Antigua
Antigua is Guatemala’s claim to fame, but it is far more than just a charming tourist town. Founded in 1543, Antigua served as Guatemala’s capital city for 233 years until a savage earthquake leveled much of the city and the capital was then moved to Guatemala City. The city was rebuilt, and many of the buildings were constructed during the 17th and 18th centuries. Three volcanoes circle Antigua which provides for beautiful landscape photography.
Where To Stay
Accommodations in Antigua can fill up fast, especially on weekends and days of special events. There are plenty of options for all budgets around Antigua’s central colonial area. Notable budget accommodations are Zoola Antigua, The Terrace Hostel, and Hotel Dionisio. If you’re looking for luxury (but still affordable), check out the spacious apartments at Hotel Soleil La Antigua.
What To Do
- Parque Central
Antigua’s adorable Parque Central is located in the heart of the city on a gorgeous colonial square near the Cathedral’s ruins. It’s a wonderful place to relax and watch the locals and tourists get around town. - Catedral de Santiago
Originally consecrated in 1541, Antigua’s iconic cathedral has been destroyed by earthquakes and restored and rebuilt over the centuries. It is sometimes referred to as Saint Joseph Cathedral.
- Museo del Libro Antiguo (Antique Book Museum)
Don’t let the name leave you unenthused – I was impressed with this quaint museum. It featured unique and incredibly old works of literature that have been magnificently preserved for our enjoyment. It’s fascinating to see how far human development in writing has come. - Museo de Arte Colonial (Colonial Art Museum)
Located inside the former University San Carlos on the square by Parque Central, the Museo de Arte Colonial is known for its architectural exhibits, sculptures, paintings, and furniture collection. The museum is closed on Mondays, open from 09-16:00 Tuesday – Thursday, and from 09-12:00 and 14:00-16:00 on Saturdays and Sundays. - Cerro de la Cruz
I’m a sucker for perfect views. The Cerro de la Cruz (or Hill of the Cross) offers Antigua’s best views. From here you can view all of this colonial city’s must-see historical sites, locals living their daily life, and all three volcanoes in the background. This viewpoint is what picture perfect is all about.
- Mercado de Artesanías
Located along what the locals call the “tree lined street,” Antigua’s vibrant market displays many Guatemalan handicrafts for sale. The market is open daily, but if you’re looking for the freshest vegetables and a bigger variety of handicrafts, Thursday is the best day to visit the market. Don’t forget to bargain at the market – first quoted prices are usually highly inflated.
- Chocomuseo
Chocomuseo’s name is a bit misleading, as it’s not really a chocolate museum. Yes, there are a few podiums and some information on the cacao plant and the production of chocolate, but the real point of Chocomuseo is its attached store. Inside this store are endless amounts of chocolate creations, delicacies, chocolate-covered everything, and even chocolate lip-gloss. If you can dream about it in chocolate, Chocomuseo probably has it. - Café No Se
Known as a mescal bar, Café No Se is a popular hang out spot for local expats, backpackers, and anyone looking to meet fellow travelers. This bar’s vibe is so laid-back and enticing that I went for brews here more than once. - Learn Spanish
In Antigua, there are dozens of world-class Spanish language schools. Take advantage and take a class to learn some key Spanish phrases, or stay for awhile and become fluent! - Visit a Thermal Spa
Antigua is surrounded by three volcanoes which provide the area with numerous hot springs. I took advantage of the hot healing waters at Santa Teresita thermal spa and enjoyed a relaxing day.
Stay Fit
- Climb the Volcanoes
Three volcanoes overlook colonial Antigua – Volcán Agua, Volcán Fuego, and Volcán Acatenango. All three volcanoes offer challenging hikes, but how close you can get to Volcán Fuego depends on how much activity its displayed recently. Volcán Acatenango is twin-peaked and offers hikers the greatest challenge. - Cycling
Cycling is a favorite pastime of Antigua’s locals. Rent a bike and hit some of the trails around town – or head over to one of the volcanoes and hit the trails there. Around Antigua there is no shortage of biking options.