Antigua, Guatemala
Initially, I traveled to Guatemala in order to visit my parents in a small town called Esquipulas. But when the opportunity to go to Antigua, Guatemala came up, I didn’t hesitate to go. The only caveat, however: we would only be there one night—roughly 48 hours.
Sometimes time is of the essence—especially while traveling! I’m the type of traveler that likes to Jam Pack as much as I can in one place especially if I’m only there for a little bit.
Fortunately, I had some wonderful friends serving as guides and I saw so many things in a short amount of time.
With that being said, there is a myriad of things to do in and around Antigua. Below are the places we went to!
ps. I did not have a negative experience anywhere!
Architecture & Buildings
I did not even consider Guatemala as place to look out for architecture, but I was wrong! Here are a few memorable spots I found in Antigua!
Sanctuary of San felipe de jesus
This beautiful structure caught my attention, not only for the striking colors and size, but by its architecture. This Catholic Church was built in 1930 in the Gothic- Style and also has a museum inside as well.
It resides in the community of San Felipe de Jesus just outside of Antigua, maybe 10 minutes away from where I stayed. I recommend the neighboring restaurant that I speak about down below.
catadral de san jose
An absolutely beautiful focal point in El Parque Central in Antigua–San Jose Cathedral.
I am disappointed that I did not get to make time to go inside, however, it was just as beautiful on the outside, day or night. In addition, the plaza it resides in a very popular tourist location as well with many little spots to eat and shop. I also mentioned another little cafe below that we enjoyed.
Iglesia de la merced
As a beautifully restored example of Baroque Guatemalan architecture, it resides as well as a central point to many areas in Antigua.
This Church construction completed in the 1760’s by Juan de Dios Estrada. Specifically, the yellow walls and fascade make it truly unique and distinct.
Tourist Spots
Parque Central De Antigua Guatemala
Speaking of Antigua’s Central Park, I would highly recommend visiting this distinct touristy spot. Not to mention, it’s free!
Not only does it have San Jose Cathedral on one side, but it also various little vendors, merchant shops, a scenic fountain, and quaint little spots to eat.
It’s a beautiful place, and perfect place to spend some money!
Arco de santa catalina
If you go to Antigua, Guatemala and didn’t stop to take a picture at this arc, did you really actually go?
In the same yellow that matches La Merced Catholic Church, this arc uniquely stands out in the town, and totally worth the time it took to if you appreciate touristy gems like this one.
Surprisingly, the crowds were not that bad. We were there around midday, and the crowds ebbed and flowed. I felt like I had enough opportunity to take a good picture, and additionally, there were plenty of vendors and spots to also eat, drink, and enjoy the location.
cerro de la cruz
This scenic location is also a pretty popular tourist spot! Only maybe a 10 minute drive there, people additionally hike up the mountain to the cross that stands at the top of the hills. Unfortunately, we did not have time to do that, but we definitely had time to stop by car and visit the cross.
The view is lovely, and it’s an excellent place to explore.
the museum in casa santo domingo
Casa Santo Domingo was probably one of my favorite places to visit in our short time in Antigua. Although I mention the buffet we enjoyed there down below, but the grounds surrounding this building is worth a visit alone.
The immediate architecture upon entering is impressive. In addition, its halls held historical artifacts. But, past the gardens and hotel pool, there resides a museum with a paid entrance.
You can see beautiful ruins, and tombs, and artifacts that explain so much of Antigua and the era that the town began. In addition, there were multiple collections as you meander through–I could have spent hours exploring this historical place.
Places we ate at
Restaurante el prado Antigua
If you’re looking for authentic Guatemalan cuisine, this is the perfect place.
Centered in the Guatemala’s historic district, this restaurant neighbors the Sancturary of San Felipe de Jesus. This quaint location served delicious food! We literally walked in, with no wait time at all. We sat in a patio with benches and we were served multiple dishes.
I enjoyed every bite!
Casa santo domingo hotel
Before our long drive back home, we started the day early and stopped here at around 7am. We joined in the breakfast buffet in El Refectory and it was quite the experience.
They served us in a beautiful dining hall, and the diverse buffet impressed me. The hospitality left nothing wanting, and I recommend this experience highly.
This hotel holds so much historical sifinificance to Antigua, and not only made this breakfast buffet memorable, but the entire property is saturated with historical artifacts and information.
cafe condesa
You simply cannot have a true Guatemalan experience if you do not partake in a simple cup of coffee with your friends! And so, we did exactly that on our only evening in Antigua.
Cafe Condesa was such a vibe and quite beautiful. It also lies in the heart of Antigua in El Parque Central de Antigua Guatemala, right across from the Church.
The beautiful little cafe had a small little museum, and even a vendor spot to buy some souvenirs. Additionally, the courtyard was welcoming and full of tourists.
Where We Stayed
Now the airbnb that we stayed at was LOVELY. Antigua is known for its beautiful Spanish colonial architecture all over, and its baroque churches. So, to stay in a quaint little airbnb that had this vibe, was a beautiful experience!
My main observation in this airbnb is that there are A TON of stairs. Unfortunately, I missed a step and totally ATE the floor and twisted my ankle. Fortunately, I could walk within the hour, but I definitely was taken a back by the various steps.
- Airbnb – Link here
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