Antigua Guatemala is a city full of history and amazing architecture. It was founded in the early 16th century and was once the capital of Guatemala. Despite being in an earthquake-prone area, Antigua has managed to preserve its beautiful buildings and rich cultural heritage. Here’s how you can make the most of one day in this charming city.
- Sunrise Visit to the Famous Yellow Santa Catalina Arch
Start your day early at the Santa Catalina Arch. This bright yellow archway is one of Antigua’s most famous landmarks, and it’s even more stunning with Volcán de Agua in the background at sunrise. During the early morning you might even catch a quinceañera photoshoot. During the early morning it’s a quiet and peaceful spot to kick off your Antigua adventure. - Climb Up to Antigua’s Best View
Next, hike up to Cerro de la Cruz for an amazing view of the city and surrounding volcanoes. The climb is not too tough and the view is totally worth it. Be aware that the mosquitos are vigilant. Bring bug repellent and don’t stop until you reach the top. The mosquitoes did not bother me while I was walking and there are no biting mosquitoes once you leave the forest. From there you’ll see the city’s layout, inspired by the Italian Renaissance, and the mix of preserved buildings and ruins that tell the story of Antigua’s history. - Enjoy a Delicious Breakfast
After your hike, grab breakfast at a local café. Enjoy some traditional Guatemalan food, like eggs, fresh fruit, and of course, some of the best coffee you’ll ever taste. We’ve really never had a bad breakfast in Guatemala and happily recommend Cafe Cafe Guatemala https://www.instagram.com/cafecafeguatemala. - Wander Around Historic Cathedral Ruins
Antigua has some incredible old churches and ruins. Even though a huge earthquake in 1773 caused a lot of damage, many of these places are still standing and are really cool to explore. Check out the Cathedral of Santiago, the San Francisco Church where Guatemala’s first saint, Hermano Pedro, is buried, and the ruins of La Recolección. - Lunch
When it’s time for lunch, try some local Guatemalan dishes like pepían (a yummy curry like stew) or chiles rellenos. There are plenty of great places in Antigua where you can enjoy a delicious meal and I thoroughly recommend Rainbow Cafe for delicious food. https://www.instagram.com/rainbowcafeantigua - Tour the Beautiful Iglesia La Merced & Corner Park
In the afternoon, visit Iglesia La Merced. This beautiful church is famous for its baroque architecture and intricate designs. The top of La Merced was recently opened and is a must see. Stand above Santa Catalina Arch with a perfect view of Volcán de Agua. Right outside La Merced are great food vendors and local street vendors. Always be attentive to how food and drinks are prepared. Remember that it’s no fun to catch a bug while traveling. - Take a coffee break at Fernando’s Kaffee
After exploring La Merced, walk a few blocks to Fernando’s Kaffee, where you can enjoy a delicious cup of Guatemalan coffee, hot chocolate or sign up to take a chocolate workshop. Yum! It’s a great spot to relax before continuing on exploring Antigua. Learn more about them. - Explore Local Markets and Shops
Take some time to wander through Antigua’s markets and shops. You’ll find everything from handmade textiles, paintings, to tasty chocolates. It’s a perfect opportunity to pick up some unique souvenirs and support local artisans. As a side note, I am not a big fan of bartering while in Guatemala. Remember that your plane ticket could easily be equal to the annual income of many local artists. I would ask that you be willing to pay fair and reasonable prices. - Parque Central – Pigeons, Musicians, Locals, Vendors
Standing in Parque Central you are in the heart of Antigua. It’s a lively square filled with pigeons, street musicians, and local vendors selling all sorts of goodies. From here you can see the beautiful San Jose Cathedral, the government building (the Ayuntamiento de Antigua) and the fantastic MUNAG museum http://culturaguate.com/munag. Take a walk around the museum and enjoy great art. The park is such a great place to take a break and enjoy the local culture. - Dinner at Osteria Di Francesco
For dinner, head to Osteria Di Francesco, a cozy restaurant offering a mix of Italian and local dishes. The atmosphere is perfect for relaxing and the food is fantastic. Check them out on Instagram. - Bonus – Wrap up your visit with a Night Time Visit to the Famous Yellow Arch
Finish your day with a night time visit to the Santa Catalina Arch. It looks magical at night, beautifully lit up and perfect for a final photo. And, there you have it. A city tour with delicious food, great sightseeing, museums and tons of photo ops. I hope you love Antigua as much as I do.
Antigua Guatemala is a city with a rich history and beautiful sights. Even in just one day, you can experience its unique blend of culture, architecture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, enjoying local food, or simply wandering the cobblestone streets, Antigua is a place you won’t forget!
