Things to do in Guatemala

2 destinations in Guatemala, when to visit each, and what a trip actually costs.

Places to visit in Guatemala

When flights to each destination are cheapest.

Antigua Guatemala: The cheapest flights to GUA typically fall in May-June and September-October (shoulder/rainy season), where fares from major US cities can run $250-400 round trip versus $450-650 during the December holiday peak and Semana Santa (Easter week), roughly 30-40% savings. Flying midweek (Tuesday/Wednesday departures) consistently yields the lowest fares regardless of season.
Guatemala City: The cheapest flights to Guatemala City land in September and October, the heart of rainy season, when fares can run 25-35% below December-January peak holiday prices. Flying midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday departures) shaves an additional 10-15% compared to weekend travel year-round.

A day on the ground for one person travelling alone, before flights: somewhere to sleep, food, something to do and getting around.

Set your dates, budget and home airport on any destination below for a total that includes flights.

Antigua Guatemala: Wander the Central Park (Parque Central) Watch local life unfold around the colonial fountain, cathedral ruins, and Palace of the Captains General, the beating heart of the city.
Antigua Guatemala: Explore Cathedral Ruins of Santiago Roam the dramatic earthquake-toppled ruins of the 17th-century cathedral right on the main square.
Antigua Guatemala: Visit the Jade Maya Museum A free museum above a jade shop showcasing pre-Columbian jade artifacts and Mayan history.
Guatemala City: Stroll Paseo de la Sexta (6a Avenida) The pedestrianized main drag buzzes with street performers, food carts, and free urban energy day and night.
Guatemala City: Parque Centenario A leafy central park perfect for people-watching where locals gather, play chess, and debate over coffee.
Guatemala City: Explore Zona Viva on foot Guatemala City's upscale district is great for window shopping, free gallery browsing, and soaking up the café culture.

Mercado Municipal (covered market) in Antigua Guatemala, Pepián de pollo (rich Mayan seed sauce over chicken) with rice and tortillas Plates $2-4
Fridas in Antigua Guatemala, Chiles rellenos and black bean soup with fresh-made corn tortillas Plates $4-7
Y Tu Piña También in Antigua Guatemala, Giant fresh-fruit licuados and tamales de chuchito wrapped in corn husks Plates $2-5
Restaurante Cantón in Guatemala City, Pepián (Guatemala's national stew) with rice and tortillas Plates $3-6
El Portal (Zona 1) in Guatemala City, Chiles rellenos and black bean soup lunch set Plates $2-5
Mercado Central food stalls in Guatemala City, Tamales, jocon de pollo, and fresh fruit agua fresca Plates $1-4