Steal This Perfect 5-Day Guatemala Itinerary For Your Bucket List!
Sometimes you realize you set your expectations too high when you visit those “viral” destinations that you see on social media while other places completely blow your mind and you can’t wait to get back!
Guatemala not only exceeded our expectations but it’s now one of our favorite countries we’ve ever visited. Guatemala, one of the fastest growing countries in Central America is known for its breathtaking landscapes, glittering blue lakes, smoldering volcanoes, amazing food, being budget-friendly and deep rooted culture. Making it a popular travel destination for backpackers and adventure seekers and it’s even great for couple getaways.
In this blog, we’ll be sharing our 5-Day Guatemala Itinerary with the best things to do, places to stay, where to eat and more when visiting Antigua and Lake Atitlan, perfect for a couples getaway or anyone wanting to visit this wonderful country!
How To Get Around Guatemala
If you’re flying internationally, you will more than likely be landing into Guatemala City. Since the main focus of our itinerary being Antigua and Lake Atitlan, familiarizing yourself with the different methods of transportation can be very beneficial to your trip. Uber or a rental car can be great for places like Antigua but won’t be reliable in places around Lake Atitlan. So here’s a breakdown of the different ways to get around Guatemala to help you pick the best for you during your trip.
Shared Shuttles and Private Shuttles - the most common forms of transportation for tourists traveling between main cities like Guatemala City, Antigua, and Panajachel. Private Shuttles can be great after a long flight as you get a vehicle all to yourself and often faster than Shared Shuttles. While Shared Shuttles may be cheaper, the van may need to wait until the shuttle fills up before departing, make frequent stops and often takes longer to get to your final destination. But both are very reliable options. There’s lots of different companies to choose from so make sure to compare prices and times before you book. We booked a private shuttle from Guatemala City Airport to Antigua through Viator and the ride took about 2.5 hours and cost $76 USD. We also booked a shared shuttle from Antigua to Panajachel through GetYourGuide for $50 USD.
Rental Car - For this specific itinerary we preferred to not rent a car since most places we planned on visiting were very walkable once we arrived and some villages around Lake Atitlan were only accessible by Boat Taxi! Plus, it was great to not deal with the inconvenience of finding parking.
Uber - Uber is great option for traveling around or between Guatemala City to Antigua. However, it’s often limited to these large, touristy cities and may not be reliable outside of Antigua and Guatemala City. Uber can be pricier than shuttle services so we suggest booking a Private Shuttle instead, especially if you’re splitting the cost with another passenger.
Boat Taxis - Getting around Lake Atitlan is an adventure itself! In Panajachel, you’ll find the busiest boat dock in Antigua with boat taxis to popular villages like San Marcos, San Juan and San Pedro. Boat taxis are the only transportation to these surrounding villages. While on Lake Atitlan, you’ll notice boat taxis routinely circling the lake every 5-10 minutes. Whenever you need a ride, just flag one of the boats going in the direction you’re wanting and they will pick you up! Make sure to carry cash and double check with the boat’s captain of your destination and price of your ride before boarding. Most rides cost about Q10–35 ($1.30–$4.50 USD) per person.
Chicken Buses - During your trip, you’ll notice a lot of funky, old, converted school buses that are now used for public transportation. If you’re traveling to Guatemala on a budget, this could be a very budget friendly option to get around while inner city. However, make sure to do your own research on bus routes and prices and there may be a language barrier if you don’t speak Spanish.
TukTuk’s - Think of these as the local taxis and it’s another great budget-friendly way to get around while inner city if you don’t feel like walking. We suggest researching common Tuk-Tuk ride pricing and always double checking with your driver the price before your ride to avoid getting scammed.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Antigua and Lake Atitlan in Guatemala is definitely during Sunny Season, November through April, with peak travel months being December though March. This is when the weather is most enjoyable with warm temperatures and clear skies, which is perfect for exploring ruins or hiking volcanos! We visited in January and it was perfect weather the entire trip and there weren’t too many tourists.
Itinerary:
Days 1 & 2 - Antigua
Day 3 - Tzampoc Resort & Panajachel
Days 4 & 5 - Lake Atitlan, San Marcos and San Juan
Days 1 & 2: Antigua
One of the most iconic destinations in Central America, Antigua is known for its preserved Spanish architecture, colorful buildings and deeply-tied Mayan culture.
This UNESCO Heritage Site is surrounded by jaw-dropping volcanos, a hub for backpackers and digital nomads, produces some of the best coffee I’ve ever had and has one of the best traditional Guatemalan culinary scenes in the country. Some even consider Antigua one of the most beautiful cities in Guatemala and is one of the only places in the world where you can safely hike a volcano while watching another erupt!
Here are some of our favorite things to do, places to stay and food to eat to add to your itinerary when you visit Antigua.
What To Do in Antigua:
Santa Catalina Arch
While exploring the city, you’ll definitely stumble upon the Santa Catalina Arch, one of the most photographed landmarks in Central America. You’ve probably noticed this bright yellow arch in almost every Guatemala post online as it perfectly frames Volcán de Agua on clear days. The arch is located in the heart of the city and was only a 10 minute walk from our accommodation. Interesting fact: the arch was originally built so nuns could travel between buildings without be seen in public!
Tip: Show up early if you want to beat the crowds.
Iglesia de San Francisco El Grande Runis
The Iglesia de San Francisco El Grande Ruins is another great place to explore and take photos when visiting Antigua.
Located in central Antigua, these ruins come from one of the oldest churches in Antigua that was caused by earthquake damage!
This spot can be less crowded and with the different textures, arches, distressed walls and dramatic lighting make for some great photos!
Don’t forget to check out Inglesia de la Marcel, another great photo spot that’s only a 10-15 walk away.
Parque Central
If you really want a sense of local living in Antigua, Parque Central is a great place to stop and relax while taking in the local scenery.
What locals call “the heart of the city” is a hub where locals, tourists, vendors and musicians come together for an environment and vibe like no other!
Other things To Do in Antigua:
Hike to Watch an Active Volcano
Antigua is one of the only places in the world where you can watch an active volcano erupt while hiking another volcano. You’ve probably seen tons of viral posts on social media of these epic eruptions! Watching Volcán de Fuego explode from Acatenango is considered one of the best volcanic experiences in the world.
Fuego erupts every 15-30 minutes with the highlight being at night where you can see glowing lava explosions! To witness it, it’s usually done by a overnight two-day hike.
We really wanted to scratch this off our bucket list but we wanted more time to explore Antigua and Lake Atitlan! It’s considered a tough hike but everyone says it’s worth it.
Hobbitenango
Another one of Antigua’s most popular viewpoints is Hobbitenango! This Lord of the Rings inspired Eco-Park is known for its amazing, panoramic views of Volcán de Agua, Volcán de Fuego, and Acatenango with Insta-worthy photo spots everywhere you look! It’s only about a 15-20 minute drive from Antigua and we highly suggest going early in the morning for the clearest volcano views and to beat the crowds.
What To Eat in Antigua:
Zenique Cafe
Nothing beats coffee and an acaí bowl to start the day! While in Antigua, make sure to stop by Zenique Cafe, a trendier, more modern coffee shop known for it’s artisan baked daily goods, specialty Guatemalan coffee, and creative and healthy menu.
We ordered lattes, avocado toast and an acai bowl.
Tip: Don’t forget to check out the aesthetic hotel located through the cafe’s courtyard for some really cool photo spots!
Comalote
You can’t visit Antigua without visiting Comalote, what some consider one of the best places for authentic Guatemalan food in the city. Everything here revolves around their fresh tortillas that you can watch them making by hand when you walk through the door!
I don’t think I’ll ever look at tacos the same because of this place. Highly recommend the Chorizo and El Pastor Tacos, Beer, Guac - all were a 20/10!
Antigua Brewing Company
If you’re looking for a great spot for drinks and views then you have to check out Antigua Brewing Company.
One of the most popular rooftop bars known for its delicious food made to compliment their wide variety of house-made beers with 360 degree views of the city and surrounding volcanoes.
We ordered Palomas and the Sour and Pale beers and enjoyed the views together.
Ta’cooL
There’s just something about being in Central America that just makes you crave tacos! So this is another amazing spot to check out during your trip located right in central Antigua.
Delicious tacos and delicious cocktails? Sign us up!
We ordered El Pastor tacos to share, Ashley ordered the traditional Paloma and I ordered the Tamarindo Paloma. Everything was amazing!
12 Onzas
As you’re walking the cobblestone streets of Antigua, around nearly every corner you’re greeted by the smell of coffee. If you didn’t know, Guatemala coffee is considered some of the best in the world. 12 Onzas is one of the most popular coffee shops in Antigua, for a reason.
It’s run by a multi-generational family, serving farm-to-cup coffee. You can tell it’s made with love so it tastes even better. Multiple places that we tried during our trip served some of the best coffee I’ve ever had. So if you’re a coffee-holic, don’t miss out on trying as much as you can during your trip.
La Casa de la Sopas
One of our favorite things to do when visiting new countries is trying there local, iconic dishes so we had to stop by La Casa de la Sopas for some authentic Pepián! Pepián is a delicious, rich stew made with either savory chicken, beef or pork, traditional spices, roasted tomatoes, pumpkin seeds and more.
La Casa de la Sopas is located in the heart of the city and is considered one of the best spots for local Guatemalan, homemade, comfort food.
So trust us when we say, if you want some delicious and authentic food during your trip, this place is A MUST!
Tip: This place is cash-only!
Other Mentions:
Also check out La Cuevita de Los Urquizú and Rincon Antigüeño for more local authentic Guatemalan food that we didn’t get to experience during our trip but definitely want to next time!
Where To Stay in Antigua:
AIRBNB
During our stay in Antigua, since we didn’t rent a car, it was important for us to stay centrally located so we could walk to things we wanted to see, eat, and do. Our Airbnb was so amazing we would definitely stay here again!
The Airbnb is located next to the El Criollo Restaurant which has a beautiful, luscious courtyard, turquoise pools and is only a 10 minute walk to Santa Catalina Arch.
Our room was massive with a gorgeous, arched brick ceiling with loads of delicious complimentary coffee.
Book the Airbnb Here!
Day 3: Tzampoc Resort
Personally, we think Guatemala is such an amazing destination for a couple getaway. With Antigua and Lake Atitlan being major stops for most travelers visiting Guatemala, Tzampoc Resort is a great stop when traveling between destinations especially for couples!
This small, boutique hotel overlooking Lake Atitlan has insane volcano backdrops and is designed for a romantic, peaceful getaway. Some even say it has some of the best views in the country!
We loved this resort because it was very private as they only have 7 rooms, each with breathtaking lake views. There were times it felt like were the only guests!
It’s located about 3.5 hours from Antigua and only 15 minutes from Panajachel so it’s a great stop for a change of pace and relaxation on your way to Lake Atitlan from Antigua.
Things To Do:
Enjoy Drinks By Infinite Pool
One of the highlights of the resort is their infinite pool with it’s panoramic volcano views that seriously looked like a movie green screen.
It was great to find time to unwind and relax during our trip. Plus, it was great spot for a couples photoshoot!
Food
Tzampoc Resort has everything you need so you don’t have to leave! Unlike larger resorts with multiple dining options, Tzampoc focuses on simple but quality meals with an intimate atmosphere and breathtaking views of Lake Atitlan and surrounding volcanoes.
You can enjoy meals by the pool, their beautiful outside patio area or even have your meals delivered to your room. Don’t miss out on the breakfast! It’s included in your stay and was incredible!
Massages and Sauna
For couples looking to elevate their romantic getaway, the resort also offers massage packages and even has a sauna! The massage room sits above the property with some epic views of Lake Atitlan so I bet massages there are heavenly!
Explore Panajachel
If you’re in the mood for more adventure during your stay at Tzampoc, you can plan a day trip to explore the near by town of Panajachel. It’s only a 15 minute Tuk-Tuk ride from the resort.
Not only is Panajachel a great place for a day trip while staying at Tzampoc but it’s also the main port town of Lake Atitlan. Along the shore you’ll find busy boat taxis going back and forth from the different surrounding villages. Panajachel is filled with local restaurants, souvenir shops, and street food vendors!
If you’re looking for a way to get to the other villages around Lake Atitlan, you’ll probably end up here.
Days 4 & 5: Lake Atitlan
There’s a special feeling of witnessing the beauty of Lake Atitlan in person. Lake Atitlan is one of the most famous and beautiful places in Guatemala and Central America for it’s jaw-dropping volcanoes and scenery that will live rent free in my head forever.
The lake is surrounded by multiple villages all with their own unique vibes that are only accessible by boat taxis! Trust us, it’s so much fun getting around the lake by boat taxi. Life really feels like your living in a movie when your on the lake.
Lake Atitlan is a perfect location for couples, photographers, nature lovers and backpackers who want to scratch Guatemala off their bucket list.
Things To Do in Lake Atitlan
Explore San Marcos
San Marcos is known as the “yoga and mediation” village, famous for it’s alternative lifestyle scene and is very popular for backpackers!
It’s a great place to explore, grab some delicious coffee and pastries from Circles Cafe and watch the local life.
Reserva Natural Cerro Tzankujil
If you’re in the mood for nature and outdoor exploring, definitely check out Reserva Natural Cerro Tzankujil while you’re in San Marco! This protected natural reserve located on the edge of Lake Atitlan is a great place to swim, cliff jump and see wildlife. Some spots around the lake aren’t recommended to swim due to city runoff so be mindful where you swim when you visit.
Casa Del Mundo Day Pass
Another amazing place to unwind and soak in the vibes of Lake Atitlan is La Casa Del Mundo! This cliffside boutique hotel is popular for it’s esthetic cliffside location and stunning views. Even though it’s a boutique hotel, you can make a reservation for a day pass that includes lunch and access to their pool and terraces overlooking the lake. La Casa Del Mundo is very popular so make sure you book in advance especially during busy seasons.
Explore San Juan
Another local village lining Lake Atitlan known for it’s textiles and weaving, vibrant artistic community and colorful murals. We had so much fun exploring the streets filled with shops and vendors selling locally sourced goods. This is another great place to pick up your Guatemala souvenirs.
Umbrella Street
When you arrive to the port of San Juan and walk up the hill, you’re instantly greeted with a vibrant, whimsical street lined with colorful umbrellas. This is one of those places you see online and it’s even more pretty in person.
Deleite Ancestral Cooking Class
Hands down one of our favorite actives and experiences from our trip. Deleite Ancestral Cooking Class is a 5-star rated cooking class and restaurant that looks and feels like you’re inside of terracotta pot, serving authentic Tz’utujil‑inspired food using locally sourced ingredients and traditional techniques.
It was some of the best food we ate in Guatemala and the fact we got to cook it ourself was so cool and made it more delicious. The class lasted about 2 hours and cost about $30 per person for their private session. They also offer group classes for only $15 per person.
We highly recommend this experience for anyone visiting Guatemala and Lake Atitlan who loves and appreciates food!
Weaving and Chocolate-Making Classes
If you still need more ways to immerse yourself in the Guatemalan culture, Guatemala is also famous for weaving and chocolate as both are deeply rooted to their Mayan heritage. We’ve learned that taking classes can be a great way to experience new and different cultures and really makes us appreciate places we visit even more!
Swim in Lake Atitlan
During your trip, you’ll spot tons of people swimming around the lake. The entire lake is swimmable, however some recommend staying away from sewer run off and sticking to locations with “private docks”
I had to take a dive off the docks at our Airbnb - the water was a bit cold but it was really refreshing spending time by the lake with the love of my life.
What To Eat in Lake Atitlan
Amo at El Dragon
While in San Marco, we highly recommend stopping by Amo at El Dragon. This Lakeside boutique hotel and restaurant is perfect for breakfast, brunch or lunch.
We enjoyed brunch and ordered the Hello Sunshine smoothie bowl, Breakfast bowl with chorizo, and the Focaccia Bacon Smash Burger. Everything was amazing and it was one of the best burgers we’ve had! We would definitely come back here again.
Deleite Ancestral
Not only does Deleite Ancestral offer mouth-watering cooking classes but is a family runned restaurant that offers multi-course meals!
If you had to pick one place to eat during your trip, I would start here! Known for authentic flavor, friendly service and cultural ties.
Dinner meals costs about 100 GTQ or $12-$13 USD and include starter, main dish, dessert, and drink.
Circles Cafe and Bakery San Marcos
Get your caffeine fix in San Marcos at Circles Cafe and Bakery. Known for it’s excellent coffee, baked goods, breakfast menu and being a popular hub for digital nomads and people working remotely. We ordered lattes, a blueberry danish and a macadamia nut brownie.
Pollo Campera
You might not think you want “fast food” while traveling to new countries but whenever you need quick snack, you have visit Guatemala’s famous fried chicken chain Pollo Campera!
You’ll see tons of locals carrying bags to take on the airplane, that’s a good sign it’s delicious.
There are lots of locations, even in the airport so they aren’t hard to find!
Where To Stay in Lake Atitlan
Tzanuna Airbnb
One reason our trip was so amazing was because of this Airbnb! Hands down, one of our favorite Airbnb’s ever. My jaw dropped when I saw the views directly from the bed.
The Airbnb has floor to ceiling windows with panoramic views of Lake Atitlan and surrounding volcanoes. All the doors facing the lake open up and it literally feels like you can walk right out to the volcano and touch them.
The house had a king size bed, full kitchen, and a private dock that was perfect for swimming! The Airbnb is about a 12 minute boat taxi from Panajachel.
Traveling from the Airbnb is as simple as flagging down a passing boat taxi heading in the direction your wanting to go and they will pick you up. They normally pass by the house every 10-15 minutes.
For couples looking to turn their Guatemala trip into a romantic getaway, we highly recommend booking this Airbnb!
Book the Airbnb here
HOPE YOU ENJOYED THIS GUATEMALA ITINERARY!
We hope this itinerary helps make your trip as unforgettable as ours! Have you been to Guatemala before? Let us know if we missed gems to try for our next visit!