Antigua is a colorful Caribbean island, and there are a variety of activities to keep you busy. From shopping to exploring local markets, Antigua offers something for everyone. Take in the local culture at the Handicrafts Market and Mercado de Artesanias. Or try something different like attending a chocolate workshop at the ChocoMuseo.
Mercado de Antigua
Antigua is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Guatemala. The city is bursting with attractions, and you could spend a week or more exploring the city. If you have the time, consider staying in Antigua to improve your Spanish. There are many language schools in the area.
If you’re into shopping, Antigua’s markets are sure to please. From street vendors to artisan markets, this island is full of tempting souvenirs and handicrafts. Try the ChocoMuseo, where you can spend a leisurely afternoon tasting local chocolate.
Another place to spend your time in Antigua is the city’s famous Mercado de Antigua. It’s home to some of the best craft items in the Caribbean, including wood crafts, pottery, and textiles. The Mercado de Antigua is a great place to buy local crafts and haggle over prices.
The Mercado de Antigua is located in the central area of Antigua. It offers a panoramic view of the city. While visiting the Mercado de Antigua, you should also take the time to visit Cerro de la Cruz, a hill near the city center. There, you can find some of the best art galleries and find some bargains. You can also check out the Mercado de Artesanias y Compania de Jesus, a wholesale market, to find some amazing pieces.
The primary market in Antigua is open daily, but Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays are the busiest days. You can buy fresh meat, fish, vegetables, clothes, and other essentials at the market. It is also a good place to buy souvenirs.
ChocoMuseo
If you’re into chocolate, Antigua’s ChocoMuseo is a must-see. This interactive museum and chocolate shop showcases the history and process of making chocolate. The ChocoMuseo also offers hands-on workshops so you can make your own chocolate.
The ChocoMuseo is one of the most popular attractions in Antigua. To see a live demonstration of chocolate making, you can enroll in a free class that lasts an hour. There are three classes daily at different times. After the tour, you can visit Antigua’s Parque Central, which translates to “central park.” You’ll find street performers, restaurants, and cafes lining the central park.
The ChocoMuseo also offers cooking classes, which teach guests how to make chocolate bars from scratch. The two-hour sessions are perfect for any chocolate lover. Book your spot HERE. In Antigua, you can also try local cuisine in local restaurants. The city is home to many expats, which makes it easy to find international cuisine.
While in Antigua, be sure to spend a few hours exploring the Mercado de Antigua. The market is one of the city’s main attractions and is great for families. Make sure to bring your camera and take some photos!
Another great place to visit is the historic centre of Antigua. The old capital of Guatemala, Antigua is home to many important buildings from both Mayan and Spanish colonial periods. There are also numerous museums that showcase the country’s history.
Beach Limerz
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Antigua, there are a few different choices. You can eat at Beach Limerz, which is located right on the beach, for an authentic Caribbean meal and rum punch. Or you can head to the nearby Coconut Grove, a Caribbean-inspired restaurant, for Caribbean classics and vegetarian options. Beach Limerz is also a great place to watch the sunset and listen to the sound of steel drums.
If you’re staying in Antigua Beach Limerz, don’t miss out on exploring the mangroves by kayak. The tranquil waters of the North Sound Marine Park are ideal for paddling, and you can even swim with starfish, upside-down jellyfish, and sea cucumbers. If you’re an adventurer, you can also head inland and explore the lush rainforest. Two popular hikes are Mount Obama and Boggy Point, and you can also watch the sunrise from either location.
While you’re in Antigua Beach Limerz, you can also explore the town and its surrounding area. Antigua is best explored by car, but you can also take a bus or minibus between the main areas for 3 EC Dollars. Cycling is also an option, but be prepared for some bumpy and hilly roads. After exploring the island, you’ll probably get hungry. Luckily, Antigua is bursting with fun activities and places to visit.
You can also take a cooking class, which is highly recommended. The classes last two hours, and are great for all skill levels. If you’re a chocolate lover, you can even try your hand at making chocolate. Book a class HERE to learn more. Once you’ve finished the class, you can stroll through the town and take photos before the sun sets. And don’t forget to eat a delicious meal on your last night.
Cafe No Se
If you’re looking for a hip, funky place to hang out at night, Cafe No Se is a great choice. It’s a great spot with graffitied walls, a cool atmosphere, and candlelight. The cafe also offers a 9:00 AM zip-lining tour. The 7-line Forest Express and 2-line Canyon Express zip lines offer breathtaking views of the island’s volcanoes.
The cathedral cafe offers a roof-top terrace and amazing views. The restaurant serves great food, including steak frites and chocolate mousse. You’ll also have a chance to check out the city’s beautiful ruins and gardens. Besides the beautiful cafes, the area also has some great rooftop bars.
While the city is crowded and bustling, it is still relatively quiet at night. This means that a nice walk around town is a must. There are also plenty of opportunities for people-watching in the main plaza. Taking pictures is another must, especially before the sun sets. Lastly, you’ll need to treat yourself to a good dinner on your last night in Antigua.
While there are many places to eat in Antigua, Cafe No Se is one of the best choices. The food here is delicious and healthy, and the service is friendly and helpful. The atmosphere is relaxed, and you’ll feel right at home.
Stand up paddleboarding
If you’re looking for an adventurous way to spend 3 days in Antigua, Guatemala, you should consider stand up paddleboarding. You’ll get to see the island’s stunning coastline and enjoy some of the most scenic activities in the Caribbean. And you can get some exercise while you’re on the water with a FloatFIT HITT class at the St James’s Club. The rugged coastline of Antigua features billowing blowholes created by the collision of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Also, be sure to attend the island’s vibrant carnival, which takes place in late July and early August, where you’ll enjoy music, dancing, and colourful costumes.
If you’ve never tried stand up paddleboarding before, you can rent equipment from local rental shops. However, if you’re a true SUP enthusiast, you may want to purchase your own board. When choosing a board, consider its weight, intended use, and local conditions. Different boards excel at different disciplines, and the staff at rental shops can help you make the right decision.
If you’re looking for a more active way to spend 3 days in Antigua, you can go on a half-day tour to Volcan Pacaya. This tour includes a one-hour walk, a donkey ride, and a stop to view fresh-flowing lava. The tour concludes with a transfer back to town. This tour runs twice daily.