Antigua, Guatemala 7-Day Trip Itinerary

Flight Arrival in Guatemala City

Arrive at La Aurora International Airport (GUA) from Toronto.

Clear customs and immigration.

Flight details provided in transport section. Ensure you have your passport and any necessary entry documents ready.

Transfer to Antigua

Take a pre-booked private shuttle or taxi from Guatemala City airport to your hotel in Antigua.

The drive typically takes about 1 hour.

It's recommended to pre-arrange airport transfers for convenience and safety upon arrival. Cost is approximately USD 30-40 per person for a shuttle, or USD 50-70 for a private taxi.

Check-in to Hotel

Check into your accommodation in the heart of Antigua.

Settle in and refresh after your journey.

Welcome Dinner & Evening Stroll

Enjoy a relaxed welcome dinner at a local restaurant, then take a gentle stroll around Parque Central to soak in the evening atmosphere of Antigua.

Many restaurants around Parque Central offer outdoor seating, perfect for people-watching.

Antigua Walking Tour

Discover Antigua's rich history and stunning colonial architecture on a self-guided or guided walking tour.

Visit the iconic Arch of Santa Catalina, the bustling Parque Central (main square), and the impressive ruins of Catedral de San Jose. Learn about the city's past as the former capital of Central America.

Consider hiring a local guide near Parque Central for deeper insights into the city's history.

Lunch in Antigua

Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, perhaps trying traditional Guatemalan dishes like 'pepian' or 'jocón'.

Ask locals for their favorite spots for authentic cuisine.

Coffee Plantation Tour

Take a scenic tour of a local coffee plantation (e.

g., Finca Filadelfia or De La Gente) to learn about the bean-to-cup process, from cultivation to roasting. Enjoy a tasting of freshly brewed Guatemalan coffee.

Many plantations offer transportation from Antigua's center. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for specific times.

Free Time & Relaxation

Relax at your hotel, enjoy the amenities, or do some souvenir shopping in the local markets.

The artisan market near the bus terminal is great for handicrafts.

Dinner

Savor another delicious dinner at one of Antigua's many excellent restaurants, offering diverse cuisine from local to international.

Pacaya Volcano Hike

Embark on an exhilarating morning hike up Pacaya Volcano, one of Guatemala's most active volcanoes. Enjoy incredible panoramic views and witness steam vents and lava flows (when active). This moderate hike offers a unique geological experience.

Tours typically include round-trip transportation from Antigua. Wear layers, sturdy shoes, and bring water. Guides are mandatory. 'Trek Guatemala' offers various volcano tours.

Late Lunch in Antigua

Return to Antigua for a well-deserved late lunch after your volcano adventure.

ChocoMuseo Visit

For a more relaxed afternoon, visit ChocoMuseo to learn about the history of chocolate, from cacao bean to bar.

You can even participate in a chocolate-making workshop.

Workshops usually require advance booking.

Dinner in Antigua

Enjoy dinner, perhaps trying a restaurant with a rooftop view of the city and volcanoes.

Cerro de la Cruz Viewpoint

Hike or take a short taxi ride to Cerro de la Cruz for breathtaking panoramic views of Antigua, its cobblestone streets, and the surrounding volcanoes.

It's an iconic photo opportunity.

The path is well-maintained, and local police often patrol the area for safety.

Beyond Antigua: Villages or Cycling Tour

Option 1: Explore nearby indigenous villages like San Antonio Aguas Calientes, known for its vibrant textiles and local markets. Option 2: Join a cycling tour with 'Old Town Outfitters' to explore the Antigua valley, passing through coffee farms and scenic landscapes.

For village visits, a local guide or taxi can be arranged. Cycling tours with 'Old Town Outfitters' are highly rated and offer equipment.

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Enjoy lunch in one of Antigua's charming cafes or restaurants.

Guatemalan Cooking Class

Participate in a hands-on cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Guatemalan dishes.

It's a fun and delicious way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Many hotels or specialized schools offer classes. Booking in advance is essential.

Dinner

Enjoy a relaxing dinner after a day of exploration.

Convento de Santa Clara

Visit the beautiful ruins of Convento de Santa Clara, offering a serene atmosphere and picturesque arches perfect for photography.

Explore the cloister, fountain, and gardens.

A peaceful escape from the bustling city streets.

Last-Minute Shopping & Souvenirs

Spend some time browsing Antigua's many shops for souvenirs, textiles, jade, and other local crafts. The main market or Calle del Arco area offer plenty of options.

Lunch at a Favorite Spot

Enjoy a final lunch at a restaurant you particularly enjoyed during your stay in Antigua.

Relaxation & Packing

Enjoy some downtime at your hotel, perhaps by the pool, and start preparing and packing for your transfer to Lake Atitlán tomorrow.

Farewell Dinner in Antigua

Indulge in a special farewell dinner to conclude your time in Antigua.

Lake Atitlán Boat Tour

Embark on a scenic boat tour across Lake Atitlán, visiting picturesque indigenous villages.

Your first stop will be San Juan La Laguna, known for its vibrant murals and artisan cooperatives. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the volcanoes surrounding the lake.

Public lanchas (boats) depart frequently from Panajachel. You can also hire a private boat for more flexibility.

Lunch in San Juan

Enjoy a delicious local lunch at one of the many restaurants in San Juan La Laguna, offering traditional Guatemalan cuisine.

Artisan Workshops & Coffee Tasting

Explore San Juan's renowned textile cooperatives, where you can see traditional backstrap weaving demonstrations, and visit local art galleries.

Also, consider a coffee farm tour and tasting to learn about the region's famous coffee production.

Many co-ops offer free demonstrations. Small fees may apply for coffee tastings.

Return & Relax

Take a public lancha back to Panajachel.

Enjoy some downtime at your hotel, perhaps by the pool or simply taking in the lake views.

Dinner with Lake Views

Savor a delightful dinner at a restaurant in Panajachel offering stunning panoramic views of Lake Atitlán and the surrounding volcanoes, especially beautiful at sunset.

Kayaking or Nature Reserve

Choose between a peaceful morning kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Atitlán, or visit the Atitlán Nature Reserve for zip-lining, butterfly gardens, and spider monkey encounters.

Kayak rentals are available along the Panajachel shoreline. The Nature Reserve has an entrance fee.

Panajachel Market & Shopping

Explore Calle Santander, Panajachel's main street, filled with souvenir shops, cafes, and street vendors.

Visit the local market to find unique textiles, handicrafts, and fresh produce.

A great place for last-minute souvenir shopping. Practice your bargaining skills!

Lunch in Panajachel

Enjoy a final lunch in Panajachel, choosing from a variety of international or local restaurants.

Leisure & Packing

Spend your afternoon relaxing at the hotel, enjoying the views, or doing any final leisurely activities before preparing for your evening departure.

Pack your bags for your early morning flight.

Check out from your accommodation by late afternoon, keeping your luggage secure if you explore further.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy an early farewell dinner in Panajachel, reflecting on your incredible journey through Guatemala.

Transfer to Guatemala City Airport (GUA)

Take a pre-arranged private shuttle from Panajachel to La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City to catch your early morning flight back to Toronto.

It is crucial to book this transfer in advance. The drive can take 2.5-3 hours depending on traffic. You'll arrive around 11:00 PM for a 1:04 AM flight.