Guatemala City

Guatemala, Central America

Guatemala City, the bustling capital, is a blend of vibrant culture and rich history. Explore its colonial architecture, notably the Palacio Nacional and Catedral Metropolitana, while savoring local flavors in the Mercado Central. Don’t miss the contemporary art scene in Zona 1 and the lush greenery of La Aurora Zoo. The city's rich Mayan heritage beckons, with nearby ancient sites like Kaminaljuyu. Its dynamic nightlife and diverse culinary landscape make it a must-visit for adventurous spirits.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

La Aurora

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Guatemala City

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the National Palace

Discover Guatemala's political history in stunning architecture.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral

Marvel at the grand architecture and rich history.

No booking required
3

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through Central Park

Relax at the heart of the city surrounded by greenery.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at Mercado Central

Experience local culture through vibrant market stalls.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Popol Vuh Museum

Dive into Mayan history through fascinating exhibits.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit La Aurora Zoo

See diverse wildlife in a beautiful setting.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the Ixchel Museum

Learn about Guatemala's textile heritage and culture.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a coffee tour

Sample world-famous Guatemalan coffee in lush plantations.

Booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Relief Map

Witness a massive 3D map of Guatemala's terrain.

No booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Museum of Modern Art

Admire contemporary art from Guatemalan and international artists.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-9 (#137 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Quetzal

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Chicken Pepián

Spicy chicken stew with vegetables. (National dish)

Kak'ik

Traditional turkey soup with spices.

Hilachas

Shredded beef in tomato sauce.

Fiambre

Cold salad with meats and vegetables.

Rellenitos de Plátano

VE

Sweet plantain stuffed with beans.

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)