Antigua Private Cultural Walking Tour
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Your walking tour will begin when your authorized guide picks you up at the previously agreed point. During this tour you will have the opportunity to visit the places described in the itinerary, among these places are the viewpoint of the city, Cerro de la Cruz, from where you can appreciate the view and have a better idea of the distribution of streets and avenues. . Next you can visit the former monastery of the Dominican order of friars, now converted into a hotel, restaurant and convention center. A museum and Jade factory where you will learn more about the Mayan culture. You will see the public laundry of the Tanque de La Union square, the Church of San Francisco where you will visit the tomb of Hermano Pedro who was beatified and canonized by Pope John Paul II, the Central Park with its Cathedral, City Hall Palace and former Palace of The General Captains and finally the iconic Arch of Santa Catalina from the 16th century
Available options
Antigua Private Cultural Walking Tour
What's included
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Professional guide authorized by the national tourism commission
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The objective of going through this place is to rest a bit from the walk. There is coffee, free Wi-Fi, toilets. This is a museum that exhibits replicas of Mayan artifacts, it is also worth seeing as one learns about the Mayans, their history, their past and how their calendar works.
2
Stop 2
This is a hotel, restaurant and convention center. What makes this a special and unique place is that there are still traces of the old monastery of the order of Dominican friars. Admission is free, except the museum area, for the museums if you have to pay
3
This is an old public laundry where people washed their clothes by hand
4
Stop 4
This is a 16th century arch that served as a passageway for the nuns to cross from one property to another
5
Stop 5
Pass by
This is the most central point of the city where the town hall (the mayor's office), the Palace of the General Captains and the Cathedral are located. In addition there are banks, ATMs, restaurants and ice cream parlors around
6
Stop 6
The Church of San Francisco El Grande is from the 18th century. Within this Catholic church are the mortal remains of Brother Pedro who was beatified and canonized by Pope John Paul II. The objective of visiting this place is to learn about the history of the aforementioned character and appreciate the architecture of said church.
What's not included
Private transportation
Lunch
Bottled water
Soda/Pop
tips
Cost of tickets to ruins or museums
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
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4★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
38 reviews
5★
37
4★
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Overweight people
Meeting point
Outside Café Barista, in front of the Central Park of Antigua Guatemala
Important notes
Show your guide the reservation voucher or ticket for the tour at the time your guide picks you up
About Antigua
Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque architecture and vibrant culture. Nestled in the Central Highlands of Guatemala, it offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and colonial charm.
Top Attractions
Arco de Santa Catalina
This iconic archway is a symbol of Antigua. Built in the 17th century, it was originally part of a convent and was used by nuns to cross the street without being seen. Today, it offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes.
Historical/Architecture
30 minutes
Free
Cerro de la Cruz
A short hike up this hill rewards visitors with breathtaking views of Antigua and the surrounding volcanoes. The cross at the top is a popular spot for sunrise and sunset.
Nature/Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Volcán Pacaya
One of the most active volcanoes in Guatemala, Pacaya offers exciting hiking and the opportunity to see lava flows up close. Guided tours typically include a visit to a local farm for a traditional meal.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
Moderate to expensive, depending on the tour
Museo de Arte Precolombino y Vidrio Moderno
Housed in the beautiful Casa Popenoe, this museum showcases a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts and contemporary glass art. The museum's courtyard and gardens are also worth exploring.
Museum
1-2 hours
Moderate
Café Sky
A popular café and cultural center, Café Sky offers a variety of coffee drinks, live music, and art exhibitions. It's a great place to relax and soak up the local atmosphere.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pepián
A rich and flavorful stew made with meat (usually chicken or pork), vegetables, and a complex blend of spices. It's often considered the national dish of Guatemala.
Main dish
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian
Tamales
Steamed corn dough filled with various ingredients such as meat, vegetables, or cheese, wrapped in banana leaves. Guatemalan tamales are unique and delicious.
Snack/Street food
Contains meat, vegetarian options available
Rellenitos de Plátano
Sweet fried dough made from ripe plantains, filled with sweetened black beans. A popular dessert or snack in Guatemala.
Dessert
Vegetarian, vegan options available
Atol de Elote
A sweet and creamy drink made from fresh corn, milk, and sugar. It's a popular breakfast or snack, often enjoyed with tamales.
Drink/Dessert
Vegetarian, vegan options available
Popular Activities
Volcano hiking (Pacaya, Acatenango, Fuego)
Mountain biking
Zip-lining and canopy tours
Coffee tasting at local cafes
Spa and wellness treatments
Strolling through the historic center and parks
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending local festivals and events
Best Time to Visit
December to April (Dry season)
This is the most popular time to visit Antigua due to the dry weather and pleasant temperatures. It's ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and nearby volcanoes.
15-26°C
59-79°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ)
Time Zone
CST (UTC -6)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Antigua is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable tour operators and agree on prices beforehand
- • Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in poorly lit areas
Getting there
By air
- La Aurora International Airport • 45 km (28 miles)
By bus
Terminal de Occidente (San Cristóbal Totonicapán)
Getting around
Public transport
Chicken buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are colorful, shared minibuses that follow specific routes.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, InDriver
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Centro Histórico
Jardín del Paseo
Barrio de la Mercado
Day trips
Lake Atitlán
90 km (56 miles) • Full day
Lake Atitlán is a stunning highland lake surrounded by volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages. It's known for its natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities.
Chichicastenango Market
80 km (50 miles) • Half day to full day
One of the largest and most colorful markets in Central America, Chichicastenango offers a vibrant mix of traditional crafts, textiles, and local produce. It's a great place to experience the local culture and find unique souvenirs.
Volcán Acatenango
40 km (25 miles) • Overnight
One of the highest volcanoes in Central America, Acatenango offers challenging hikes and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The summit offers panoramic views of nearby volcanoes, including the active Fuego.
Festivals
Semana Santa (Holy Week) • March or April (dates vary each year)
Feria de la Asunción • August 15
Fiestas Patrias • September 15-16
Pro tips
- Learn basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Visit the local markets for authentic souvenirs and a glimpse into daily life
- Try local coffee and chocolate, which are some of the best in the world
- Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems and charming street scenes
- Be prepared for altitude sickness, as Antigua is located at a high elevation
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
