Antigua Guatemala Guatemala 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive in Antigua Guatemala and check-in at Hotel Casa Santo Domingo or similar.
  • Afternoon: Explore the historic center of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the famous Parque Central, surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings, cafes, and shops.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Fonda de la Calle Real, serving traditional Guatemalan cuisine.

Day 2: Volcanoes and Views

  • Morning: Take a guided hike to the top of Cerro de la Cruz, offering stunning views of Antigua and surrounding volcanoes.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby village of San Juan del Obispo, known for its traditional pottery and weaving.
  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening at El Mesón de la Estrella, offering live music and Guatemalan cuisine.

Day 3: Cultural Immersion

  • Morning: Visit the famous Mercado de Antigua, where you can find local handicrafts, textiles, and try traditional street food.
  • Afternoon: Take a cooking class at La Casa de las Sopas to learn about Guatemalan cuisine and cook your own lunch.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Bistro 7, offering international cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

Day 4: Outdoor Adventures

  • Morning: Take a guided bike tour to the nearby town of San Miguel Dueñas, passing through scenic countryside and coffee plantations.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Finca El Pilar, a coffee farm offering tours and tastings.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Azotea, offering Guatemalan cuisine with stunning views of Antigua.

Day 5: Relaxation and Wellness

  • Morning: Treat yourself to a spa day at The Spa at Casa Santo Domingo, offering massages, facials, and other treatments.
  • Afternoon: Take some time to relax by the pool or explore the hotel’s beautiful gardens.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at El Olivo, serving Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

Day 6: Day Trip to Lake Atitlán

  • Morning: Take a guided day trip to Lake Atitlán, a stunning lake surrounded by three volcanoes.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby town of Santiago Atitlán, known for its colorful markets and traditional Mayan culture.
  • Evening: Return to Antigua and enjoy dinner at La Casa de las Ensaladas, offering healthy and delicious salads.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market.
  • Afternoon: Depart for the airport or your next destination.

Things to Know

  • Antigua Guatemala is at high altitude, so be prepared for mild altitude sickness and take necessary precautions.
  • The city is relatively small, but cobblestone streets can make walking challenging. Wear comfortable shoes!
  • Guatemalan quetzal (GTQ) is the local currency, although USD is widely accepted.
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to interact with locals and appreciate the culture.

Transportation

  • Antigua Guatemala is easily walkable, but you can also take taxis or tuk-tuks for shorter distances.
  • For longer trips, book private shuttles or buses in advance through companies like Atitlán Tours.
  • If driving, be aware of local traffic laws and parking challenges.

Tips

  • Be respectful of local culture and customs, especially when visiting churches or indigenous communities.
  • Try to learn some basic Spanish phrases to interact with locals and appreciate the culture.
  • Be prepared for variable weather, including rain showers and cooler evenings.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.

Other Things of Interest

  • Take a guided tour to the nearby Pacaya Volcano for stunning views and adventure.
  • Visit the Museo de Arte Colonial to learn about Antigua’s rich colonial history.
  • Explore the vibrant street art scene in Antigua, with many murals and graffiti adorning buildings.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, adventure, relaxation, and exploration, giving you a well-rounded experience of Antigua Guatemala. Enjoy your trip!