Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Colonial Charm of Antigua Guatemala

Morning:

  • Arrival at La Aurora International Airport (Guate)
  • Check-in at a recommended hotel like Hotel Casa Santo Domingo or Casa del Sole Boutique Hotel & Spa
  • Breakfast at the hotel or local café like Pan y Tortilla or ChocoMuseo

Activities:

  1. Visit Parque Central, the heart of Antigua, surrounded by beautiful colonial architecture
  2. Explore the ruins of several churches and convents such as La Merced, San Francisco, and Santa Catalina
  3. Climb Cerro de la Cruz for a panoramic view of the city and nearby volcanoes

Lunch:

  • Lunch at local restaurants like El Comal (traditional Guatemalan food) or Zafra Wine Bar (Italian-Guatemalan fusion)

Afternoon:

  1. Visit the Museo de la Recolección to learn about the history of Antigua and its restoration after the 1773 earthquake
  2. Shop for souvenirs at local markets like Centa Mercado or La Esquina

Dinner:

  • Dine at Porta Via (Italian), Carmen’s Garden (Mediterranean), or Sopa de Queso (Guatemalan)

Evening:

  • Relax at a local bar like Café No Sé or The Dog House

Day 2: Adventure and Culture in Antigua Guatemala

Morning:

  1. Take a shuttle to Finca El Pilar, a coffee farm for a tour and tasting
  2. Head to Semana Nativa (Mayan Cultural Center) for a traditional Maya weaving workshop or pottery class

Lunch:

  • Lunch at local restaurants like El Tenedor (Guatemalan fine dining) or Los Tres Tiempos (contemporary Guatemalan cuisine)

Afternoon:

  1. Visit the nearby Agua Volcano, hike the active Pacaya volcano, or explore the lush Ciudad Vieja ruins
  2. For a unique experience, take a Chicken Bus tour to discover Antigua’s outskirts and local life

Dinner:

  • Dine at El Quiche de la Mamá Ana (traditional K’iche’ food) or Café Sky (Asian fusion)

Evening:

  1. Attend a performance of the Ballet Folklórico de las Nubes at Centro Cultural Casa del Arbolito
  2. Enjoy drinks and live music at local bars like El Rinconcito or Mundo Mágico

Things to Know:

  1. Antigua is located approximately 30 minutes from La Aurora International Airport (Guate)
  2. The city is safe, but it’s always good to be cautious, especially with your belongings
  3. Dollars are widely accepted, and you can easily exchange money at local bureaus de cambio
  4. Shuttles and taxis are readily available for transportation around Antigua and nearby attractions
  5. Be respectful of the local culture and customs when visiting churches, markets, and Maya communities
  6. It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking during your visit

Tips:

  1. Bargain at markets and shops for the best prices
  2. Try local dishes like Pepian, Chiles Rellenos or Gallo Pinto
  3. Take advantage of the beautiful weather by enjoying breakfast on a rooftop terrace with a view
  4. Visit during the dry season (November to April) for the best weather and fewer crowds