Plaza y Mercado Santo Tomás: A Cultural Heartbeat
Experience the vibrant culture of Guatemala at Plaza y Mercado Santo Tomás, Chichicastenango's famous market, a feast for the senses.
Plaza y Mercado Santo Tomás is the vibrant heart of Chichicastenango, Guatemala, renowned as the largest and most colorful market in the country. Held primarily on Thursdays and Sundays, it's a captivating display of local culture, traditions, and commerce, drawing visitors from across the globe.
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 Thursdays or Sundays for the largest and most vibrant market experience.
- Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds and have the best selection of goods.
- Bargain respectfully when purchasing goods, but remember that these vendors are making a living.
- Be aware of your belongings and surroundings, as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
- Try local street food, but choose vendors with clean-looking stalls and freshly prepared items.
Getting There
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Walking
From anywhere in central Chichicastenango, Plaza y Mercado Santo Tomás is easily accessible on foot. Simply head towards 5a Avenida, where the market is located. The market occupies a large area around the main plaza, so you'll likely hear and see it as you approach. Landmarks like the Santo Tomás Church are also helpful for orientation.
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Public Transport
If arriving by bus from another town, you'll likely be dropped off at the main bus terminal in Chichicastenango. From there, you can either walk to the market (approximately 10-15 minutes) or take a taxi. A taxi from the bus terminal to the plaza should cost around Q15 to Q30 (approximately $2 to $4).
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Chichicastenango. Ask your driver to take you to 'Plaza y Mercado Santo Tomás en 5a Avenida.' Expect to pay around Q10-Q20 for a short trip within Chichicastenango. The ride should only take a few minutes, depending on traffic.
Discover more about Plaza y Mercado Santo Tomás
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mayan Inn
0.1 km
Discover the heart of Guatemalan culture at Mayan Inn, your cozy retreat in the vibrant town of Chichicastenango.
Hotel Santo Tomas, Chichicastenango
0.2 km
Discover the charm of Chichicastenango at Hotel Santo Tomas, where tradition meets comfort in the heart of Guatemala.
CASA MASH
0.5 km
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Torre Centroamericana
20.7 km
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Mirador del Lago Atitlán
22.2 km
Explore the stunning vistas at Mirador del Lago Atitlán, where the beauty of nature meets the tranquility of Guatemala's iconic lake.
Hotel La Riviera de Atitlán
22.4 km
Discover tranquility and breathtaking views at Hotel La Riviera de Atitlán, your gateway to the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Lake Atitlán.
Atitlan Hotel
22.4 km
Discover the charm of Atitlan Hotel, your serene retreat by Lake Atitlán, blending comfort with breathtaking natural beauty in Panajachel, Guatemala.
Hotel San Buenaventura de Atitlán
22.4 km
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GR TRAVEL
22.5 km
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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
0.1 km
Discover ancient Mayan artifacts and cultural treasures at the Chichicastenango Regional Museum, a gateway to Guatemala's rich heritage.
Capilla del Calvario
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Discover the spiritual and cultural heart of Chichicastenango at the enchanting Capilla del Calvario, a must-visit for every traveler.
Iglesia de Santo Tomás
0.1 km
Explore the stunning Iglesia de Santo Tomás in Chichicastenango, a beautiful Catholic church embodying rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor.
Chichicastenango Market
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Experience the vibrant culture of Chichicastenango Market, where local artisans showcase unique crafts, textiles, and fresh produce in a lively atmosphere.
Moreria Santo Tomas Fabrica De Mascaras
0.2 km
Discover the artistry of Guatemalan mask-making at this family-run workshop and museum in Chichicastenango.
Arco Gucumatz
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Discover Arco Gucumatz, a stunning historical landmark in Chichicastenango, showcasing Guatemala's rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions.
Cementerio General
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant Cementerio General in Chichicastenango, a unique cultural site where colorful tombs tell stories of Guatemala's rich heritage and traditions.
Capilla Del Cementerio
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Discover the heart of Guatemalan culture at Capilla Del Cementerio, a serene chapel in Chichicastenango steeped in tradition and vibrant local life.
Cementerio De Chichicastenango
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Chichicastenango
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Discover the vibrant culture and traditions of Chichicastenango, a colorful market town in Guatemala's highlands, rich in history and local crafts.
Casa Diego Ignacio
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Immerse yourself in the culture of Chichicastenango at Casa Diego Ignacio, a unique farm stay and handicraft museum near the famous market.
Museum Masks
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Explore Chichicastenango's Museum of Ceremonial Masks to experience the vibrant art and rich cultural heritage of the Maya civilization.
Plaza Baktun
0.6 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture at Plaza Baktun, Chichicastenango's premier national park and tourist attraction.
Pascual Abaj
0.7 km
Experience the spiritual essence of Pascual Abaj, a sacred site in Chichicastenango, where indigenous culture and breathtaking landscapes meet.
Parque de camping, RV y ecológico Casa Tzocomá
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Discover a tranquil ecological park near Chichicastenango's market, offering camping, RV facilities, and nature immersion in Guatemala's highlands.
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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Experience authentic Guatemalan flavors at Bella Vista Restaurante in Chichicastenango, where every meal comes with stunning views and cultural charm.
POP WUJ
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Discover authentic Guatemalan cuisine at POP WUJ in Chichicastenango - a vibrant dining experience rich in local flavors.
Las Brasas
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Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine at Las Brasas in Chichicastenango - where tradition meets flavor.
Comedor El Abuelo
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Sabores de Casa Chichicastenango
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Discover authentic Guatemalan flavors at Sabores de Casa in Chichicastenango - a must-visit dining destination for every tourist.
Restaurante Café y Letras
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Discover authentic Guatemalan flavors at Restaurante Café y Letras in Chichicastenango – where culture meets culinary delight.
Restaurante la Casa de los Churrascos
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Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine at Restaurante la Casa de los Churrascos in Chichicastenango - a family-friendly dining haven.
Restaurante Los Asados
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Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine at Restaurante Los Asados in Chichicastenango – where every meal tells a story.
Restaurante La Villa de Don Tomás
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Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine at Restaurante La Villa de Don Tomás in Chichicastenango—where tradition meets taste.
Restaurante La Chichicasteca
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Experience traditional Guatemalan cuisine at Restaurante La Chichicasteca in Chichicastenango - a culinary journey into local flavors.
Comedor Antigüeño
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Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine at Comedor Antigüeño in Chichicastenango - a culinary gem offering local flavors in a cozy setting.
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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Explore Tienda Típica El Guipil for exquisite Guatemalan crafts, showcasing local artistry in textiles, pottery, and more in Chichicastenango.
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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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Arisol in Chichicastenango, where local flavors and warm ambiance create unforgettable memories.
La Villa Cerveceria
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Experience the vibrant culture and craft beers of La Villa Cerveceria in Chichicastenango, Guatemala – an essential stop for any beer lover.
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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Canton chicua 2do
5.9 km
Experience the serene ambiance of Canton Chicua 2do, a cozy lounge in Chichicastenango offering a taste of local culture and relaxation.
Salida
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Luna Gitana (Food & Drinks)
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quiche
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Experience the authentic flavors of Guatemala at The Quiche Bar in Chichicastenango, a must-visit for food lovers and culture seekers.
Ceviches el Kili
21.9 km
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