Top 10 Things to Do in Antigua, Guatemala
Antigua is the kind of city that grabs you right away — cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, volcano views in the distance, and historic ruins around every corner. It’s walkable, full of character, and packed with food, culture, and adventure.
Here are the top things to do in Antigua — what’s worth seeing, what travelers love, and a few must-dos to save for your next visit.
1. Acatenango Volcano Trek ❌ Missed This
This overnight trek is considered one of the most unforgettable experiences in Guatemala. Hikers camp on the slopes of Acatenango and watch Fuego Volcano erupt throughout the night — a dramatic display of lava and ash. It’s challenging, cold, and demanding, but widely praised as a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
💡 JD’s Tip: Pack warm layers and book with a reputable guide; temperatures drop below freezing at the top.
Not the clearest photo, but this is exactly what Fuego looks like from Antigua — glowing lava lighting up the night sky.
2. Hike Pacaya Volcano 🌟 Did This
Pacaya is Antigua’s more accessible volcano hike, offering incredible views with far less effort. The landscape shifts from forested trails to black lava fields, with warm steam vents rising from the ground. Many tours finish by roasting marshmallows over volcanic heat — a fun touch after the climb.
💡 JD’s Tip: Late-afternoon tours are ideal for cooler temperatures and sunset colors.
Sunset over Agua volcano while my marshmallow slowly liquefies in volcanic steam — surreal.
3. Wander the Central Plaza & Cathedral 🌟 Did This
Parque Central is the heart of Antigua — lively, photogenic, and perfect for getting a feel for the city. Surrounded by colonial architecture and framed by the cathedral’s façade, it’s an easy place to relax, people-watch, and enjoy the rhythm of daily life.
💡 JD’s Tip: Visit in the early evening when the plaza lights come on and street vendors set up.
A quick selfie stop at La Merced — because how can you walk past this façade and NOT take a photo?
4. Explore the Colonial Ruins 🌟 Did This
Earthquakes left behind hauntingly beautiful ruins of churches and monasteries. Each has its own story, and walking through them feels like stepping back in time.
💡 JD’s Tip: Don’t miss the haunting ruins of San Francisco and La Recolección.
Me, casually wandering through a 300-year-old earthquake ruin like it’s my backyard.
5. Visit a Local Market 🌟 Did This
Antigua’s markets are full of color, textiles, crafts, and fresh produce. Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or simply browsing, the atmosphere is lively and filled with local culture. It’s also a great place to sample street snacks or pick up handmade goods.
💡 JD’s Tip: Bring small bills and expect friendly bargaining — it’s part of the experience.
Markets in Antigua are vibrant, busy, and a little overwhelming… but that’s exactly what makes them fun.
6. Take a Chocolate Workshop 🌟 Did This (Sort of)
Antigua has deep roots in cacao production, and several chocolate shops offer interactive workshops where you can learn the history of cacao and make your own chocolate. I didn’t join the full workshop, but I did listen in for part of it — and left with some incredible dark chocolate. Whether you participate or just browse, it’s a fun (and tasty) stop in the city.
💡 JD’s Tip: Workshops fill up fast during peak season, so reserve in advance if you want the hands-on experience.
Did I sign up for a chocolate workshop? No. Did I still walk away with a chocolate Mickey? Absolutely.
7. Visit Cerro de la Cruz 🌟 Did This
This iconic viewpoint overlooks the entire city with Volcán Agua towering behind it. The short walk up is rewarded with one of the best panoramic views in Antigua, making it a must-see for sunrise or sunset.
💡 JD’s Tip: Go early morning for clear skies and cooler temperatures.
The kind of view that makes you forget how many stairs you just climbed.
8. Try Traditional Guatemalan Food 🌟 Did This
Antigua is home to fantastic restaurants and street food stalls offering local staples like pepián, kak’ik, rellenitos, and fresh tortillas. It’s a great place to discover Guatemala’s rich culinary traditions.
💡 JD’s Tip: Look for small comedores (family-run eateries) for authentic flavors at great prices.
One of the best parts of Guatemala: the food is just so good!
9. Enjoy a Rooftop Bar 🌟 Did This
Antigua’s rooftops offer some of the city’s best views — perfect for drinks with volcanoes in the background. Whether you prefer a quiet sunset or a lively evening atmosphere, there’s a rooftop for every mood.
💡 JD’s Tip: Arrive just before sunset to secure a good seat and watch the sky change colors over the city.
Rooftop + volcano views + a giant cocktail = Antigua perfection.
10. Learn Spanish ❌ Missed This
Antigua is one of the world’s most popular (and affordable) places to study Spanish. Dozens of schools offer classes, immersion programs, and homestays with local families. Many travelers stay for weeks to improve their skills while exploring the city at a slow pace.
💡 JD’s Tip: Homestays are the best value — and the fastest way to learn.
Learning Spanish suddenly gets easier when there’s food involved.
Final Thoughts
Antigua blends history, culture, food, and adventure in one stunningly beautiful city. From volcano hikes to colorful markets and unforgettable viewpoints, it offers something for every type of traveler. Even if you can’t do everything in one trip, Antigua is the kind of place you’ll want to return to — with more ruins to explore, more rooftops to enjoy, and more volcano views waiting for you.
The Santa Catalina Arch is the photo spot in Antigua. If you didn’t take a picture here… did you even visit?
