Antigua Guatemala is a beautiful place; its cobbled streets are lined with colourful Baroque-style houses beyond which the peaks of volcanoes can be seen. It is no wonder it's UNESCO-listed. There is a wide selection of good accommodation to be found in Antigua Guatemala, however, we favour the luxe-boutiques in our recommendations for the best places to stay in Antigua Guatemala which perfectly mix the region's vibrant style with chic modern luxuries.

Founded in 1543 by the Spanish, the city was the original capital of Guatemala. Unfortunately, an earthquake in the 17th century destroyed much of it, and although it was mostly rebuilt there are a few ruins found strewn across the city. Dotted with impressive churches and bustling squares there is plenty to keep you busy. Wandering the streets and enjoying the architecture is obviously the real draw here.

The El Arco de Santa Catalina (Santa Catalina Arch), which is part of the 17th century nunnery and was built in order to allow women to cross the road without being seen, is particularly beautiful. For a great vantage of the whole city, it is worth strolling up to the Cerro de la Cruz park which is either a 15 minute walk or a short taxi drive. For something a little more modern the contemporary art sculpture park in Santo Domingo Del Cerro is worthy of a stroll.

A beautiful city to visit with an excellent choice of accommodation. Browse through our list of the best places to stay in Antigua Guatemala to start planning your trip.

The best places to stay in Antigua Guatemala

For foodies

• Meson Panza Verde is a chic boutique hotel boasting the finest restaurant in town. Atmospheric throughout, you can expect warm terracotta hues, opulent chandeliers, Cuban antiques and porcelain tiles. Feast on gourmet cuisine and gently sway to live music.

For a boutique

• San Rafael Hotel is a gorgeous boutique hotel in the historic centre of Antigua. There are just seven beautifully designed rooms, traditional in style, with exposed stonework, antique furniture and beamed ceilings. A tranquil garden is the perfect spot to unwind with a drink after a day's exploring.
• El Convento Boutique Hotel is a blissful boutique hotel steeped in history and set within tranquil walled gardens. Beautiful rooms feature beamed ceilings, antique style furniture and large glass windows leading onto the gardens. The restaurant is superb and the location ideal for exploring the historic city.
• Pousada del Angel is a small boutique hotel in an original Spanish colonial Casona. Individually styled rooms feature Mayan textiles, antique furniture, wooden floors and plenty of charm. A chic rooftop terrace is the perfect spot to unwind with a drink and a small pool is the icing on the cake. Intimate and authentic.

For Luxury

• Pensativo House Hotel is a luxury hotel packed full of charm. Traditionally styled rooms feature beamed ceilings, antique rugs and wooden floors. Sample Guatemalan cuisine in the neoclassical terrace restaurant complete with mountain views.
• Hotel Dona Leonor is a gloriously converted palace which has retained all the glamour of its former years. Enormous rooms feature antique furniture, chandeliers, tiled floors, richly textured rugs and intricately carved ceilings. A leafy central courtyard is an ideal spot to unwind with a good book.

For great value

• Casa Encantada is a charming guesthouse in the historic centre of town. Traditionally dressed rooms feature white washed walls, beamed ceilings and antique furniture. A pretty garden and small pool is the ideal spot to grab a moment of quiet.

For the ethically minded

• Good Hotel Antigua is, as its name suggests, 'good'. Offering both style and luxury in the heart of the city yet with ethical practices at the centre of this property. All profits are given to local charities and staff are selected from the local community in order to increase employment opportunities.

For an apartment or house

• If you’d prefer a self catering option, then we recommend you visit our online partner, Booking.com.

Travel information

• Antigua Guatemala is a year round destination with consistently warm weather. However, the best months to visit are from November to April which is the dry season. But don't be put off visiting in the 'wet season' as rain showers don't tend to last too long. Antigua also plays host to a number of events from the heavily attended Semana Santa celebrations held every Easter to the International Jazz Festival which usually takes from the end of Feb to mid March. Both fascinating times to plan a trip and when you can see the whole city spring to life.
• Fly to Guatemala City Airport which is located just 40km from the city. Travel to Antigua Guatemala by taxi or bus.
• If you would like the freedom of your own car we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include all our recommendations in Panajachel or Santa Cruz La Laguna.
• Browse through all our hotels across Guatemala.
• Alternatively, contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Antigua Guatemala