It’s not a surprise that Travel & Leisure named Antigua, Guatemala as of the 50 places to visit in 2019; New York Times also just released an article about Antigua and its allure.

Anthony and I first visited Antigua, Guatemala in December 2014 for a non-profit we are involved with called Home for a Home. Every time we close a real estate transaction, we contribute a portion of the commissions towards funding a home in Guatemala. Every year we go to Antigua to visit with the families we have funded homes for and to actually participate in the home building! Every time we visit, Antigua always feels like home.

Antigua was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1979 because of its Spanish baroque-influenced architecture and 16th-century colonial churches. Easy to navigate, cobbled streets, views of Volcán de Agua to the south and the twin peaks of Volcán de Fuego and Acatenango to the west, Antigua should be on everyone’s travel list. An Guatemalan indigenous proudly hold on to their tradition by wearing their “traje”. For women, this is typically a long skirt out of woven textiles, held up by a woven faja (belt or sash). The blouse is a Huipil and is square in shape. The men are adapting to more standard and non-traditional clothing.

Cultural richness, colorful textiles, artisanal coffee , booming craft beer scene, boutique hotels, and bevy of restaurants fit for foodies. Although, I can’t cover all of our favorite places to see or do in Antigua in this one blog, I can share some of the highlights.

Casual lunch?

Caoba Farms

Caoba Farms is literally farm to table cuisine featuring international dishes as well as typical Guatemalan food; the casual outdoor seating invites you to spend an afternoon socializing with friends and lounging while sipping on a Guava margarita and eating one of their delectable wood fired pizzas! Their menu caters to all taste buds ranging from burgers, to wood fired pizzas to tamales and pepian and more. The ingredients are organic and straight from the farm located on site and prepared in an artisanal way.

Don’t forget to stop by the farmers market on Saturdays.

5a. Avenida Sur Final #6 , Antigua Guatemala,
+502 7832-9201 (8am – 4pm)

Click here for website

Casual Dinner?

Hector’s Bistro

Open for lunch and dinner, Hector’s Bistro is perfect for couples, small groups and special occasions. The ambiance is cozy and given there is probably seating for only 20 people, definitely make a reservation. The menu is limited but predictable. What I love about Hector’s is that you know that you will get the same quality dish every time you visit! The Grilled Beef Tenderloin with white wine and blue cheese sauce and potato deep fried potato disks is always a hit! Since we have become vegetarian though, we have ordered their vegetarian quiche which varies week to week and has always been amazing. Hector’s offers French inspired food in a laid back, relaxing atmosphere. Their wine list is also pretty extensive and we have had some delightful pairings!

1a Calle Poniente, Casa 9a, Antigua Guatemala,
+502 7832-9867

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Fancy & Romantic Dinner?

Meson Panza Verde

Mesón Panza Verde, a luxury boutique hotel and restaurant is located on the quiet end of fifth avenue just a short walk South of Parc Central. We were fortunate to get a last minute reservation for siz pepole and dined in the corridor off the main garden. At night, the place is lit by the subtle glow of candelight. If you want to dine inside, their elegant Main Sala boasts vaulted ceilings, original paintings and a welcoming feel. For a more romantic experience for two, dine on the terrace surrounded by candles under the cupola.

Whether you choose the tasting menu or order off the a la carte, you won’t be disappointed. The dishes are prepared with precision and heart that come through in the flavor and presentation of each plate that is presented at the table.

The hotel is just as charming and fancy as the restaurant. We may stay here the next visit to Antigua.

5th Ave. South, Antigua Guatemala,
+(502) 7955-8282

Click here for website

Unique Accomodations?

Earth Lodge

Just up the mountain from the city center, you feel like you are on top of the world with picture perfect views of Fuego. Earth lodge is an eco-friendly lodge, restaurant, yoga retreat and avocado farm just outside of Antigua and 6000 feet above the town. The accommodations are unique, ranging from tree houses, A-frame cabins, tents or family friendly rooms; perfect for a wide range of groups ranging from couples to backpackers to groups!

If you don’t plan on staying at Earth Lodge, it’s still worth a visit for breakfast, lunch, or drinks while listening to music and admiring the fantastic views. The food is mostly vegetarian, organic, and sustainable.

Easiest way to get to Earth Lodge from Antigua is to call them directly for a shuttle from town or Uber.

Picture Courtesy of www.earthlodgeguatemala.com

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Caffeine Fix?

You haven’t had coffee until you have had Guatemalan coffee beans in Guatemala. You seriously can’t go more than a couple of blocks without running into an artisanal coffee shop and having a perfect cup of espresso from perfectly medium roasted coffee beans. Top spots below:

Refuge Coffee Bar

This unassuming, casual, and delightful coffee bar offers artisanal coffees that are small batch roasted to guarantee freshness.

7A Avenida Norte 18A, Antigua Guatemala,
+(502) 7832-8537

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Café La Parada

Located right across from Iglesia de la Merced, this is the perfect place to people watch while enjoying a cup of espresso.

6A Avenida Norte No.42, Antigua Guatemala,
+(502) 7832-3743

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Beer me?

Antigua Cerveza

If you find yourself walking under the arc (which you will inevitably will more than once in your visit), then definitely walk into Antigua Cerveza. Craft beer has made it to Antigua and these guys know what they are doing. Whether you are in the mood for a hoppy IPA, or a subtle blond, or a rich and creamy stout, you will not be disappointed. Plus, our good friend Alex Coronado works here, so you definitely have to stop by and let him know that Maria and Anthony say “hi”. If you have time, ask them about their tours and tastings just outside of Antigua.