3 Days in Antigua Itinerary: Best Things to Do, See & Eat in Antigua

Welcome to the most romantic colonial city in all of Central America. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Antigua, Guatemala, then you’re in the right place with this how to spend 3 days in Antigua Itinerary!

Surrounded by four towering volcanoes, this UNESCO World Heritage city’s colorful cobblestone streets burst with fascinating history, lively culture, delicious street food stalls, and endless charm. Antigua is the cultural and culinary capital of Guatemala, after all!

From roaming the rainbow-colored streets, hiking up active volcanoes, eating delicious local food, visiting historic ruins (due to the devastating earthquake of 1773), museums, and churches, and learning to make luscious chocolate (Maya style!) to drinking freshly roasted coffee, grooving to live music, exploring traditional markets, and more… Your 3 days in Antigua will be packed with culture-rich, unforgettable experiences!

This 3-day itinerary includes all of the best things to do in Antigua. Here’s how to spend 3 days in Antigua, Guatemala!

3 Days in Antigua Itinerary:
Guatemala’s Culture & Food Capital

In this guide to Antigua, you’ll find everything you need to know, including the best things to see, do, and eat, where to stay, how to get to Antigua, and more.

How to Get to Antigua

First things first. Logistics. Let’s cover the need-to-know information before we get to the fun stuff!

Chicken buses may be the cheapest and most authentic mode of transport in Guatemala… But I can’t say they’d be my top choice.

Private and shared shuttle buses are definitely the way to go, as they’re convenient, affordable, and most importantly, safe!

It’s best to book your shuttle bus in advance because they do fill up! Especially in high season. Here are some of the best resources for booking transportation to/from Antigua.

To/From Guatemala City

• Ground Transfer from Antigua to Guatemala City Airport
• Private Shuttle in Guatemala to/from Guatemala City

To/From Lake Atitlan

• Shared Shuttle Between Antigua and Lake Atitlan
• Private Shuttle in Guatemala to/from Lake Atitlan

There are even more transportation options available on this website. You can choose from minivans, private cars, and buses to/from Antigua.

How to Get Around Antigua

Antigua is a small city, so it’s super walkable! But if you find yourself needing a taxi, then hop in a tuk tuk. You won’t pay more than a few quetzales to get anywhere within the city limits.

I didn’t need to take a tuk tuk at all while in the city, except upon arrival, when my shared shuttle dropped me off in Antigua’s historic center and I didn’t feel like lugging around my stuff!

Prior to arriving, make sure to save your hotel’s location in your Google Maps app, just in case!

Where to Stay in Antigua

Since one of the Antigua’s greatest attractions is the pastel-colored colonial buildings, it only makes sense that you should stay in one of them! You just can’t beat their old-world, romantic charm. The entire city is also a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, which goes to say how wonderful it is.

One of the best parts of traveling through Guatemala – and all of Central America, for that matter – is the affordable prices! In Antigua, why not splash out on a super lush hotel, for a fraction of what you’d pay at home?

Here are my top recommendations for Antigua accommodations, in every price range.

Affordable Luxury

• Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santa Domingo: My top recommendation for luxury Antigua hotels is the famous Casa Santa Domingo. Located on the grounds of the historic ruins of the Santo Domingo Monastery, this hotel is a museum in and of itself, but there are also several fascinating museums on site. Needless to say, this hotel is endlessly romantic; the guest suites are oh-so plush, spacious, and homey; the service is top-notch (it’s a 5-star hotel, after all); and there’s a pool for those hot, humid days. Casa Santo Domingo‘s brunch is also renowned as the best in the city.
• El Convento Boutique Hotel: Old-world charm (we’re talking stone walls, leafy vines, carved wooden accents, in-suite wood-burning fireplaces, and romantic gardens) pairs splendidly with the modern comforts we love (fine food and luscious bedding) at El Convento. It is heaven.
• Filadelfia Coffee Resort: If you’re looking for a unique experience, then you should check out the Filadelfia Coffee Resort. This resort lies just outside of the city (a quick 5-minute drive!) on a historical coffee plantation and offers gorgeous grounds, volcano views, peace and quiet, and coffee! It is beautiful, there’s no way you won’t love it.

Mid-Range

• Good Hotel Antigua: When it comes to affordable-luxe accommodation in Antigua, you can’t ask for much more. Beautifully minimalistic, cozy, and serene lodging in a perfect location? Yes, please.
• Cacao Boutique Hotel: It’s hard to imagine a more stunning stay! Great breakfast, comfy beds, welcoming staff; Cacao everything you want and more.

Budget

• Ojala: Affordable private suites and lush dorm rooms in what may be the most aesthetically pleasing and luxurious hostel/hotel of all time. Seriously.
• Hostal Antigua: Backpacking on a shoestring budget through Central America? This is the best hostel in Antigua.

Click here to find the best deals on accommodations in Antigua, Guatemala!

What to Do in Antigua in 3 Days

Now that the logistics are out of the way, let’s dive into the best of this how to spend 3 days in Antigua itinerary: the best things to do in Antigua in 3 days.

Day 1 of 3 Days in Antigua

Checking in

As soon as you arrive in Antigua, head to your hotel (hopefully it’s the beautiful Casa Santo Domingo) and drop off your luggage!

Now it’s time to hit the town!

Coffee at Fat Cat

But first, coffee!

As you probably know, Guatemalan coffee is legendary. If you want to experience Guatemala’s finest beans, roasted to perfection, and then crafted into the ultimate cup, then there’s only one place to go: Fat Cat Coffee House. Hands down, Fat Cat is the city’s best coffee shop. They pay so much attention to each cup that you may never have coffee this good again.

Oh, and if coffee isn’t your thing, then Fat Cat’s iced chai latte (pictured above) will also hit the spot — it’s so delicious!

P.S. Find all of my Antigua food & drink recommendations toward the bottom of this itinerary!

Explore Antigua’s Historic Center on Foot

Now that you’re energized, it’s time to explore beautiful Antigua! Forget the map, and simply roam the streets to see what you find!

Between the cobblestone streets and bright-colored buildings, old, crumbling churches, cute boutique shops, bustling local markets, artisan craft stores, little cafés, and street performers, there’s so much to discover.

The more you see, the more you will realize how special Antigua is. With its rich history, welcoming people, and undeniable charm, a part of you will never want to leave!

As you explore, here are some of the sights to look out for:

• Santa Catalina Arch: Arco de Santa Catalina is one of the most iconic sights in Antigua. Originally connecting a convent to a school, and built in the 17th century, the arch is a great photo opportunity in the pretty streets.
• San Francisco Church: The Iglesia de San Francisco church is one of the few buildings in Guatemala that dates back to the 16th century and is an important site of pilgrimage for local people due to its historical significance. The Iglesia de San Francisco is absolutely worth stopping to go inside as you explore. thecity.
• La Merced Church: The Iglesia de la Merced is another fantastic church as you visit Antigua. It was inaugurated in 1767 and despite being a Catholic church has Mayan symbolism including the fountain of los Pescados which is shaped like a lotus flower, a symbol of creation from the Mayan people.
• Catedral de Santiago: The Cathedral de Santiago is another iconic part of the history of the city, the building was originally constructed by rubble brought in from church ruins in the Almolonga Valley which had been destroyed by earthquakes. Earthquakes delayed and damaged the construction for many years before being inaugurated in 1680.
• Parque Central: Or central park in English, is the main park in Antigua. Parque Central is surrounded by colonial buildings and is a great place to rest after exploring the sites such as Iglesia de la Merced and Cathedral de Santiago.

Take a Guided Walking Tour

If you want to delve deeper into the history and culture of Antigua, then the best way is on a guided walking tour.

No doubt, you will discover some hidden gems that others miss! You’ll stop by some of Antigua’s architectural gems, historic icons, important churches, museums, and more. Click here to book your guided walking tour.

Take a Food Tour

If you like discovering history as much on foot as you do through your tastebuds, then take this Antigua Foodie Tour!

You’ll savor 10 different tastings at the city’s best street stalls, restaurants, and more – while seeing the sights and learning the history behind it all!

Click here to book your Antigua Foodie Tour.

Chocolate Museum & Bean-to-Bar Workshop

Coffee beans aren’t the only famous beans to come out of Guatemala. So tell me, how do you feel about cacao?

The ancient Maya were the creators of the first chocolate, so what better place to learn to make your own? At Antigua’s ChocoMuseo, you can join a Bean-to-Bar chocolate workshop for about $25 per person.

First, you’ll learn about the history of cacao and its relationship with the Maya. Then you’ll learn exactly how cacao is processed and eventually transformed into chocolate bars! Finally, you will make your own chocolate by pouring chocolate liquor into molds and adding your own ingredients, such as coffee beans, chili powder, or candied ginger.

You will also prepare and taste three different cacao drinks that the Maya and Conquistadores used to drink!

I am 100% chocolate obsessed, so I loved taking this chocolate workshop. I wouldn’t hesitate to do it again next time I’m in Antigua!

This fun experience takes about two hours and is completely worth the price tag.

CLICK HERE to book your chocolate-making class!

Dine at El Rincon Típico

After walking around Antigua’s cobblestone streets for a while, you’ll be hungry! If it’s a festive atmosphere and authentic, local food you’re after, then head to El Rincon Típico. After you find an open table at this always-crowded spot, sit down and wait for your server to find you.

While you’re waiting, look around to figure out what you want to eat, because the waiter won’t hand you a menu. They’ll just quickly rattle off the day’s proteins and sides, and you’re expected to be ready. They also have a vegetarian plate!

I ordered the rotisserie chicken plate, served with some refreshing coleslaw, crispy seasoned potatoes, and fresh, handmade tortillas, along with bottomless agua de jamaica to drink.

This was one of my favorite dining experiences in Antigua. I know you’re going to love it, too!

P.S. Find all of my Antigua food & drink recommendations toward the bottom of this itinerary!

Hike (or Drive) Up Cerro de la Cruz

Hiking up to the top of Cerro de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross) is one of the best things to do in Antigua! You can’t beat the sweeping views of Antigua, with the majestic Volcán de Agua looming in the background. On a clear day, you may also see Volcanoes Acatenango, Fuego, and Pacaya.

If you want to hike up, wear comfortable shoes and get ready for a steady incline. The hike up takes about 30 minutes.

If that makes you nervous, or if you don’t feel like hiking, there’s an alternative. Take a tuk tuk or Uber.

A note on safety: Even though the views may be fabulous at sunset, I probably wouldn’t recommend going at this time. There have been reports of armed robberies on the trails here – though not as many in recent years, since there are plenty of security guards now. Overall, this hike best done with a group, during the busy daytime hours! And as always in Guatemala, stay vigilant.

Early to Bed

If you’re like me, then you need proper sleep to function… Especially because tomorrow, you’re waking up early. (And I mean early.) Head back to your hotel and tuck yourself in by 11 pm at the latest.

Click here to find the best deals on accommodations in Antigua, Guatemala!

RELATED READING:

• 10 Reasons You Should Plan a Trip to Guatemala ASAP
• Why You Must Visit the Chichicastenango Market in Guatemala
• Flores, Guatemala: Best Things to Do & See

Day 2 of 3 Days in Antigua

Volcano Hike

It’s 4:30 am! Rise and shine!

Considering that there are 3 active volcanoes in the vicinity (Pacaya, Fuego, and Acatenango; plus 1 dormant one, Agua), your 3 days in Antigua wouldn’t be complete without hiking an active volcano!

Hike Pacaya

Since your time is limited, your best bet is to hike Volcán Pacaya, which is the smallest of the four volcanoes. The entire hike takes about five hours, and it is awesome! You can factor this in as a day tour or pack it in with the activities I suggest afterwards.

On a good day, the top of Volcán Pacaya will boast incredible views of Volcán de Agua, Volcán Acatenango, and the highly active Volcán de Fuego. You’ll see where the hardened lava has flowed as a result of Volcán Pacaya’s eruptions.

And to top it off… You’ll eat volcano-roasted marshmallows for breakfast.

This hike is semi-challenging, but still totally doable for those who aren’t avid hikers. Make sure to bring decent hiking boots and warm layers because it gets cold as you ascend the volcano!

You need to book a hiking tour, which will include a guide and transportation to/from Pacaya.

CLICK HERE to book your tour.

Hike Acatenango (Overnight Trip)

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, then this 2-day hike to the summit of Acatenango is for you. Just make sure to allocate an extra day in the city, because there are still so many more things to do in Antigua!

This one is for advanced hikers and nature lovers only, since you’ll hike to 13,000 feet (4,000 meters) above sea level and spend the night in a tent at Acatenango Base Camp. You’ll have epic views of Volcán de Fuego along the way (pictured above).

Before you set out on this trip, make sure you have your backpack, hiking boots, headlamp, and sleeping bag at the ready.

These are my trusty sidekicks for all of my backpacking adventures:

• Osprey Ariel AG Women’s Backpacking Backpack
• Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Hiking Boot
• Black Diamond Equipment – Spot 350 Headlamp
• Kelty Ultralight Cosmic 40-Degree Down Sleeping Bag
• Darn Tough Hiking Socks

I personally have not done this hike, but next time I go to Antigua, it’s on my list.

Click here to book your Acatenango Overnight Hike.

Shopping & Roaming

Once you’re back in Antigua, showered, and refueled, it’s time to explore more of the city to do some shopping! From souvenir shops to high-end boutiques, Antigua has it all, so finding the perfect souvenir to take home will be easy. Pack a tote bag to carry all your new treats with you.

Some of the best shops I found were Uxibal and Casa de Artes.

Antigua Brewing Company

Even though it’s been a long day, you can’t miss a chill night out in Antigua!

For starters, head to Antigua’s most famous craft brewery, Antigua Brewing Company, and kick back on their rooftop with a few beers. This is an absolute can’t-miss activity while in Guatemala. (I love craft beer, so it’s safe to say that I came here many times during my time in Antigua!) Antigua Cerveza (El Bosque) is also a must; their beer garden is a major vibe! The food at both of these spots is also great!

Then, if you’re feeling up to it, head to one of the city’s most popular bars or clubs: Las Vibras de la Casbah or La Sala.

When you go out in Antigua, one thing is for sure: you’ll have a great evening surrounded by Guatemalans and foreigners alike!

P.S. Find all of my Antigua food & drink recommendations toward the bottom of this itinerary!

Day 3 of 3 Days in Antigua

Museums at Casa Santo Domingo

In addition to the ruins of the monastery, Casa Santa Domingo is home to 5 permanent museums, ranging from art museums to history, plus two art galleries with seasonal expositions.

Take a couple hours out of your last day in Antigua to discover the cultural gems waiting in this historic and super-romantic setting.

Also, if you’re in Antigua on Sunday, then don’t miss the famous Sunday Brunch at Casa Santo Domingo!

Artisan Market

Open every day of the week, you can’t miss Antigua’s Artisan Market. This is the best place to shop for traditional Guatemalan handicrafts for some of the best prices around (if you’re ready to barter, that is). You’ll find everything, from woven textiles and leather goods to little souvenir trinkets that you definitely don’t need.

Worth a meander, even if you’re not in the market for anything in particular.

Explore Antigua’s Central Market (Mercado Central)

Next up, head to the Mercado Central for a dose of local life.

In this hectic market, you will find everything imaginable: people of all ages, old and young; all kinds of fresh produce, meats, and seafood; household goods; local handicrafts that make for great souvenirs; colorful textiles; and so much more.

If you really want to get a feel for local life, the central market is always the place to go. And since you will be one of the only tourists at the market, you can guarantee yourself an authentic experience!

While there, chat with the vendors, try exotic fruits you’ve never seen before, and shop for the perfect traditional blouse. Do, see, and discover as much as you can in this giant, and totally awesome market that spills out into the streets.

Take a Cooking Class

Since the last couple days have been jam-packed with action, your last day should be a little more relaxed, yet still fun! The best way to accomplish this is through a cooking class – don’t you think?

During my three days in Antigua, I took a cooking class to learn how to make the famous pepián, along with frijoles volteados, tortillas, rice, and rellenitos for dessert! As we cooked, we drank bottomless red wine, and had so much fun learning about Guatemala’s delicious food with the school’s friendly staff.

If I were you, I would do the same!

Click here to book your Guatemalan Cooking Class.

Explore More

After your cooking class, walk around the city a little more.

Maybe you have more shopping to do, some more crumbling ruins to explore, or maybe you just want to people-watch in the city’s main plaza.

This will also be your last chance to take all the photos of Antigua’s beautiful streets before the sun goes down, so make the most of it!

Where to Eat in Antigua, Guatemala

Best Coffee & Brunch in Antigua

• Casa Santo Domingo: Get dressed up and head to Casa Santo Domingo for a delicious, authentic Guatemalan brunch.
• Fat Cat Coffee House: My favorite place for craft coffee and chai in Antigua. So good!
• Aria Coffee Roasters: A staple in the Antigua coffee scene; there’s nothing better than the smell (and taste) of freshly roasted beans!
• Café Sol: Another great spot for coffee and breakfast… Enjoyed on a lovely, leafy terrace!
• Rainbow Café: In the mood for a typical Guatemalan breakfast in a relaxed environment? Come to Rainbow Cafe.

Best Lunch in Antigua

• Antigua Foodie Tour: Explore Antigua on foot, visiting some of the city’s best restaurants. You’ll savor 19 different tastings while learning about the city’s history along the way. A must-do!
• El Rincon Típico: If it’s an authentic, local dining experience you’re after, then you should head to El Rincon Típico. I ordered the rotisserie chicken plates served with some refreshing coleslaw, crispy seasoned potatoes, and fresh, handmade tortillas, along with bottomless agua de jamaica to drink. No doubt, this was one of our favorite dining experiences in Antigua.
• La Cuevita De Urquizú: All of the locals love this place for its super-authentic stews (such as pepián) and other traditional dishes. When you come here, don’t expect anything fancy – instead, expect good, cheap local eats, served buffet style.
• Café Sky: A rooftop cafe serving typical Guatemalan cuisine (fried plantains, beans, tortillas, pepián, etc.) alongside fantastic views of the city and surrounding volcanoes.

Best Dinner in Antigua

• Porqué No? Café: You can’t miss dinner at Porqué No? Café. This little restaurant and bar is one of the hottest spots in the city – and has been for years. That just means it’s a super intimate dining experience, right?! From delights like caprese and homemade pesto to beef tenderloin steak topped with a creamy peppercorn sauce, you won’t find traditional Guatemalan food here… But every last morsel will be delicious, promise!
• Frida’s: I think my favorite meal in Antigua was at Frida’s. Everything I tasted was fresh, authentic, and full of flavor, yet super modern and innovative. Their menu is full of hits, but I’d go with the tacos gobernadores (shrimp tacos with beans, chipotle mayo, and avocado); the braised carnitas tacos; and lastly, the burrito al pastor. Wash it all down with a mezcal margarita (or three)!
• Pappy’s BBQ: Antigua may be an unsuspecting place for Texas BBQ, but damn, it’s good. If you’re feeling some barbecue and a laid-back atmosphere, then Pappy’s is just the place. One of the owners is originally from Austin, Texas, so you know you can count on this joint to deliver some epic barbecue. Succulent mains like fall-off-the-bone pork ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, brisket grilled cheese, and fried chicken, and side dishes like coleslaw, Momma’s potato salad, and seasoned French fries are all on the menu. And it is all so good. Best served with one of Antigua’s craft beers.
• Cactus: More tacos, because why not? The Shrimp Mojo Chipotle tacos with spicy garlic-chipotle shrimp, avocado, and cilantro are delicious alongside a refreshing michelada or Gallo! So much yum.

Best Bars & Breweries in Antigua

• Café No Sé is a tiny little dive bar serving up great mezcal cocktails. Hang out for a while in the dimly lit bar, relax, and enjoy the funky atmosphere and live music.
• Antigua Brewing Company: The OG brewery in Antigua. You’ll love the epic rooftop views, good vibes, and obviously, the delicious beer and American pub-style food.
• Antigua Cerveza (El Bosque): The best place to drink beer in town, for sure. Epic craft beers, bonfires, games, and scrumptious burgers, pizzas, salads, and typical Guatemalan food await you in the most beautiful garden setting. The best!
• Ulew Cocktail Bar: If you love a handcrafted cocktail like I do, come here. End of story.
• Las Vibras de la Casbah: Known as one the best bars in all of Antigua.
• La Sala: Another loud, crowded, fun nightclub in town.

Exploring Antigua: The Best Three-Day Itinerary

After spending 3 days in Antigua, one thing is for sure: you will have fallen head over heels with this city.

Between the bright-colored colonial buildings, traditional textiles, and handicrafts, the incredible restaurants, fun bars, awesome live music, rich history and culture, and the chilled-out vibes that you will find throughout the city, you won’t want to leave Antigua. Ever.

Before your 3 days in Antigua come to an end, I bet you’ll already be planning your return! I know I was.

RELATED READING:

• 10 Reasons You Should Plan a Trip to Guatemala ASAP
• Why You Must Visit the Chichicastenango Market in Guatemala
• Flores, Guatemala: Best Things to Do & See

What to Pack for Antigua

• Good walking shoes: Make sure you pack super comfy, worn-in shoes. For warmer months, I love these sandals, and in the colder months I opt for a good pair of boots like these.
• Hiking boots and base layer: You need to be prepared with proper clothing and shoes for hiking the volcanoes. Pack a good pair of hiking boots that you have already worn in and a warm base layer.
• Sunscreen and bug spray: Always make sure you are prepared with these in advance, don’t go scrambling around on your first day looking for a store that sells natural sunscreen and eco-friendly bug spray, pack good stuff so you don’t waste any time.
• Sunhat: The sun in Guatemala is strong! If you are going to be sipping cocktails on balcony bars you will be grateful for a sunhat. A fabulous one also adds to the obligatory vacation photos!
• Scarf: It is always good to pack a scarf no matter the season, in winter a good cashmere scarf can double as a blanket when traveling or sitting outside, and in the summer a lightweight one works for sun protection in the middle of the day, a light cover-up on cooler evenings and also when visiting religious sites.
• Money belt: It is better to be safe and keep your valuables secure and close to you, ideally not in your bag. A money belt is a safe way to keep your cash, cards, and passport close to your body under your clothes.

Quick Tips for Antigua

• HOTEL: I use this website for scoring amazing deals on accommodation worldwide. My top choice is Casa Santa Domingo for ultimate old world charm and luxury.
• HOSTELWORLD: If you’re traveling on a budget, this is the best website to score cheap hostel deals.
• VACATION RENTAL: I use this site for finding the perfect vacation rental for an unforgettable getaway.
• TRAVEL INSURANCE: Never go on a trip without travel insurance! For frequent travelers, SafetyWing offers an affordable monthly subscription (I currently use SafetyWing).
• GUIDED TOURS & EXCURSIONS: Many of the tours I recommend are hosted with Viator, which also works with local tour operators. This walking tour was really excellent.
• CHEAP FLIGHTS: Guatemala City’s international airport is the obvious choice if you are flying straight in. Get great deals on flights using my favorite flight fare aggregator.
• TRAVEL GEAR: A collection of all of my must-have travel gear is listed here.
• STAY CONNECTED: Get a local eSIM for your phone so you can use your maps app, talk, text, and post to Instagram without roaming fees!

Antigua, Guatemala: Travel FAQs

SAVE THIS POST ON PINTEREST FOR LATER!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. When you click through a link on this page and make a valid purchase, Maddy’s Avenue may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We only recommend products/services that we believe in and know you will love too. Your support enables us to continue making helpful travel content. Thank you for reading, and thank you for your support!