- Iglesia de San Francisco El Grande - From Casa El Jaulon we will walk down 1a Avenida Sur to San Francisco el Grande to first enjoy the amazing view from the second floor then visit the museum and the church’s tomb.
- Tanque de la Union - This historic meeting place was as a laundry for people to wash their clothes during colonial times and is still used today.
- Hermano Pedro’s Hospital - Hermano Pedro became recognized for taking the sick and abandoned off the streets and physically carrying them to his hospital on his shoulders. He regularly traveled the streets wearing the tattered rags of those he served, ringing his bell to ask for donations to feed and clothe those he was caring for. All Guatemalans love Hermano Pedro (Brother Peter) and his selfless acts of kindness. Today, the hospital continues its Franciscan tradition and takes in those in need of help and care.
- The Plaza Central Park - Once the plaza was buzzing with activity. Vendors traveling from every region bringing goods and products to Antigua’s center used the plaza for the city’s market. A water reservoir appeared in the 1500’s to water the horses, but the well know Fountain of the Sirens did not appear until the 1700’s. Later the plaza was used as the main bus terminal, but was finally moved along with the market just outside of the city.
The city’s center finally received its current identification of Central Park in the 20th century when the local government transformed the plaza into what it is today. Similar to a European park, trees were planted with statues of Greek goddesses adorned the gardens.
- Arco de Santa Catalina - The Santa Catalina Arch (Arco de Santa Catalina) is likely the most distinguishable landmark within Antigua, Guatemala. The iconic saffron colored arch is located on 5th Avenue North near the Main Square over looked by the Agua Volcano. The arch was built with the purpose of connecting the Convent of Santa Catalina Virgen y Mártir to a school in 1693. This allowed the cloistered nuns to remain secluded and unseen while moving about the city, as they were forbidden to interact with the public. With growing numbers of convent members the covered footbridge, the Santa Catalina Arch, was the perfect solution for keeping the spirit of seclusion. Today, the Arco de Santa Catalina is the Antigua’s most photographed attraction and a traditional rendezvous for New Year’s and Holy Week celebrations.
- Iglesia de La Merced - The church of La Merced boasts an intricately crafted baroque façade that reveals extraordinary stucco work created by the hands of talented Guatemalan artisans. It was one of Guatemala’s first male monastaries and was held by the Mercedian order. Inside the convent, visitors can admire Antigua’s largest water fountain.
- Casa del Jade - Learn about the mystical gem of love and eternal life, Jade, the stone of heaven. Revered by ancestral cultures more than gold. A true treasure of Guatemala. Museum, workshop, and shop.
- Bottled water
- All fees and taxes included
Let’s delve into the vibrant culture of Antigua. Antigua, Guatemala, established in 1543, served as the Spanish colony’s second capital. Nestled amongst three imposing volcanoes, this near half-a-millennium-old city showcases bright 16th-century mansion facades. Discover the beauty of the local Guatemalan lifestyle and culture through visits to ancient structures formerly serving as convents, monasteries and churches. Observe our favorite spots, along with critical landmarks like the San Francisco Church, Central Park, Santo Domingo, La Merced Church, and the renowned street featuring the Santa Catalina Arch. We will also enjoy local delicacies such as coffee, hot chocolate and sample beer. Our journey through Antigua is guaranteed to leave you spellbound and in love with this quaint city.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.