Ready for an adventure?
Explore the stunning city of Antigua, Guatemala! From ancient Mayan ruins to vibrant markets and cobblestone streets, there’s something here for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an exciting cultural experience, you won’t be disappointed by this beautiful destination.
Here are 14 places to visit in Antigua, Guatemala, that will make your trip unforgettable!
1. Santa Catalina Arch
Every trip to Antigua is complete with a visit to the stunning Santa Catalina Arch. This impressive structure was built in the 17th century and is now considered one of Antigua’s most iconic landmarks.
This arc is the #1 place to visit in Antigua, and for a good reason – it’s stunning! My sister, nieces, and I enjoyed taking a handful of selfies at the arch and then enjoyed a lovely lunch at a nearby cafe.
2. La Merced Church and Museum
This stunning colonial-era church was built in 1767 and is now home to the Museo de la Merced. Housed inside are several artifacts and relics that date back centuries. This beautiful structure is one of Antigua’s most recognizable churches, so it’s worth a visit!
3. Parque Central (Central Park)
Central Park is the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll and people-watching. This gorgeous park is home to lush gardens, fountains, monuments, and statues.
We took some great photos here, so don’t forget your camera! The locals spend time relaxing in the park, so it’s a great place to get a feel for Antigua culture.
There are also plenty of street vendors selling everything from ice cream to fresh fruit to beautiful fabrics and crafts. The park is filled with locals on Sundays, so it’s a great place to get an authentic feel for Antigua.
4. San Francisco Church
This impressive church is another beautiful place to visit in Antigua and was completed in 1702. Though the original building was destroyed in an earthquake, its ruins are still a sight to see.
As you wander through the courtyard, take a moment to admire the intricate details and stunning architecture.
5. Cerro de la Cruz
I wanted to see some stunning views in Antigua and did Cerro de la Cruz deliver. This hilltop park is located in the city’s center and offers breathtaking views of Antigua and its surrounding volcanoes.
We went on a clear day and were able to take some gorgeous pictures from up here. The hike is relatively easy, but be sure to bring plenty of water as it can get quite hot during the summer months.
6. Antigua Guatemala Cathedral
This massive cathedral is one of the most amazing places in Antigua. It was initially constructed in 1680, but sadly, earthquakes destroyed much of it in 1773. Be sure to take your time as you wander through this stunning structure and admire its ancient architecture.
7. ChocoMuseo
While many would say ChocoMuseo is a tourist trap, I highly recommend you go for it! This fun and interactive museum is the perfect place to learn about the history of cacao in Guatemala.
My niece and I enjoyed learning how chocolate is made and then got our hands dirty by participating in a chocolate-making workshop. We were able to take home some delicious chocolates that we made ourselves. And the class was just $25, which is a steal. You can book your chocolate making class here.
8. Las Capuchinas Convent
This stunning building was constructed in 1736 and is now home to a museum. The convent itself is an impressive structure and a must-see for architecture lovers.
You will feel like you’ve returned to the past as you explore the grounds. The grounds are extensive, and there is plenty to see, so allow yourself plenty of time to wander around.
9. Convento Santa Clara
This convent was in the early 1700s, making it one of the oldest places to visit in Antigua. The building itself is stunning and features intricately carved details and beautiful frescoes.
Inside you will find many artifacts that date back centuries. It’s a fantastic example of colonial architecture, so definitely add it to your tourist list in Antigua.
10. Union Water Tank
This hidden gem is another great place to visit in Antigua. During colonial times, people flocked to this spot as a communal gathering place where they could clean their garments.
Today, it’s a great place to take in the sights and sounds of Antigua. It’s an exciting sight and a great way to peek into the past. While in Antigua, I passed by the Union Water Tank many times, not knowing what I was looking at until I decided to Google it!
11. Hobbitenango
If you’re looking for a unique place to visit in Antigua, this is it. This unique village has been designed with the theme of Lord of the Rings in mind and features a variety of activities that all ages can enjoy.
From zip-lining through the treetops to exploring the hobbit-sized buildings, there is something here for everyone. What I enjoyed the most were the realistic hobbit houses that were built to look like they came straight out of a movie. There are restaurants so you can enjoy a meal after all the fun.
12. Volcano Pacaya
This active volcano is one of the most popular places to visit in Guatemala and is just a stone’s throw away from Antigua.
The hike up to the summit can be challenging, but you will be rewarded with majestic views of the area. If you are brave, you can cook marshmallows over the hot lava and take memorable photos.
Just be sure to wear the proper hiking gear and keep an eye on the weather, as it can be dangerous if you are not careful.
13. Lake Atitlán
Although Lake Atitlán is not located in Antigua, it is one of the must-see places in Guatemala. Located about two and a half hours away, this stunning lake is surrounded by volcanoes and is home to numerous traditional Mayan villages.
A boat ride around the lake will give you some truly unforgettable views, and you can also engage with the locals to learn more about their culture. A visit to Lake Atitlán is an absolute must when visiting Antigua.
14. El Rincon Tipico
El Rincon Tipico is a great place to visit if you’re looking for places to eat in Antigua.
While I saw tons of truly incredible restaurants in Antigua, this restaurant offers the most delicious food I had in Antigua and comes with a unique experience you can only find in Antigua. While waiting for your meal, you can see grilled chicken and handmade tortillas being cooked.
So there you have it, the 14 best places to visit in Antigua, Guatemala, for first-time visitors.
From exploring colonial architecture and artifacts to unique villages that capture the Lord of the Rings theme or cooking marshmallows over hot lava at a volcano summit – this city has something for everyone!
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