Antigua Guatemala hotels & places to stay

Discovering Antigua Guatemala: Fun Facts and Reasons to Visit

Antigua Guatemala is a charming colonial town located in the central highlands of Guatemala, surrounded by volcanoes and hills. The town was founded in 1543 and served as the capital of the Spanish colony of Guatemala for over 200 years. Today, Antigua is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque architecture, cobblestone streets, and colorful facades. One of the most interesting facts about Antigua is that it was destroyed by a series of earthquakes in the 18th century, and many of the buildings were left in ruins. However, the town was never abandoned, and over time, the ruins were incorporated into the new buildings, creating a unique blend of old and new architecture. Antigua is also known for its vibrant culture and traditions. The town is famous for its elaborate processions during Holy Week, which attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. During this time, the streets are decorated with colorful carpets made of sawdust, flowers, and fruits, and the processions feature large floats with religious images, accompanied by bands and dancers. If you're looking for a unique and culturally rich destination, Antigua Guatemala should definitely be on your list.

How to Travel to Antigua Guatemala: Tips and Best Season to Go

The best way to get to Antigua Guatemala is by flying into Guatemala City, which is the nearest international airport. From there, you can take a shuttle or a taxi to Antigua, which is only about an hour's drive away. The best time to visit Antigua is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather is pleasant, and there are fewer crowds than during the rainy season. However, if you're interested in experiencing Holy Week, which usually falls in March or April, you should plan your trip accordingly and book your hotel well in advance. When traveling to Antigua, it's important to keep in mind that the town is located at an altitude of 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) above sea level, and some visitors may experience altitude sickness. To avoid this, it's recommended to drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and take it easy for the first few days.

Unforgettable Things to Do in Antigua Guatemala: A Travel Guide

Antigua Guatemala offers plenty of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the top things to do in Antigua: - Explore the town's historic center: Take a stroll around the town's central park, Parque Central, and admire the stunning architecture of the Cathedral of St. James, the Palace of the Captains General, and the Church of La Merced. - Visit the museums: Antigua is home to several museums that showcase the town's rich history and culture, such as the Museum of Colonial Art, the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, and the Chocolate Museum. - Take a cooking class: Guatemala is known for its delicious cuisine, and Antigua offers plenty of opportunities to learn how to cook traditional dishes such as tamales, chiles rellenos, and pepián. - Climb a volcano: Antigua is surrounded by several active and dormant volcanoes, and hiking to the top of one of them is a popular activity for adventurous visitors. The most popular ones are Pacaya and Acatenango. - Relax in a spa: After a long day of exploring, treat yourself to a relaxing massage or spa treatment at one of Antigua's many spas, which offer a variety of services using natural ingredients such as chocolate, coffee, and volcanic mud.

Where to Stay in Antigua Guatemala: Top Hotel Picks by Agoda.com

Antigua Guatemala offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the top hotel picks by Agoda.com: - Meson de Maria: This charming boutique hotel is located in the heart of Antigua, just a few blocks from Parque Central. The hotel features 15 spacious and beautifully decorated rooms, a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the town and the volcanoes, and a restaurant that serves delicious local and international cuisine. - Yellow House Hostel B&B: This cozy hostel is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want to stay in a central location. The hostel offers dorm rooms and private rooms, a shared kitchen, a rooftop terrace with hammocks, and a complimentary breakfast. - Hotel Las Farolas: This elegant hotel is located in a quiet residential area, just a 10-minute walk from the town center. The hotel features 20 spacious and comfortable rooms, a beautiful garden with a swimming pool, and a restaurant that serves gourmet cuisine. - Hotel La Sin Ventura: This boutique hotel is housed in a beautifully restored colonial mansion, just a few blocks from Parque Central. The hotel features 7 luxurious and stylishly decorated rooms, a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the town and the volcanoes, and a restaurant that serves delicious local and international cuisine. - Posada San Vicente by AHS: This charming hotel is located in a quiet street, just a few blocks from Parque Central. The hotel features 12 cozy and beautifully decorated rooms, a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the town and the volcanoes, and a restaurant that serves delicious local and international cuisine.

Foodie's Guide to Antigua Guatemala: What to Eat and Drink

Antigua Guatemala offers a wide range of delicious cuisine, influenced by the town's rich history and culture. Here are some of the must-try dishes and drinks: - Pepián: This traditional stew is made with chicken or beef, vegetables, and a rich sauce made with roasted sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, and other spices. It's usually served with rice and tortillas. - Chiles Rellenos: These stuffed peppers are a popular appetizer or main dish, filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, and topped with tomato sauce or cream. - Tamales: These steamed corn cakes are a staple of Guatemalan cuisine, filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese, and wrapped in banana leaves. - Coffee: Guatemala is known for its high-quality coffee, and Antigua offers plenty of opportunities to taste and learn about the local coffee culture. Some of the best coffee shops in town are Café Condesa, Bella Vista Coffee, and Café Bohème. - Chocolate: Guatemala is also known for its delicious chocolate, and Antigua offers several chocolate shops and museums where you can taste and learn about the local chocolate-making traditions. Some of the best ones are ChocoMuseo, Doña Pancha, and Fernando's Kaffee.

Getting Around Antigua Guatemala: Transportation Tips for Tourists

Antigua Guatemala is a small town, and most of the attractions and accommodations are within walking distance. However, if you need to travel further, here are some transportation options: - Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Antigua, and they're a convenient and affordable way to get around town. Make sure to agree on the fare before getting in the taxi. - Shuttles: If you're traveling to other destinations in Guatemala, such as Lake Atitlan or Tikal, there are several shuttle services that operate from Antigua. Make sure to book in advance to ensure availability. - Buses: There are several local buses that operate within Antigua and to nearby towns, such as Jocotenango and Ciudad Vieja. However, they can be crowded and uncomfortable, and the schedules are not always reliable. - Walking: Walking is the best way to explore Antigua's charming streets and alleys, and it's also a great way to get some exercise and fresh air. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated.