You don’t have to look far to find inspiring things to do in Antigua, Guatemala. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed city in the country’s south, was once the colonial capital. All but abandoned after a number of disastrous earthquakes, today it stands revived. Antigua’s vibrant, colonial Spanish architecture, cobblestone streets, and a few earthquake-ruined buildings tell the fascinating story of its past. Overseen by a series towering volcanoes, it’s dramatic setting, mild climate and rollercoaster history, make it a must-visit. Discover these beautiful and interesting things to do in Antigua, Guatemala!
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A brief history of Antigua, Guatemala
Antigua was established by the conquering Spanish in 1524 as Santiago de Guatemala. The city had a number of false starts and relocations before it stuck. Antigua version 1.0 was burnt down by rebelling indigenous people. Antigua 2.0 was reduced to rubble by earthquakes, then smothered by a subsequent mudslide.
They say third time’s a charm and Antigua 3.0, in its current location, stuck around for 230-years. That is despite floods, volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. The final straw was the destruction wrought by the 1773 Santa Marta earthquakes. At that point, the Spanish colonisers moved out and established a new capital – Guatemala City.
At this point, Santiago de Guatemala became referred to as “La Antigua Guatemala,” meaning “Old Guatemala City”. The city was almost abandoned until the mid-19th century. At that time, agriculture, particularly coffee and grain, sparked renewed interest in the area.
The best time to visit Antigua, Guatemala
The best time to visit Antigua, Guatemala, is during the dry season, which spans from November to April. During this period, the weather is ideal for exploring, with warm days, cooler nights, and clear skies that show off the stunning views of surrounding volcanoes.
March and April bring the city’s most celebrated events, including Semana Santa (Holy Week) leading up to Easter. Enscribed by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of humanity, Holy Week sees Antigua transform with religious processions, intricate alfombras (decorative carpets), and cultural festivities. It’s a peak travel period, so expect larger crowds and higher prices, but the experience is unforgettable.
For a quieter visit, head to Antigua between November and February, when the weather remains pleasant but crowds are thinner. Although the rainy season (May to October) sees daily showers, rain usually falls in the afternoons, leaving mornings clear for exploration. This season also means lush landscapes and fewer tourists, making it a perfect time for budget travellers and photographers looking for verdant backdrops.
Inspiring Things to do in Antigua, Guatemala
Hike a live volcano
Located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, Guatemala has 37 official volcanoes. Three of these volcanoes are active at the time of this post—Fuego, Pacaya and Santiaguito. Volcanoes Fuego and Pacaya are both a stone’s throw away from Antigua. Local tour companies offer a range of experiences to explore the volcanic terrain. From half-day hikes to overnighters, you can feel the power of mother nature up closer than most developed countries would deem safe. See more about our experience roasting marshmallows on Pacaya’s lava flows here.
Shop for beautiful handicrafts
Approximately 40% of Guatemala’s population is indigenous people who are descendants of the ancient Maya. Many of these indigenous people produce textiles and handicrafts by largely traditional methods. Their aesthetic is bold, colourful and rich in symbolism. You will find Antigua abundant in pottery, bead jewellery, textiles, art and other artisan products to fill your suitcase. See my recommendations on soulful souvenirs from Guatemala and where to buy them here.
Make your own chocolate, the Mayan way
Nothing will satisfy your sweet tooth like a trip to the Choco Museum. Here you can wander through the Museum for free and sample products made from local cacao. You can also get interactive with various workshops guiding you through the process of making your own divine cacao treats.
We took the 45-minute Mini-Workshop and left, minds boggling with our new, chocolatey wisdom. Not to mention a bagful of cacao products including our self-moulded and flavoured bonbons. If we weren’t chocolate snobs before, we sure are after this experience. I shared some of the fascinating history and art of making great chocolate here.
Explore colonial ruins
Some of the exquisite colonial buildings that fell prey to the 1773 earthquakes, have been restored to a point where visitors can safely walk through them. These churches and monasteries are now open-air museums exhibiting felled architecture and blooming with well-tended gardens. It will cost you a couple of dollars to get into each. See more stunning details of Antigua’s colonial ruins here.
Take in the view from Cerro de la Cruz
On a green hillside on the northern edge of the city is Cerro de la Cruz, “Hill of the Cross”. This scenic lookout is where you can enjoy views over the city and Volcán Agua. The hill trail has gained a reputation for muggings, so take a friend and travel between 8am-4pm when it is patrolled by local police. Earlier is better before the sun really heats up.
Take in the Barroco antigueño architecture
Antigua’s easily navigable grid layout was inspired by the Italian Renaissance and was at the forefront of town planning in its day. Wander the cobblestones and take in the beauty of Antigua’s architecture. The surviving civic, religious and residential buildings mostly hail from the 17th and 18th centuries. Barroco antigueño refers to the local architectural style from this period. The style was adapted from Baroque trends out of Europe and tweaked for better earthquake resistance. Find out more on the must-see architecture of Antigua in this post.
Where to stay in Antigua, Guatemala
We fell in love with the Hotel Eterna Primavera Antigua. From the comfy rooms to the exquisite courtyard garden and rooftop views of the surrounding volcanoes. Antigua is compact and able-bodied people can walk anywhere from its location.
Are you planning a trip to Guatemala? Don’t leave the former capital off your itinerary. There are so many incredible things to do Antigua, you don’t want to miss a thing.
Peace, love & inspiring travel,
Madam ZoZo
