Antigua Guatemala Guatemala 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Friday

  • Morning
    • Start the day with a traditional Guatemalan breakfast at Café con Leche (8am-12pm) in La Antigua. Try their famous coffee and toast with eggs or queso fresco.
    • Visit the stunning Cathedral of Santiago (9am-5pm), one of the most iconic landmarks in La Antigua. Take a moment to admire its intricate stone carvings and ornate decorations.
  • Afternoon
    • Explore the cobblestone streets of La Antigua’s historic center, taking in the colorful colonial architecture, lively markets, and quaint shops.
    • Visit the Palacio de la Merced (9am-5pm), a beautiful 16th-century palace that now houses the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology.
  • Evening
    • Head to the popular Café Porta del Sol (8am-10pm) for dinner and live music. Try their delicious sandwiches, salads, or soups.
    • Enjoy a relaxing evening stroll through the historic center, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant town.

Day 2: Saturday

  • Morning
    • Visit the famous ChocoMuseo (10am-6pm), where you can learn about the history of chocolate-making and even create your own chocolate creations.
    • Wander through the nearby Parque Central, a picturesque park surrounded by historic buildings, shops, and restaurants.
  • Afternoon
    • Take a scenic hike to the top of Cerro de la Cruz (10am-5pm), offering breathtaking views of La Antigua and surrounding countryside. You can also visit the small chapel and statue at the summit.
    • Visit the Museo del Jade (9am-5pm), which showcases an impressive collection of jade artifacts from pre-Columbian times.
  • Evening
    • Enjoy dinner at El Mesón, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Guatemalan cuisine in a historic setting.
    • End the evening with a visit to the Café con Leche for some live music and dancing.

Day 3: Sunday

  • Morning
    • Visit the beautiful Convent of San Francisco (9am-5pm), one of the most impressive colonial-era buildings in La Antigua.
    • Explore the nearby Mercado de Artesanías, where you can find unique handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the Iglesia de San José (9am-5pm), a stunning example of colonial architecture with intricate stone carvings and ornate decorations.
    • Take some time to relax at your hotel or in one of La Antigua’s many parks, such as the Parque Minerva.

Accommodations

La Antigua has a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets. Some popular options include:

  • Hotel Casa Azul: A charming boutique hotel with comfortable rooms and a beautiful garden.
  • Casa Santo Domingo: A historic hotel located in the heart of La Antigua’s historic center, offering luxurious rooms and excellent service.

Transportation

La Antigua is easily accessible by bus or shuttle from nearby cities like Guatemala City. Once you arrive, you can walk or take a taxi to get around town. There are also plenty of bike rentals available if you’d like to explore the surrounding countryside.

Tips and Reminders

  • Be sure to try some local cuisine, such as pupusas, tamales, or chiles rellenos.
  • Don’t miss the opportunity to visit a traditional Guatemalan coffee farm or learn about the history of chocolate-making at the ChocoMuseo.
  • Take care when walking around La Antigua’s cobblestone streets, and be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak tourist season (December-February) for smaller crowds.

Other Things to Know

  • Weather: La Antigua has a mild climate year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
  • Safety: As with any travel destination, take normal precautions to ensure your safety, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables secure.
  • Language: While many locals speak some English, it’s still a good idea to learn basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable trip to La Antigua, Guatemala!