Welcome to Antigua Guatemala, a city where colonial charm meets vibrant culture, nestled in the heart of Central America. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Antigua captivates visitors with its cobblestone streets and stunning volcanic backdrop.
Our pick of the best hotels in Antigua: 🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel Museo Casa Santo Domingo
- ✨ 5-Star: Hotel Soleil La Antigua
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Palacio de Doña Beatriz
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Posada de Don Rodrigo
- 💸 Cheap: Maya Papaya
- 🏢 Apartment: Amplia Casa Antigua Guatemala con Pérgola y Jardín
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Villas de la Ermita
- 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Boutique Los Pasos & Spa
In this guide, we’ll explore the best areas to stay in Antigua Guatemala, from the central district to the quieter, more authentic neighborhoods. We’ll dive into what makes each area unique, highlighting the must-see attractions, local eateries, and hidden gems that will make your stay unforgettable. So, grab your walking shoes and let’s embark on a journey through one of Guatemala’s most beloved destinations!
Quick Antigua Area Guide: ☀️
- 🍹 For First-Time Visitors and Nightlife: El Caseo
- 🏛️ For Cultural Immersion and Central Location: Central Antigua
- ☕ For Quiet and Authentic Experience: San Pedro Las Huertas
- 🏺 For Historical Exploration: Ciudad Vieja
- 💰 For Budget-Friendly Stay: Santa Ana
1. El Caseo – Where to Stay in Antigua, Guatemala for First-Time Visitors and Nightlife Enthusiasts 🍹
🍹 Nightlife central: El Caseo is the place to be for first-timers in Antigua Guatemala. This vibrant neighborhood perfectly blends colonial charm with a pulsating nightlife scene. El Caseo is incredibly walkable, with cobblestone streets leading to hidden gems. It’s a stone’s throw from Parque Central and the Santa Catalina Arch, making it ideal for exploring Antigua’s main attractions.
🏛️ History hotspots: For history buffs, El Caseo doesn’t disappoint. Must-visit spots include:
- ChocoMuseo (learn about Guatemala’s chocolate-making traditions)
- Casa Santo Domingo (a former monastery turned hotel museo spa)
- La Merced Church (stunning yellow facade and intricate details)
🍽️ Foodie heaven: Try local Guatemalan cuisine at the mercado, or enjoy upscale dining at some of Antigua’s best restaurants. Don’t miss the rooftop terraces with amazing views at places like Porta Hotel Antigua or El Convento Boutique Hotel.
🍸 Nightlife central: Numerous bars and clubs offer live music and craft cocktails. Start your evening at Café No Sé for its quirky ambiance and secret mezcal bar.
🚗 Easy transport: Walking is best, but you’ll find plenty of tuk-tuks for quick jaunts. Just agree on the fare before hopping in.
🌍 UNESCO gem: Remember, Antigua Guatemala is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While enjoying El Caseo’s vibrant atmosphere, take time to appreciate the centuries of history surrounding you.
Best hotels in Antigua, Guatemala: 🏨
- Hotel Posada de Don Rodrigo Antigua – This charming hotel features colonial-style rooms with traditional decor and wooden furnishings. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant, bar, and beautiful garden courtyard with a fountain.
- Hotel Boutique Los Pasos & Spa – This charming boutique hotel is located in the heart of Antigua Guatemala. It features comfortable rooms with colonial-style decor, a spa offering various treatments, and a highly-rated breakfast. The hotel is within walking distance of many popular attractions and offers a peaceful retreat in the historic city center.
- Posada El Antaño – This cozy hotel features comfortable rooms with rustic decor and local artwork. Guests can enjoy the tranquil garden, a shared kitchen, and a terrace with views of the surrounding area.
2. Central Antigua – Best Place to Stay in Antigua for Culture 🏛️
☕ People-watching paradise: Let’s start with Parque Central, the city’s main square. Grab a coffee from one of the nearby cafes and enjoy people-watching here.
📸 Instagram hotspot: Speaking of architecture, you can’t miss the iconic Santa Catalina Arch. I suggest visiting early morning to beat the crowds and get that perfect shot with Volcán de Agua in the background. Trust me, it’s worth the early wake-up call!
🏰 History galore: Here are some must-visit spots:
- Antigua Guatemala Cathedral: Even in ruins, it’s breathtaking
- Iglesia de La Merced: The intricate yellow facade is a photographer’s dream
- Casa Santo Domingo: A former monastery turned museum complex
- ChocoMuseo: Because who doesn’t love learning about chocolate?
🍽️ Foodie heaven: I recommend trying some atol de elote (sweet corn drink) and rellenitos (stuffed plantains) from the street vendors. For a sit-down meal, Café Sky offers incredible amazing views with your dinner.
🍸 Nightlife scene: Café No Sé is my go-to for a quirky atmosphere and great mezcal. If you’re feeling adventurous, ask about their “secret” mezcal bar.
⏱️ Efficient sightseeing: Most attractions in Central Antigua are within a 10-15 minute walk of each other. Plan your route to hit multiple spots in one go.
Best Guatemala hotels in center of Antigua: 🏨
⭐ Best luxury hotels
- Hotel Soleil La Antigua – This 5-star hotel features an outdoor pool, sauna, and BBQ area for guests to enjoy. The rooms are luxuriously decorated with amenities like minibars and private bathrooms. There’s also an on-site restaurant and bar for convenient dining and drinks.
- Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo – This unique hotel is set in a beautifully restored 16th-century convent, offering a blend of historical charm and modern luxury. The property features an on-site museum, multiple restaurants, a spa, and beautifully landscaped gardens, providing guests with a truly immersive cultural experience.
- Hotel Palacio de Doña Beatriz – This charming colonial-style hotel features spacious suites set around a beautiful courtyard with a fountain. The property offers an outdoor swimming pool, hot tub, and on-site restaurant serving breakfast in the courtyard. Located in a quiet residential area, it’s about a 15-minute walk from Antigua’s central park.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Hotel Las Farolas – Charming hotel with colonial-style rooms and a beautiful garden courtyard. The property offers a terrace with stunning views and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
- Posada San Pedro – Cozy guesthouse with comfortable rooms and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views. The property features a shared lounge and a garden where guests can relax.
- Euro Maya Suites – Modern 4-star hotel in Antigua hotel offering spacious suites with kitchenettes and living areas. The property features a rooftop terrace with stunning views and a hot tub.
🛏️ Best hostels in Antigua
- Maya Papaya – Colorful hostel offering both dormitory and private rooms with a fun, youthful atmosphere. The property features a communal kitchen, a garden, and organized social activities.
- Casa Ela – Boutique hotel with individually decorated rooms and a beautiful courtyard garden. The property offers a terrace with stunning views and a shared lounge area.
- Hotel Camposeco – Family-run hotel with simple, comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere. The property features a garden and a terrace where guests can enjoy their meals.
3. San Pedro Las Huertas – Best Area to Stay in Antigua for Authentic Local Experience ☕
🏡 Hidden gem: San Pedro Las Huertas is a hidden gem for travelers seeking an authentic Guatemalan experience. Just a short tuk-tuk ride from central Antigua, this charming neighborhood offers a peaceful escape from the tourist crowds.
☕ Coffee paradise: As I strolled down the cobblestone streets, the aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans filled the air. San Pedro is known for its nearby coffee plantations, and I highly recommend taking a tour to learn about the bean-to-cup process. De La Genta, a local NGO, offers an excellent tour that supports local farmers.
🌴 Local vibes: One of the things I love about San Pedro is its laid-back vibe. The central plaza is a great spot to people-watch and soak in local life. On weekends, you’ll often find families gathering here, children playing, and street vendors selling traditional snacks like rellenitos (stuffed plantains) and atol de elote (sweet corn drink).
🏛️ Historical treasures: For history buffs, San Pedro doesn’t disappoint. Here are some must-visit spots:
- Ermita de Santa Isabel: A beautiful baroque church with intricate details
- Casa K’ojom: A small museum showcasing traditional Mayan music instruments
- Local textile workshops: Where you can watch artisans at work and buy authentic Guatemalan textiles
🕰️ Time-saving tip: Insider Tip: Visit these spots early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
🍽️ Culinary delights: Foodies, you’re in for a treat in San Pedro. The neighborhood is home to some of the best local eateries in the town of Antigua. I recommend trying Café Sky for incredible views with your dinner, or heading to the local mercado for a more authentic experience. The market is a sensory overload in the best way possible, with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
🌋 Nature’s playground: Nature lovers will appreciate San Pedro’s proximity to some of Antigua’s best hiking trails. The trailhead for Cerro de la Cruz is nearby, offering panoramic views of Antigua and the surrounding volcanoes. For a more challenging hike, consider booking a tour to Pacaya Volcano, where you can roast marshmallows on hot volcanic rocks!
🚶 Easy exploration: Time Saver: Most attractions in San Pedro are within walking distance. Plan your route to hit multiple spots in one go, starting at the central plaza and working your way outwards.
🍻 Evening chill: As night falls, San Pedro offers a quieter alternative to Antigua’s bustling nightlife. I suggest grabbing a drink at one of the local cantinas for a truly authentic experience. Chat with locals and you might even pick up some Spanish phrases!
🌍 UNESCO wonder: Remember, San Pedro Las Huertas is part of Antigua’s UNESCO World Heritage site. As you wander the streets, take a moment to appreciate the centuries of history beneath your feet. It’s this blend of past and present, coupled with the warm hospitality of the locals, that makes San Pedro a truly unforgettable part of any Antigua Guatemala itinerary.
Accommodations in Antigua, San Pedro Las Huertas: 🏨
- La Capitania Rural San Pedro – Charming rural property offering a peaceful retreat with beautiful gardens and mountain views. The hotel features comfortable rooms with traditional decor and a shared lounge area for guests to relax.
- Amplia Casa Antigua Guatemala con Pérgola y Jardín – Spacious holiday home with a beautiful pergola and garden, perfect for families or groups. The property offers a fully equipped kitchen, multiple bedrooms, and outdoor dining areas.
4. Ciudad Vieja – Historical Gem Off the Beaten Path 🏺
🏛️ Colonial charm: Ciudad Vieja, once the capital of Guatemala, is steeped in rich history. Walking its cobblestone streets, I was struck by the well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. The town’s layout, with its central plaza and surrounding buildings, gives you a real sense of what life was like centuries ago.
⛪ Baroque beauty: One of the highlights of my visit was the Ermita de Santa Isabel, a beautiful baroque church that’s survived since colonial times. Its intricate facade and peaceful interior are a testament to the town’s historical significance. I recommend visiting early in the morning when the light is perfect for photos and the crowds are thin.
🎵 Mayan melodies: For those interested in Mayan culture, the Casa K’ojom is a small but fascinating museum. Here, you can see and even hear traditional Mayan musical instruments. It’s one of those places that really brings history to life.
🍽️ Foodie paradise: Foodies, you’re in for a treat in Ciudad Vieja! The local mercado is a sensory overload in the best way possible:
- The aroma of freshly made tortillas
- Colorful stalls selling local fruits and vegetables
- Street food vendors offering delicious Guatemalan snacks like rellenitos and atol de elote
💡 Local eats: Visit the market around lunchtime to sample the best local dishes. The comedores (small eateries) at the back of the market serve up some of the most authentic and affordable meals in town.
👨🍳 Culinary adventure: For a unique experience, I highly recommend taking a Guatemalan cooking class with a local family. I learned to make Pepian, a traditional dish, and it was one of the highlights of my trip. Not only did I pick up some culinary skills, but I also got to hear fascinating stories about the town’s history and traditions.
🌋 Volcano views: Nature lovers, don’t miss the chance to hike up the nearby volcano. The views of Antigua and the surrounding valley are breathtaking. Just be sure to start early and bring plenty of water.
⏱️ Efficient exploring: Most attractions in Ciudad Vieja are within walking distance of each other. I suggest starting at the central plaza and working your way outwards. You can easily see the main sights in a day, but I’d recommend staying overnight to really soak in the atmosphere.
5. Santa Ana – Budget-Friendly Option with Local Flavor 💰
🌳 Central park proximity: One of the best things about Santa Ana is its proximity to Central park of Antigua. You’re just a short walk away from the bustling heart of the city, but far enough to escape the tourist crowds.
🏛️ Historical hotspots: For history buffs, Santa Ana doesn’t disappoint. Here are some must-visit spots that won’t cost you a fortune:
- Ermita de Santa Isabel: A beautiful baroque church that’s survived since colonial times
- Santo Domingo del Cerro: A free outdoor sculpture park with stunning city views
- Cerro de la Cruz: A short hike offering panoramic views of Antigua and its surrounding volcanoes
🍽️ Local eats: The neighborhood is home to some of the best local eateries in Antigua, where you can sample authentic Guatemalan cuisine without the tourist prices. I recommend trying Pepián, a traditional meat and vegetable stew, at one of the small comedores (family-run eateries) near the local market. For dessert, don’t miss the chance to try rellenitos, sweet plantains stuffed with beans and chocolate.
🥾 Hiking heaven: Nature lovers will appreciate Santa Ana’s proximity to some of Antigua’s best hiking trails. The trailhead for Cerro de la Cruz is nearby, offering breathtaking views of the city and the iconic Agua Volcano. If you’re up for a challenge, consider booking a tour to hike Pacaya Volcano. It’s an unforgettable experience to roast marshmallows on hot volcanic rocks!
⏱️ Efficient exploring: You can easily see the main sights in a day, but I’d recommend staying at least 3-4 days to fully soak in the atmosphere.
Top hotels in Santa Ana: 🏨
- Hotel Casa Búho B&B – Cozy bed and breakfast with uniquely decorated rooms and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The property features a lovely garden and terrace where guests can enjoy their breakfast or relax after a day of sightseeing.
- Villas Santa Ana Ricardo – Comfortable villas offering a home-away-from-home experience with fully equipped kitchens and living areas. The property features a garden and terrace, providing a relaxing environment for guests.
- Villas de la Ermita – Elegant villas set in a beautiful colonial-style property with lush gardens and a swimming pool. Each villa is equipped with modern amenities and offers a private terrace or balcony with stunning views.
FAQs about trips to Antigua ❔
What area of Antigua, Guatemala city to stay in?
The centre of Antigua is the best area to stay for first-time visitors, offering easy access to main attractions and a vibrant atmosphere. For a quieter, more authentic experience, consider staying in San Pedro Las Huertas or Santa Ana, which are still within walking distance of the city center.
How many days should you stay in Antigua Guatemala?
A minimum of 3 days is recommended to experience the best of Antigua Guatemala. However, 4-5 days is ideal to fully explore the city, enjoy its culture, and potentially take a day trip to nearby attractions like Pacaya Volcano or Hobbitenango.
Why is Antigua Guatemala so popular?
Antigua Guatemala is popular for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city also offers a perfect blend of historical charm, vibrant culture, excellent cuisine, and proximity to natural attractions like volcanoes and coffee plantations.
Is it safe to travel to Antigua, Guatemala now?
Antigua is generally considered safe for tourists, with the main risks being petty theft and pickpocketing. As with any travel destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, take basic precautions, and keep updated on current local conditions.
Which side of Antigua has the best beaches?
This question is not applicable to Antigua, Guatemala, as it is a landlocked city without beaches. You may be confusing it with the Caribbean island of Antigua, which does have beaches.
