Antigua Guatemala is a colonial gem, filled with narrow cobblestone streets, jacarandas, 16th century ruins and a bright, infectious culture. It’s a historically significant town that’s UNESCO listed and yet this city lives firmly in the present.
You’ll find a vibrant and ever-changing culture as well as fantastic food and arts scenes when you travel to this city. And you’ll also find some amazing Antigua Guatemala accommodation options.
Antigua was founded as the seat of Spanish power in 1543 and was the center of life in the area for more than 200 years. Unfortunately, the city was mostly destroyed in the 17th century by earthquakes, but the buildings have been rebuilt and look as if they were never damaged at all!
Antigua isn’t on most people’s travel bucket list. Because of this, it can be difficult to find the best places to stay in Antigua.
That’s why we’ve created this Antigua Guatemala neighborhood guide, so that you can find somewhere to stay that’s close to everything you want to see and do while you’re in this amazing city.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
- Where to Stay in Antigua Guatemala
- Antigua Guatemala Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Antigua Guatemala
- 3 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Antigua Guatemala
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Antigua Guatemala
- What To Pack For Antigua, Guatemala
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Antigua, Guatemala
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Antigua Guatemala
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Backpacking Guatemala and stopping in Antigua? Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Antigua Guatemala.
Choose your accommodation according to which location makes the most sense. Try and stay as close as possible to the awesome Guatemalan places you want to visit so you don’t spend too much money on transport.
Luxury Studio | Best Airbnb in Antigua Guatemala
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Antigua Guatemala for kids or with friends, this apartment might be the answer. It’s reasonably priced and located right in the city center, convenient to everything.
The furnishings are bright, cheerful, and modern and you’ll get the entire apartment to yourself, including a private bathroom.
Hotel Museo Casa Santo Domingo | Best Hotel in Antigua Guatemala
If you want comfort and convenience, then try this hotel in Antigua Guatemala. It features an outdoor pool and sauna as well as a BBQ and picnic area.
Each room is luxuriously decorated and features a minibar, private bathroom, and telephone. The restaurant and bar on-site are also a great place to have an easy meal at the start of the day or a drink at the end of it.
Maya Papaya | Best Hostel in Antigua Guatemala
This hostel is located right near the city center. It’s a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Antigua Guatemala on a budget. It’s also one of the best hostels in Antigua according to the reviews.
There’s a shared kitchen, private rooms as well as dorm beds, and a friendly, welcoming vibe that will make any traveler happy. Not only that but they include a FREE traditional Guatemalan breakfast!
El Caseo
El Caseo is the most popular area for people to stay in when traveling to Antigua Guatemala. It’s filled with buildings, museums, art galleries and places to eat.
Santa Ana
Santa Ana is a good base for your travels in Antigua Guatemala. This area has a vibe and traditions all its own as well as several of the coolest places to stay in Antigua Guatemala.
Barrio de La Concepción
Barrio de La Concepción is very close to the center of the city. That makes it the best area in Antigua Guatemala to stay in for convenience and a quieter atmosphere.
Antigua Guatemala is a small city and you can easily walk from one side of it to the other. As such, there are only a handful of neighborhoods, and most of them are close enough to the center to be convenient.
So, when you’re deciding where to stay in Antigua Guatemala for your first time, as long as you’re close to the center you’ll be able to enjoy everything that this city has to offer.
El Caseo or the city center is popular amongst tourists. This is where most of the best places to stay in Antigua Guatemala are. It’s also where you’ll find amazing places to eat, great historical buildings, and a colorful, friendly atmosphere.
The second area to consider is Santa Ana. This is one of the best areas to stay in Antigua Guatemala for travelers of all kinds. The local culture is absolutely mesmerizing. And experiencing everyday life in this part of the world is a treat not to be missed.
Barrio de La Concepción is within easy walking distance of the center of the city. This is a historic area that offers some of the coolest places to stay in Antigua Guatemala.
It also contains several sites of interest to tourists and is a little quieter than the center of the city. This makes it one of the Antigua Guatemala’s best neighborhoods for any traveler who prefers a quieter trip.
Want to save money on accommodation?
We got you. For reals.
3 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Antigua Guatemala
If you’re ready to book your Antigua Guatemala accommodation, then there’s where to start looking.
#1 El Caseo – Where to Stay in Antigua Guatemala for First Time and Best Area to Stay in Antigua Guatemala for Nightlife
El Caseo is the most popular area for people to stay in when traveling to Antigua Guatemala. It’s filled with buildings, museums, art galleries and places to eat.
It also has a lively, infectious vibe that enthrals tourists and locals alike. There’s always something going on in this area. That’s why it’s a good choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Antigua Guatemala for your first time.
Private Room | Best Airbnb in El Caseo
If you’re deciding where to stay in Antigua Guatemala on a budget, then consider this private room. It’s suitable for 2 guests and includes a private bathroom in a family home.
The hosts are super friendly and dedicated to making your stay as pleasant as possible. And the apartment is located in one of Antigua Guatemala’s best neighborhoods, so it will be easy for you to get out and explore!
Hostal Antigua | Best Hostel in El Caseo
This hostel in Antigua Guatemala is just one block from the central park. There are private and dorm rooms available, which makes it a great choice whether you’re deciding where to stay in Antigua Guatemala with kids or on your own.
There’s a rooftop terrace you can use during your stay as well as a fully equipped kitchen.
All Suite El Marques de Antigua | Best Hotel in El Caseo
This hotel in Antigua Guatemala is close to some of the best attractions in the city. This includes the Santa Domingo Museum as well as the Santa Catalina Arch.
There are also several eateries and shops close by. The hotel offers massage services and 20 uniquely decorated rooms that include all the facilities you’ll need for your stay.
Things to See and Do in El Caseo:
- Buy some amazing local handicrafts at Mercado de Artesanias or at the El Carmen Ruins.
- Learn about everyone’s favorite treat at the chocolate museum, Choco Museo.
- Check out the Arco de Santa Catalina, the most iconic site in the city.
- Head a little way out of town to hike up Cerro de la Cruz and see the volcano in the distance.
- Hunt for local produce at the Mercado.
- Find a rooftop bar where you can enjoy the amazing views while you have a few drinks at the end of the day.
- Visit the beautiful 18th-century church, the Iglesia de La Merced.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI#2 Santa Ana – Where to Stay in Antigua Guatemala on a Budget and Coolest Place to Stay in Antigua Guatemala
Santa Ana is a good base for your travels in Antigua Guatemala. This area has a vibe and traditions all its own as well as several of the coolest places to stay in Antigua Guatemala.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
It’s also a more affordable part of the area and quieter, so it’s a good choice if you find South American cities too noisy and busy for your liking.
Santa Ana is also the best neighborhood in Antigua Guatemala to stay in if you want to experience the local culture. The central plaza is always busy with locals going about their daily life.
And there are some great food stalls at the north end of the plaza if you want to try some local food while you people watch.
Cabin Tierra & Lava with view of 3 volcanoes | Best Airbnb in Santa Ana
Sometimes you just want a little extra luxury. That’s why this villa is a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay if you want to splash out on a beautiful luxury stay for the same price as an average motel in the UK.
It offers a luxurious, relaxing space for two people. The interior design is absolutely gorgeous but the views are what really tops this place off.
Villas Santa Ana-Ricardo | Best Hotel in Santa Ana
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Antigua Guatemala for one night or for a longer trip, then try this villa. It’s surrounded by shops, restaurants and tourist attractions and is close enough to the center of town that you could walk there. There is a gorgeous church next door and a park to explore.
Hotel Casa Búho B&B | Best Bed & Breakfast in Santa Ana
This is one of the best places in Antigua Guatemala to stay for a more authentic, local feel. The grounds are impeccable, and the hotel itself is simply gorgeous. Be sure to book their breakfast, it’s delicious!
Things to See and Do in Santa Ana:
- See some amazing free artwork by Guatemalan artists at the Santo Domingo del Cerro.
- Spend some time exploring the Ermita de Santa Isabel, Baroque ruins from the colonial times.
- Head out of town to see the Caoba Farms, where you can enjoy delicious Guatemalan food and live music.
- Hike one of Central America’s coolest volcanos. Pacaya or Acatenango if you want more of a challenge.
#3 Barrio de La Concepción – Best Neighborhood in Antigua Guatemala for Families
Barrio de La Concepción is very close to the center of the city. That makes it the best area in Antigua Guatemala to stay in for convenience and a quieter atmosphere.
You can walk from this area to the center in a few minutes. And there are also several interesting and historic buildings and sites in the neighborhood itself as well.
BELLANTIGUA Villa | Best Airbnb in Barrio de La Concepción
This gorgeous, renovated villa is in the perfect location within the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Antigua. The vibe is eclectic and stylish, however, it’s also super homely and cosy at the same time. There are two bedrooms and the place can fit up to six guests (at a squeeze).
Adra Hostel | Best Hostel in Barrio de La Concepción
Located in the best neighborhood to stay in Antigua Guatemala, this boutique hostel is clean, comfortable, and convenient. The hostel has a unique energy to it – the owners seek to provide an atmosphere of harmony, community and brotherhood. The hostel boasts EPIC views and is packed with life and colour. I’d 10/10 recommend staying here.
Bärehuus Boutique Hotel | Best Hotel in Barrio de La Concepción
This boutique hotel is a perfect 10, that’s for sure. The hotel itself is modern, and family-run – it makes you feel welcome from the moment you arrive. The beds are crazy comfy and the owners are SO helpful. It feels like you’re staying at your friend’s perfectly prepared home.
Things to See and Do in Barrio de La Concepción:
- Spend a day in Parque Central exploring the surrounding area and people watching.
- Eat at as many traditional restaurants as possible.
- Visit markets for street food that will leave your stomach extremely happy.
- Head over to the La Antigua Galeria de Arte for an afternoon of culture.
- Explore the ruins of the famous Catedral de Santiago.
- Check out the recently renovated Convento de las Capuchinas where you can get a glimpse into the lives of the nuns who lived there before it was damaged by an earthquake.
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
Jetpac eSIMs work just like an app: you download it, pick your plan, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.
Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Grab an eSIM!
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Antigua Guatemala
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Antigua and where to stay.
What To Pack For Antigua, Guatemala
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Antigua, Guatemala
Guatemala isn’t the safest country in the world, so get some travel insurance to have your own back!
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Antigua Guatemala
Antigua Guatemala is a popular place to visit if you want to experience South American culture. It’s a bright a cheerful city that’s fairly safe, which is why even the locals tend to visit there.
While you’re in the city, you’ll be enthralled by the lively vibe and the friendly people. You’ll marvel at the bright colors and the history. And after all of that activity, you’ll want a comfortable hotel or hostel in Antigua Guatemala where you can get some rest.
And that’s exactly what you’ll find in this Antigua Guatemala neighborhood guide.
Insider tip: Before you start your travels, be sure to read through our guide on the 7 Insider Facts about Guatemala. It’ll make your life a whole lot easier!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Guatemala.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Antigua.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Guatemala to plan your trip.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Central America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
