Backpack Mack

After spending 2+ weeks in Antigua, I’ve compiled my list of recommendations for what to do while in town. 

Sightseeing / Activities 

• Santa Catalina Arch – This iconic Antigua landmark is a bright yellow arch that was previously built to connect the Santa Catalina convent to a school, allowing the cloistered nuns to pass from one building to the other without going out on the street. On a clear day you can get an amazing shot of one of the surrounding volcanos through the arch. 
• Hill of the Cross – There is a giant cross atop a hill at the north end of town. A 15 minute walk will provide beautiful views especially on a clear day. 
• San Jose Cathedral – This is the main cathedral located on the central square. 
• Central Park – Like most cities in latin america there is a main square where people gather to relax, sell their wares, let their children play and more. 
• MUNAG Museo Nacional de Arte de Guatemala – This museum was an interesting walk through depicting art from pre-hispanic times to modern day. 
• Convento Santa Teresa de Jesus – Extensive structure/ruins showing the living quarters and daily life of the nuns. 
• Casa de Artes – This is a museum/store that houses a very interesting collection of authentic guatemalan art and textiles. 
• Nim Po’t – This is a giant art market with any and every souvenir you could possibly desire. I really liked that many of the items for sale here were labeled with their origin giving you a better sense of the cultural differences across the country. 
• Mercado Central Antigua – This is a large indoor / outdoor market where you can purchase anything from cellphone cases to handmade textiles. 
• OX Expeditions – OX is the company I booked my volcano hike through and I would highly recommend. 

Food / Drink 

• Rincon Antigueno – If you are looking for authentic (and cheap) Guatemalan food this is the place to go. With daily specials around 35 Quetzales you can’t go wrong here. 
• 7 Caldos – Authentic Guatemalan options but a little pricier. A meal, drink, and tip will run you about $20 USD.
• Antigua Brewing Company – The very popular Antigua Brewing company is huge and in addition to tasty beers they also host music nights and a rooftop afternoon DJ. Within Antigua Brewing there is also a secret speakeasy. After you enter head through the red phone booth and you’ll find an upscale cocktail bar!
• La Cremeria Antigua – Depending on what time of year you come you may find yourself looking to escape the heat. This ice cream shop is delicious and also had several dairy free options. 
• 12 Onzas – This is a guilty gringa pleasure. I found myself in desperate need of something lighter and more veggie forward than the standard Guatemalan fare and the wraps here hit the spot. 
• Clios Antigua *Passing on this more upscale recommendation, I have not been
• Santo Spirito *Passing on this more upscale recommendation, I have not been

Nightlife 

• Cafe No Se – Cool dark bar with cheap beer and live music on the weekends starting around 10pm
• Whiskey Den & Coffee Bar – Nice bar with live music (often sharing acts with Cafe No Se next door)
• El Barrio – A collection of 5 or 6 bars all with a central court providing something for everyone. They also host events including Wednesday night karaoke

Accommodations

• Adra Hostel – Given that much of my accommodation has been covered by my program I don’t have a ton to offer here, but I can fully recommend Adra Hostel if you are looking for an inexpensive option. Cute, comfortable and has a rooftop cafe/bar!