Looking for the best places to visit in Antigua, Guatemala? This is the guide for you!
Antigua is the beautiful, colonial city of Guatemala- and the nation’s first capital.
It is perhaps best known for the vibrant, yellow Santa Catalina Arch framing the towering Agua Volcun.
Its cobblestone roads, historic architecture, and colorful buildings are just some of the many reasons tourists from near and far come to visit.
I had the pleasure of visiting Antigua in March 2024. It is a charming, colonial city and I look forward to when I can visit next!
Let’s dive in!
Best Places to Visit in Antigua
1. Santa Catalina Arch
The Santa Catalina Arch is a central point in Antigua and a favorite for quick photo stops.
It’s easy to spot thanks to its bold yellow color and the clock tower added in the 1800s.
Most people pass under it while walking along 5a Avenida Norte, one of the busiest streets in town.
Street vendors and performers often gather nearby, adding to the energy of the area.
Visitors will find that arriving early in the morning not only offers the best lighting for photos but also means fewer crowds.
2. Parque Centro
Parque Centro is conveniently located in the center of Downtown Antigua.
Surrounded by a beautiful church, quaint walking paths, and your pick at tons of restaurants, it’s a popular stop (or stroll-through) while exploring.
Highlights include the Fuente de Las Sirenas fountain in its center and the Cathedral de Santiago adjacent.
There’s many hostels nearby as well, if you want to base yourself right in the center of activity.
⭐Popular Antigua Hotels
3. Mercado de Artesanias
The Mercado de Artesanias is on most “things to do in Antigua” guides, but it felt very pressurey during my visit and didn’t have the lowest costs.
(I found the best prices on Artisan goods in Panajachel during my Lake Atitlan visit).
4. Cerro De La Cruz
The beautiful hilltop viewpoint provides panoramic views over Antigua.
Tip: Visit on a clear day when cloud coverage is lowest. You might not be able to plan ahead, depending on when you visit. I visited on a relatively cloudy day and still found it beautiful (see photo).
More Antigua Planning Guides
5. Rooftop Views
And speaking of views, you can get some of the best views of Antigua from local coffee shops or restaurants in Antigua.
Tip: You can even find views from various hostel rooftops. I loved the view from Maison Bougainvillea 20 minutes outside of the city center.
Read next: Best Restaurants in Antigua
6. Ruins
Antigua is filled with ruins that showcase the city’s colonial history and the devastation caused by earthquakes.
Notable sites like the Convento de las Capuchinas and the Cathedral of San José give visitors a glimpse into Antigua’s past, with crumbled walls, arches, and courtyards still standing tall.
7. Wander cobblestone roads
Yup, sounds like a basic one. However, navigating the narrow, cobblestone streets of historic Antigua offers a uniquely beautiful experience.
The journey through these ancient passageways is an adventure in itself, revealing the charm and historical depth of the city at every corner.
Note: I felt very safe walking by myself as a solo female traveler in Antigua. As always, follow general safety precautions.
8. Free Walking Tour
Prefer to walk with a group, or to learn what you are looking at as you go?
Free walking tours are one of my favorite ways to acclimate to a new city or to learn a bit more about my surroundings after I become familiar.
There are tons of free walking tours you can sign up for online in advance.
I took a walking tour during the beautiful Semana Santa procesiones.
Places to visit near Antigua
1. Lake Atitlan
Lake Atitlan is one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited. This incredible volcanic lake is surrounded by 13 towns, that you travel to by water ferry.
Consider going from Antigua to Lake Atitlan and visiting some of the following towns:
2. Day Trips
The beauty of basing yourself in Antigua is the accessibility it offers to some of Guatemala’s most captivating sights.
Leaving room for a day trip or two on any Antigua itinerary is key!
Imagine a day spent wandering through lush coffee plantations, peering into the active craters of towering volcanoes, or uncovering the rich Mayan heritage in nearby villages.
There are some beautiful locations within 30-60 minutes of the city.
⭐Popular Day Trips from Antigua
Conclusion
Antigua is a city rich in history and charm.
With landmarks like the Santa Catalina Arch and historic ruins scattered throughout, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
Whether you’re exploring the colonial streets or taking in the views, Antigua offers a well-rounded and memorable experience!
