Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala-6-day-itinerary

Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala: A 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Arrival: Fly into La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City, then take a shuttle or taxi to Antigua Guatemala ( approx. 1-hour journey)
  • Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Casa Santo Domingo or similar
  • Morning: Explore the historic center of Antigua, starting from Parque Central and walking through the cobblestone streets to admire the colonial architecture
  • Afternoon: Visit the famous Iglesia de La Merced, a stunning yellow church with impressive views of the city
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Guatemalan cuisine at La Fonda de la Calle Real and try their famous pepián (a hearty meat stew)
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks
    • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (4-6 pm) to avoid traffic

Day 2: Volcanoes and Views

  • Morning: Take a guided hike up Cerro de la Cruz, offering breathtaking views of Antigua and the surrounding volcanoes ( approx. 2-hour hike)
  • Lunch: Head to Café Con Arte for delicious sandwiches and salads, plus stunning views of Volcán de Agua
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby town of San Juan del Obispo, known for its picturesque streets and historic church
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Guatemalan dinner at El Mesón and try their famous chiles rellenos (stuffed peppers)
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially when hiking
    • Respect local communities and traditions when visiting nearby towns

Day 3: Markets and Crafts

  • Morning: Visit the bustling Mercado de Antigua, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handicrafts
  • Lunch: Try some street food at the market or grab a bite at Café Sky for great views of the surrounding hills
  • Afternoon: Explore the many artisan shops and markets in town, such as Nim Po’t and Arte y Reciclaje
  • Evening: Enjoy live music and cocktails at The Roof Top Bar
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared to haggle at the market
    • Support local artisans by purchasing their handicrafts

Day 4: Relaxation and Wellness

  • Morning: Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa day at The Spa at Casa Santo Domingo
  • Lunch: Enjoy healthy options at Green House Café
  • Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque Parque de las Palomas
  • Evening: Dine on gourmet cuisine at Bistro 7 and try their famous risotto
  • Things to know:
    • Book spa appointments in advance to ensure availability
    • Respect the local environment by reducing waste and using eco-friendly products

Day 5: Adventure and Nature

  • Morning: Take a guided tour to Pacaya Volcano, an active volcano with stunning views ( approx. 4-hour journey)
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch at the base of the volcano or grab food from a local vendor
  • Afternoon: Visit the Finca El Pilar, a coffee farm and nature reserve with hiking trails and scenic views
  • Evening: Return to Antigua and enjoy dinner at La Casa de las Ensaladas
  • Tips:
    • Wear comfortable shoes and clothing for the volcano hike
    • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay hydrated

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local museum, such as the Museo de Arte Colonial
  • Departure: Take a shuttle or taxi back to La Aurora International Airport (GUA) for your departure flight

Transportation:

  • Shuttle services are available from the airport to Antigua Guatemala
  • Tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available in town, but be sure to negotiate prices beforehand
  • Walking is a great way to explore the historic center of Antigua

Other tips and things to know:

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak holiday seasons (e.g. Semana Santa)
  • Guatemala uses the Quetzal as its official currency, but USD is widely accepted
  • Stay informed about local events and festivals to make the most of your trip

Accommodation options:

  • Hotel Casa Santo Domingo: A luxurious hotel with stunning views of the city
  • Posada del Ángel: A charming boutique hotel with colonial architecture
  • Hostal Antiguo: A budget-friendly option with a great location and friendly staff

Restaurants and cafes:

  • La Fonda de la Calle Real: Traditional Guatemalan cuisine in a historic setting
  • Café Con Arte: Delicious sandwiches and salads with stunning views of Volcán de Agua
  • El Mesón: Hearty traditional dishes in a cozy atmosphere
  • Green House Café: Healthy options and great coffee in a peaceful setting

Things to do:

  • Hike Cerro de la Cruz for breathtaking views of Antigua and the surrounding volcanoes
  • Explore the many artisan shops and markets in town, such as Nim Po’t and Arte y Reciclaje
  • Visit the nearby town of San Juan del Obispo for its picturesque streets and historic church
  • Take a guided tour to Pacaya Volcano for an unforgettable adventure