Antigua Guatemala Guatemala 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the City

  • Morning: Start your day at the iconic Cathedral of Santiago, a beautiful colonial church with stunning architecture.
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Museo Casa de la Cultura Ignaciano Chapín, a museum showcasing Antigua’s rich cultural heritage and history.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at El Puente del Diablo, a local eatery serving delicious traditional Guatemalan cuisine. Try their famous chicken soup or empanadas!
  • 1:30 PM: Take a stroll through the picturesque Calle del Carmen, a charming cobblestone street lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Fonda de la Calera, a cozy restaurant serving international cuisine. Be sure to try their famous steak or seafood dishes!

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Casa Santo Domingo: A beautifully restored colonial hotel located in the heart of Antigua, with comfortable rooms and stunning views.
  • Hotel Posada del Angel: A charming boutique hotel with elegant rooms, a peaceful courtyard, and a delicious breakfast buffet.

Getting Around

  • Walking: The best way to explore Antigua is on foot. Take your time and enjoy the city’s charming streets and historic buildings.
  • Colectivos: A convenient and affordable option for short trips around the city. Find a colectivo stand near the cathedral or at the bus station.

Things to Know

  • Weather: Antigua has a mild climate, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C). Bring layers for cooler mornings and evenings.
  • Language: Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English. Be sure to learn basic phrases like “gracias” (thank you) or “¿dónde está…?” (where is…?).
  • Safety: Antigua is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Day 2: Nature and Adventure

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the stunning Laguna de Loven, a beautiful lake surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil waters. Take a boat ride or hike around the lake for breathtaking views.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at La Casona, a local restaurant serving delicious grilled meats and traditional dishes.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the nearby Volcán de Pacaya, an active volcano offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Take a guided hike or horseback ride to explore the volcano’s summit.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant La Estación, a cozy eatery serving international cuisine and offering live music performances.

Day 3: Art, Culture, and Shopping

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Museo de Arte Colonial, a museum showcasing an impressive collection of colonial art and artifacts.
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the city’s vibrant arts scene at the Galería de Arte, featuring works by local artists and artisans. Be sure to check out the nearby shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at El Jardín, a charming cafe serving delicious sandwiches, salads, and baked goods.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Mercado de Artesanías, a bustling marketplace featuring local artisans selling handmade crafts, textiles, and artwork.

Day 4: Day Trip to Lake Atitlán

  • 8:00 AM: Take a day trip to Lake Atitlán, a stunning lake surrounded by lush greenery and traditional Mayan villages. Enjoy boat rides, hiking trails, or simply take in the breathtaking views.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at La Casa de los Abuelos, a local restaurant serving delicious traditional dishes.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the nearby village of Santiago Atitlán, featuring stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape. Take a guided tour or simply explore the village’s charming streets.

Where to Eat

  • El Puente del Diablo: A local eatery serving delicious traditional Guatemalan cuisine.
  • La Fonda de la Calera: A cozy restaurant serving international cuisine.
  • Restaurant La Estación: A cozy eatery serving international cuisine and offering live music performances.

Tips and Recommendations

  • Respect the local culture: Be mindful of the city’s colonial architecture, historic buildings, and traditional way of life.
  • Learn basic Spanish phrases: Show respect for the local language and culture by learning basic phrases like “gracias” (thank you) or “¿dónde está…?” (where is…?).
  • Stay hydrated: Antigua can be hot and sunny, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Explore on foot: The best way to experience Antigua’s charm is on foot. Take your time and enjoy the city’s historic streets and buildings.

Additional Tips

  • Book accommodations in advance: Antigua is a popular tourist destination, so book your accommodations well in advance to ensure availability.
  • Exchange currency: Exchange some currency for Guatemalan quetzals (GTQ) before arriving or at an ATM in Antigua.
  • Bring layers: Antigua’s climate can be cool and sunny, so bring layers for cooler mornings and evenings.