The Vibrant Heart of Chichicastenango: Plaza y Mercado Santo Tomás
Experience the vibrant culture of Chichicastenango at Plaza y Mercado Santo Tomás, a bustling market filled with local crafts, food, and traditions.
Plaza y Mercado Santo Tomás is a bustling market and cultural hub in Chichicastenango, Guatemala. It offers a colorful array of local crafts, traditional foods, and vibrant cultural experiences that immerse tourists in the heart of Guatemalan culture.
A brief summary to Plaza y Mercado Santo Tomás
- WVVQ+486, 5a Avenida, Chichicastenango, GT
- Monday 8 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
- Thursday 6 am-6 pm
- Friday 8 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8 am-6 pm
- Sunday 6 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a Thursday or Sunday for the largest market experience with more vendors and cultural activities.
- Bring cash, as many vendors do not accept credit cards.
- Take your time to explore; the market has hidden gems and unique crafts that are worth discovering.
- Try local foods from various stalls to fully experience the culinary offerings of the region.
- Be prepared for vendors to be friendly and engage in conversation; it's part of the local culture.
Getting There
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Boat
To reach the Plaza y Mercado Santo Tomás in Chichicastenango from Lake Atitlán, start by taking a boat from your location on the lake (e.g., Panajachel, San Pedro, or San Marcos). Look for a boat that travels to the town of Santiago Atitlán or directly to Chichicastenango if available. The boats usually depart from designated docks or piers. Once you arrive at the dock in your chosen town, ask about transportation options to Chichicastenango. If you arrive at Santiago Atitlán, you will need to take a 'tuc-tuc' (shared taxi) or a local bus to Chichicastenango. The journey typically takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic and the exact starting point.
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Shuttle/Minibus
Another option is to take a shuttle or minibus from Panajachel to Chichicastenango. Head to the main shuttle terminal in Panajachel, usually located near the main docks. Look for a sign or ask for a shuttle to Chichicastenango. Shuttles run frequently, especially in the morning. The ride takes about 1 hour and will drop you off near the market area. Once you arrive in Chichicastenango, follow the signs or ask locals for directions to Plaza y Mercado Santo Tomás, which is a central point in town and easy to find.
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Local Bus
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can take a local bus from Panajachel to Chichicastenango. Head to the bus stop near the main dock or the market area in Panajachel. Look for buses that are heading to Chichicastenango, which may be marked with their destination. Buses leave when full, so you may have to wait a few minutes. The journey takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Once you arrive, it's a short walk to the Plaza y Mercado Santo Tomás, just ask someone if you need help finding the way.
Discover more about Plaza y Mercado Santo Tomás
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mayan Inn
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Hotel Santo Tomas, Chichicastenango
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CASA MASH
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Torre Centroamericana
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Mirador del Lago Atitlán
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Hotel La Riviera de Atitlán
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Atitlan Hotel
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Hotel San Buenaventura de Atitlán
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GR TRAVEL
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Hotel - Villas JABEL TINAMIT
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Multicolores
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Atitlan Solutions Real Estate
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Realworld Paragliding
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Simoneta Mixology Cantina
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Lazzaroni, Panajachel
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Unmissable attractions to see
Chichicastenango Regional Museum
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Capilla del Calvario
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Iglesia de Santo Tomás
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Chichicastenango Market
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Moreria Santo Tomas Fabrica De Mascaras
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Arco Gucumatz
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Cementerio General
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Capilla Del Cementerio
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Cementerio De Chichicastenango
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Chichicastenango
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Casa Diego Ignacio
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Museum Masks
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Plaza Baktun
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Pascual Abaj
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Parque de camping, RV y ecológico Casa Tzocomá
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Essential places to dine
La Casa Del Pollo
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Comedor Wendy
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Regi
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Bella Vista Restaurante
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POP WUJ
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Las Brasas
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Comedor El Abuelo
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Sabores de Casa Chichicastenango
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Restaurante Café y Letras
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Restaurante la Casa de los Churrascos
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Restaurante Los Asados
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Restaurante La Villa de Don Tomás
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Restaurante La Chichicasteca
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Comedor Antigüeño
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Comedor La Cuevita
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Villa Cofrades Coffeeshop
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Turquesa Chichicastenango
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Atrio Kpe
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Tienda Típica El Guipil
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Family designed and created tourist shop
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Martins Typical Chichicastenango
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Casa San Juan Restaurante
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C&J BOUTIQUE
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Tipica la moderna
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Tienda El Tzijholaj
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Tienda Estrellita
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Boutique EDWARD 2
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GeMma SHEIN COMPANY
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Regalos Etc
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Mia - Seleccionado para Ella
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Calvario PUB
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TECOLOTE'S CAFE Y BAR
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Posada el Arco
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Herrería HARRY
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Arisol
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La Villa Cerveceria
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COFFE LITA - Chichicastenango
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Artisan Coffee Roastery
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Casa Del Rey Hotel
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Casa Montana
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Luna Gitana (Food & Drinks)
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Ceviches el Kili
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