The El Camino Travel Guide to Antigua, Guatemala
Written by Kayla Doris
Welcome to Guatemala—an El Camino favorite! Call us biased, but there is something special about Guatemala. It’s a place where inspiration strikes and the call to slow down is impossible to ignore (in fact, it’s where the idea for El Camino Travel was born). Nowhere embodies this more than Antigua, Guatemala’s former capital, that draws visitors in with its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and historic churches and convents. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Antigua is famous for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque-influenced architecture, with buildings that date back to the 16th and 17th centuries. Throw in a majestic backdrop (the city is surrounded by three volcanoes), enduring artisan traditions, some of the world’s best coffee, and a thriving art scene, and you can easily see why it’s a growing tourist destination.
“I've been living in Guatemala for 13 years now and Antigua continues to amaze me,” says local resident and designer, Hanne De Wyngaert. “Every morning when I walk through the cobblestone streets and see the volcanoes surrounding the city, it truly feels like the first day all over again. What I love most is the energy here. There's a real sense of creativity and possibility—people are constantly launching new projects. That kind of passion is contagious and truly inspiring. Antigua is a hub for Guatemalan artesanía and craft. The city is full of shops and spaces that celebrate handmade, one-of-a-kind pieces—from textiles and ceramics to handblown glassware and antiques. It’s a beautiful mix of history, culture, and color. And of course, there’s no shortage of delicious food and great coffee.”
Antigua may be small in size, but it’s overflowing with layers of history, tradition, and local quirks that reveal themselves the longer you stay. We’ve shared some of our favorite places to linger in this guide, and included exclusive recommendations from local residents, Hanne De Wyngaert—designer and founder of Que Onda Vos, and Rebeca De León—founder of gastronomy tour operator Kukul Tales.
Eat
Fuel up with a traditional Guatemalan breakfast at El Comalote, which came recommended by both of our local contributors. This women-led spot in Barrio Concepción is all about preserving the country’s culinary roots through handmade tortillas, native corn, and ancestral techniques passed down through generations. We love everything about this spot—from the colorful tortillas to the women running the show in their traditional patterned kitchenware, and the beautiful venue that opens onto a lush central courtyard. Feast on eggs, cheese, beans, fried banana, and hot coffee.
Also included in the guide:
Plant-based dishes served in a dreamy spot that feels less restaurant, more intimate botanical lounge
Laid-back with bold food that riffs on Guatemalan street classics
The tiny venue serving family-cooked comfort dishes—it feels like you’re eating in someone’s eccentric home
Image credit: Que Onda Vos
Stay
“We stayed at Ojala Hotel, which is a hotel/hostel hybrid that’s SO cute. It's run by mostly women. It has two incredible, lush courtyards and an awesome little bar area. It's right near the center of everything,” said ECT member Kendall Hershey. The individual rooms include king suites that offer unparalleled views of Antigua’s three volcanoes, or garden view rooms with modern design, new bathrooms, and vintage textiles. The gardens are stunning—take your book downstairs to enjoy the hammocks with a delicious coffee and cookies from the cafe.
Also included in the guide:
A design-forward boutique hotel located just outside of Antigua, surrounded by nature and framed by volcano views
The minimalist boutique hotel with a strong social impact mission
A restored colonial building that blends traditional architecture with minimalist elegance.
Image credit: El Comalote
Shop
Check out Que Onda Vos, a contemporary design label launched in 2013 by Belgian designer, Hanne De Wyngaert. Combining minimalist aesthetics with indigenous Guatemalan weaving, the result is a range of textiles featuring unique patterns and contrasting compositions. The label was originally known for its striking handwoven wool rugs, but has since expanded into recycled hand-blown glassware, cushions, throws, and table linens. Every item is made in collaboration with indigenous artisans, honoring ancestral knowledge while supporting responsible production. If you're looking for something special to take home, this shop is a standout.
Also included in the guide:
The social enterprise that works with rural Guatemalan women to craft intricate bracelets and necklaces
The handicrafts collective filled wall-to-wall with an eclectic mix of traditional Guatemalan crafts
A creative ceramic studio selling pieces inspired by Antigua’s colorful streets
Image credit: Ojala Hotel
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