Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Antigua Guatemala

  • Morning: Arrive at La Aurora International Airport (GUA) or shuttle from nearby cities like Lake Atitlán

  • Place to Stay: Hotel Casa Azul (starts at $30/night), a charming boutique hotel with comfortable rooms and a great breakfast spread.

  • What to Do: Check-in, freshen up, and get accustomed to the town’s colonial charm. Visit the Parque Central (Central Park) for its beautiful fountain, street performers, and lively atmosphere.

  • Where to Eat: Grab lunch at El Olivo, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Guatemalan cuisine (try their empanadas!).

  • Tips:

    • Be prepared for cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks.
    • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to interact with locals.

Day 2: Explore Antigua’s Historic Sites

  • Morning: Visit the Cathedral de Santiago (starts at $5 entrance fee), a stunning colonial church built in the 16th century. Take note of its intricate stone carvings and ornate interior.

  • Afternoon: Wander through the Museo del Hermano Pedro, showcasing Guatemalan art, history, and cultural artifacts.

  • Place to Visit: The nearby San Jose Artisan Cooperative (free entrance) for an opportunity to learn about traditional crafts like pottery-making, weaving, or woodcarving.

  • Where to Eat: Enjoy dinner at Café Condesa, offering delicious coffee, baked goods, and breakfast items with a view of the city.

  • Things to Know:

    • Antigua’s historic area is relatively small, making it easy to explore on foot.
    • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.

Day 3: Surrounding Towns & Villages

  • Morning: Visit nearby San Pedro de la Laguna (starts at $5 entrance fee), a picturesque town with colorful colonial architecture and a lively market.
  • Afternoon: Explore the historic town of Ciudad Vieja (starts at $10 entrance fee), a charming settlement known for its cobblestone streets, old churches, and historical significance.
  • What to Do: Visit local artisans selling traditional crafts like textiles, pottery, or handmade jewelry.
  • Where to Eat: Stop by La Casa de los Abuelos, offering homemade Guatemalan cuisine with a cozy atmosphere.

Day 4: Nature & Outdoor Activities

  • Morning: Take an Agua Volcano hike (starts at $40 entrance fee), offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and volcano.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Pacaya National Park, where you can explore volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and tropical forests.
  • Place to Visit: The nearby Chajul Lake (free entrance) for a peaceful boat ride or simply admiring its serene atmosphere.

Day 5: Local Markets & Shopping

  • Morning: Visit the bustling Mercado de San Juan (free entrance), offering local produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
  • Afternoon: Explore the town’s many shops and markets selling traditional crafts like textiles, jewelry, or ceramics.
  • Where to Eat: Enjoy lunch at La Casa del Cafe, a cozy café with delicious coffee, baked goods, and sandwiches.

Day 6: Relaxation & Leisure

  • Morning: Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa treatment (starts at $40) at one of Antigua’s many spas.
  • Afternoon: Simply relax in your hotel or find a quiet spot to enjoy the town’s peaceful atmosphere.
  • What to Do: Visit the nearby Pueblo de San Antonio, where you can explore its charming streets, visit local artisans, and enjoy traditional Guatemalan cuisine.

Day 7: Departure from Antigua

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions.
  • Afternoon: Check-out of your hotel and depart for the airport or shuttle to your next destination.