Guatemala City , Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala Stopover Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

You'll visit the Colonial City of La Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is surrounded by wonderful landscapes with Spanish colonial enviroment. You will learn about the history of the Former Capital of Spanish Guatemala while enjoying the colonial architecture of La Antigua Guatemala.

Available options

Antigua Guatemala Stopover Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Round-trip shared transfer

Professional bilingual guide

Detailed itinerary

You will be pick up at the Guatemala City Airport and transfer to Antigua Guatemala to start our tour full of history and many curious facts about this city stopped in time.

Stop 2

We will start our tour visiting the church of La Merced 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.

Stop 3

Continuing our walking we will visit the Arch of Santa Catalina, 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. These arrangements included the construction of a turret and the inclusion of a Lamy Amp Lacroix watch of French origin.

We will visit the Central Park surrounded by the Palace of the General Captains, the Town Hall, the Cathedral of San Jose and the Trade Portal. Here in the park, we will also find the Las Sirenas fountain. This fountain 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.

Continue our way we will visit the La Unión tank, which 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. This was inaugurated on February 3, 1853.

At the end of the tour you’ll be transferred back to International Airport in Guatemala City.

What's not included

Gratuities

Excess luggage charges (where applicable)

Food and beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

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.

Tours include bilingual guide (English and Spanish).

It is recommended that you bring walking shoes, hat, sunglasses, and a camera.

Please contact local provider 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 local provider to arrange.

Important notes

Please, email us at reserve@graylineguatemala.com or call (502) 24410189 or (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

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.