From Local Flavors to Looming Volcanoes: Discovering Colonial Antigua, Guatemala

Do a private hike of the Pakaya volcano (recommended so you can choose your own pace): Get your heart rate up, enjoy the scenery, and when you reach the volcano’s base, you can enjoy marshmallows roasted over a steam vent. Note: If you want an overnight adventure, you can instead elect to climb the Acatenango volcano with a guide and camp out en route.

Walk the colonial streets and browse local markets in search of the perfect hand-crafted souvenir: The colorful wooden masks are particularly noteworthy—the jaguar mask I purchased is one of the highlights of my travel wall. The largest market is Mercado Central, but there are other notable ones, including Mercadito and Nim P’ot—all of which you can barter and negotiate prices.

Attend a chocolate workshop: Guatemala is known for its cocoa beans, and the Choco Museum in the center of Antigua offers numerous workshops. I recommend the “Bean to Bar” workshop, where you can learn about chocolate’s history while sipping hot chocolate and making your own chocolate bar with assorted toppings.

Book a coffee tour: There are numerous options, and some require walking on uneven surfaces through plantations, while others involve simply visiting a farm and enjoying the different coffee offerings. One that is highly recommended is Finca La Azotea, which is very close to Antigua, and set on beautifully cultivated land.

Enjoy a brewery tour: Coming from Boulder, Colorado, I am well-versed in brewery tours, and I was excited to learn that Antigua has a large craft brewing scene. Whether you create your own walking tour or join an organized one, there are numerous breweries worth visiting in the city center with live music and rooftop seating.

Por Que No? Cafe: A tiny restaurant with just a few tables (reservations necessary)—the second floor requires you to climb up a narrow staircase, making it feel like a hidden gem most people are not privy to. The staff is very friendly, the food is fantastic, and the presentation is beautiful.

Tartines: A lovely French restaurant in the heart of Antigua. Reservations are necessary and I strongly recommend asking to be seated on the rooftop level—it overlooks the ruins, which are beautifully lit in the evening, and on a clear day you will be able to see the volcanoes in the distance.

Antigua Brewing Company: For good bar food and great brews. Head straight to the rooftop for a cooling breeze and a clear view over the city.

Caoba Farms: An organic farm-to-table experience just outside of the city. Perfect for a lunch out, and you can add on activities like farm tours and yoga.

Rincón Antigüeño: This is where you go to eat with the locals. Authentic and very tasty food with generous portions and no frills. It is cash only and gets very crowded at lunch.