Experience Antigua from A to Z - the most charming city in Central America.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, Antigua is a culturally rich tourist paradise for lovers of architecture, food, and coffee. With streets lined with vibrant purple jacaranda trees, squares where musicians conduct orchestras, and alleyways dotted with colorful eateries and stalls, Antigua has become a captivating destination in Central America, drawing a large number of visitors each year.

What to do in Antigua?

Antigua is full of charming local shopping areas. The Mercado de Artesanías is overflowing with colorful textiles, blankets, woven purses, and jewelry; or the Mercado de Carmen – located next to the ruins of Iglesia El Carmen – sells pottery, blankets, and jade at great prices… you're sure to be captivated by its charm.

But the ultimate shopping destination here has to be Mercado – a market with a full range of fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, and everything you need for daily life. The market, with its half-indoor, half-outdoor layout, winding walkways, and bustling stalls, will surprise you with its array of offerings.

The most iconic landmark in Antigua is the Santa Catalina Arch, built in 1694 as a passageway for nuns. The convent is now privately owned by a local family. A tip: get up early to capture a picture of the bright yellow clock tower with Mount Agua in the background, before the crowds arrive during peak hours.

For a more panoramic view, hike up Cerro de la Cruz (Hill of the Holy Cross) to admire the entire city. From here, you'll also see the three volcanoes surrounding the Antigua region.

In addition, the city has many churches worth exploring, especially the oldest church in Antigua, the San Francisco Church (1542). Or the La Merced church with its yellow facade, which is also a worthwhile destination to visit, although tourists have to pay about $2 to enter.

Guatemala is also famous for its jade and gemstone products, so you can't miss Casa del Jade to learn about this rare material in the world. You can also find something for yourself on Jade Maya Street, which displays many impressive stone products.

Where to go in Antigua?

Since Antigua is best known for its active volcanoes, it would be a shame not to climb one to see them. Pacaya is the easiest to climb, where you'll be thrilled to see lava erupting from the crater, and you'll have the chance to buy lava-based jewelry at some of the souvenir shops near the summit. There are also tour companies offering many affordable tours for this experience. Don't forget to bring some food and grilling equipment, as you might even have the opportunity to camp by the embers of a volcanic eruption.

In addition, investing in an overnight trip to the mystical Lake Atitlán is also a worthwhile activity, as no one can deny the mesmerizing beauty of the water nestled within the volcanic crater. It takes approximately two and a half hours by shuttle bus from the Calle Principal bus station to reach this location.

There are over a dozen Mayan villages to stay in here, but the best suggestion is Panajachel – a bohemian haven of freedom and liberation. This spacious area offers everything guests need while allowing them to experience the local culture firsthand.

Activities such as hiking, boating, swimming, exploring local art, eating chocolate, and learning about Mayan wool weaving are just some of the experiences visitors shouldn't miss when visiting Antigua.

What to eat in Antigua?

Breakfast is a big deal in Guatemala. Samsara – a vegan café in Antigua with a hippie vibe and a gluten-free menu – is a great place to enjoy breakfast. Their scrambled eggs with kale, spirulina, and turmeric, served with guacamole and plantain, are a highlight. Or you could try their black corn tortilla with organic egg and jocón – a traditional Guatemalan green salsa – which is also delicious. The region is also famous for its coffee, so you definitely shouldn't miss the experience on the romantic patio of Cafe Condesa.

What about lunch? Rainbow Cafe is a bookstore combined with a restaurant serving traditional sopas, organic salads, and a variety of gluten-free vegan options. It also regularly hosts talks by various NGOs, encouraging visitors to participate in their community volunteer activities.

In addition, Rincon Tipico is also one of the most popular lunch spots in the city, known for its affordable prices, enthusiastic service, and strong traditional style. Besides being surprised to see your food grilled over a wood fire right before your eyes, you'll be completely captivated to learn that all the food here is served on beautiful traditional Mayan pottery!

What should I drink in Antigua?

If you're looking for cocktails before dinner, head to Cafe Sky – boasting a stunning rooftop terrace and the perfect spot to watch the Antigua sunset. If you're a wine connoisseur, visit Tabacos y Vinos for an impressive selection of reasonably priced wines. To add to the evening's ambiance, Whiskey Den is an excellent choice, offering a relaxing atmosphere with drinks in cozy booths and soothing music.

Where is it in Antigua?

Selina is a "hybrid" hotel/dormitory with a vibrant atmosphere and neutral ambiance. It has two locations in Guatemala – one in Antigua and one on Lake Atitlán. Those on a budget can choose the dormitory rooms, while those seeking complete privacy can opt for the beautiful, airy rooms decorated by local artists and craftspeople. The most appealing aspect of Selina is the abundance of activities available, allowing guests to connect with like-minded individuals and immerse themselves in the local way of life.

You could also choose Mesón Panza Verde – a classic, upscale hotel with 12 rooms and a host of amenities such as an art gallery, yoga studio, and rooftop lounge. It's the perfect place to stay if you want a luxurious, European-inspired setting. Not to mention, the hotel boasts one of the best restaurants in the city.

Casa Santo Domingo is also an ideal five-star hotel. Formerly a monastery dating back to the 1500s, the building, though partially destroyed in the 1773 earthquake, was rebuilt around the ruins, creating a magical experience for guests. With the inclusion of a jade factory, art gallery, gym, and museum, you'll find it hard to resist leaving this fascinating hotel.

Quynh Anh