Discover the Historic Charm of Ciudad Vieja
Explore Ciudad Vieja, Guatemala's historic gem with colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and rich cultural experiences awaiting every traveler.
Ciudad Vieja, once the capital of Guatemala, enchants visitors with its rich history, stunning colonial architecture, and vibrant local culture. Nestled just a short drive from Guatemala City, this picturesque town offers a glimpse into the country's past, showcasing landmarks that tell stories of its colonial legacy. Tourists will find charming streets lined with colorful buildings, quaint cafés, and artisan shops. Be prepared to immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of Ciudad Vieja, where history meets modernity in a truly unique way.
A brief summary to Ciudad Vieja
- Ciudad Vieja, GT
Local tips
- Visit the local market early in the morning for the freshest produce and handmade crafts.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the historical significance of the ruins and architecture.
- Don't forget to try traditional Guatemalan dishes at local eateries for an authentic culinary experience.
- Bring a camera; the colorful streets and historic sites provide stunning photo opportunities.
- Plan your visit during local festivals to experience the vibrant culture and traditions firsthand.
Getting There
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Boat
To reach Ciudad Vieja from Panajachel, start by heading to the main dock located on the waterfront. Look for the boats heading to San Jorge La Laguna, as they will stop at Ciudad Vieja. Once you board, the boat ride will take approximately 25 minutes. Keep an eye out for the San Jorge dock, and make sure to inform the boat captain you want to disembark at Ciudad Vieja.
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Tuk-Tuk
If you prefer to take a tuk-tuk after reaching the dock at Ciudad Vieja, you can find many available right at the landing area. Simply tell the driver you want to go to Ciudad Vieja, and they will take you directly to the site. The ride should take around 10 minutes depending on traffic.
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Walking
If you're adventurous and decide to walk to Ciudad Vieja from Panajachel, head towards the main road that leads out of town. Follow the road as it winds along the lake. Be cautious, as the road can be busy. It is approximately a 1.5-hour walk, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
Discover more about Ciudad Vieja
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ciudad Vieja
0.0 km
Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Ciudad Vieja, Guatemala's charming former capital with stunning colonial architecture and breathtaking landscapes.
Iglesia Católica Inmaculada Concepción
0.2 km
Discover the architectural splendor and spiritual ambiance of Iglesia Católica Inmaculada Concepción in Ciudad Vieja, a must-visit landmark in Guatemala.
Antigua
2.4 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Antigua, Guatemala, a vibrant city filled with history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Villa Bokéh - Relais & Chateaux
2.9 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Villa Bokéh, a stunning hotel in Sacatepequez, surrounded by nature and near the vibrant culture of Antigua Guatemala.
El Ángelus Antigua Guatemala
4.0 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture of El Ángelus in the heart of Antigua Guatemala, a must-visit tourist attraction.
De La Gente Office
4.1 km
Explore the heart of Guatemala's coffee culture at De La Gente Office in Antigua, where every cup supports local farmers and communities.
Ermita de Santa Isabel
4.1 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Ermita de Santa Isabel, a hidden gem in San Cristóbal El Bajo, Guatemala.
Ni Fu Ni Fa
4.1 km
Experience an exquisite blend of traditional Guatemalan flavors and international cuisine at Ni Fu Ni Fa, a must-visit restaurant in Antigua.
Los Tres Tiempos
4.2 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine in the heart of Antigua Guatemala at Los Tres Tiempos, where every dish tells a story.
Xibalba Studio
4.3 km
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Iglesia Escuela de Cristo
4.3 km
Explore the stunning Iglesia Escuela de Cristo in Antigua Guatemala, where rich history, exquisite architecture, and spiritual ambiance blend beautifully.
Convento la Recoleccion
4.3 km
Explore the enchanting Convento la Recoleccion in Antigua Guatemala, a historic church showcasing stunning Baroque architecture and serene gardens.
Rooftop Antigua
4.3 km
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Las Palmas
4.3 km
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Royal Palace of the Captains General
4.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Girasoles de Antigua
3.0 km
Escape to Antigua's Girasoles: Wander through vibrant sunflowers, savor local flavors, and capture unforgettable moments in this tranquil haven.
Museo Del Nispero
3.7 km
Discover the unique flavors of San Juan del Obispo at Museo Del Nispero, celebrating the locally grown loquat fruit and its delicious derivatives.
Bosque encantado
3.8 km
Discover tranquility and natural beauty in Antigua Guatemala's Bosque Encantado, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Iglesia San José El Viejo
4.1 km
Explore the captivating ruins of Iglesia San José El Viejo in Antigua, a historic church with a baroque facade and serene gardens.
Landivar Monument
4.1 km
Visit the Landivar Monument in Antigua Guatemala, a tribute to the poet Rafael Landívar, featuring beautiful gardens and a cultural center.
Old Town Outfitters
4.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Antigua Guatemala with Old Town Outfitters, your go-to adventure hub for outdoor activities and gear rentals.
Pacaya Volcano Trek & Tour from Antigua
4.4 km
Hike an active volcano near Antigua, Guatemala. Witness volcanic landscapes, roast marshmallows, and enjoy panoramic views.
Cooperación Española
4.4 km
Discover Spanish and Guatemalan culture in a beautifully restored colonial setting. Art, history, and events await!
Parque Central de Antigua Guatemala
4.4 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Antigua at Parque Central, a historic plaza surrounded by colonial architecture and bustling with local life.
San José Cathedral Antigua
4.5 km
Explore Antigua's iconic cathedral: a blend of baroque architecture, rich history, and resilient spirit in the heart of Guatemala.
ChocoMuseo
4.5 km
Discover the history and flavors of Guatemalan chocolate at ChocoMuseo Antigua, an interactive experience for all ages near Parque Central.
Ermita San Jeronimo
4.5 km
Discover Antigua's serene Ermita San Jerónimo: a blend of colonial history, architecture, and tranquil gardens.
Tanque La Unión
4.5 km
Step back in time at Tanque La Unión in Antigua, a beautifully preserved colonial wash house offering a serene glimpse into Guatemala's history.
Ulew Cocktail Bar
4.5 km
Discover Ulew Cocktail Bar in Antigua: a hidden speakeasy with bespoke cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere. Experience Guatemala's unique flavors!
Palacio del Ayuntamiento
4.5 km
Discover Antigua's history at the Palacio del Ayuntamiento, a colonial masterpiece on the Main Square.
Essential places to dine
Joe´s Grill Antigua Guatemala
2.5 km
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Mesón Panza Verde
4.0 km
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Samsara
4.1 km
Experience a delightful fusion of fresh vegetarian cuisine at Samsara in Antigua Guatemala – where health meets flavor in every dish.
27 Adentro
4.1 km
Experience authentic Nuevo Latino cuisine at 27 Adentro in Antigua - where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Rainbow Café Antigua Guatemala
4.1 km
Discover Rainbow Café in Antigua Guatemala - A Unique Blend of Culinary Delights, Live Music & Cozy Reading Nook.
El Cazador Italiano
4.1 km
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Los Moros Restaurant, by Porta Hotel Antigua
4.1 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine with modern twists at Los Moros Restaurant in Antigua Guatemala.
Hector's Bistro
4.2 km
Experience culinary excellence at Hector's Bistro in Antigua - where local flavors meet international flair.
Cactus Taco Shop
4.2 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Cactus Taco Shop in Antigua Guatemala – a culinary gem offering delicious tacos and a vibrant atmosphere.
LA PASTA NOSTRA
4.2 km
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Quiltro
4.2 km
Discover authentic Guatemalan cuisine at Quiltro in Antigua Guatemala – where every dish tells a story.
Central Park Pizzeria
4.2 km
Experience delicious wood-fired pizzas and crafted cocktails at Central Park Pizzeria in Antigua Guatemala – a culinary highlight not to be missed.
Indian Accent Restaurant
4.2 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors in the heart of Antigua Guatemala at Indian Accent Restaurant, where tradition meets creativity.
Por Qué No? Cafe
4.3 km
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Monoloco Antigua
4.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Terra Guatemala
1.4 km
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NICHE ANTIGUA
4.2 km
Explore Niche Antigua for stylish clothing that beautifully combines local craftsmanship and contemporary fashion in the heart of Guatemala.
Art and Style
4.2 km
Discover unique gifts reflecting the rich culture of Guatemala at Art and Style in Antigua, a must-visit for authentic souvenirs.
Laura's closet
4.2 km
Explore unique fashion and local craftsmanship at Laura's Closet, a charming clothing store in the heart of Antigua Guatemala's vibrant culture.
Casa de Artes
4.2 km
Discover the vibrant art and culture of Guatemala at Casa de Artes, a unique souvenir store and art center in the heart of Antigua.
Platería Pablo's Silver Shop
4.3 km
Explore exquisite handcrafted silver jewelry at Platería Pablo's Silver Shop, a cultural treasure in La Antigua, Guatemala.
The Box
4.3 km
Discover unique footwear at The Box in Antigua Guatemala – where style meets comfort in every step.
Leather House
4.3 km
Explore Leather House in Antigua Guatemala for exquisite handcrafted leather goods that embody the rich cultural heritage and artistry of the region.
Boutique DASHA - NICTE By DASHA
4.3 km
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Adoc • Antigua Guatemala
4.3 km
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Duende
4.3 km
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Boutique Solex
4.3 km
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Xao Store
4.4 km
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THE NORTH FACE
4.4 km
Explore the outdoors with premium gear from The North Face in Antigua Guatemala, your go-to store for adventure apparel and equipment.
Katun
4.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
La colina del abuelo
2.9 km
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k mmmm US In thenllopu .OilliIJ
3.5 km
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Restaurante y Bar Entre Cuates
3.6 km
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Antigua Bar Crawl
4.2 km
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EL MILAGRO
4.2 km
Discover El Milagro, a vibrant bar in Antigua Guatemala offering a unique blend of local culture, welcoming ambiance, and exceptional drinks.
HOT CHIPILIN
4.2 km
Discover the flavors of Guatemala at Hot Chipilin, a grill restaurant offering exquisite dishes in the heart of Antigua.
El Ilegal
4.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Antigua at El Ilegal, where delicious drinks and a lively atmosphere await every traveler.
Reilly's Antigua
4.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine at Reilly's Antigua, a top choice for socializing in the heart of Guatemala.
Red Zebra
4.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Red Zebra, a must-visit bar and restaurant in the heart of Antigua Guatemala.
Doce Bar
4.3 km
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Charleston Antigua
4.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique cocktails at Charleston Antigua, the perfect bar in the heart of Antigua Guatemala.
INSOMNIA Bar
4.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at INSOMNIA Bar, where delicious drinks and lively ambiance meet in the heart of Antigua Guatemala.
Tropicana Hostel
4.3 km
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Exit Inn
4.4 km
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SNUG Antigua
4.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of SNUG Antigua, the premier Irish pub in the heart of Antigua Guatemala, where culture meets culinary delight.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
La Sala
4.2 km
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Privado
4.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Privado, a charming bar in Antigua Guatemala, serving expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy atmosphere.
Las Vibras de la Casbah
4.7 km
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Car Music Disco
4.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Car Music Disco in Antigua, Guatemala, where electrifying beats and an energetic atmosphere await you.
Club Esfuerzo
4.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Antigua Guatemala at Club Esfuerzo, where local culture meets lively entertainment in a welcoming bar atmosphere.
Club divas
5.2 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Antigua Guatemala at Club Divas, where entertainment meets vibrant energy for an unforgettable experience.
Entrada: Parque Nacional Volcan De Pacaya
21.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Volcan De Pacaya National Park, featuring an active volcano and stunning landscapes in Guatemala.
LAPA-LAPA TROPICAL
23.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lapa-Lapa Tropical, Guatemala City's ultimate night club for unforgettable dance and music.
Planet Bowl bowling alleys
24.6 km
Experience the ultimate bowling adventure at Planet Bowl, the premier family-friendly entertainment center in Guatemala City.
Fuentes Del Pacaya (Fuentes)
25.2 km
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Club 11 Night Club
25.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Guatemala City at Club 11 Night Club, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await.
Club La Aurora
25.5 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at Club La Aurora, Guatemala City's ultimate destination for music, dance, and unforgettable memories.
BAC Lounge VIP Guatemala
25.7 km
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NIGHT CLUB EL PASO
25.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Guatemala City at Night Club El Paso, where electrifying music and an energetic crowd create unforgettable nights.
Copa Club
26.0 km
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