Things to Do in Antigua & Beyond

If you are arriving early or staying a little longer, Antigua and the surrounding area offer plenty to enjoy before and after the wedding weekend. Antigua itself is a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its colonial architecture, historic ruins, cobblestone streets, and views of nearby volcanoes.

Easy Things to Do in Antigua:

Explore the historic center

One of the best ways to enjoy Antigua is simply by walking through town. Guests can spend a relaxed afternoon exploring the charming streets, churches, plazas, cafés, and shops throughout the city’s historic center. Antigua’s layout and preserved colonial landmarks are part of what earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.

See the Santa Catalina Arch

The Santa Catalina Arch is one of the most iconic sights in Antigua and a great stop for photos while walking around town. It is one of the city’s best-known landmarks and is right in the middle of the historic area.

Visit Cerro de la Cruz

For one of the best views of Antigua, guests can visit Cerro de la Cruz, a viewpoint just above the city with panoramic views of Antigua and Volcán de Agua. It is a popular stop for visitors and a great option for a lighter outing.

Visit the ruins and museums at Casa Santo Domingo

Casa Santo Domingo is one of Antigua’s best-known historic properties, built around the restored remains of the former Santo Domingo convent. It includes museum spaces and preserved ruins, making it a great option for guests who want history, architecture, and a relaxed cultural visit all in one place. (casasantodomingo.com.gt)

Kid Friendly Activities:

Hobbitenango

A hobbit themed eco-park that's nestled high in the mountains outside the charming city of Antigua. It offers a variety of photo spots with stunning views, activities such as archery, mini golf, restaurants and giant swing.

Great Options for Thursday or Monday:

Relax and enjoy Antigua at a slower pace

Thursday or Monday can be perfect for a slower day in town — walking the streets, shopping for local goods, enjoying a long lunch, visiting a coffee shop, or spending time at your hotel.

Book a spa or pool day

For guests who want downtime before or after the wedding weekend, a spa afternoon or relaxing at your hotel is a great option.

Take a food or coffee outing

Antigua is known for its restaurants, cafés, and coffee culture, so a casual food-focused day is an easy and enjoyable plan even without a full tour.

Trips for Guests Staying Longer:

Pacaya Volcano (5-7 hrs)

For guests who want a more adventurous outing, Pacaya Volcano and Calderas Lagoon National Park is one of the region’s best-known nature experiences. It is known for volcanic landscapes, hiking, and dramatic views, and many tours operate from Antigua. (CATA)

Lake Atitlán (Full Day + Overnight)

Guests staying longer may also want to take a day trip to Lake Atitlán, one of Guatemala’s most famous destinations. It is known for dramatic lake-and-volcano scenery and lakeside towns, and it is commonly paired with nearby sightseeing routes. (biblioteca.inguat.gob.gt)

Suggested by Day:

Thursday ideas

- Arrive, settle in, and explore Antigua

- Walk the historic center and see the Santa Catalina Arch

- Visit Cerro de la Cruz for views

- Enjoy dinner in town

Monday ideas

- Sleep in and enjoy a relaxed brunch

- Visit Casa Santo Domingo or shop in town

- Spend a quiet afternoon at Caoba Farms

- Book a spa treatment or enjoy your hotel

Tuesday ideas

- For guests with later flights, enjoy one last breakfast or coffee in Antigua before heading back to Guatemala City

- For guests staying longer, Tuesday is a great day for a larger outing such as Pacaya Volcano or Lake Atitlán

Antigua is very walkable, but the streets are cobblestoned, so comfortable shoes are a good idea. For bigger outings outside Antigua, we recommend arranging transportation or a guided tour in advance.