planetbreezy

Tell me your feedback! Feedback:

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

10 Best Things to Do in Guatemala City

1. Explore the National Palace

Discover Guatemala's political history in stunning architecture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

2. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral

Marvel at the grand architecture and rich history.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

3. Stroll through Central Park

Relax at the heart of the city surrounded by greenery.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

< 1 hr

4. Shop at Mercado Central

Experience local culture through vibrant market stalls.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

5. Explore the Popol Vuh Museum

Dive into Mayan history through fascinating exhibits.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

6. Visit La Aurora Zoo

See diverse wildlife in a beautiful setting.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

7. Experience the Ixchel Museum

Learn about Guatemala's textile heritage and culture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

8. Take a coffee tour

Sample world-famous Guatemalan coffee in lush plantations.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

9. Visit the Relief Map

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

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

10. Explore the Museum of Modern Art

Admire contemporary art from Guatemalan and international artists.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

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)