Full-Day Tour: Colonial Antigua, Jade Factory and Textile Experience from Guatemala City
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Full-Day Tour: Colonial Antigua, Jade Factory and Textile Experience from Guatemala City

Active
(2 reviews)
10h
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

You will be pick up in your hotel to start a day full of history, beautiful landscapes and walk on cobblestone streets. Antigua Guatemala, once the third largest city in all of Spanish Colonial America and the old capital of Guatemala, actually is a peaceful, beautiful and partially restored colonial city. Surrounded by villages like San Antonio Aguascalientes with their wonderful textiles, Ciudad Vieja with their history and San Miguel Dueñas, unique for the experiencie at the Macadamia Plantation.

Available options

Zone A

Pick up from Hotels : AC Marriot Cayala, Hilton Guatemala City
<br/>Pickup included

Zone C

Pick up from Hotels: Conquistador hotel & conference center, Panamerican Hotel<br/>Pickup included

Zone B

Pick up from Hotels : Westin Camino Real, Clarion Suites, Radisson Guatemala, Holiday Inn, Real Intercontinental, Barcelo Hotel, Las Americas Hotel<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Local guide
Driver/guide

Detailed itinerary

1

You will be picked up at your hotel (selected hotels) in Guatemala City and transfer to our meeting point in Antigua Guatemala to meet our local guide to begin your soft walking of approximately 3 hours below a brief summary of what to expect on your way.

2
Stop 2

La Merced Church of Guatemalan Ultrabaroque style, this temple has two bell towers. On the facade of the church, in its upper part is a sculpture of San Pedro Nolasco, founder of the Mercedarian Order.

3
Stop 3

Santa Catalina Arch, built to connect the nuns between cloisters to avoid being seen due to the votes that the religious who belonged to that Order took, After the earthquakes of 1773, the arch became important due to the arrangements that were made.

4
Stop 4

The Central Park is surrounded by the traditional grid pattern used frequently in urban planning in the Spanish colonies. The park is surrounded by the Palace of the General Captains, the Town Hall, the Cathedral of San Jose and the Trade Portal. Also, we will also find the Las Sirenas fountain, which has a traditional oral where the Count of La Gomera ordered to build the fountain in memory of his daughters, who in giving birth did not want to breastfeed their children for what the count ordered To tie his daughters to a trunk in the center of a waterhole, where they died of thirst and hunger.

5

La Unión tank is one of the most representative laundries in this city, only the big houses had a place where they could be washed. For this reason, most of the inhabitants - housewives - went to public laundries, and was inaugurated on 1853.

6
Stop 6

Jade Factory and Museum The jade is cut and polished in the factory by local Guatemalan workers who follow the carving traditions of their ancestors, Ancient civilizations appreciated the jadeite jade stones as ornaments, tools, and burial artifacts.

7

El Carmen Ruins, The facade of the church was built with stucco-covered bricks, it had two levels with 24 columns in total, distributed in two towers of 6 columns each, this detail makes the temple still unique today. To one side of these ruins is the El Carmen Craft Market.where you can find a lot of Guatemalan souvenirs.

8

We will continue visiting the surrounding villages, starting with San Antonio Aguas Calientes, a town that is characterized by its colorful enviroment of the elaborate weavings made in waist looms by women of the community, that you will appreciate in our visit to the market.

9

And for the end of the tour, we will visit macadamia farm, where we will learn about its cultivation, agroindustrial process and reforestation project, besides relax with a facial massage with macadamia oil.

10

We continue visiting the town of Ciudad Vieja to learn about the history of the transfer of the capital and its relation with Antigua Guatemala.

11

At the end of the tour you’ll be transferred back Guatemala City by our driver.

What's not included

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Food and drinks, unless specified
Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Reviews breakdown

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

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Minimum of 2 passengers (adults) is required for the tour to run. If the minimum size is not reached, the tour is subject to cancellation and all tickets are refunded or rescheduled.
Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
Tours include bilingual guide (English and Spanish).
It is recommended that you bring walking shoes, hat, sunglasses, and a camera.
Please contact us if you need a guide in any other language. French, German and Italian in private services, subject to additional costs and guide availability.
For groups of 10 persons or more, please contact Gray Line Guatemala to arrange.
To find pictures of our experiences, search us on Instagram as @graylinetoursgt
If you are lodging in Zone 1, our only pick-up point is at the Hotel Panamerican.
If you are lodging in an airbnb please move to the nearest hotel lobby and please let us know of its name.

Important notes

Please, email us at reserve@graylineguatemala.com or call (502) 54586888 at least 48 hours prior to the departure date of the tour to reconfirm date of travel, hotel, pickup time, and location for your tour. On the day of your tour, please present your printed voucher to the driver/guide upon pick up

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

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 12-90
1
Childs
Age 3-11
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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