The Ultimate Antigua Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Antigua, Guatemala? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Antigua is a picturesque colonial city located in the highlands of Guatemala, with a population of approximately 47,000.
Founded in the early 16th century, it served as the capital of Guatemala until 1776 when it was abandoned after a devastating earthquake.
Known for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque architecture and vibrant local culture, Antigua boasts stunning views of surrounding volcanoes.
Nickname: The City of the Eternal Spring

Currency: Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ).
Spoken Languages: Spanish (predominantly), English is also commonly spoken in tourist areas.
Best time to visit: November to April for the dry season, as the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities. Expect occasional rainfall in the shoulder months of May and October.
Great festivals to catch:
– Semana Santa (Holy Week): Elaborate processions (March/April). Book lodging early!
– San Simon Festival, a celebration of color, traditional dance, and music.
Arriving via airport: from La Aurora International Airport (GUA):
– Shared shuttles: GTQ 150–200 (~$19–25 USD)
– Pre-booked private transfers GTQ 350–400 (~$45–50 USD)
– Taxis are also available with rates around GTQ 350.
– Uber is available through the app

The Historic Center is ideal for first-time visitors, offering charming cobblestone streets, historical sites, and proximity to dining and shopping options.
The Santa Ana neighborhood is quieter and has a mix of boutique hotels and guesthouses, perfect for solo travelers looking for a peaceful stay.
The San Pedro region is popular among backpackers and budget travelers, featuring hostels and vibrant local hangouts.

Antigua is easily walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance from each other. Exploring on foot allows for leisurely sightseeing of the city’s beautiful streets.
Tuk-tuks are a popular and affordable mode of transport. Short rides within the city now average GTQ 10–20 (~$1.30–2.60). Use these at night for safer transport.
Buses (“chicken buses”) operate within and around Antigua for longer trips to surrounding towns and villages, with fares generally under GTQ 20.
Taxis: rates start at GTQ 6.40 base fare + GTQ 2.80/km. A 3km ride costs ~GTQ 16.60 (~$2.15).
Uber is very useful for longer trips (e.g., to nearby villages). Example: 10km trip ≈ GTQ 28 (~$3.60).

Drinking age is 18, and bars often stay open late, especially on weekends.
Explore the vibrant bar scene at 5ta Avenida (5th Avenue), which features a mix of lively pubs and laid-back lounges.
Popular spots include The Salsa Residencial for salsa dancing, Café Sky for stunning rooftop views, and El Barrio for a more casual vibe.
– New additions: Las Vibras de la Casbah (live music) and Rooftop Antigua (volcano views).
Local favorites for relaxed evenings: La Taberna and Monoloco.
Like live music? Check out the schedule at Cafe No Se for unforgettable performances by local bands.

La Merced Church is an architectural gem showcasing elaborate Baroque design and is a must-visit for its stunning façade and intricately designed interior.
Parque Central is the heart of Antigua, flanked by impressive colonial buildings, perfect for relaxing and people-watching.
Cerro de la Cruz offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes, accessible through a short hike.
Santa Catalina Arch: visit this iconic photo spot at sunrise to avoid crowds.
ChocoMuseo: Free entry; chocolate-making workshops at GTQ 150 (~$19).

Hike to the nearby Pacaya Volcano for a scenic adventure and the chance to see active lava flows.
Acatenango Overnight Trek: GTQ 400–800 (~$50–100). Includes gear, meals, and guides.
Acatenango + Fuego Combo: 2-day trek with overnight camping. Price: GTQ 600–800 (~$75–100). Pack warm layers; temperatures drop below freezing.
Pacaya Half-Day Hike: GTQ 200–300 (~$25–38) with marshmallow roasting over lava.
Safety: Book with reputable, certified guides (e.g., OX Expeditions or Tropicana).

Stroll through the picturesque streets, admiring the vibrant pastel-colored buildings adorned with bougainvillea and colonial architecture.
Take a guided walking tour to learn about the city’s rich history, including visits to local markets and artisan workshops.
– Tip: Free walking tours: Daily 2-hour tours start at Parque Central (tip-based). Themes: colonial history or street art.

Antigua is known for its delicious street food. Must-try local dishes include Pepián and Kak’ik, available at food stalls and local restaurants.
– Tip: Join a 3-hour evening street food tour (GTQ 200–300/~$25–38) to try tostadas, rellenitos, and atol de elote.
Coffee tours: Finca Filadelfia (GTQ 150/~$19) includes tastings and plantation walks.
Example daily backpacker budget: GTQ 300–500 (~$38–63) for hostels, street food, and public transport.
Tipping: it is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants, although rounding up is common in casual eateries.
Visit local artisan markets for unique handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs – great for picking up gifts.
– Mercado Central de Artesanías for textiles (haggling expected).
– Nim Pot for high-quality, fixed-price Mayan crafts.
Dangerous areas: avoid walking alone after dark in non-tourist areas. Use tuk-tuks/Uber.
Secure valuables in crowded markets (e.g., Parque Central).

Recommended trip duration: 3–4 days (enough time to to explore the city, hike a volcano, and take a coffee tour.)