FREE guide to Antigua, Guatemala
FREE guide to Antigua, Guatemala
Ali Haymes
Available for hire
Dive into Guatemala with this guide to Antigua! In this guide, I'll share some of my favorite restaurants, activities, cafes to work from, shops, and more.
This is from my perspective as a digital nomad living in and exploring Guatemala. In addition to the classic restaurants and activities, I love finding places to shop local artisans, unique wellness experiences, and veggie-friendly eats. You can find all of that and more in the guide below!
Also included are a couple hotels that I've stayed in myself or friends stayed in and highly recommend. I hope this helps you plan an epic trip to Antigua!
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Eats
From budget joints to treat-yourself restaurants, this is a list full of something for everyone. Antigua has a wide range of cuisines, so take a peak at some of the best spots below!
Kombu Ramen Shop
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This is an Antigua favorite! Many people have said this is the most authentic ramen they've had outside of Japan. Plus they have a great veggie option!
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Caoba Farms Restaurant
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An absolute gem! Come explore the grounds and indulge in the farm-to-table restaurant. They have plenty of veggie options, and they all come from their garden. You can also visit the butterfly garden, check out the weekend market, or even take a yoga or aerials class!
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Cactus Taco Shop
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One of our faves! We went here our first night and it was amazing! Delicious tacos plus some live music in a small and intimate space. Don't miss this one!
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Samsara
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An awesome veggie option! They have a range of cuisines and unique options, as well as some fun drinks. Even if you are vegetarian, check it out!
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Hector's Bistro
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Another FAVE! Hector's is delicious. Great food on a beautiful patio, and make sure you don't miss the olive oil ice cream! A bit more expensive so treat yourself. You can also bring your laptop and work for a bit!
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Hector's Deli
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Attached to Hector's bistro, the deli is delish and perfect if you need something to go. They have amazing sandwiches and breads, which were great for taking with us on the ride to Lake Atitlan. You can also order from here if you sit at the restaurant!
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LA PASTA NOSTRA
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Sometimes you just need pasta! I'm a sucker for pasta and there's no shame in indulging in some comfort when you travel. They have delish and cheap pastas, plus an adorable cat that will sit on your lap while you eat π
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La Cuevita de Los UrquizΓΊ
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Don't miss this for some local eats! There's a "buffet" selection of meat stews and side dishes. You'll have to speak some spanish, or just point and pick! As a vegetarian, I had 5 delicious side dishes! Super fun and authentic experience.
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Antigua Brewing Company
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Even if you don't love beer (such as myself) this is a great place to come for views, food, or a drink! And if you do, you're in for a treat for some locally made ales.
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Restaurante Fridas - La Antigua Guatemala
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If you're looking for a treat, come to Frida's! A bit more expensive than the typical restaurant here, you'll definitely want to make a reservation or you'll end up waiting for a bit. But expect delicious tacos and a vibey atmosphere!
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Cafes
Whether you're a digital nomad looking for a place to set up work for the day, or you're just looking for some of Guatemala's delicious coffee, these are some of the best cafes in Antigua!Β
Cafe Boheme
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My favorite cafe! It has incredible views of the volcano, super yummy food (get the cacao bowl or some of their desserts!), and really solid wifi. The vibes are cute and hippy, so come and relax and this little oasis.
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Artista de CafΓ© - Specialty Coffeeshop
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A beautiful and modern cafe spot. They have some great coffee options and comfy couches. It might feel like you're in a big city in the states at this spot. They also have a community table if you need to get some work done.
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Starbucks
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I know...Starbucks?! But hear me out - this is one of the most beautiful Starbucks in the world! They have a huge, gorgeous patio thats perfect for taking a break in or doing some work for the day. And try out some of the local drink flavors!
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Cafe Estudio
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One of the best volcano views cafes! I will say - there's not much shade. So be prepared to sit in the sun or come earlier or later in the day to avoid the strong UV rays.
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Hector's Bistro
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Another FAVE! Hector's is delicious. Great food on a beautiful patio, and make sure you don't miss the olive oil ice cream! A bit more expensive so treat yourself. You can also bring your laptop and work for a bit!
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Fat Cat Coffee House
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I haven't personally been to this one, but it's another great spot for digital nomads.
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Do's
Antigua (and just outside of it) is full of amazing activities for you to check out - whether you're the adventurous type or just looking to explore the city. Check out a few of the best ones below!
Caoba Farms Restaurant
@aliwinterco
An absolute gem! Come explore the grounds and indulge in the farm-to-table restaurant. They have plenty of veggie options, and they all come from their garden. You can also visit the butterfly garden, check out the weekend market, or even take a yoga or aerials class!
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Hobbitenango
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A great day adventure! Just about 30 minutes from Antigua, Hobbitenango is a unique experience. Visit some hobbit house, try your hand at archery, and best of all get INCREDIBLE views of the 2 volcanos. Spend the day exploring the grounds and snapping pics.
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Artisan market
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The best place to shop for some local artisan goods. The Guatemalan style is fun and colorful, so whether you're looking for a bag, jewelry, clothes, or just browsing, this is the place to do it! Take a look around and ask for prices before committing to your final purchase.
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Museo del Hermano Pedro
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Antigua is filled with beautiful ruins. Most of them you have to pay for entry now (including this one) but you can still get a taste for it without getting a ticket. If you're a history buff, then go ahead an pay for entry or for a tour.
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Convento Santa Clara
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Another beautiful ruins sight. We didn't pay to enter, but if you choose to, there are some spectacular ruins.
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Hill of the Cross
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If you're ready for some exercise, head over to the hill of the cross. It's not the most difficult or long hike, but it is uphill! You'll be rewarded with great views of the whole city at the top.
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Santa Catalina Arch
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There's no way you'll miss this! Just up from the center square is the famous yellow arch. If you're hoping to get a picture, you'll have to go super early in the morning to avoid all the people. But it's beautiful any time of day, and look at it from both sides.
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ChocoMuseo
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Who loves chocolate π Here, you can try some free samples, buy some Guatemalan chocolate to take home, or even do a class to learn how chocolate is made.
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Acatenango
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This isn't for the faint of heart! This overnight (all uphill) hike up a volcano is said to be one of the hardest and most memorable experiences in Guatemala. If you're feeling adventurous and athletic, give it a go.
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Drinks
While we aren't the biggest drinkers, these are a couple spots that are great for a quick cocktail!
Ulew Cocktail Bar
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Hidden within the Antigua Brewing Company, you have to enter this speakeasy through an old red phone booth! So fun.
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Antigua Brewing Company
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Even if you don't love beer (such as myself) this is a great place to come for views, food, or a drink! And if you do, you're in for a treat for some locally made ales.
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Shops
Let's go shopping! I love finding local gems and places you can source goodies BEYOND the typical tourist souvenir. If you like handmade art, candles and crystals, orΒ Β
Artisan market
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The best place to shop for some local artisan goods. The Guatemalan style is fun and colorful, so whether you're looking for a bag, jewelry, clothes, or just browsing, this is the place to do it! Take a look around and ask for prices before committing to your final purchase.
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Antigua Books
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Who doesn't love a local book store! They have a substancial English section so you're sure to find something.
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Boutique DASHA - NICTE By DASHA
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If you can splurge a little, this is a great clothing store with a mix of new and thrifted items.
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Plaza del Arco
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This is a souvenir mecca. While I usually avoid these places, it's great if you need a couple gifts to take home. Plus two cats live there that you can befriend π±
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NaturaVeda
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I'm a sucker for a natural and holistic store. If you need any herbal remedies or organic goodies, this is a great spot.
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CafΓ© Condesa
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While this is listed as a cafe, if you navigate to this location, you'll find a whole shopping complex! Including a store featuring crystals, sage, and more spiritual tools. It was a great find!
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Stays
Chez Daniel
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Our favorite! This is the first place we stayed in Antigua and I couldn't recommend it enough. It has incredible views of the volcanos (seem them explode from the balcony), spacious comfortable rooms with a bathtub, and a delicious breakfast! It's also just out of the central area so it's wonderfully quiet and a quick walk to everything.
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The Purpose Hostel
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A hostel favorite among backpackers and nomads! It books out early so don't wait to book. A great mix of community yet not a party vibe.
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Ruaj Hostal
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A great "wellness" hostel. They boast a sauna and plunge pool if you're feeling adventurous. It's very quiet and peaceful, and also away from the hustle and bustle of the center.
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Posada del Angel
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MesΓ³n Panza Verde
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Pensativo House Hotel
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ali Haymes
Available for hire
Hi there! My name is Ali and I'm your friendly digital nomad, free-spirit, travel obsessed cat lady.
I've been traveling my whole life and have now visited 47+ countries (and counting!) I love inspiring others to get out and see the world, and create a life of freedom for themselves π
My travel style is slow, immersive, and authentic. I love getting to really know a place by staying there for a few weeks and working remotely as I go (which allows me to also create the best guides for you!). I now mostly travel with my partner but previously I was a solo travel gal, so I provide insight on both - whether you're on your own adventure or traveling with a buddy.
I also adore yoga, wellness, and self growth so I always seek out these experiences and communities when I'm abroad π§ββοΈ
I hope that through my content you're able to discover the BEST places to live, work, and travel from the perspective of a digital nomad. I'm here to inspire you to take the leap and explore places you've never been before, with the confidence that you have the best recs at your fingertips.
You can expect favorite cafes, the best restaurants (including lots of veggie places!), the can't miss hot spots and adventures, beautiful hotels that don't break the bank, and so much more. As a previous life coach, I also love helping people 1:1 to curate and plan their dream trips. Don't hesitate to reach out and let's chat about creating an unforgettable adventure for you!
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