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 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 (thanks 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 Antigua itinerary is packed with all of the best things to do in Antigua. Here’s how you should 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.
Feel free to use this table of contents to jump to subjects you want to read about.
Table of Contents
- 3 Days in Antigua Itinerary:Guatemala’s Culture & Food Capital
- How to Get to Antigua
- How to Get Around Antigua
- Where to Stay in Antigua
- Best Things to Do in Antigua in 3 Days
- Where to Eat in Antigua, Guatemala
- Exploring Antigua: The Best Three-Day Itinerary
- Did you know…
- Antigua, Guatemala: Travel FAQs
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 shuttles 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
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 Antigua’s old-world, romantic charm.
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 charming; the plush guest suites are 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) pair splendidly with the modern comforts we love (fine food and luscious bedding) at El Convento. It’s heaven in Antigua.
- 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 through Central America? This is the best hostel in Antigua.
Click here to find the best deals on accommodations in Antigua, Guatemala!
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)
- San Francisco Church (Iglesia de San Francisco)
- La Merced Church (Iglesia de la Merced)
- Catedral de Santiago
- Parque Central
Take a Guided Walking Tour
If you want to delve deeper into the history and culture of Antigua, then the best way is on this 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!
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 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.
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.
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.
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 Santo Domingo Monastery, Casa Santa Domingo is home to 5 permanent museums, ranging from art 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 Guatemalan cuisine 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 here.
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 café 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
Did you know…
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Antigua, Guatemala: Travel FAQs
There are plenty of things to do in Antigua, Guatemala, including roaming the cobblestone streets, trying delicious street food, taking a cooking class, exploring the local market, hiking to the peak of one of the nearby volcanoes, and eating at some of the best restaurants in the country. This guide details all of the best things to do in Antigua, whether you have one day or three days!
Antigua is most well-known for its majestic volcano views, its beautiful colonial architecture, tasty food, and lively nightlife. Antigua is also known as one of the best places in the world to learn to speak Spanish.
Yes, Antigua has a great nightlife. There are plenty of craft breweries, cocktail bars, and nightclubs to choose from. The live music scene is also pretty great.
Yes, Antigua is definitely worth visiting! Not only is the city filled with incredible colonial architecture and a rich history, but the food, nightlife, and atmosphere are also top-notch. You could easily spend a few days or even weeks in Antigua and never get bored.
There are so many amazing things to do in Antigua, Guatemala! But to name a few… While in Antigua, you should roam the colorful colonial streets on foot (and consider taking a historical walking tour or food tour!); hike up to Cerro de la Cruz for incredible city and volcano views; hike to the peak of one of the nearby volcanoes (I hiked up Pacaya on this hiking tour!); take a Guatemalan cooking class or a chocolate workshop (or both!); explore the traditional market and the artisanal handicraft market; and of course, eat and drink at the city’s best restaurants, breweries, and bars. This 3-Day Antigua Itinerary includes all of the best things to do in Antigua!
The drive between Guatemala City and Antigua is just about 38 kilometers (or 24 miles) long. While the distance between the cities is short, it can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 3 hours to reach Antigua. The roads are curvy and can get congested, so the time it takes really depends on the time of day and traffic. On a normal day, you can expect the journey to take about an hour! I recommend booking your private shuttle via this link, which will take you to/from Antigua, Guatemala City, and Lake Atitlan! Shuttles are the safest and most convenient way to travel through Guatemala.
The best way to get to Antigua from Guatemala City is via a private or shared shuttle because they are affordable, convenient, and most importantly… SAFE! You can book your shuttles in Guatemala via this link. Or find more information and options above in this 3-Day Antigua, Guatemala Itinerary.
The overall best place to stay in Antigua is the beautiful and renowned Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santa Domingo. The charming and romantic atmosphere, centuries-old history, beautiful architecture, on-site museums, great service, and homey guest suites are just a few reasons why! My other top picks include El Convento Boutique Hotel, Filadelfia Coffee Resort, Good Hotel Antigua, Cacao Boutique Hotel, and Ojala.
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