Best known for its colorful streets and historic buildings, there are many things to do in Antigua Guatemala beyond just the instagram moments.
Before you plan your trip to Antigua read How to get from Guatemala City to Antigua
History of Antigua Guatemala
Guatemala has a diverse and rich history dating back thousands of years with the Mayan people. Even today, there are over 20 Mayan languages still spoken throughout Guatemala, despite Spanish being the official language.
In the early 1500s, Spain extended their quest for land and started to colonize Central America. They founded “New Spain” in what is now Southern Mexico through Costa Rica. After two failed capital cities (the second was destroyed by the Volcán de Agua), the third capital of the New Spain colony was settled in present day Antigua. This city thrived for two centuries, until in 1773 an earthquake destroyed much of the city. Rather than continue to rebuild, the Spanish government moved itself (and most of the residents) to present day Guatemala City. While no longer the capital of New Spain, it remains the capital of Guatemala.
Nearly 200 years after the destruction and partial abandonment of the city, Antigua was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the city grid plan and preservation (despite the earthquake damage) of colonial architecture. What was once an abandoned town, is now one full of life, and dressed in vibrant colors.
Free things to do in Antigua Guatemala Guatemala
Take a photo at the Arco de Santa Catalina
The famous Arco de Santa Catalina is easily the most iconic structure in all of Antigua. Naturally, getting a photo of or with the arch is usually at the top of the list of things to do in Antigua Guatemala. The arch is just 2 blocks north of Parque Central.
This arch was built in the 1600s to connect the existing convent to an extension directly across the street so that the nuns would not have to walk in public.
After visiting the Santa Catalina arch, you can hang out at one of the many bars and restaurants along the street, or continue one block north to view the Iglesia de la Merced. Unlike the 16th century cathedral on the Parque Central, this church built in the 1700s has a very different aesthetic. The building is painted a bright yellow, with highly ornate columns and archways showcasing white decorative detailing and sculptures.
Enjoy the Parque Central de Antigua Guatemala.
The Parque Central de Antigua Guatemala is the central park in Antigua both for orientation and activity. On the north side of the park is city hall and the ChocoMuseo. To the east is the the Cathedral of San Jose. The church is open to viewing for free during standard hours. On the south side of the park is the Museo Nacional de Arte de Guatemala (MUNAG). And along the west are shops, cafes and fast food restaurants.
The park always has a lot of activity happening from local vendors and artisans to live music and dancing, or enjoy an ice cream from one of the surrounding vendors.
In the month of July there is a book fair at the park with dozens of vendors selling a variety of books. From classics to fantasy, there’s a genre for everyone.
MUNAG – Museo Nacional de Arte de Guatemala
The Museo Nacional de Arte de Guatemala is a fantastic free museum right on the Parque Central de Antigua Guatemala. The museum has a broad span of art from the indigenous people prior to Spanish colonization, during colonial rule, and post independence. There are also a number of rooms featuring modern and contemporary Guatemalan artists.
Beyond the visual history of the city and country, the museum is set in the former Palace of the Captains General. As this was a building for the men in power during the colonial era, it boasts incredible views of the Volcán de Agua from the interior walkways and giant central courtyard. If you aren’t an art lover, it is worth the time to walk through the building and the courtyards. There is also an wonderful gift shop that has a wide array of art and crafts made by locals. If you’re looking for an elevated souvenir, this is the place to go.
The museum is open Tuesday – Sunday from 10 am – 6pm.
Climb to the Cerro de La Cruz
Just outside of the main city center is an incredible view of Antigua and the Volcán de Agua. You can either walk 15-20 min from the city center, or grab a tuk tuk to the base of the hill. Once you get there, it is a 10-15 min uphill climb to the park.
At the end of the path is the famous Cerro de la Cruz cross and viewpoint. There is a large seating area to enjoy the views, and further up the hill are park benches. During the day there are often locals selling food to park visitors. You can usually find a tuk tuk at the bottom of the hill waiting to return you to the city center. Always make sure to confirm the price before you accept the ride.
Low Cost Things to See in Antigua Guatemala
Ruinas de La Antigua Catedral Metropolitana de Santiago de Los Caballeros de Guatemala
There are many ruins in Antigua Guatemala, but the cathedral ruins are the most popular. This church stood for almost 200 years before the city was hit by a devastating earthquake. After that time, the capital moved to Guatemala City, and most of the residents along with it. The cathedral was hit with subsequent earthquakes over time and eventually restoration efforts were abandoned.
You can walk through the (now) open air structure. Despite no longer having a roof over most of the buildling, you will still feel the grandiose size of the former chapel space.
As you walk through there are signs detailing how the different areas of the church were used, and how they connect to the portion of the attached church that stands today. Don’t miss walking through the underground tombs before leaving.
Entry is 20 Quetzal (Q) per person for foreigners, which is less than $3 USD. They are open daily from 9am to 5pm.
Museo de Arte Colonial
Across the street from the entrance to the cathedral ruins is the Museo de Arte Colonial. This building started as a seminary school in the 1700s. Like the cathedral, and most other buildings in Antigua, it was damaged in the major earthquake, and the building was abandoned when most of the city was moved to Guatemala City.
Eventually the building was reclaimed, and has served many functions. Today it houses furniture, paintings and sculptures from the colonial era.
Entry is 50Q per person for foreigners ($6.50 USD). They are open Monday – Friday from 9am to 5pm.
Museums at Hotel Casa Santo Domingo
This large hotel is built on the site of a former convent. Inside are beautiful grounds which include tropical birds and historic ruins. You can explore the archeological sites, as well as their 6 permanent museums for a small entry fee.
The museums are open Monday – Saturday 9am – 6pm and Sunday from 11am to 6pm. Confirm entry pricing directly with the hotel.
Fun things to do in Antigua Guatemala
Walking Tour
I love taking a walking tour, especially in cities like Antigua that have so much history. This is a wonderful way to learn more about the history and culture from a local. Often times, I’ve ended up on a tour alone, or like in Antigua, with only two other people.
During the tour you learn about different important sites in the city, while also getting a good lay of the land. Tour guides can also be great resources for finding where to eat or drink.
Usually, with a short tour you will just get a quick glimpse of the city without spending much time in the major sites, but it will provide you with different ideas on things to do in Antigua once the tour ends.
You can find walking tours from $25-35 for a 2-3 hour tour.
ChocoMuseo
One of the most unique things to do in Antigua Guatemala is to enjoy a chocolate workshop at the ChocoMuseo (chocolate museum). In this interactive 2 hour class, you’ll learn about taking the local cacao beans and turning it into candy. At the end, you’ll even have your own chocolate creations to take home.
This is one of the most popular things to do in Antigua and it is often sold out a week or more in advance. Make sure you book your class early if this is on your priority list.
If the classes are booked, you can still stop by the gift shop for some free chocolate tastings or to purchase some treats.
Things to do in Antigua Guatemala at Night
Anituga has a great bar and restaurant scene. With the year round temperate weather, there are also dozens of rooftop and outdoor bars throughout the city.
To read more on bars to visit read Views and Vibes: The Best Antigua Guatemala Bars
Top things do in Antigua Guatemala: Hike Acatenango Volcano
Hiking the Acatenango Volcano is one of the number one things to do in Antigua Guatemala. While it wasn’t part of my itinerary, I know a couple of people that have done the hike and said it is incredible.
This is a full 2 day (one day up, one day back) hike with camping along the mountain. You’ll be able to see the active Volcán de Fuego as it erupts throughout the day as well as a sunrise and sunset on the mountain.
Warning: this is not for beginners as you will be hiking both days. While you do not need to be an expert hiker, you should be skilled enough to manage the physical exertion for the round trip hike.
Lower activity level excursions
If you really want to see more of the volcanos without camping, or just more of the surrounding area there are a few day trips available.
Day Hike
Instead of a two day hike with camping, you can do a day trip to the Pacaya Volcano which offers either a partial (2 hours) or half day (4 hours) of hiking. While this volcano does not puff smoke and spew lava like Fuego, it is still an active volcano. This means you’ll be able to see lava beds and even roast marshmallows over the hot rocks.
ATV Tour
An ATV tour is an exciting way for the more adventurous traveler to see the terrain outside Antigua, without the physical exertion of a long hike. There are a number of different ATV tours available, which means you can find one that fits you best.
Things to do in Antigua Guatemala FAQs
What is Antigua Guatemala known for?
Antigua Guatemala is best known for being one of the best preserved cities of Spanish colonial architecture. The city is famous for its colorful streets and famous archway. Antigua is also surrounded by volcanoes, one of which is still highly active.
What is the best time to travel to Antigua Guatemala?
If weather is a concern, the best time to visit Antigua Guatemala is fall through mid winter. This is when the weather is dry and comfortable. The heat picks up from late February through the end of June, but the rainy season is typically June through October.
What are some things to do in Antigua Guatemala?
Some of the top things to do in Antigua Guatemala are visit the ruins, hike on the nearby volcanoes, taste test coffee and chocolate, or visit the art museums.
Additional posts on Guatemala
- How to get from Guatemala City to Lake Atitlan
- A Genuine Review of the Hotel Villa Santa Catarina
- Views and Vibes: The Best Antigua Guatemala Bars
- How to get from Guatemala City to Antigua
- Why Renting A Car in Guatemala City is the Best Way to Ruin a Vacation
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