Historic and Cultural Tour of Guatemala City - Panoramic & Walking Experience
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Historic and Cultural Tour of Guatemala City - Panoramic & Walking Experience

Active
(4 reviews)
6h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this tour, you can appreciate the main cultural, residential, commercial, and economic infrastructure of the city. There will be a panoramic journey of the most important streets and avenues of the city, like the Civic Center and its surroundings.

Later, there is going to be a visit to the Main Square, the Cathedral Church and then Old Presidential Palace (Only From Outside) Then you will be taken to a nice restaurant to have lunch. In the afternoon you will visit the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology Or Popol Vuh museum which are the best museums with the biggest collection of Mayan artifacts of the whole county. Later, the tour will end at the Arts and Crafts Market (Mercado de Artesanías).

Available options

Full-day Tour All Included

Full day tour with Lunch, Museo de Arqueology and Modern Art entrance fees included.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Archeology Museum Entrance Fee
Bottled water
Certified Tour Guide
Modern Art Museum entrance

Detailed itinerary

1

We will pick you up at the lobby of your hotel in Guatemala City. All biosecurity protocols are a top priority for us and once that is taken care of, we´ll head to Las Americas Avenue, our first point.

2

After leaving your hotel or starting point, we will experience Las Americas Avenue, place where they can find all the way along with different monuments and artistic sculptures that commemorate the most important people of the Latin American governments and culture. Also, travelers will see all the contemporary buildings and most expensive residential zone of Guatemala City.

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Stop 3 Pass by

At the end of Las Americas Avenue, you will find the Obelisco, which also connects with La Reforma Avenue that it's considered one of the main boulevards of Guatemala City. Today many of the residential homes have been replaced by modern buildings and it is now considered a business and commercial district. Also, a cycleway was built along the avenue in 2013.
Throughout the 20th century, more sculptures were added, honoring diverse people such as Henry Dunant, founder of the Red Cross; Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla and Benito Juárez, Mexican leaders; José Joaquín Palma and Rafael Álvarez Ovalle, creators of the national anthem of Guatemala; and Miguel Ángel Asturias, winner of the 1967 Nobel Prize in Literature. Other notable monuments are the Monumento a la Madre, which honors motherhood; the Star of David, located in the Israel Plaza; and several statues of animals such as lions, bulls, and wild boars.

4

The place that can´t be missed on a sightseeing tour through the historic center of Guatemala City must be the Constitution Square (officially: Plaza Mayor de la Constitución), which has also been called Central Park since it is in the heart of Zone 1, the city downtown. In this area, there are the most important government, financial and administrative buildings of the country.

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It is an imposing twin-towered structure. It stands 300 feet long and 100 feet wide on the east side of Constitution Square. It was designed by the Spanish architect Marcos Ibáñez and built in the neoclassical style with completion in 1815. The cathedral has survived three major earthquakes: 1830, 1917, and 1976. Here you will appreciate the image of the Virgen del Perpetuo Socorro (Our Lady of Perpetual Help), the oldest catholic image in Guatemala, brought by Hernán Cortés in 1522.

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Stop 6

Built between 1939 and 1943 to be the National Palace or house of the government, was declared Historic, Cultural and Artistic Patrimony of Guatemala in November 1980 and it is now open to the public as a museum, an art gallery for permanent and temporary exhibits. The ballroom and other big areas within the palace are used now to celebrate official ceremonies, like the signing of Guatemala's historic Peace Accords, held on December 28, 1986.

7

Visit the national museum of archeology and ethnology. This is the house of the biggest collection of Mayan artifacts displayed in the whole country. This Museum operates from Tuesday to Sunday, if the museum isn't open to visitors we are going to replace it with the Popol Vuh Museum.

8

It is highlighted by the beautiful works that it has inside, among them, one of the most famous murals in Guatemala, which is known as the Glorification of the Quetzal.

9

Interesting Crafts from all over the country are located here, where visitors can take a look at the different products that Guatemala export and also take the chance of buying some travel souvenirs.

10

Visit Guatemala´s Down Town. This is one of the wealthiest districts and business centers, as well as being the place where many restaurants and bars are located giving this place a very attractive nightlife.

11

At this point, we´ll return to your hotel. Thanks for traveling with us!

What's not included

Gratuities
Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.5
4 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

Each traveler is allowed a maximum of 1 suitcase and 1 carry-on bag. Oversized or excessive luggage (e.g. surfboards, golf clubs or bikes) may have certain restrictions, please inquire with the operator prior to travel to confirm if your excess luggage is aceptable

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time

About Guatemala City

Guatemala City, the vibrant capital of Guatemala, is a fascinating blend of modern urban life and ancient Mayan heritage. Nestled in the highlands, it offers a mild climate, rich cultural experiences, and a bustling city atmosphere with colonial architecture and contemporary amenities.

Top Attractions

Palacio Nacional de la Cultura

The National Palace of Culture is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture and a symbol of Guatemala's history. It houses government offices and a museum showcasing the country's cultural heritage.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Museo Nacional de Arqueología y Etnología

This museum offers a comprehensive overview of Guatemala's rich Mayan heritage and archaeological finds. It is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (around $5 USD)

Cerro del Carmen

A small hill located in the heart of the city, offering panoramic views of Guatemala City. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

La Recolección Cultural Center

A vibrant cultural center that hosts art exhibitions, concerts, and cultural events. It is a hub for local artists and a great place to experience Guatemala's contemporary culture.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to enter, event prices vary

Parque Central

The main square of Guatemala City, surrounded by historic buildings, including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace of Culture. It is a bustling hub of activity and a great place to people-watch.

Historical 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pepián

A rich and flavorful stew made with meat (usually chicken or pork), vegetables, and a thick sauce made from seeds, spices, and chocolate. It is often served with rice and tortillas.

Dinner Contains meat and gluten (from tortillas).

Rellenitos

Sweet fried dumplings made from sweetened black beans and mashed plantains, rolled in flour and fried until golden. They are often served with a side of cream or syrup.

Dessert Vegetarian-friendly, contains gluten.

Chuchitos

Small tamales made with corn dough and filled with meat or cheese, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. They are a popular street food and snack.

Snack Contains meat or cheese, gluten-free.

Atol de Elote

A warm and comforting drink made from sweet corn, milk, and cinnamon. It is often sweetened with sugar or honey and served as a breakfast or snack.

Drink Vegetarian-friendly, contains dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking Volcano boarding Zip-lining Coffee tours Spa treatments Boat tours Museum visits Guided tours

Best Time to Visit

November to April (Dry Season)

The dry season offers the best weather for sightseeing, with sunny days and cool evenings. This is the peak tourist season, with many festivals and cultural events taking place.

20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F) 68°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Spanish
  • Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and business)
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas and business, limited elsewhere

Currency

Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ)

Time Zone

GMT-6 (Central Standard Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Guatemala City has a reputation for high crime rates, including petty theft, pickpocketing, and violent crime. However, many areas are safe for tourists, especially during the day and in tourist-friendly zones. Exercise caution and stay informed about the safety of the areas you visit.

Important Precautions:
  • • Stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  • • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated or unfamiliar areas.
  • • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber for safer and more reliable service.

Getting there

By air
  • La Aurora International Airport • 6.5 km (4 miles) from city center
By bus

Terminal de Buses del Sur, Terminal de Buses del Norte

Getting around

Public transport

The Transmetro is a bus rapid transit system that offers affordable and efficient transportation within the city. It operates on dedicated lanes and has numerous stops.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, InDriver

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Zona 1 (Historic Center) Zona 10 (Commercial and Residential) Zona 4 (Business and Government) Zona 13 (Upscale Residential and Shopping) Zona 7 (Tourist and Nightlife)

Day trips

Antigua Guatemala
45 km (28 miles) from Guatemala City • Full day recommended

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Antigua Guatemala is a charming colonial town with cobblestone streets, historic churches, and stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes.

Lake Atitlán
90 km (56 miles) from Guatemala City • Full day or overnight recommended

A stunning lake surrounded by volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages, offering a variety of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

Pacaya Volcano
50 km (31 miles) from Guatemala City • Half day to full day

An active volcano offering hiking and adventure activities, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Festivals

Semana Santa (Holy Week) • March or April (dates vary) Festival de la Asunción • August 15 Fiestas Patrias • September 15-16

Pro tips

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to enhance your travel experience and connect with locals.
  • Stay informed about the safety of the areas you visit, and exercise caution and common sense to avoid potential risks.
  • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber for safer and more reliable service.
  • Research and book tours and accommodations with reputable companies and establishments to ensure a high-quality and enjoyable experience.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, and be mindful of your cultural and environmental impact as a traveler.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 5-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
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Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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