Guatemala

Guatemala City

The capital that almost everyone passes through and few explore: a monumental historic center, the best Mayan museums in the country, and a modern scene of neighborhoods, cafes, and murals.

Suggested routes

Essential Historic Center

Researched (not yet visited in person)

Zone 1 in a morning: square, the Palacio Verde inside, the Cathedral, textiles and market lunch, and the Sixth.

half day · 5 stops

  1. 1Plaza de la Constitución30 min
  2. 2National Palace of Culture75 min
  3. 3Metropolitan Cathedral30 min
  4. 4Central Market90 min
  5. 5Sixth Avenue60 min

Places (15)

Relief Map
Researched (not yet visited in person) Ticket required

Relief Map

It is an iconic site that combines history and natural beauty, ideal for a family visit.

~60 minWith childrenFirst visit
Popol Vuh Museum
Researched (not yet visited in person) Ticket required

Popol Vuh Museum

It is a must-visit place for lovers of Maya culture and history.

~75 minRainy dayFirst visit
Sixth Avenue
Researched (not yet visited in person) Free entry

Sixth Avenue

It is an ideal place to explore the culture and history of the city.

~60 minFirst visitLight walking
Cerro del Carmen
Researched (not yet visited in person) Free entry

Cerro del Carmen

Downtown’s historic viewpoint: the valley’s oldest hermitage and Zone 1’s best short walk.

~60 minPhotographyLight walking
La Aurora Zoo
Researched (not yet visited in person) Ticket required

La Aurora Zoo

The capital’s classic family outing: well-cared-for animals, picnic-friendly gardens and affordable tickets.

~150 minWith childrenPhotography
Central Market
Researched (not yet visited in person) Free entry

Central Market

It is one of the best places in the country to buy textiles at a leisurely pace and eat cheap and authentic food.

~60 minLocal foodRainy day
Kaminaljuyú
Researched (not yet visited in person) Ticket required

Kaminaljuyú

It is a fascinating site to explore the rich Maya cultural heritage in an outdoor setting.

~60 minPhotographyFirst visit
Yurrita Chapel
Researched (not yet visited in person) Free entry

Yurrita Chapel

Ten minutes of pure gold for architecture lovers — there is no other church like it in Central America.

~30 minPhotographyAs a couple

Useful traveler info

Get around by Uber (cheap and convenient); the Transmetro serves the center. Focus on the historic center (zone 1) during the day and the museums and zones 4/10/16 at other times. Like any capital: normal caution with phone and wallet, and avoid walking in lonely areas at night. La Aurora Airport is 15-25 minutes from almost everywhere.