Guatemala is a beautiful country with warm and welcoming people. If you’re planning a visit, be sure to stop by Antigua. This historic city is known for its colorful streets, colonial architecture, and stunning volcano views. Having the right travel tips can help you make the most of your time in Antigua. From finding the best places to stay to exploring must-see attractions, this guide will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Keep reading for tips on where to go, the best restaurants to try, and how to stay safe while exploring Antigua, this charming destination.
The History and Charm of Antigua
Antigua, Guatemala, was once the capital of the country during Spanish colonial rule. Founded in the 16th century, it was originally called Santiago de los Caballeros. The city thrived as an important political and religious center, filled with grand churches, convents, and government buildings. However, a series of strong earthquakes in the 1700s caused massive destruction, leading the government to move the capital to present-day Guatemala City.
Despite the damage, Antigua was never abandoned. Over time, the city was rebuilt while preserving its colonial charm. Today, its cobblestone streets, historic ruins, and beautifully restored buildings attract visitors from around the world. Antigua is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its rich history and well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture.
Beyond its history, Antigua has a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Cafés, markets, and boutique hotels line its colorful streets, creating the perfect setting for exploration. Surrounded by volcanoes, the city also offers stunning views and outdoor adventures.
Travel Tips for Affordable Stays in Antigua
There are plenty of options for finding affordable accommodations in Antigua, Guatemala, especially if you’re open to staying in hostels. Many dorm rooms start at budget-friendly prices as low as $12 per night, while private rooms offer more comfort at a higher cost.
Some of the hostels I recommend are Barbara Boutique Hotel, Ojala, and Maya Papaya if you’re looking for a quiet place to relax or work. If you prefer a more lively atmosphere with music and partying, Adra Hostel and Selina are great options. All of these hostels are highly rated and cost around $20 to $30 per night. It all depends on your preference, but these are some of the best options I enjoyed.
One of the best travel tips for staying in Antigua is to book in advance, especially for popular places. My favorite hostel so far was Ojala, which had a peaceful atmosphere, friendly staff, and a beautiful courtyard perfect for unwinding.
Most hostels in Antigua do not provide towels, but you can rent one for a small fee. It’s also a good idea to bring your own lock for the lockers, as they are not always provided. If you prefer to cook your own meals, check whether the hostel has a kitchen before booking.
With so many options available, finding a great place to stay in Antigua is easy, whether you’re looking for a lively social space or a quiet retreat.
Best Tours and Activities in Antigua
If you’re looking for tours and activities in Antigua, there are plenty of great experiences to try. One of my favorites is the ATV Sunset Tour, which takes you to Hobbitenango and Cerro de la Cruz. While you can book through travel apps like TripAdvisor or Viator, local agencies like Simoon Rentals & Tours offer better prices. Another great option is the GuruWalk walking tour, which is free to join—you just tip the guide at the end.
For adventure seekers, I highly recommend the Pacaya Volcano hike, which I booked through Selina Hostel for $15 per person (not including park entrance fees). It’s a guided tour and well worth it for the views and experience. If you’re up for a bigger challenge, the Acatenango Volcano trek is an overnight hike with breathtaking scenery. For something shorter and easier, Cerro de la Cruz is a great 20-minute walk that offers a stunning view of Antigua from the top.
When booking tours in Antigua, I don’t recommend using big agencies like Booking.com or TripAdvisor, as their prices are usually higher. They also claim tours are sold out when local agencies still have plenty of availability. Every hostel I stayed at had tour options, often at better prices. The best travel tip is to wait until you arrive in Antigua, compare prices, and book directly with local agencies to find the best deals.
Travel Dining Tips in Antigua
Antigua has plenty of great restaurant options, whether you’re vegan or not. Samsara is my favorite vegan spot with an amazing menu. I loved it so much that I ate there for breakfast and dinner three days in a row. For a more upscale experience, Once Once and La Bruja are excellent choices for both vegans and non-vegans. El Bowl is another great option if you’re looking for a small, healthy restaurant.
For non-vegan options, Fridas is a must-try, especially for their delicious tacos and desserts like ice cream with churros. Ta’Cool Taco Shop is another great choice, known for its shrimp tacos and frozen margaritas, which my younger daughter enjoyed.
I personally loved Cafe Cafe Guatemala for breakfast. They offer great options like smoothies and chai tea, and the service was excellent. Another great restaurant in Antigua is Caoba Farms, which serves fresh, organic farm-to-table meals. Their organic pizza was one of my favorites.
Most of the restaurants I mentioned in Antigua aren’t cheap since they cater to tourists. If you’re traveling on a budget, visiting local markets and grocery stores in Antigua is a great travel tip. You can find fresh bread and other essentials at much lower prices than in restaurants. While in Antigua, we bought several breakfast breads for just 50 cents—an easy and affordable way to eat.
Travel Tips for Transportation to and Around Antigua
Getting around in Guatemala can be tricky due to heavy traffic, especially in Guatemala City. To avoid long delays, it’s best to travel to Antigua later in the evening or between 10 AM and 2 PM. Otherwise, the journey can take up to an hour and a half instead of the usual 45 minutes.
From La Aurora Airport in Guatemala City, you have several options. A taxi costs around $50, while Uber is a more affordable choice at $35 to $45. Shuttle buses are another good option. They cost about $20 per person, and you can book through travel agencies, hostels, or companies like Guatego. On my trip, I used Uber to get to Antigua and a shuttle for my return to the airport. Prices for shuttles vary, so shopping around can help you find a better deal.
Once in Antigua, getting around is easy, especially if you’re staying within the city. The town is small and walkable, with plenty of shops and attractions nearby. If you’re traveling farther, there are transportation options available, but most places can be reached on foot.
Travel Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip to Antigua
Antigua, Guatemala, is a beautiful and welcoming destination, rich in history and full of great places to explore. The town is generally safe, even at night, especially in busy areas where street vendors sell delicious local food. However, like any place, it’s important to stay cautious. Stick to well-lit, crowded areas, avoid dark and narrow streets, and always be aware of your surroundings and belongings. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
When it comes to money, there are plenty of ATMs and banks in Antigua where you can withdraw money. Many restaurants in Antigua accept credit cards, but having cash on hand can be useful for smaller establishments or street vendors.
Make the Most of Your Trip to Antigua
Antigua, Guatemala, is a wonderful place to explore, offering a mix of history, culture, and adventure. With its welcoming atmosphere, vibrant charm, and amazing restaurants, it’s easy to see why so many travelers love Antigua.
Keeping an open mind, embracing new experiences, and staying flexible with your plans will help you make the most of your visit. Travel with curiosity, enjoy the local culture, and take in all the beauty this charming town has to offer!
