30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Guatemala City | Apr 2025

Private Shuttle in Guatemala  Image
# 1 provided by Viator.com

Private Shuttle in Guatemala

We pride ourselves on being experts in the field of tourism, dedicated to providing exceptional service to our clients. When you choose to journey with us, rest assured that your safety is our top priority.

4.79 (215 reviews)

PRIVATE SHUTTLE AIRPORT/ANTIGUA - LAKE ATITLAN or VICEVERSA Image
# 2 provided by Viator.com

PRIVATE SHUTTLE AIRPORT/ANTIGUA - LAKE ATITLAN or VICEVERSA

Distinctive Excellence Awaits! Comfort Fleet: Elevate your journey with our top-tier vehicles, ensuring unparalleled comfort.

4.97 (101 reviews)

Tikal Day Trip by Air from Guatemala City with Lunch Image
# 3 provided by Viator.com

Tikal Day Trip by Air from Guatemala City with Lunch

Take an exciting air tour from Guatemala City to discover the beauty and ancient history of the Mayan ruins of Tikal! After a scenic flight to Tikal, spend a day in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tikal National Park exploring the incredible archaeological site of Tikal, located in the heart of the Guatemalan jungle.

4.66 (171 reviews)

Private Shuttle From Airport/Guate City to Antigua or Vice-versa Image
# 4 provided by Viator.com

Private Shuttle From Airport/Guate City to Antigua or Vice-versa

Our transport service offers a unique blend of comfort, safety, and reliability for an unforgettable travel experience. With a diverse fleet including vans, mini-vans, and sedans, we cater to your specific needs.

4.78 (40 reviews)

Private Transport - From Guatemala City Airport to Antigua Image
# 5 provided by Viator.com

Private Transport - From Guatemala City Airport to Antigua

You will be greeted at the airport by your personal taxi driver at Cafe Baretto. This service is available for up to 2 passengers in the same vehicle.

4.77 (142 reviews)

Private Airport Transfer to Antigua Guatemala Image
# 6 provided by Viator.com

Private Airport Transfer to Antigua Guatemala

We are a private transfer service in Guatemala. The most important thing for us is SAFETY, PUNCTUALITY AND CLEANLINESS.

4.60 (20 reviews)

Visit Hobbitenango Themed Park and Antigua Guatemala Image
# 7 provided by Viator.com

Visit Hobbitenango Themed Park and Antigua Guatemala

Get ready for a unique adventure! Start at Hobbitenango, a magical retreat inspired by The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.

4.76 (66 reviews)

Lake Atitlán Sightseeing Cruise with Transport from Guatemala City Image
# 8 provided by Viator.com

Lake Atitlán Sightseeing Cruise with Transport from Guatemala City

Spend a day on Lago de Atitlán (Lake Atitlan), one of Guatemala's most beautiful lakes, on this sightseeing cruise with transportation from Guatemala City.

4.24 (78 reviews)

Guatemala City Tour Image
# 9 provided by Viator.com

Guatemala City Tour

You will discover a vibrant city. The tour is guided by local people who want to share with you their knowledge and experiences of living in this great city.

4.87 (216 reviews)

Full-Day Lake Atitlan Tour  Image
# 10 provided by Viator.com

Full-Day Lake Atitlan Tour

You will explore Lake Atitlan in a fun and interesting way by the hand of local people who will be happy to share their lifestyle and traditions.

4.64 (36 reviews)

Pacaya Volcano Day Trip from Guatemala City Image
# 11 provided by Viator.com

Pacaya Volcano Day Trip from Guatemala City

Take a day trip from Guatemala City to see Guatemala's most active volcanoes! Get an up-close look at the impressive Pacaya Volcano as you hike through volcanic vegetation with your expert guide.

4.66 (56 reviews)

Antigua Guatemala , Full-Day Shared Tour from Guatemala City Image
# 12 provided by Viator.com

Antigua Guatemala , Full-Day Shared Tour from Guatemala City

Antigua Guatemala is a city that once was the Capital of the Whole Central America. In this tour you'll travel back in time to the XV through XVII century, with its cobblestone streets, catholic churches and convents, unique monuments and gastronomy.

4.90 (73 reviews)

Guatemala City & Antigua Guatemala Private Tour Image
# 13 provided by Viator.com

Guatemala City & Antigua Guatemala Private Tour

Travel to Antigua Guatemala and Guatemala City with the best local guides. Our tour guides drives you around all the historical points and monuments of the city in a nice and comfortable vehicle.

4.89 (18 reviews)

Guatemala Personalized Private Tours Image
# 14 provided by Viator.com

Guatemala Personalized Private Tours

Ever thought of exploring Guatemala in your own way? With our Personalized Tours of 4, 8, 6 and 12 hours you can plan your own itinerary and the tour operator will help you out to complete the travel you have always dream of.

4.90 (30 reviews)

Volcan Pacaya on wheels ATV From Antigua or Guatemala city. Image
# 15 provided by Viator.com

Volcan Pacaya on wheels ATV From Antigua or Guatemala city.

Starting from your hotel you will be pick up by our staff and drive 1 hour to Volcan Pacaya National Park. Our staff, guide and ATV will be waiting for you and drive yourself in direction to lava roads and rocks to get closer to active crater.

4.00 (1 reviews)

Hobbitenango, Altamira and Antigua Borial parks. Image
# 16 provided by Viator.com

Hobbitenango, Altamira and Antigua Borial parks.

Imagine yourself being surrounded in a beautiful landscape with volcanoes, valleys and medieval shine inspired in the Hobbit huts.

5.00 (3 reviews)

Copán Day Trip from Guatemala City Image
# 17 provided by Viator.com

Copán Day Trip from Guatemala City

Explore the archeological ruins of Copán, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site of the Mayan Empire, on this full-day trip from Guatemala City.

3.20 (5 reviews)

Tour to Copan Ruins Arqueological Site from Guatemala City Image
# 18 provided by Viator.com

Tour to Copan Ruins Arqueological Site from Guatemala City

Welcome to Copán, a marvel of ancient Mayan civilization nestled amidst breathtaking natural beauty! Prepare to be enchanted by the intricate stone structures, lush vegetation, and the tranquil river that flows nearby.

5.00 (4 reviews)

Private Transfer from La Aurora International Airport to Antigua Image
# 19 provided by Viator.com

Private Transfer from La Aurora International Airport to Antigua

We offer our experience, kindness, honesty, and responsibility at your service to provide a comfortable and pleasant journey, ensuring a safe arrival at your destination.

4.96 (27 reviews)

Tikal From Guatemala Image
# 20 provided by Viator.com

Tikal From Guatemala

Visit one of the largest and most important Mayan places in Central America. Your day will start very early; Remember, your flight leaves at 6 in the morning so try to get to the airport an hour and a half before.

4.86 (114 reviews)

Private Transport - between Guatemala City Airport and Panajachel Image
# 21 provided by Viator.com

Private Transport - between Guatemala City Airport and Panajachel

We provide you a private taxi transfer between La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, and Panajachel at Lake Atitlan, at your custom departure time.

4.82 (11 reviews)

Lake Atitlan Solo Traveler's Fav: Panajachel +San Juan +Boat Ride Image
# 22 provided by Viator.com

Lake Atitlan Solo Traveler's Fav: Panajachel +San Juan +Boat Ride

Experience the beauty of Lake Atitlán, a sparkling gem surrounded by majestic volcanoes and blooming landscapes, on this solo traveler-friendly tour.

4.63 (65 reviews)

Half-Day Guatemala City Tour  Image
# 23 provided by Viator.com

Half-Day Guatemala City Tour

Get to know the largest city of Central America, inhabited by the ancient Mayans in Kaminaljuyu and the former fourth capital of the Kingdom of Guatemala during the Spanish Colony.

4.90 (40 reviews)

Iximché Ruins and Antigua City Tour from Guatemala City Image
# 24 provided by Viator.com

Iximché Ruins and Antigua City Tour from Guatemala City

See Guatemala’s mixture of Mayan and Spanish influences on this 8-hour tour from Guatemala City to the Iximché ruins and the city of Antigua.

4.55 (49 reviews)

Private Ground Transfer Guatemala City To Panajachel, LakeAtitlan Image
# 25 provided by Viator.com

Private Ground Transfer Guatemala City To Panajachel, LakeAtitlan

Lake Atitlan without a doubt is one of the most beautiful destinations in Guatemala. Book your private transportation to this place quickly and safely and enjoy the comfort of our vans and well experienced staff.

5.00 (58 reviews)

Private Ground Transfer Airport - Antigua Guatemala Image
# 26 provided by Viator.com

Private Ground Transfer Airport - Antigua Guatemala

Guatemala city's airport and Antigua are connected by an excellent highway (30 Mls). The drive normally takes 1 hour but it will depend on traffic conditions.

4.91 (163 reviews)

Pacaya Volcano Vistas + Enjoy Pizza Cooked Under Volcanic Heat Image
# 27 provided by Viator.com

Pacaya Volcano Vistas + Enjoy Pizza Cooked Under Volcanic Heat

Indulge in an extraordinary experience at the foot of Pacaya Volcano! Instead of hiking, we'll venture to a private property boasting petrified lava and unparalleled views of Pacaya.

4.93 (27 reviews)

Playa De Monterrico - Pacifico Y Arena Negra -  Image
# 28 provided by Viator.com

Playa De Monterrico - Pacifico Y Arena Negra -

Este es un tour privado, con servicio personalizado que garantiza a nuestros pasajeros la satisfacción durante el tour. .

5.00 (1 reviews)

Tikal and Yaxha Overnight Trip by Air from Guatemala City Image
# 29 provided by Viator.com

Tikal and Yaxha Overnight Trip by Air from Guatemala City

Discover the Mayan ruins of Tikal and Yaxha on this overnight tour from Guatemala City! Head to the jungle of Guatemala on this 2-day adventure and admire the temples in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tikal National Park.

4.80 (10 reviews)

Airport Transfer to Antigua Guatemala Image
# 30 provided by Viator.com

Airport Transfer to Antigua Guatemala

Our private transportation service guarantees comfort, safety and efficiency on every trip. We have new vehicles and professional drivers, offering a high quality experience.

What activities can I do in Guatemala City?

1. Explore the Historic Center: Start your visit by exploring the historic center of Guatemala City, known as Zone 1. Here, you'll find beautiful colonial architecture, such as the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace. Don't miss the Central Market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for local handicrafts. 2. Visit the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology: This museum houses an impressive collection of Mayan artifacts and provides an in-depth look into Guatemala's rich cultural heritage. You can learn about the ancient Mayan civilization and its significance in the country's history. 3. Enjoy the Natural Beauty of La Aurora Zoo: Located in the heart of the city, La Aurora Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including big cats, primates, and birds. The zoo also features beautiful gardens and picnic areas, making it a great place to spend a day with family or friends. 4. Take a Stroll in the Botanical Garden: The Botanical Garden is a tranquil oasis in the city, featuring a diverse range of plants and flowers. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. 5. Explore the Ixchel Museum: This museum showcases a remarkable collection of traditional Guatemalan textiles. You can learn about the intricate weaving techniques and the cultural significance of these textiles in Mayan communities. 6. Visit the Relief Map: Located in Zone 2, the Relief Map is a large-scale replica of Guatemala's topography. It provides a unique perspective on the country's geography and is a great educational experience for both children and adults. 7. Discover the Miraflores Museum: This museum is located inside an ancient Mayan archaeological site and offers a fascinating insight into the country's pre-Columbian history. You can explore the ruins and learn about the ancient civilization that once inhabited the area. 8. Shop at Paseo Cayalá: Paseo Cayalá is a modern shopping and entertainment complex that offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, and cafes. It's a great place to indulge in some retail therapy or enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the vibrant atmosphere. 9. Experience Guatemalan Cuisine: Guatemala City is home to a variety of restaurants that offer traditional Guatemalan dishes. Don't miss the opportunity to try local specialties such as pepián (a spicy meat stew), tamales, and plátanos en mole (plantains in mole sauce). 10. Take a Day Trip to Antigua Guatemala: While not technically in Guatemala City, a day trip to Antigua is highly recommended. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque-influenced architecture and cobblestone streets. You can explore the charming town, visit historic churches and ruins, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes.

When is the best time to travel to Guatemala City?

The best time to travel to Guatemala City, Guatemala is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant with warm temperatures and little rainfall. It is a great time to explore the city's attractions and enjoy outdoor activities. However, it is important to note that Guatemala City experiences a mild climate throughout the year, so even during the rainy season (May to October), you can still enjoy your visit. Just be prepared for occasional showers and plan your outdoor activities accordingly. It is also worth considering any specific events or festivals that you may want to experience in Guatemala City. For example, Semana Santa (Holy Week) in March or April is a popular time to visit, as the city comes alive with religious processions and celebrations. Overall, the best time to travel to Guatemala City depends on your personal preferences and the activities you wish to engage in.

Travel culture you should know when traveling to Guatemala City

Guatemala City, the capital of Guatemala, is a vibrant and bustling city that offers a rich cultural experience for travelers. Here are some aspects of the travel culture in Guatemala City: 1. Mayan Heritage: Guatemala is known for its strong Mayan heritage, and this influence can be seen in the city's architecture, art, and traditions. Visitors can explore ancient Mayan ruins such as Kaminaljuyu, which is located within the city limits. 2. Colonial Legacy: Guatemala City also has a strong colonial legacy, with beautiful Spanish colonial architecture. The historic center of the city, known as Zone 1 or ""Centro Histórico,"" is home to many colonial buildings, including the National Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral. 3. Traditional Markets: Traditional markets, known as ""mercados,"" are an integral part of Guatemalan culture. In Guatemala City, the Central Market (Mercado Central) is a must-visit. Here, you can find a wide variety of local products, including fresh produce, handicrafts, textiles, and traditional food. 4. Art and Museums: The city is home to numerous art galleries and museums that showcase the country's rich cultural heritage. The National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology is a must-visit, as it houses an extensive collection of Mayan artifacts. The Ixchel Museum of Indigenous Textiles and Clothing is another popular attraction, focusing on the traditional textiles of Guatemala's indigenous communities. 5. Festivals and Celebrations: Guatemala City hosts various festivals and celebrations throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to experience the country's vibrant culture. The most famous festival is Semana Santa (Holy Week), which features elaborate processions and religious ceremonies. Other notable celebrations include Independence Day on September 15th and the Day of the Dead on November 1st. 6. Gastronomy: Guatemalan cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with influences from Mayan, Spanish, and other Central American cuisines. In Guatemala City, you can find a wide range of traditional dishes, such as tamales, chiles rellenos, and pepián (a meat stew). Don't forget to try the local coffee, which is renowned for its quality. 7. Nightlife: Guatemala City has a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants offering entertainment options for visitors. The lively Zona Viva neighborhood is known for its nightlife, with a variety of venues catering to different tastes in music and ambiance. Overall, Guatemala City offers a blend of ancient Mayan traditions, colonial charm, and modern urban culture. Exploring the city's cultural attractions, trying traditional cuisine, and immersing yourself in local festivals and celebrations will provide a memorable travel experience.

Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Guatemala City

When visiting Guatemala City, there are several shopping options where you can find unique souvenirs and items that represent the country's culture and traditions. Here are some shopping lists or souvenir ideas for your trip to Guatemala City: 1. Handmade Textiles: Guatemala is known for its vibrant and intricate textiles. Look for traditional Mayan fabrics, such as huipiles (embroidered blouses), cortes (woven skirts), and scarves. These can be found in local markets like Mercado Central and Mercado de Artesanías. 2. Jade Jewelry: Guatemala is famous for its jade, which has been highly valued by the Mayan people for centuries. You can find beautiful jade jewelry pieces, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, in jewelry stores and markets around the city. 3. Wooden Crafts: Guatemala is also known for its woodwork. Look for handmade wooden masks, figurines, and carvings that depict Mayan deities or animals. These can be found in markets and artisan shops. 4. Coffee: Guatemala produces some of the world's finest coffee. Consider buying freshly roasted coffee beans or ground coffee from local coffee shops or specialty stores. This makes for a delicious and aromatic souvenir to take home. 5. Traditional Pottery: Look for handmade pottery items, such as vases, bowls, and plates, which showcase Guatemala's rich ceramic heritage. These can be found in artisan markets and stores specializing in traditional crafts. 6. Guatemalan Chocolate: Guatemala is known for its high-quality cacao beans. Look for locally produced chocolate bars, truffles, or hot chocolate mix made from Guatemalan cacao. These can be found in specialty chocolate shops. 7. Worry Dolls: Worry dolls, or ""muñecas quitapenas,"" are tiny handmade dolls dressed in traditional Mayan clothing. According to legend, you tell your worries to the doll before going to bed, and it takes them away while you sleep. They can be found in markets and souvenir shops. 8. Guatemalan Rum: If you enjoy spirits, consider purchasing a bottle of Guatemalan rum. Look for brands like Zacapa or Botran, which are highly regarded for their quality. Remember to shop responsibly and support local artisans and businesses. Bargaining is common in markets, but be respectful and negotiate fair prices.

Guatemala City travel review

Guatemala City: A Vibrant Blend of History, Culture, and Adventure Nestled in the heart of Central America, Guatemala City is a vibrant and captivating destination that offers travelers a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure. From its ancient Mayan ruins to its bustling markets and lively festivals, this bustling metropolis has something to offer every type of traveler. One of the highlights of Guatemala City is its rich history. The city was once the capital of the ancient Mayan civilization, and remnants of this fascinating culture can still be seen today. A visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kaminaljuyu allows visitors to explore the ancient ruins of this once-thriving Mayan city. The site is home to impressive pyramids, temples, and tombs, providing a glimpse into the past and a chance to learn about the Mayan way of life. Another must-visit attraction in Guatemala City is the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology. This museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the country's rich archaeological heritage. From intricately carved stone sculptures to ancient pottery and jewelry, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of Guatemala's pre-Columbian history. Beyond its historical significance, Guatemala City is also a hub of vibrant culture. The city's historic center, known as Zone 1, is a bustling area filled with colonial architecture, lively plazas, and charming cobblestone streets. Here, visitors can explore the iconic Metropolitan Cathedral, which dates back to the 18th century, or wander through the vibrant Central Market, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce to traditional handicrafts. For those seeking a taste of local culture, Guatemala City is home to numerous festivals and celebrations throughout the year. The most famous of these is Semana Santa, or Holy Week, which takes place in the weeks leading up to Easter. During this time, the city comes alive with colorful processions, traditional music, and elaborate street carpets made from dyed sawdust and flowers. It is a truly mesmerizing experience that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the deeply rooted traditions and customs of Guatemala. Aside from its historical and cultural attractions, Guatemala City also offers plenty of opportunities for adventure and outdoor exploration. Just a short drive from the city, visitors can find themselves surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. The nearby Pacaya Volcano offers adventurous hikers the chance to climb to its summit and witness stunning views of the surrounding landscape, with the occasional glimpse of lava flows. For those looking for a more relaxed outdoor experience, Lake Atitlan is a must-visit destination. Surrounded by towering volcanoes and picturesque villages, this stunning lake offers opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and simply soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings. The lake is also home to several indigenous communities, where visitors can learn about traditional Mayan customs and enjoy the vibrant local arts and crafts. In conclusion, Guatemala City is a captivating destination that offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient ruins, immersing yourself in vibrant culture, or embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures, this bustling metropolis has something to offer everyone. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, Guatemala City is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an unforgettable Central American experience.