Antigua Guatemala Guatemala 6 Day Itinerary

Antigua Guatemala 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & City Exploration

  • Arrive at La Aurora International Airport (GUA) and transfer to Antigua Guatemala (approximately 45 minutes drive).

  • Check-in at your hotel. Recommended options include:

    • Hotel Casa Santo Domingo: Luxury, historic, cultural.
    • Casa del Sole Boutique Hotel & Spa: Mid-range, colonial charm, spa facilities.
    • Hostel La Casona Antigua: Budget-friendly, social atmosphere, free breakfast.

  • Familiarize yourself with the city by wandering its cobblestone streets and visiting the central park (Parque Central).

  • Explore nearby attractions such as Santa Catalina Arch and La Merced Church.

  • Dinner at Porta Via (Italian) or Meson Panza Verde (Guatemalan).

Day 2: Antigua Guatemala Sights & Volcano Viewing

  • Breakfast at your hotel or at Pan de Ayer (bakery).
  • Visit the Church of San Francisco, Museum of Colonial Art, and Jade Museum of Antigua.
  • After lunch, head to Cerro de la Cruz for a panoramic view of the city and surrounding volcanoes (Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango).
  • Dinner at Zona Viva, with options like El Portal (Italian), Cafe No Se (Central American fusion), or Salsipuedes (Guatemalan seafood).

Day 3: Pacaya Volcano Hike & Local Market

  • Early breakfast and departure for a half-day hike up Pacaya Volcano. Book through tour operators like Antigua Shuttle or Viator.
  • After the hike, visit local markets for souvenirs and traditional food: Mercado de Artesanías La Esquina (for handicrafts) and Mercado de Achiote (for local produce).
  • Dinner at Cafe Condesa or El Tenedor for a more upscale dining experience.

Day 4: Day Trip to Chichicastenango

  • Early breakfast and departure for the town of Chichicastenango, known for its colorful market (Thursdays and Sundays are best). Book a tour or take a shuttle.
  • Explore the Iglesia de Santo Tomás, Mayan spiritual sites, and local villages.
  • Return to Antigua in the evening for dinner at Casa del Sole’s restaurant or Sobremesa.

Day 5: Atotzo Canyon & Hot Springs

  • After breakfast, take a guided tour (book through your hotel or tour operators) to Atotzo Canyon and nearby hot springs.
  • Enjoy a relaxing afternoon soaking in the hot springs while taking in stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Return to Antigua for dinner at El Barrio del Fogón or K’iche’ (Guatemalan cuisine).

Day 6: Departure & Last Minutes

  • Spend your last morning enjoying a leisurely breakfast and shopping for last-minute souvenirs.
  • Transfer to La Aurora International Airport (approximately 45 minutes drive) for your departure flight. Adiós, Antigua!

Things to Know:

  • Antigua Guatemala is located in a seismically active region, so earthquakes are common. Familiarize yourself with safety procedures and emergency exits.
  • Bargaining is expected in markets, but prices should be reasonable.
  • Dress modestly when visiting churches, covering shoulders and knees.
  • Tap water is not safe to drink, so buy bottled water or bring a water filter.
  • Spanish is the primary language spoken in Antigua, although some tour guides and shopkeepers may speak English.

Transportation:

  • Shuttles, taxis, and “chicken buses” (local public transportation) are available for getting around Antigua and to nearby destinations like Chichicastenango and Pacaya Volcano. Be sure to agree on a price before starting your journey.