indies.

The city is known for its colonial architecture in baroque style and Spanish Renaissance and for its ruins caused by the earthquakes of 1773. This is the reason why the Spanish government has decided to move the capital elsewhere, in Guatemala City. 

As a result, the city retains its aspect of the time and is often found to be a favorite with tourists who come to visit.

How to go to Antigua?

Antigua is an important city in Guatemala, it is easy to get there. Obviously, it all depends on your starting point. 

If you arrive frominternational airport or Guatemala Cityyou will find buses / shuttles making connections all day. This is the way to cheapest transport (around 5/10 €) and the journey will take you between 40 minutes and 2 hours (I had no luck I fell in full traffic and I took 2 hours to reach Antigua from the airport).

You also have the option of taking a taxi who will take you more expensive (around 30/50 € depending on the hour). Also, Uber is available for a slightly lower price than a taxi, however, when I arrived my hotel advised me against opting for this option due to some bad experiences from some of their clients. 

During the day you can opt for a tuk-tuk in order to connect the airport to Antigua.

If you are arriving from another destination, be aware that you can join Antigua live coming in particular from Lake Atitlan, Flores, Lanquin, Río Dulce etc. Obviously the price varies depending on the route but you will find many tourist shuttles making these trips every day.

How to get around Antigua?

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Antigua Guatemala is a small colonial town where it is quite possible to move on foot all over. Indeed it is a rather practical choice because all the center Antigua city is paved where it is sometimes more practical to walk on foot than by bicycle or car.

However, if you wish, you can easily get around by tuk-tuk and it will not cost you not very expensive (travel for € 1 to € 5). Also, you will find something rent scooters if you wish it.

What to visit in Antigua Guatemala?

Antigua (Antilles) is a nice little town colorful colonial is alive. This is a perfect place to gently acclimatize to the rhythm of local life and recover from your potential jet lag.

This city, rich in history, offers many alternatives to each. Among the things to see in Antigua, here are the main ones.

Santa Catalina Arch

THEmost beautiful arch from Guatemala. It is also said to be the city ​​gate . The costs of this arch dates back to the XNUMXth century century. Originally its construction was intended to provide access to an isolated path between the Convent of Santa Catalina and a school. 

It is probably the most famous and most touristic building in Antigua. With clear weather you will have the chance to have the Pacaya volcano in the background behind the arch.

Hill of the Cross

Take to the skies and come admire this beautiful point of view which is offered at Cerro de la Cruz on the city of Antigua and the three volcanoes that surround it : Pacaya, Fuego and Acatenango.

You'll need about 20 minutes to climb the steps that will allow you to reach this worthwhile point of view. 

Central Park

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Main square of Antigua Guatemala, the "Plaza Mayor" lives to the rhythm of the inhabitants. This place is surrounded by majestic architectures going from the town hall to the city's cathedral. 

Tanque la Union

This is a social gathering place. You will find 22 washhouses in the city where the locals come wash their clothes. This small square away from the main square is very authentic and offers a beautiful view of the surrounding volcanoes. 

Churches and cathedrals

Antigua Guatemala has a strong history between colonization and the various earthquakes that destroyed some of the city's historic monuments. 

You will therefore be served culture and history levele in this city. Of many churches, cathedrals or ruins are present in this city. 

Among & unmissables, we find in particular:

• The monastery and church of Merced : with its yellow facade adorned with white moldings, you can't miss it. This church is emblematic of the city.
• The nasturtium convent : dating from the XNUMXth century where around twenty nuns lived.
• Santiago Cathedral: destroyed by the earthquake of 1773. You will therefore have the opportunity to visit the ruins of this old cathedral.
• San Pedro Church
• Ruins of the Church of San Augustine
• Saint Joseph Cathedral

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Le Marché

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Take a walk in the small alleys of the market is a real immersion in local life. You there will find absolutely everything : food, clothing, etc. Between bright colors and appetizing smells, you can only treat yourself by going for a walk in the Antigua market. The aisles can be very narrow and crowded, so take care of your belongings.

Next to this market is the handicraft market of the city where you will have the opportunity to find many local souvenirs and decorative accessories.

Cocoa and Chocolate Museum

Le Guatemala is known for his chocolate or his coffee. Do not hesitate to visit one of the chocolate factories or the museum to learn more about this activity.

What to visit around Antigua Guatemala?

Beyond visiting the city of Antigua, it is a ideal starting point for a few excursions around the city.

In particular the main activities that we find in the surroundings are:

• The ascent of the Pacaya volcano: Pacaya is one of the active volcanoes of Guatemala. You have the possibility of making its ascent during the day (not to the top of course). This climb takes around 4/5 hours round trip and is accessible to everyone.
• The ascent of the Acatenango volcano: The ascent of the Acatenango volcano is reserved for the more athletic because you will reach the summit at 4000 meters above sea level and you will sleep in a tent at the top in order to spend the evening admiring the eruption of the Fuego volcano opposite. 
• Visiting the Chichicastenango market: Thursday and Sunday takes place the Chichicastenango market which is the largest market in the country. You have the possibility of going for the day to visit this colorful market.

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