Antigua - The colonial capital

As the oldest city in Guatemala, Antigua is a city draped in historical buildings and ruins. In its heyday when the country was still under Spanish rule, Antigua was the capital city. You will see and recognise the similar design and architecture of other Spanish colonial cities the minute you arrive. In the centre you will find the Main Plaza surrounded by the key buildings of the city. Here you will find several cathedrals and the Government Palace. Parque Central is only a stones throw away and a splendid place to get a bit of rest and time to sit back and reflect. Right next to the park is one of the best museums in the city, the Convento de Santo Domingo. Visiting other sites like the ruins of the city can seem a bit steep compared to other cities but are well worth it. And when you finished walking around the city you can go hike up one of the nearby volcanoes that surround the city. Of the three volcanoes, Volcan Pacaya is the easiest climb and can be done in one afternoon. Volcan Acatenango is the most difficult and you will need to be prepared both for time and the right gear.