Antigua Guatemala,
City of beautiful landscapes

Antigua Guatemala, whose official name is Very Noble and Very Loyal City of Santiago de los Caballeros de Guatemala, is located 45 kilometers from Guatemala City.
Antigua Guatemala was declared a Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, on October 26, 1979.

Brief history

In 1524 Captain Don Pedro de Alvarado had already taken possession of several provinces, continuing with his task reached the valley called "Almolonga" which means water springs.

The beauty of this place surprised them so much that they decided to settle there in the year of 1524, naming the city "Santiago de los Caballeros". The magnificence of the Agua Volcano was so great, that people in town were amazed by its beauty every day.
Antigua Guatemala City was very marked by tragedies that were given one after another: The first tragedy happened in 1538, when a great fire destroyed the city, but this is not all! The fire marked the beginning of great torments for this valley. The second event occurred in 1541 when a terrible storm unleashed the great fury of the majestic Water Volcano, flooding the city with a great torrent of mud.
On February 12, 1689 and July 29, 1773 earthquakes again affected the city, and it was not until then that they decided to transfer the City to the Valley of La Ermita, the present Guatemala City. In spite of the discontent of the people, the transfer began, and the city was built with beautiful and modern buildings, which nowadays are considered local historical architecture.

Weather:

The weather in Antigua Guatemala is temperate and at night it gets a little cold. The rainy season usually occurs in the months of May to October. Remember to bring a rain coat and enjoy this beautiful city.​

What to bring?

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Camera
  • Water bottle
  • Backpack to keep your hands free

How to get to Antigua Guatemala:

From Guatemala City, take the CA-1 road to exit Roosevelt Road, then you will arrive to San Lucas which is very easy to recognize for its trade market. After that follow the sings that take you directly to Antigua.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN ANTIGUA GUATEMALA:

Pacaya Volcano
​Tour

The Pacaya Volcano is very accessible from Antigua Guatemala and you do not need to be in good physical condition to climb it, this Volcano has impressive views of the lagoon of Calderas and the other volcanoes: Agua, Fuego and Acatenango.

Antigua Guatemala City Tour

During your visit, this is a must do tour. Enjoy a walk through the cobbled streets of Antigua Guatemala, here you can visit the main touristic sites and museums of Antigua Guatemala. You will learn about its history and cultural heritage​.

Hotsprings Spa near Antigua Guatemala

Santa Teresita is a Hot spring Hotel and luxury Spa. Here you can spend a relaxing time, enjoying services like: Thermal Circuit, massages, steam baths, thermal pools, body treatments, etc. You will also find a restaurants of national and international food.

Coffee Tour in Antigua Guatemala

In this tour you will learn everything you need to know about your favorite drink. You will also learn about the coffee plantation, the grooves and the history of coffee growing in Guatemala. This tour is perfect to know a little more about the culture.
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RECOMMENDED SIGHTINGS IN ANTIGUA GUATEMALA

Churches and Monuments

Arco of Santa Catalina

The Arco of Santa Catalina is the icon of the Colonial City. Visited annually by thousands of tourists. Located on 5th Avenue North, very close to the central park.

Church and Convent La Merced

This is another icon that identifies the colonial city, is located half a block away from the Arco of Santa Catalina.

Church and Convent Capuchinas

This is a church and ancient convent you must not miss in your visit to Antigua Guatemala, is located in the 2nd. Calle Oriente and 2a. North Avenue.

Santa Clara ruins

This is a beautiful church and ancient convent located in front of la Unión Tank. It is located on the 2nd Avenue North.

El Carmen Ruins and Market

It was demolished by the earthquakes that affected the Antigua, part of its structure is standing on the 3rd North Avenue, two blocks from Central Park.

Other Attractions

Jade Museum

Jade has been used to make a wide variety of products, this one has acquired the reputation of being a good luck charm. Located on 4th Street East # 10.​

Chocolate Museum

Do you want to learn all about chocolate? ChocoMuseo is the perfect place, you will learn everything in a 2 hour workshop. Located on 4th Street East.​

Canopy Tours

Here you can enjoy the nature and views of the City of Antigua Guatemala. The tour takes place in a coffee plantation in San Felipe de Jesus.

Pacaya Volcano and Hotspring spa

Climbing the Pacaya Volcano is an experience that you will love, the perfect combination is when you also visit Santa Teresita Hot Springs Spa.​

Central Park

Undoubtedly the place that you should not miss visiting during your stay in Antigua Guatemala is the Central Park, major icon of this Colonial City.​