×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange - Discover the Best of Antigua 2024
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In


Discover the Best of Antigua

By Joshua Wood, LPC

SJB Global
SJB Global

Summary: Living it Up in Antigua: Your Insider's Guide to Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Discover the Best Recreational Activities, Connect with Friendly Locals, and Experience the Charm of the City.

Experience Antigua - Discover the Best of Antigua

Welcome to Antigua! If you're planning to move to Antigua, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Antigua has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Antigua.

Antigua, is a city rich in history and culture, offering a plethora of sites of interest for both tourists and locals. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque-influenced architecture and ruins of colonial churches. The Santa Catalina Arch is one of the most famous landmarks in Antigua, originally built as a passageway for nuns. The Palace of the Captains General, a beautiful colonial building, is another must-see. The city is also home to several stunning churches, including the Iglesia de La Merced and the San Francisco Church. For history buffs, the Museo Casa Santo Domingo is a fascinating museum showcasing the history and culture of the region. The city is surrounded by three large volcanoes, offering opportunities for hiking and exploration. The Volcan de Agua is the most famous, and guided tours are available for those wishing to climb to the top. The city's central park, Parque Central, is a great place to relax and people-watch. The ChocoMuseo is a fun and educational experience, where visitors can learn about the history of chocolate and even make their own.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Antigua is vibrant and diverse, offering something for everyone. For traditional Guatemalan cuisine, La Fonda de la Calle Real is a popular choice, known for its Pepian, a traditional meat stew. The Rainbow Café is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a mix of Guatemalan and international dishes, as well as live music and weekly cultural events. For a fine dining experience, Restaurante Hector's is highly recommended, known for its French-inspired cuisine and extensive wine list. Café Sky is a popular bar with a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes. The Lucky Rabbit is a lively nightclub, known for its themed nights and dance parties. For a more relaxed evening, The Snug is a cozy Irish pub offering a wide selection of beers and whiskies.

Recreational activities in Antigua are as diverse as the city itself. Hiking is a popular activity, with the surrounding volcanoes providing challenging trails and stunning views. Tours are available through companies such as Old Town Outfitters. For those interested in the local culture, the Antigua Cooking School offers classes in traditional Guatemalan cooking. The city is also known for its coffee, and coffee tours are available at several local plantations, including the Filadelfia Coffee Resort and Tours. For a relaxing day, the Santa Teresita Thermal Spa offers thermal baths and spa treatments. Golfing is also popular, with the La Reunion Golf Resort offering a world-class course with stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. For those interested in history and architecture, walking tours of the city are available, providing a deeper insight into the city's rich history and beautiful colonial architecture.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Insider Tips from Expats in Antigua: Making the Most of Life and Connections

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

Contribute to Guatemala Network Contribute
Help others in Guatemala by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Guatemala.

SJB Global
SJB Global

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides