Visit Guatemala City: 12 Must-See Things to Do

You're planning a few days in Guatemala? Plan to visit Guatemala City! This little-known city deserves your attention.

Guatemala City is often overlooked by tourists visiting Guatemala. Too big, too dirty, too dangerous, the capital of Guatemala has a bad reputation. However, although it doesn't have as much charm as its older sister Antigua, it has many assets. Only those who have chosen to not...

Located in the Valley of the Hermitage, at about 1,500 meters altitude, south of Guatemala, the Guatemalan city became the capital of the country in the 17th century. A earthquake partially destroyed Antigua, the former capital of the country. Strong in its few four million...

Credit photo: Flickr / John Pavelka

The Plaza de la Constitución is the heart of Guatemala City. This historic square is surrounded by colonial-era buildings, including the National Palace and the Cathedral. Take a stroll to admire the architecture and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

How to visit a Latin American country without exploring its Plaza de Armas? You'll see some of the city's most beautiful monuments, like the National Palace of Culture, the Cathedral, and the National Library, on this central square.

Credit photo: Facebook / Casa MIMA

This tour allows you to experience the life of a Guatemalan bourgeois from the late 19th century. Explore the elegant furnishings of the Escobar Vega family's home and discover everyday objects from that era.

What to do in Guatemala City? Eat! How to visit Guatemala without experiencing its traditional dishes. Try tapado, fiambre, or jocon, and don't miss the rellenitos, a local dessert that may not appeal to everyone.

Credit photo: Facebook / Teatro Abril (oficial)

Visiting Guatemala City also means relaxing. Choose between the historic Teatro Abril or the newer Teatro Las Mascaras for an enjoyable evening.

Credit photo: Wikimedia / Fering123

When unsure what to do in Guatemala City, head to Avenida de la Reforma! Created over a century ago, this avenue features some of the city's most iconic statues, like the Michel-Ange Monument and the bust of Henri Dunant.

Credit photo: Facebook / Cervecería Centro Americana, S.A.

Credit photo: Shutterstock / Byron Ortiz

What to do in Guatemala City? Discover the country's treasures from the capital! Guatemala City is an excellent starting point for exploring Guatemala's cultural and natural wonders.

Don't miss the visit to Antigua, just 40 kilometers away, which retains its reputation as Guatemala's gem. You can also visit the Pacaya Volcano and its hot springs in a single day.

There are no direct flights from France to Guatemala, so an intermediate stop is necessary. The most common route is via Madrid with Iberia, the only way to reach Guatemala from Europe in a single flight.

For prices, our advice is classic: don't book last-minute. Use a flight comparator like Ulysse to find the best deals. Prices vary depending on the season, so plan ahead.

The city center is served by a bus from the airport, located six kilometers away.

To visit Guatemala City, it's essential to have easy mobility. The transportation options are the same as for arriving from the airport:

Before visiting Guatemala City, it's important to book accommodation. While youth hostels are still rare, you should find a hotel room without difficulty.

The city is divided into zones (admit it, the neighborhood names aren't poetic, but don't let that impression linger). The Zona 10, located 15 minutes from the airport, is the business district of the capital and the most cosmopolitan area.