The Top 3 Places to Visit in Guatemala City
Surrounded by mountains and volcanoes, Guatemala City (Guate) is full of culture, green spaces, and reasonably year-round good weather. Resting about 5,000 feet above sea level in the Western Highlands, this historic capital city has a population of about 2 million. It’s the most inhabited city in Central America.
The international airport makes it a convenient hub, but the city is also a great place to spend a few days before venturing to other parts of the country. Located along the Ring of Fire, with 37 active volcanoes, you can catch views of the smoke and ash rising from Volcan Fuego on clear days from the city.
Guate is divided into 21 zones (zonas) or neighborhoods, each with its own character. Old and new blend together, infused with Latin charm. Somezones are tourist-friendly, while others should be avoided. In this Naturally Smart Travel post, we're uncovering the best of Guate, from great museums and cultural attractions to delectable cuisine and vibrant nightlife. Below, we explore our top three must-see destinations while in Guatemala City.
Find Art & Culture in Guatemala City’s Zone 4
Zone 4 is an up-and-coming trendy area with bohemian vibes. There’s a balance between business and technology with artists, entrepreneurs, and young professionals. There are plenty of coworking spaces; and a large expat and digital nomad community.
Zone 4 rests just south of Zone 1, the old historic center home to important government buildings. It’s also known as 4 Norte, Four Degrees North, and is comprised of four blocks lined with old factories and warehouses that have been transformed into hip cafes, boutique shops, fun bars, and art galleries.
This cultural hub boasts restaurants and clubs amplifying the lively nightlife scene with great live music. It’s a hip and young neighborhood dotted with bike shops, coffee spots, and street art. The eclectic artsy vibe is modern and creative with pop-up markets, food trucks, and cultural centers.
Here are a few of our favorite spots in Zone 4:
4 Grados Norte - This part of the city boasts street art and yummy restaurants so when you’re hungry head here. Find all sorts of local delicacies and wash it down with some fresh coffee.
Palacio Nacional de la Cultura - The National Palace is one of the city’s most important buildings with a stunning interior and a collection of fine art. It’s located in the heart of the city by Plaza de la Constitución.
Metropolitan Cathedral - Admire architecture and learn about this historic building which was started construction in 1782 there’s an onsite museum as well.
Stroll Sixth Avenue to the Palace of the National Civil Police and see memorials in honor of the country’s Civil War. The area is lined with bars, restaurants, and cafes.
Esquilandia - If you’re into amusement parks, plan a visit to enjoy rides, games, and tasty snacks.
14 Grados - This hip eatery serves craft beer and elevated pub-style food including wings, sandwiches, hot dogs, and more.
Atte For Coffee - A great spot for brunch, coffee, and desserts in a stylish slow coffee bar.
Mercado Central - The massive market is great for shopping for everything from produce and meat to textiles and toys. Discover unique souvenirs, local flowers, and an abundance of fruit and vegetables. Try the authentic cuisine as you wander the maze of stalls. Be ready to bargain.
Kaminalijuyu Archaeological Site - For a glimpse into Mayan tradition and history visit this ceremonial site.
Explore Guatemala’s Zona Viva: Zone 10
The posh Zone 10 is one of the city’s most upscale areas with boutique shopping, high-end restaurants, museums, and emerging chefs. Known as the Zona Viva, the lively zone, due to its festivities and buzzing luxurious atmosphere. It’s a modernized fun and hip area.
Explore 19th-century architecture, pedestrian-friendly streets, and green spaces for walks, jogs, or bike rides. As the commercial district in the day, business people are hard at work. After the sun goes down it’s bustling with bars, nightclubs, and restaurant goers. The majority of the hotels are in Zone 10, making it a great place to stay in the city.
Avenida La Reforma - Walk to tree-lined boulevards and experience the urban vibe, lined with hotels, restaurants, and cafes.
Parque Obelisco - A towering historical monument in the bustling heart of Guatemala City.
Museo Ixchel - Owned by Francisco Marroquin University, this museum has a nice collection of ancient art showcasing Mayan history and culture with weaving, textiles, and traditional costumes. The building resembles a huipil, the Mayan traditional hand-woven blouse.
Museo Popol Vuh - One of the biggest collections of Mayan artifacts with stone sculptures, pottery, and ceramic art dating back to 2000 B.C.E.
Take a Tour of Guatemala City’s Zones 7 & 12
These lesser-known Zones are off-the-beaten-path parts of the city for the average tourist but offer unique experiences and a glimpse into the city’s history, culture, and everyday realities. Known as red zones, these surround the largest dump in Central America in which residents live in poverty and violence.
Take a guided tour of these zones and meet the families who live here to get an authentic look at what life is like outside of the touristy parts of the city. While visiting Zones 7 and 12 it’s important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
Zone 7 is located in the southernmost part of the city. Here are some of the highlights
Parque Central de Villa Nueva - Walk through the central park to enjoy the local atmosphere and laid-back vibe.
Local Markets - Shop for fresh produce, local goods, and traditional products in a local market while experiencing Guatemalan culture, away from the typical tourist spots.
La Barranca de San Juan - On the outskirts of Zone 7, this scenic natural area is good for hiking opportunities or spending time in nature away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Zone 12 is an industrial and residential area, including the Ciudad Nueva area. Here are a few notable attractions in Zone 12.
Miraflores Museum- Admire pre-Columbian artifacts and historical items from Guatemala’s Mayan civilization.
Miraflores Archaeological Site - A perfect stop for history and design lovers who enjoy learning about the ancient past.
Estadio Nacional Mateo Flores - Catch a sports game and experience the Guatemalan passion for football. Take a tour of the stadium if there are no games!
Cementerio General - This historical cemetery in Guatemala City is the resting place of many notable figures in the country’s history, interesting for those who are into history and culture.
There’s Plenty to Do, See, Eat, & Enjoy in Guatemala City
We hope this guide has inspired you to enjoy the diverse range of activities that are waiting to be discovered in Guatemala City. There’s a little bit of something for every type of traveler from experiencing the local side of Guatemala City and artsy neighborhoods to a vibrant nightlife to historical museums. As always, you’re welcome to join us on a curated eco-tour, reach out if you have any questions, and check out our itineraries! We’re here to help.
