Guatemala City: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do

Posted on April 20, 2020 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on July 24, 2024

Most travelers in Guatemala don’t bother visiting Guatemala City and head directly to Antigua or Lake Atitlán as soon as they land, not bothering to include it in their Guatemala itinerary. And well, if you only have two weeks, yes you can skip it, but if you have more time or are just stuck waiting for your flight, there are a couple of nice places you can visit.

If you just have a couple of hours, I would recommend starting at the Main Square, where you can see the cathedral (Iglesia La Merced), the market, and the Palace of Culture. Then walk down the Sexta, making a detour to check out the Post Office Building. If you have more time, take a cab to the Popol Vuh Museum.

You can also take a Guatemala City tour and visit the city with a guide.

Regarding safety, common sense applies, the Historic Center is considered a “safe” area during the day. Beware of pickpockets, be careful when you take your phone out, and don’t go there at night.

In this Guatemala City travel guide, discover all the best things to do in Guatemala City, where to eat, and the best places to stay.

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Table of Contents show

Best things to do in Guatemala City

There are two main areas in the city that are worth (and safe) visiting. The Zona 10, also known as the Zona Viva, is the historic center where you’ll find several museums and the main landmarks and sights. One of the best things to do in Guatemala City is simply to stroll around this area, exploring small streets. busy squares, and impressive boulevards like the Avenida La Reforma.

Zona 4 is a newer neighborhood known for its street art and hipster vibes. It’s filled with microbreweries, quirky coffee shops, and unique restaurants. Don’t miss 4 Grados Norte, a pedestrian area with many bars and restaurants.

If you have extra time, you can check out Paseo Cayala, a new district built for the rich and wealthy featuring high-end shops and restaurants.

1 – The Central Market

The Mercado Central is my favorite place in Guatemala City and even maybe of all Latin America. It’s also one of the most popular attractions in the city.

The variety of fruits and veggies is impressive, and most of it is local. Don’t hesitate to try the fruits you don’t know, they’re all full of flavors.

There’s also an area inside with small food stalls. A meal costs around 30 quetzals, if you’re vegetarian, they’ll make something for you.

The market is open every day, they pack up around 5 PM.

If you like traditional market, make sure not not miss the Chichicastenango Market during your trip to Guatemala.

2 – National Palace of Culture

A stunning building from the 1940s built in the colonial architectural style. Also known as the Green Palace, it used to serve as the Presidential Palace and it’s now the Palace of Culture (Palacio Nacional). It’s still being used as an official building so you can’t visit it on your own. They have guided visits in Spanish every hour or so. It’s still worth visiting even if you don’t speak Spanish. It’s a beautiful place.

The entrance fee is 40 GTQ. Open from Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM.

3 – Plaza de la Constitución and the Sexta

The city’s main plaza, also known as Parque Central, is where you’ll find the Cathedral and the National Palace. Built around the 18th century, you can stroll around the square, then on to the Sexta, the city center’s main commercial streets. In this area, you’ll find many shops and restaurants.

On the Sexta, don’t miss the Pasaje Rubio and the Ministerio de Governacion.

4 – The Metropolitan Cathedral

Built during the 19th century, Guatemala’s most important cathedral is worth having a look at, with its white walls and blue dome. The architectural style is a mix of baroque and classical.

5 – The Post and Telegraph Museum

Post and Telegraph Museum, Guatemala City

From the outside, the building is beautiful, with bright colors and a unique facade. There’s also a passageway on the second floor to go from one building to another. Inside you can visit the small museum if you’re interested.

6 – MUSAC

The MUSAC is the San Carlos University’s Museum, set in an ancestral building, it offers different exhibits throughout the year. They have a permanent exhibit of local handicrafts.

The MUSAC is open from Monday to Saturday, from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The entrance fee is 8 GTQ.

7 – The History Museum

In my opinion, it’s not worth the price, maybe not even worth the time. The museum is only about the revolution, and you won’t learn much about it from the few signs here and there. The building in itself is nice but nothing spectacular either. The exhibit is mostly antiques from the 19th century and portraits.

Entrance fee: 50 GTQ.

8 – The Railway Museum

A small museum showcasing old trains and the history of the train system in Guatemala. The entrance fee is 10 GTQ and the museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 AM to 4 PM.

9 – Casa Mima

Casa Mima is an ancient house you can visit. The furniture and decoration are original, with a nice patio in the middle.

The entrance fee is 20 GTQ and the house is open from Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.

10 – Popol Vuh Museum

Probably the best place in Guatemala City to learn more about the indigenous people of the country and the Mayan culture. The museum showcases artifacts from Guatemala and the Mayas.

Right next to it is Ixchel Museum, showcasing traditional clothing.

The entrance fee is 50 GTQ and the museum is open from Monday to Saturday, from 9 AM to 5 PM (1 PM on Saturdays).

If you’re interested in archaeology, you could also visit the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology (Museo Nacional de Arqueología y Etnología).

Where to Eat in Guatemala City

For lunch, the central market is a great option. At night, you’ll find many street sellers offering a variety of authentic Guatemala dishes, don’t hesitate to check them out.

In Zone 4 (known for its street art and hipster vibes), you can check out Catorce Grados. They offer local craft beer and the food to match. In the same are Atte is a great option for coffee and a sweet treat.

For restaurants closer to fine dining, check out Casa Escobar and Gracia Cocina de Autor.

Where to Stay in Guatemala City

You’ll find a couple of popular chain hotels like the Hilton, InterContinental, or the Wyndham. However, I recommend staying at a local B&B for a more authentic experience.

Barceló Guatemala City is another popular option for international travelers, not far from the airport, with great amenities and facilities.

Casa Carmel Bed and Breakfast is a beautiful place to stay in Guatemala City, in the heart of the historic district.

The Tequila Sunrise is a well-rated hostel located in the Zona 4 and features an outdoor space to hang out, a shared kitchen, a dorm, and a couple of private rooms.

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