Antigua, Guatemala | Eight Travel Suggestions

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ANTIGUA, GUATEMALA TRAVEL SUGGESTIONS

When you pull into Antigua, from no matter from which direction, you will want to get walking and exploring this charming cobblestone Spanish colonial town.

Your instincts will guide your feet as you will likely start in the very heart of Antigua Guatemala, Parque Central.  

Get a feel for the place by strolling in any direction from the park. You will be struck by the authentically restored and well preserved Spanish architecture, dating back to the 18th century with a few 16th century models too.

Moorish touches are everywhere as they are integral to the Spanish tradition brought here.

Personally, when I first set foot here, I just walked and walked, discovering on my own the earthquake-ravaged El Carmen Church, built in the latter 16th century.  The arch on fifth avenue is magnificent in daylight or night illumination as is La Merced a butter-coloured convent, built in the 18th century and now lovingly restored to at least most of its former glory.    These are only a few highlights.

If you do want a guided walking tour, they run all day and it’s best to deal with an official and well-trained guide.  These can be arranged at the small storefronts that face the central park or through INGUAT, located in the Palace of the Captains-General, just across from the northeast side of the park.

Or you can book in advance with La Villa de Antigua and all will be ready for you when you arrive.

Price ranges from $10 (which does not include entrance fees at the sites) and $20 (all inclusive).

This is a great start for any vacation stop in Antigua Guatemala as a means to acquaint yourself with this historical tourist region of Guatemala.