Antigua Guatemala City Guide

Great local dishes like Pepian and Kak'ik. Good range of international food. Vegan and vegetarian choices are growing. Limited late-night options mostly near tourist spots.

Nightlife is lively on weekends with bars, pubs, and a few clubs near the center.

Excellent coffee culture with many specialty cafes and tours to nearby plantations.

Tipping is appreciated but not always required. Restaurants often include 10% service charge. For taxis, round up fares.

SIM cards are sold at the airport and in stores for Tigo and Claro, the main providers with good coverage. Passport required for registration.

Generally clean, especially in tourist areas, with decent waste management.

Some convenience stores open 24/7 but late-night pharmacies and food options are limited.

Large supermarkets like La Bodegona and Super 24 carry international goods. Local markets sell fresh produce and crafts. Bargaining is common in markets but not in stores.

Many places accept cards, but you need cash for markets and small vendors. Carry small bills for daily use.

ATMs from BAC Credomatic, G&T Continental, and Banrural are common. Withdraw larger amounts to avoid high fees of $3-$5 per transaction.

No major international schools in Antigua; nearest are in Guatemala City. Some bilingual local schools exist. Admissions require planning.

Growing nomad community with meetups, co-working spaces, and cafés.

Main green spaces are Parque Central and park areas near ruins. Cerro de la Cruz offers nature views.

Running on cobblestone streets and to Cerro de la Cruz is popular. Good safety during daytime.

Several gyms offer equipment and classes, including CrossFit.

Limited courts, mostly private clubs or hotels. Booking direct with clubs usually required.

Padel courts are not common in Antigua.

Several yoga studios offer various classes and some instructors speak English.

Dojos offer Taekwondo, Karate, sometimes BJJ or Muay Thai. Drop-in classes sometimes available.

No skiing in Guatemala.

Limited water sports in Antigua. Lake Atitlán (2.5–3 hours away) offers kayaking and paddleboarding.

Surf spots on the Pacific coast, about 1.5–2 hours away. El Paredón has beginner waves; dry season is best.

No diving near Antigua; closest spots are on Caribbean or Pacific coasts hours away.

Private clinics like Hospital Privado Hermano Pedro have English-speaking staff. Public facilities are basic. Pharmacies are numerous and well stocked.

Do not drink tap water. Bottled water is widely sold and safe to drink.

Good playgrounds, kid-friendly cafés, and attractions like museums and ruins.

More open than other parts of Guatemala due to tourism, but no dedicated LGBTQ+ venues. Lower discrimination risk in tourist zones.

Pet-friendly city with many accommodations allowing pets. Veterinary care and supplies are available. Some leash laws apply.