7-Day Guatemala Highlights: Antigua, Volcano Adventure, Hot Springs & Lake Atitlan Exploration

Day 1: Explore Antigua

Antigua, Guatemala on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Condesa

Enjoy a delicious local Guatemalan breakfast with coffee at this charming café known for its cozy atmosphere and fresh ingredients.
GTQ40, 1h

9:30am

Walking tour of Antigua

Take a self-guided or affordable group walking tour to explore Antigua’s cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and famous landmarks like Santa Catalina Arch.
GTQ50, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at La Fonda de la Calle Real

Taste traditional Guatemalan dishes such as Pepian or Kak'ik soup at this popular, budget-friendly restaurant near the town center.
GTQ60, 1h

2:30pm

Visit the Antigua Market

Browse the vibrant local market offering handicrafts, textiles, and fresh produce, perfect for souvenirs or snacks.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Central Park and explore nearby cafes

Enjoy coffee or fresh juice at nearby cafés while watching the lively local scene around the main plaza.
GTQ30, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Rincon Tipico

Savor authentic Guatemalan cuisine in a relaxed, affordable setting known for generous portions and local flavor.
GTQ70, 1.5h

Day 2: Antigua Free Exploration

Antigua, Guatemala on May 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Fernando’s Kaffee

Start your day with excellent artisan coffee and light pastries at this local favorite.
GTQ35, 1h

9:00am

Visit Museo Casa Santo Domingo

Explore this fascinating museum housed in a former monastery, with art, historic ruins, and religious artifacts.
GTQ60, 2h

11:30am

Free time in Antigua

Use the late morning and afternoon to wander the town's streets, visit local shops, relax in the cafes, or revisit favorite spots from your first day.
Free, 5h

6:00pm

Dinner at Cafe Sky

Dine on the rooftop terrace to enjoy spectacular views and affordable international cuisine.
GTQ80, 1.5h

Day 3: Travel & Volcano Hike

Pacaya Volcano Area, Guatemala on May 26, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or local bakery

Eat a quick, simple breakfast to fuel up for the hike ahead.
GTQ30, 30m

8:00am

Travel to Pacaya Volcano

Take a shuttle or public transport (~1.5 hours) from Antigua to Pacaya Volcano base where hiking tours start.
GTQ30, 1h30m

10:00am

Guided hike up Pacaya Volcano

Join a guided hike (approx 3-4 hours ascent and descent) to see lava flows, volcano landscapes, and incredible views. Book a budget tour that includes equipment and guide.
USD25, 5h

3:00pm

Return to Antigua

Take transport back to Antigua to rest and prepare for the next day.
GTQ30, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Fat Cat Coffee House

Enjoy casual dinner and great coffee in a laid-back atmosphere loved by locals and visitors alike.
GTQ60, 1.5h

Day 4: Hot Springs & Travel to Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan Area, Guatemala on May 27, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local café

Have a light breakfast before your journey to the hot springs.
GTQ30, 30m

8:00am

Travel to Fuentes Georginas Hot Springs

Take a shuttle or taxi to the thermal springs located near the mountains of Lake Atitlan region.
GTQ60, 2h

9:00am

Relax at Fuentes Georginas Hot Springs

Soak in naturally heated pools set in lush jungle surroundings, perfect for relaxation after your hikes. Pools open daily from 8am-7pm.
GTQ45, 2h

12:00pm

Travel to Panajachel

Continue your trip by shuttle to Panajachel on Lake Atitlan (approx 1.5 hours).
GTQ60, 1h30m

2:00pm

Check-in and free afternoon

Get settled into your accommodation and enjoy an afternoon exploring Panajachel town and lakeside at your leisure.
USD35, rest

6:30pm

Dinner at Cafe Loco

Savor affordable meals in a traveler’s favorite spot with a relaxed vibe.
GTQ60, 1.5h

Day 5: Lake Atitlan Villages

Lake Atitlan, Guatemala on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Atitlan

Start your day with lakeside views and a hearty breakfast including eggs, fresh fruit, and coffee.
GTQ40, 1h

9:30am

Boat tour of Lake Atitlan villages

Take a shared boat tour to visit several traditional villages like San Juan La Laguna and Santiago Atitlan, experiencing local art and culture at your own pace.
GTQ50, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at La Terraza in San Pedro

Enjoy tasty, affordable meals on the lake with stunning views.
GTQ60, 1h

3:30pm

Free afternoon to explore Panajachel

Stroll local markets, shops, or relax by the lakefront at your leisure.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Sunset Café

Enjoy both international and local flavors alongside beautiful sunset lake views.
GTQ70, 1.5h

Day 6: Free Day at Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan, Guatemala on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Start your day with a relaxed breakfast close to your accommodation.
GTQ35, 1h

9:30am

Free day to explore Lake Atitlan

Spend your day as you wish, visiting additional villages by boat, relaxing lakeside, hiking short trails, or shopping local markets - all at your own pace.
Variable, All day

6:00pm

Dinner at La Galeria

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with creative dishes blending local ingredients in an enjoyable atmosphere by the lake.
GTQ90, 1.5h

Day 7: Return to Guatemala City & Depart

Lake Atitlan to Guatemala City, Guatemala on May 30, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a quick and convenient breakfast before travel.
Included or GTQ30, 30m

8:00am

Travel to Guatemala City

Take a shuttle or public transport (approx 3 hours) from Lake Atitlan to Guatemala City airport area.
GTQ100, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch near airport or in Guatemala City

Eat a light meal at an airport café or nearby restaurant before your flight.
GTQ60, 1h

2:00pm

Head to airport for flight check-in

Arrive early to check in for your flight back to Detroit.
Free, N/A