Ultimate 1 Week Travel Guide to Guatemala
Guatemala is one of Central America’s most visually striking destinations… a country where colonial architecture, Indigenous traditions, and dramatic natural landscapes exist side by side. From pastel-hued streets framed by volcanoes to a high-altitude lake surrounded by Mayan villages, the pace here invites you to slow down, look closer, and settle into the moment.
This 1 Week Travel guide to Guatemala focuses on two of the country’s most rewarding regions: Antigua Guatemala and Lake Atitlán. Together, they offer the perfect balance of culture, cuisine, scenery, and calm.
Where to Fly into?
Fly into La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City (airport code: GUA). This is the country’s main international airport and the most convenient entry point for visiting Antigua and Lake Atitlán. Customs was a breeze ( you do have to fill out a form on arrival). Though getting through the airport was easy, traffic in Guatemala City can be intense so instead of 1 hours to get to Antiga it took us 2 hour. Mentally prepare for a longer drive!!
From the Airport:
- Guatemala City → Antigua: ~1–1.5 hours by private transfer or shuttle
- Antigua → Lake Atitlán: ~3–3.5 hours by shuttle or private car
Tip: Pre-book a private transfer or reputable shuttle service. It’s comfortable, efficient, and removes any stress after landing. This is the company we used HERE
1 week travel guide to Guatamala: What is the best time to go to Guatemala?
The best time to visit Guatemala is during the dry season, which runs from late November through April.
Within this window, January through March is often considered the sweet spot, offering clear skies, cooler mornings, and excellent visibility of volcanoes and lake views. December tends to be super busy though with the holiday aka more crowds etc! The rainy season in Guatemala is from June to October with September apparently more wet than the other months
For reference we visited in February and had perfect weather. It was colder in the mornings though ( around 8-10 Celcius)
Itinerary Overview:
- Antigua Guatemala — 3 nights
Colonial charm, food-forward dining, rooftop views, and walkable streets rich in history. - Lake Atitlán — 4 nights
A slower, more reflective pace with sunrise lake views, village hopping by boat, and volcano-lined horizons. We probably could have just done 3 nights here but if you want to really take your time and plan to do more hikes- 4 nights is good! - Guatemala City- 1 night– we had an early flight ( 5AM) so we left the lake in the morning and chilled out in Guatemala city for the night!
Antigua, Guatemala – 3 Days
Antigua Guatemala is a UNESCO-listed colonial town that somehow feels both historic and wildly alive. It’s colourful, compact, and framed by volcanoes in every direction. They have a bustling coffee shop scene, 5 star restaurants yet within 20-30 minutes you can be hikign to epic view points…including a volcano hike!
We spent 3 nights in Antigua and found it to be the perfect amount of time. The 1st day we just walked around a bit and grabbed dinner as we got there around 5PM. The next day we did: Santa Catalina Arch, the Ruins, McDondad’s/Starbucks, walked around and ate/drank and did the Cerro de la Cruz hike in late afternoon.
The 3rd and final day, we did Hobbitnenago/Antigua Boreal Slide, lunch at Cocao Farms, walked around a bit more and did dinner!
Where to stay in Antigua Guatemala:
Los Pasos Hotel
This is where we stayed and I could not recommend it more. Expect restored colonial details, peaceful courtyards, and rooftop views that frame the city’s iconic churches and surrounding volcanoes. The location was so perfect- tucked aware from the center of action but a 5-10 minute walk if you wanted to go anywhere!
The breakfasts were INSANELY good and enjoyed on their rooftop. Their beds were also realllllly comfy. Basically this hotel was rated only 3 stars but it felt like a 5 star all the way
More Hotels to Stay at in Antigua:
- Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo ( $$$$- Luxury Option)
- Good Hotel ( $$)
- Las Cruces Boutique Hotel ($$$$-Luxury Option)
- Meson Panza Verde
Things to do in Antigua Guatemala
There are so many things to do in Antigua Guatemala however you also can just leisurely walk around, popping into restaurants and taking in the colourful streets. If you do like a little bit of itinerary here are some of our favourite things that we did on our trup!
Hike to Cerro de la Cruz for the Best View of Antigua
For one of the best viewpoints in the city, hike up to Cerro de la Cruz.
This small hill sits just north of the city and offers panoramic views over Antigua’s grid of colorful rooftops. At the top you’ll find a large stone cross overlooking the city, which gives the hill its name. The hikes takes about 20-30 minutes and is kid friendly ( just steps but they are not steep at all)
Santa Catalina Arch
No trip to Antigua is complete without visiting the famous Santa Catalina Arch. This is the image that is literally on every poster for Guatemala! It is best to see it in the early morning or in and around sunset. We went at abotu 5PM and it wasn’t that busy!
See the some Ruins
Antigua’s skyline is dotted with the remains of historic churches and monasteries, many damaged by powerful earthquakes over the centuries. They are scattered over the city and just make you feel like are you stepping back in time. Tip: Bring cash to visit the ruins. They do not accept cards
Here are some favourites:
- Convento de las Capuchinas
- Antigua Cathedral ruins
- Convento de Santa Clara
Visit the McDonald’s and Starbucks
You are probabaly thinking McDonald’s? Starbucks? Really. Hear me out. The McDonald’s in Antigua has been voted one of the most beautiful McDonald’s in the world and once you visit you quickly understand why!! Even the locals recommend checking it out
Starbucks is no different. The courtyard there was out of a magazine. Tip: If you have a late flight or can’t check into your hotel yet- they have these rooms there that sit along the courtyard that are private and have plenty of space for bags!
Do a half day trip to Hobbitenango
If you want something unique (and very Instagram-worthy), head up into the mountains to Hobbitenango. This is the EXACT Hobbitenango tour we did and it was amazing
This whimsical eco-park recreates a Hobbit-style village inspired by Middle-earth. Located about 20 minutes outside Antigua, it sits high in the mountains with panoramic views of the surrounding volcanoes. There are hobbit towns you can go through ( there are some overnight options too if you want to sleep over), they have hobbit bars and restaurants on site and just some overall cool installations. We spent about 2.5 hours here! The ride up is a bit wobbly but it’s quick!
Ride the Antigua Boreal Slide
For something more adventurous, head to Antigua Boreal.
This adventure park features a massive hillside slide, where you ride down winding tracks overlooking Antigua and the surrounding volcanoes. It’s a fun and slightly adrenaline-filled activity, especially if you’re traveling with friends.
Tip: This spot can be visited after Hobbitenango. It’s just 5 minutes away. They do have a pizza restaurant on site if you are hungry!
Where to Eat & Drink in Antigua Guatemala
Antigua, Guatemala’s restaurant scene is no joke. Not only is it gaining attention internationally for some world renovaed chef’s opening up shop there but every single dish we had there just tasted FRESH. It made us really quesiton the kind of ingriedents we are having at home in North America.
Pictured below: Antigua Brewing ( left), Rosanta ( right)
- Antigua Brewing Co. . (You will find this restaurant on every list and if you go there, you quickly understand why. Roof top views, unreal vibe and the food is 10/10)
- Rosada ( want to have one of the best meals of your life, go here)
- El Comalote ( authetnic taco and tortilla spot in town!)
- Por Qué No? Cafe ( Unique spot, almost feels like a speak easy but has incredible food)
Lake Atitlan, Guatemala- 4 nights
After our time in Antigua, we moved to Laek Atitlan. The drive only took us 2.5 hours surprisingly which was nice! Your car or shuttle will drop you off in the main town on the lake called Panajachel. From Panajachel, you take a boat taxi to the town or hotel you are going to!
We booked a private boat transfer in advance. Here is the boat contact we used. His name was joel and he was amazing! I recommend doing this if you have a bit of luggage or you are travelling with the kids. After a long drive the last thing you want to do is squish in with tons of people and make a bunch of stops
TIP: The boat taxis run from 6AM-5:30PM so plan to eat dinner close to where you are staying
Where to stay in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
Vista Lago Air Bnb
We decided on an Air bnb for our time in Lake Atitlan and we are so glad we did. It was just a 5 minute boat ride from Panajachel but felt worlds away. The Air bnb is fairly new so you can expect modern furnishings and everything to look fresh. It had 3 beds, a full kitchen and an outdoor pool
The breakfasts were INSANELY good and enjoyed on their rooftop. Their beds were also realllllly comfy. Basically this hotel was rated only 3 stars but it felt like a 5 star all the way
More places to stay in Lake Atitlan
- Casa Prana ( 5 Star, RIGHT beside our Air Bnb!)
- Casa Palopo (5 Star and good with kids)
- Hotel La Casa del Mundo ( IG famous hotel)
Things to do in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
While there are plenty of activities to enjoy, much of the magic of the lake comes from simply slowing down and taking in the scenery. We spent their days relaxing by our pool, watching the changing light over the volcanoes, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the lakeside towns.
There is also a ton of hikes in the area but since we were travelling with kids, we didn’t hike. You also can fill up some time doing a yoga class in San Marco or getting a massage which can be found in many of the towns!
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Visit the town of San Juan La Laguna/San Pedro La Laguna
These two towns can be visited together in one day! You can even take a tuk tuk between the two which is the only two towns that are connected this way
San Juan is the most colourful town on the lake and in my opinion is the most prettiest
San Pedro is known for their backpacking scene and is filled with lots of reasonable hotel options. There are also a good amount of restaurants there which is convienant
Do a Day Pass at Casa Mundo
Casa Mundo is the Instagram famous hotel on the lake. If you do not stay here ( which we didn’t and are glad we didn’t because there are SO many stairs), I highly recommend a day visit here. Despite the steps, it is truly a jaw dropping spot filled with so many unique plants, botanicals and views.
The day pass is $6.00 per person and gives you access to the swimming areas and the option to dine at their restaurant. We decided to eat there and the food/drink surpassed our expectations! Get the nachos!!!
Visit the town of San Marco
Discover the charming town of San Marco, where winding canals and historic architecture create a picturesque escape. Stroll through vibrant piazzas, admire centuries-old churches, and soak in the local café culture. Perfect for a leisurely day trip, San Marco offers a blend of history, art, and authentic Italian charm.
Where to eat in Lake Atitlan
Nestled around the shores of Lake Atitlán, the towns surrounding the lake offer a vibrant and diverse food scene that reflects both local Guatemalan culture and international influences. We basically planned a town visit each day we were there and scoped out 1 lunch restaurant per town
- Sababa Restaurant ( San Pedro)- A bright and airy space serving up fresh and organic options like smoothies, wraps and so many brunch/lunch options
- Okaniko Restaurant ( Santa cruz)- a small vegetarian restaurant in an upscale setting with the most epic views. The menu is small but the pasta WAS SO GOOD!
- Alma ( San Pedro)-A popular lakeside restaurant known for its relaxed atmosphere and flavorful Middle Eastern dishes with fresh local ingredients.
- La Vista del Viajero ( Santa Cruz).This was a scenic restaurant in Santa Cruz- locally run- and so price friendly for the quality and servings that you get. Highly recommend!
- Hidden Garden ( San Marco) A peaceful garden café known for its fresh, healthy meals and tranquil setting among lush greenery. Great for breakfast or lunch
Things to note:
- Do not drink the tap water. We had a motto going “If it comes from the sink we do not drink” ( mainly for our kids lol) but it helped us all remember
- Download Google Translate. We really used it everywhere. Some bigger restaurants had english menus but the photo feature within the app helped a lot with menus that didn’t have English
- Pack for different climates. We visted in March and the morning were chilly, days were hot and nights were a bit colder again!
- Bring Cash and save it for the lake. You are mostly fine in Antigua ( except at the markets and for tuk tuks) but at the lake all the boat taxis only take cash
- Ubers are sooo cheap in Antigua and it works there.
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT🛫
I hope you enjoyed this 1 week travel guide to Guatemala! After a week exploring Guatemala’s vibrant markets, lush volcanoes, and colorful colonial streets, it’s hard not to fall in love with this incredible country. From the serene shores of Lake Atitlán to the bustling charm of Antigua, every moment here feels like a story waiting to be told. I hope this journey inspires you to add Guatemala to your own travel list and experience its magic firsthand.
For more travel adventures, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and daily wanderlust, follow me on Instagram @thedaydreamdiaries.
