There are few places in the world I ever think its wise to walk alone at night, and that does include Antigua. Book this tour: Chichicastenango and Lake Atitlan Tour. These are illnesses we can actually prevent. Caoba Organic Farms Prices: $$+ | Q100-200 ($15-20+ USD) Menu: Organic farm to table brunch-style fare Location: 5 Avenida Sur Final (south of Antigua - directions) Hours: 8-4 pm (closed Mondays) Caoba Farms is one of the best restaurants in Antigua that is if you enjoy a sustainable, farm-to-table meal! View seekers should put this on top of their list of things to do in Antigua, especially as it is so easy to reach either by walking or by car. Adding Antigua to your RTW now?! Also, there really is a great expat community there, soyou would be in good company! The cost of living has gotten so high in Sarasota. The 20 guest rooms at this tranquil boutique hotel surround a colonnaded courtyard shaded by fruiting guava and mandarin trees. They've visited over 20 countries together (and counting) in the last ten years! A mighty cross stands imposingly atop a massive hill just outside the city. for nearly as long. The owners are very embedded in the local community so your money is also going to good work employing locals and helping conserve the local enviroment. Essential Antigua Do Places to see, ways to wander, and signature experiences. There's a huge number of things to do in Antigua Guatemala, from visiting some of the city's many historic houses, churches, and former convents, to shopping for traditional handicrafts, to experiencing Guatemala's home-grown coffee culture in the many cafes, to hiking up some of the nearby . The Best Restaurants In Antigua, Guatemala - Culture Trip Its not the safest, it will take the longest, and can sometimes be a bit dangerous. Where to Stay in Antigua, Guatemala (TOP 5 Areas in 2023) It is the third-highest volcano in the country, so trust us when we say your legs will feel it. When there are no clouds, you should be able to see Lake Atitlan and the surrounding villages that dot the hillside. The winter high season (November-March) is the best time for festivals and dry weather. Visit a coffee plantation just outside of Antiguathis is an excellent way to spend half a day if you want another short day trip near the city. Please see myDisclosurefor more details. Flight time 14hrs 30min from London, 5hrs 30min from New York. Guests dine either indoors, in a colonial-era house decorated with local art, or in a flower-filled outdoor courtyard. However, there are limited facilities, so expect a rugged camping experience. I think you should give it a try! Antiguas cobblestone, idyllically-pretty streets are clean. Next, visit the Iximch Maya ruins and Chichicastenango Market, followed by a day of relaxation by Lake Atitln, where you can go kayaking and hiking. Glad to hear that you liked it too Laura! At this point, I usually stop all pissing contests by telling people that I am a tourist and I like to do tourist activities. Glad that I've added a place to your list Antigua is definitely a greatplace to check out and with Guatemala City so close, getting to and fromis really a cinch! Screw authenticity, good travel is all about those experiences that stick. The Plaza is the center of the original ruling bodies of Antigua from the 1500's. 2023. An afternoon reading on the hammocks at El Hato Verde is peaceful. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. It also just points to the fact that travel is highly personal what one person loves could be a real dud to someone elsebut through it all, dud or not, touristy or not, it is all real :-). You'll start in a kayak, paddling westward along the north shore of Lake Atitln for roughly two hours. Most notable among the earthquake-damaged ruins is the Catedral de Santiago, Roman Catholic church originally built in 1541. Book the tour I did: Acatenango Overnight. Youll want to book a few tours! There are over 500 structures here, and your guide will lead you to various pyramids, altars, plazas, ball courts, and a network of sacbeob (ancient roads). It is also known as Antigua City Hall, once a jail and the seat of the Spanish colonial government. Its best to visit for breakfast so that you can enjoy fluffy pancakes made with macadamia flour, smothered in the creamiest macadamia butter imaginable, and topped with a dollop of blueberries from the blueberry farm they also own in own in a nearby region of Guatemala. Active Highlights of Guatemala: Kayaking, Hiking & Tubing Caribbean Guatemala & Maya Ruins - 11 Days, Luxury & Maya Culture in Guatemala - 8 Days, Best of Guatemala: Antigua, Lake Atitln & Tikal - 8 Days, 5 Days in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas, 1 Week in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas, 10 Days in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas, 2 Weeks in Guatemala - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas, Guatemala in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More, Guatemala in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More, Guatemala in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More, Guatemala in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More, Guatemala in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More, Guatemala in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More, Guatemala in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More, 2 Weeks in Guatemala - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas, Adventurous Family Trip to Guatemala & Belize - 14 Days. Antigua was our first stop in Latin America. Your home country is full of beauty, culture, and so many kind people. Here are a few mentions of great spots to eat and drink. I definitely recommend it, and I think a youthful 70 year old would thrive. Love your article on Antigua and I go quite often and every time I have beautiful experiences and I have made friends from all over North America and Europe and other places in Antigua Guatemala I love this place and it does feel safe. Then, when youve had your fill, go spend a few days (minimum) at the lake. I wrote a free and comprehensive Guatemala Travel Guide. Backpacking for many has simply become virtue signalling and about denying agency to the people in the country they are visiting. Exclusive Villa with Pool / Hot Tub / Gated Community, Casa Santa Catarina -Antigua's Central Hidden Secret w/Pool (2 of 4) +Free Night, Casa Serenidad - Spacious & Artistic Oasis - Rooftop 360 Degree Volcanic Views, APT1 - Colonial villa with 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom - Apartamentos los Nazarenos, APT5 - Colonial villas with 2 bedrooms 2 bathrooms - APARTAMENTOS LOS NAZARENOS, Casona Colonial, Habitacion con vista al Volcan, Classic Cultural Walking City Tour of Antigua Guatemala, Pacaya Volcano at night and Guatemala City Private Tour, Tikal Day Trip Including Round Trip Flights from Antigua with Lunch, Iximch Ruins and Antigua City Tour from Guatemala City, Guatemala City & Antigua Guatemala Private Tour. I will raise my eyebrows right back at those who want to start a pissing contest with me, because no matter where I go, I am always able to learn something new. There are so many things to do in Antigua, Guatemala! 12. Going by car is probably the easiest, but if you dont have that luxury, then you could always get the chicken bus to one of the nearby villages, like Magdalena Milpas. Antigua, Guatemala: Best Things to Do and See - Half Half Travel Eduardo se", "I really can't say enough amazing things about Cathy and the whole team at Columbus Tours! There are so many amazing properties in Antigua for all budgets. Get up close and personal to real cacao pods, with plenty of knowledgeable staff to tell you all about this delicious food, from harvest to production. But hey, if you love the place, Touristy or not, you just need to appreciate! The cultural center offers an oasis of serenity in the middle of a busy city. I have a confession: I deeply love Antigua, Guatemala. I'm with you it's all real! This is probably the most popular excursion from Antigua, and it's a special one. A download on everything I learned from backpacking across Guatemala. 1. Guatemala City Complete Day Private Tour. Journey Through Guatemala & Belize - 12 Days. Italian cozy place, amazing pizza, affordable prices, 25 years in business says something. I've been looking for the past few months (via the Internet and HGTV's House Hunters International television show) for a new place to call home. We recommend staying at one of the most popular hotels in Antigua, which include: Some of the most popular restaurants in Antigua include: Antigua is known for some of its popular attractions, which include: We recommend checking out these popular tours when looking for something to do in Antigua: If you're a more budget-conscious traveler, then you may want to consider traveling to Antigua between September and November, when hotel prices are generally the lowest. Best Hotel in Antigua Guatemala: Hotel Museo Casa Santo Domingo. Even if youre traveling solo, spend at least one night at a local bar. At about 4 pm, transfer to your hotel in Cobn. The iconic shop is so much more than the place to pick up your wool or sewing needles. I didn't know people viewed Antigua that way, but this is not the first time I've heard that this town is too touristy / not the real Guatemala, etc. :-). Ive used IMG Globalsince 2011 and highly recommend it! Por medio de la pgina de Facebook del INGUAT se dio a conocer que nuestro pas participar con cinco nominaciones en el Best Tourism Villages 2023, un evento promovido por World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), organizacin lder en la promocin del turismo responsable, sostenible y . Las Capuchinas, a former 18th-century convent. Impressive colonial-era buildings surround the area providing a unique backdrop, while the park is dotted with trees and shady spots to enjoy a coffee or snack. Uber here is easy, efficient, and cheap. In honor of the amazing artist Frida Kahlo, this restaurant/bar has a great atmosphere, serves delicious food, and the best mojitos around. 4. Get your chocolate fix at the Antigua Chocolate Museum, a venture that lets you learn more about the wonderful world of chocolate. The Corazon de Agua hike is a pretty well-marked trail that will have you at the summit in less than a few hours. How long to spend in Antigua, Guatemala. Whatever happened to an open mind I think too much analysis goes into something that can be simply enjoyed for what it is. RELATED: Your Guide to Exploring Lake Atitlan, Guatemala. The fare at this farm-to-table restaurant and organic garden, set on the outskirts of Antigua on a former coffee and rose farm, includes homemade sourdough sandwiches and wood-fired pizzas. Then book your transfer to Antigua for the following day! Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 restaurants. Antigua is not short of stunning views, so it makes sense to have many places to admire them. I love walking so I only walked, the entire time. From the moment he picked us up at the airport until he dropped us off 2 weeks later, we felt incredibly safe and well c", "Very well planned trip. Its also worth noting, only book a day tour if you have no time to go for a few days to visit yourself! At the end of the class, sit down with your fellow chefs and enjoy your delicious creations. The Best Hostels In Antigua, Guatemala Overall Best Hostel In Antigua - Maya Papaya. We absolutely loved our itinerary, he", Traveled to Guatemala as a couple in March, 2023, "I can't say enough good things about this trip and experience! Cheers to the rest, it's managing expectations and going with an open mind that could be the key to travelpre-concieved notions should just be a dirty word ;-). Unlike major cities, Antigua is actually a town. How could you not fall in love with such stunning architecture and the cobblestone streets? I have heard getting money from atms is difficult, is this true? These are the best ways to get around. Afterwards, cross the border to Belize to visit the Caracol ruins and enjoying some sun & sand on Ambergris Caye. I get it, because, well, my son and I have been living here for the last six months! Youll feel and see the activity around you as you climb, be it the smoke billowing out of the summit or even the odd flash of orange lava. Check out what is going on in the center when you visit, as there is usually some form of cultural event taking place, with some wonderful artwork to browse. Sometimes there is a reason why there are many tourists in one place and that reason may just be that it is a good place to go. 12 Awesome Day Trips from Antigua, Guatemala - Half Half Travel I always have travel insurance through IMG Global, as well as gear insurance when I am on the road, so I generally rate places against the threat of real bodily harm. If youre looking to get an insight into the true Guatemalan way of life, pay a visit to Chichicastenango Market. We ended up doing a bunch of things together for the rest of my time in Antigua. The buildings have since been restored, so youll be able to see the palaces and temples in their former glory. The archaeological site is an easy day trip from Antigua and offers a little something different from climbing volcanoes. This stunning viewpoint overlooks the terraced pools 2,300 feet (700 m) below. As you travel along this route, the absolute darkness of the cave will be broken up by two naturally-illuminated swimming pools, where you can stop to swim or relax in the water. Settle into your accommodation, meet your guide in your hotel lobby, and head out on a four-hour tour of Yaxh National Park. Guatemala Travel. He's 11 and we actually set out on a world tour, taking our time. Now, the citys cobbled streets arranged in an easy-to-navigate grid, with views of the imposing Volcn de Agua to the south and the twin peaks of Volcn de Fuego and Acatenango to the west are lined with farm-to-table restaurants, contemporary art galleries and design studios. Sure, there are vendors in Antigua selling these two locations as day trips, but if you have the time, ignore all of that. This bird is Guatemala's national symbol and has been revered since the time of the ancient Maya. This park has more than eight caves, each with uniquely different characteristics. Here are just a few of my favourites where guests can not only sleep but also take advantage of their wellness-focused approach to living. Learn more about all the top attractions, churches, markets & volcanos to visit in this beautiful city! Get a quote with the best and easiest travelers insurance: Safety Wing. Its a lovely city and youll enjoy just soaking in the vibes. As one of the countrys most active volcanoes, it is undoubtedly an exciting trip! My love of Antigua highlights one of those never-ending debates about experiencing the real heart of a country when you visit. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I bought my dad a gorgeous striped blanket at a great price. Such a pretty little town :-). Follow the lake trail between the villages, taking in views of the San Pedro, Tolimn, and Atitln volcanoes. Exactly what I was looking for. So if you see photos of people with red hot lava behind them, that might not be the case for you unless theres current activity. Just because somewhere is poorer or more dangerous doesn't make it closer to any absolute truth or hidden culture. Allegra Zagami 6 September 2022 View Not for nothing is the town of Antigua, in Guatemala's central highlands, hailed as one of the country's finest tourist destinations. Great post Shannon! Hike along the shoreline and through small villages for about 1.5 hours (or enjoy a shorter hike that can accommodate all fitness levels and age ranges.) 143k followers . Posted on Published: January 22, 2022- Last updated: March 26, 2023. Hiking up Acatenango Volcano is at the top of our list and there's a good reason for that. Visit Antigua Guatemala: 2023 Travel Guide for Antigua Guatemala An offbeat activity is to visit a macadamia nut farm, which has amazing pancakes. Catherina did a wonderful job planning a week in Guatemala with an itinerary that was customiz", Traveled to Guatemala as a family in April, 2023, "Catherina put together a great trip for us and was very responsive to our feedback and worked super hard to give us a unique trip within budget. I am leaving for Guatemala on Saturday. Stroll the cobblestone streets, lounge with the locals in Central Park on sunny afternoons or hike up one of the volcanoes overlooking the city for amazing views. Nina Ragusa is an adventurer, messy bun master, breakfast fan, and full-time travel blogger. Something to note: This volcano is active, but its not constantly spewing out lava. The tour is well done demonstrates the entire process of making coffee, from picking the coffee cherries to roasting the beans and then serving up a fresh, hot cup o joe. Waiting to shop at the market on my way out of the country also meant I didnt have carry extra souvenirs with me as I backpacked Guatemala (down the Rio Dulce, waterfall hopping at Semuc Champey, exploring Tikal, learning Spanish in Xela, and more). This is the flagship hotel of Antigua because its construction has preserved the heritage of its history and developed. Obviously the Irish bar stands out, but there should be no guilt involved. The only time I used transportation was when I went on a day trip outside of the city. For pretty much one of the coolest experiences youll ever have, hike Acatenango Volcano for the views of Volcano Fuego. Roast Marshmallows Over Lava on Volcn Pacaya One of my favorite (there were several) things to do in Antigua was getting to see a real-life lava flow spewing from an active volcano, and getting to roast marshmallows over the hot volcanic rocks! Price From $8,938 pp excluding flights. And this isnt only my opinionthis was the communicated opinion of Guatemalans I met in Antigua. Clearly all the rock climbing is going to my head. I was originally going to say just a couple weeks in Guatemala, but ended up exploring all the different regions for nearly three months. Sure, the streets of Antigua are touristy and there are touristy restaurants, but that doesn't take away from the fact that it's a beautiful place with real people and real experiences. Later in the day, a driver will take you back to Antigua from Panajachel at Lake Atitln. Can I exchange US dollars at the bank? Located on a quiet stretch of bustling Fifth Avenue, this boutique property opened in 1986 as the first luxury hotel in Antigua derives its name from panza verde, a term meaning green belly that Antigeos once called themselves when locals subsisted on an overflowing bounty of avocados. Also check out my additional recommended pre-trip Guate readings.
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