Curator’s statement
Antigua, Guatemala is such a hidden gem that is waiting to be unearthed by you! I went with my husband and two toddlers and we all fell in love with it. It is so kid-friendly, breathtakingly beautiful with so much culture and beyond affordable. It’s been years since I’ve been and I still think about that trip at least once a week.
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Where to stay in Antigua
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Things to do in Antigua
Altamira: The Altamira tour features stunning panoramic views of the three towering volcanos that backdrop Antigua. The views from here are unreal and you have the option to go on a canopy bike ride!
Hobbitengeo: A tour of Hobbitenango, which is nestled in the mountains and inspired by the movie, The Hobbit. This magical place is the perfect way to escape the bustle of the city below. Just be sure to bring a sweater because it can get pretty chilly up there!
Walking tour: Such a great way to learn about the culture and history of Antigua.
Jade Museum/Casa del Jade: The Mayans hid all the jade before the Spanish arrival in Central America, and it was only discovered in 1970. Guatemala is now the headquarters of the jade business. Casa del Jade comes with the walking tour, but if you can’t do the tour, you should do this on its own and buy yourself a souvenir to take home!
Arco de Santa Catalina: This originally connected the Santa Catalina convent to a school where the nuns could walk back and forth from one building to another without having to go in the street or being seen. On a clear day, you can see the Volcán de Agua in the background.
Markets: You can’t go wrong with any of the markets in Antigua. You can find toys and trinkets, aprons, clothing, the most gorgeous hand-painted paintings (we took a souvenir home from one of them and have it hung in our living room), and more!
Places to eat & drink in Antigua
Antigua Brewing Company: I love anywhere with a view, and this rooftop restaurant/brewery had a volcano backdrop. It also boasted delicious, brightly colored eats and a yummy selection of local, housemade beer.
Starbucks: I always go local when I’m at a new place. But I also always go to the local Starbucks to get their You Are Here mug collection. Let me tell you, this was hands down the most beautiful Starbucks I've ever been to! You have to see it to believe it!
Hector’s Bistro: This restaurant had the best spaghetti and French onion soup, but the best part was, it has a playground! The outdoor eating area is super cute and intimate, so you can have a close eye on your kids while having your own space to enjoy some yummy eats and drinks.
Santa Clara Cafe & Bakery: a hole-in-the-wall type place that’s delicious and affordable! Think: pastries for four, two hot chocolates and two coffees all for $12.
Street food: Eat their street food! Talk about authentic.
Coffee shop/restaurant at the top of Hobbitengo: This is the best hot chocolate I’ve ever had and they also have delicious morning buns.
Need to know
Be sure to have crisp, unmarked cash. Many banks won’t take cash even if it has the slightest mark or crease.
Antigua is not stroller-friendly. Bring a baby carrier or a baby hip carrier instead. The same goes for roller luggage. We brought hiking backpacks and it was a game-changer.
Travel Advisor
Shanna Silveira
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For more inspiration and travel recommendations, check out our Guatemala page.