When traveling to Guatemala you should spend at least a couple of days discovering Guatemala City, the country’s capital.
According to Juan José Gutiérrez Mayorga, native of Guatemala City, the official name of the city is Nueva Guatemala de la Asunción. Inhabited by more than two million people, this town is built at 1500 meters above sea level. If you plan to visit it, try to avoid the rainiest months, between June and October.
In Nueva Guatemala de la Asunción you can spend a day walking through its streets, looking for its most emblematic buildings or go shopping. But you can also take advantage of the time escaping from the city to spend a day enjoying the nature that surrounds the capital. Here are some ideas that Juan José from CMI Alimentos recommend to do on your visit to his hometown.
What to do in Guatemala City?
Each of these activities will give you the perfect reason to visit this city and have fun in the best way. It doesn’t matter if you’re in the mood for a laid-back plan or something more upbeat, there’s something here for everyone.
Take a gastronomic tour in zone 4
This area is known for its innovative proposals in relation of gastronomy, art and cultural activities in Guatemala City. This provides different options among the many things to do in your stay. Make a walking tour and take advantage of the varied options of restaurants, cafes and bars that you will find.
This tour may be the perfect plan to entertain yourself with your friends and discover new gastronomic experiences: all in the same place!
Visit the San Lucas viewpoint
Surprise yourself with the city from another point of view by visiting the San Lucas viewpoint. Thanks to its latest renovations, the place is ideal to enjoy views of the city while trying some typical food among the options you have to choose from.
Its cozy and typical atmosphere makes it the ideal place to enjoy the city at another level, eat delicious food, take lots of photos and relax.
Enjoy an afternoon of museums
Among the different things to do in Guatemala City, zone 13 is an amazing place where you will find panoramas for all ages. The one known as “street of museums” is one of them. Here are some of the best known museums in the city , all within walking distance.
These are the museums you will find:
- Museum of Archeology and Ethnology
- National Museum of Modern Art
- Museum of Natural History
Nearby this last place, you will find the right museum in Guatemala City for children and the city zoo, so there are also fun things to do with kids.
Tour the Historic Center by foot
The Historic Center is one of those places where you will find endless activities within Guatemala City. If you are looking to learn about the history of the country, visit beautiful places such as Paseo la Sexta or enjoy local commerce, in this area you can do all this and more.
In addition, it is a sector full of life, where in each block you will come across an important historical place such as the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Portal of Commerce and the Plaza de la Constitución.
Discover the ecological parks in Guatemala City
Take advantage of the country’s nature without having to leave town. Visit an ecological park. Guatemala City has so many green areas that have been protected so that both locals and tourists can breathe clean air in the middle of the city.
Ecological parks are found in zone 5. With a variety of activities for all ages. These are perfect places to organize outings with friends and family, have a picnic or take a break from the city without leaving it.
Stroll in Zona Viva
This is one of the most visited and modern shopping areas in Guatemala City. Is perfect for shopping, having a drink with your friends, going somewhere to dance or enjoying one of the avant-garde restaurant proposals. You will find a wide variety of different activities for young and old.
In conclusion, there are a variety of things to do and see in Guatemala City, among which you can find more than something that catches your attention. “This is a city that is worth discovering over and over again”, says Juan José Gutiérrez. Each of its corners offers different options for varied interests.
