10 Things to do in Antigua, Guatemala for First Timers
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Top Things to do in Antigua Guatemala
Antigua Guatemala is one of those cities that makes you feel right at home almost instantly. Within my first hour, I was laughing with the restaurant staff over traditional Guatemalan dishes, wandering colorful cobblestone streets, and staring up at the three volcanoes that seemed to appear from every corner of town.
I spent four days exploring Antigua, hiking volcanoes, taking local classes, and visiting amazing viewpoints. I still left with a list of places to come back to. If you are planning your first visit to Antigua, Guatemala, and looking for the best things to do, this Antigua guide will help you plan a trip that balances adventure, culture, and time to simply soak in the atmosphere.
While most people come for the colonial architecture, the real magic of Antigua lies in how easily it blends adventure with laid-back charm. Beyond the historic streets, you can explore unique spots like Hobbitenango and Altamira, hike to panoramic viewpoints, or spend an afternoon learning about Guatemala’s rich food traditions.
Here are the best things to do in Antigua, Guatemala, to help you build an itinerary you will love.
1. Taking a Walking Tour of Antigua Guatemala
A walking tour of Antigua Guatemala is a great way to orient yourself to the city. This is one of my favorite ways to start exploring a new city, so I planned it as our first activity in Antigua.
After grabbing food at Cafe Sky Bar, we checked out Parque Central, the I Love Antigua Sign, the Choco Museum, Iglesia de la Merced, the Santa Catalina Arch, and the Convento de las Capuchinas.
As we explored, we grabbed ice cream and street food from the local vendors.
If you prefer, you can also join a guided tour to learn more about the city as you explore.
2. Hike Pacaya Volcano near Antigua
There are several hikes to choose from; however, I chose what I think is a good starter hike, especially for groups with mixed abilities. We hiked Pacaya volcano on our third day in Antigua.
I highly recommend the sunrise hike for Pacaya Volcano so that you can get a massage after, because believe me, your legs will be begging for a stretch after. As you prepare for this tour, pack a light jacket, a snack, and water.
It takes about 90 minutes to get to the start of Pacaya, and the hike lasts about 2.5 hours. Take breaks as needed and enjoy the views of Fuego and Acatenango as you hike.
3. Take a Cooking Class in Antigua, Guatemala
There is no better way to learn about a country’s culture than by bonding over a great meal.
We took a cooking class at La Tortilla Cooking School that included unlimited wine, 1 entree, 3 side dishes, and a dessert. The food was amazing, and learning about Guatemalan cuisine while chatting away in Spanish was the perfect way to have dinner on my first night in Antigua.
Not only did I improve my knife skills, but I also learned to make homemade tortillas that were literally perfect, if I do say so myself.
4. Visit Antigua Boreal for Deep Dish Pizza and the Slide
If you want deep-dish pizza, this is the place to visit. Oh, and there is a slide!
This was added to the Antigua Guatemala itinerary, primarily for the slide. If you have been on the rainbow slide in El Salvador, this is similar to it. It is about 5 minutes away from Altamira and Hobbitenango by driving. I recommend adding a visit to Antigua Boreal after visiting Altamira, before heading back to Antigua.
The slide has a separate cost and is a bit of a walk to reach the top, but the view is worth it.
I purchased a ticket that included 5 rides and loved each one. Families will love this stop for the slide and the great food.
5. Visit Hobbitenango and Explore the Hobbit Houses
If you search Antigua Guatemala Itinerary, this will always be on the list and for good reason. This is a must-visit, especially if you’re a fan of The Lord of the Rings. There are so many Hobbit houses to explore, and you can even stay overnight!
Hobbitanango is located about 40 minutes outside of Antigua Guatemala and has many attractions, from horseback riding to archery to a swing to try out as you explore. It is great for families, offering something everyone will enjoy.
The ride to Hobbitenango is a bit bumpy, so make sure you are prepared. We spent about 2.5 hours here, including breakfast, before heading to Altamira.
6. Take a Free Salsa Class
If you are down to learn some new choreography, check out the free salsa lessons at the Frank Arango Salsa Studio. We went to the free salsa class on Friday at 8 pm, which was followed by a salsa party. They also offer free classes on other days.
The class was a good option for beginners, and the instructor did a great job of providing background on salsa and demonstrating the dance moves. This is one of the first times I’ve walked away from a dance class feeling like I remember the moves and could do the dance at another outing.
7. Visit Altamira for photos and adventure activities
This eco park is a short walk from Hobbitenango and has a mix of photo opportunities and adrenaline-seeking activities like the bicicable or rock climbing wall for those who are a little more adventurous.
This is also the attraction that has the gold hand you see all over social media.
Something to keep in mind: after the main hands, you’ll have to walk down steps carved into a mountain to check out the rock-climbing wall, food, and kids’ area, including a trampoline.
If you are short on time, this is the one place I would skip if I have already visited Hobbitenango. We only came here because I wanted to do the bicicable.
8. Hike Cerro de la Cruz
This can be part of your walking tour, or you can add it after exploring Hobbitenango, Altamira, and Antigua Boreal on your way back to the city.
Located above the city of Antigua, Cerro de la Cruz is a gorgeous viewpoint, and it’s free.
At the top, you will have a breathtaking view of Aqua Volcano and the city. It will take about 15-20 minutes to reach the top on foot, or you can take a tuk-tuk or a car if you prefer not to walk. We didn’t linger at the top after we took a few pictures.
9. See Antigua from above at Iglesia de la Merced
If you want to explore a local church and take in an amazing view of the city and surrounding volcanoes, head to Iglesia de la Merced. For 35 quetzals, you can pay to head to the rooftop, after exploring the courtyard and other parts of the church. I would spend about an hour here, and there is a gift shop at the bottom where you can browse and buy many items related to the Catholic Church.
The plaza outside the church is home to a food market with many Guatemalan dishes, so if you have worked up an appetite after climbing all those stairs, I would check it out.
10. Look for Souvenirs at Mercado Central
This market has everything you can think of and need if you forgot to bring something. Keep in mind that this market is huge and can feel overwhelming at first. My friends and I got separated because it was so big, and we were mesmerized by all the colorful items.
Walk through the market to purchase electronics, clothes, Guatemalan desserts, jewelry, and hand-woven bags.
You can even pay using your credit card.
Things to do in Antigua Guatemala on my next Visit
On my next visit to Guatemala, I am changing up the itinerary. My next Antigua, Guatemala Itinerary will include a bean-to-bar chocolate-making class, a spa day, and a hike up Acatenango Volcano.
Since I was able to hike Pacaya Volcano this time, I think I may be ready for the Acatenango Hike. I am not 100% sure, but I would love to hike Acatenango and see Volcano Fuego erupt with my own eyes.
How to get to Antigua Guatemala
Getting to Antigua from Guatemala City is easy. There are a few ways to get there. You can either arrange a private or shared shuttle or take an Uber upon arrival at the airport. Shuttles range from $20 to $28 per person, depending on whether they’re shared.
It takes anywhere from 1 to 2 hours to get to Antigua from Guatemala City. So keep that in mind as you plan your first day in Antigua. We booked a shuttle about a week in advance. It was very easy to find our shuttle, and the driver took us to the ATM before we arrived in Antigua. Along the way, he told us the history of the volcanoes and gave recommendations on where to eat and things to do in the city.
Antigua Guatemala Itinerary
Antigua, Guatemala, is the ideal long-weekend getaway for solo travelers and groups. If you’re trying to figure out things to do in Antigua, Guatemala, this is the perfect guide to help you plan your time there. From adventure to relaxation to connection, this Antigua itinerary gives you a little bit of everything.
Whether you are hiking Pacaya at sunrise, dancing salsa on a Friday night, or riding the slide at Antigua Boreal, Antigua Guatemala delivers a mix of adventure and charm that is hard to beat. Use this Antigua Guatemala Itinerary as your starting point, then explore the detailed guides to plan each activity with confidence.
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Hello! Both architecture and natural landscapes look stunning. You are very lucky to visit such an astonishing place. It looks like a truly unique experience!
Traveling here wasn’t on my radar, but I’d love to visit Hobbitenango or maybe even stay there. Hiking a volcano seems awesome too!