Modern and colonial Guatemala

General information

Destination
Guatemala City, Guatemala

Program details

Discover the old and the new with a tour of Guatemala City and travel back in time to Antigua Guatemala. Relive Spanish Colonial America in a town where time stood still and uncover a place that was the capital for 200 years, as well as the current capital city of Guatemala.



In the morning, tour the iconic sights of Guatemala City. Head along the Avenue of the Americas towards the Civic Center, where you’ll encounter a mix of state buildings including the Bank of Guatemala with its impressive high relief murals depicting Guatemalan history. Head further into the city centre to the Plaza of the Constitution where you’ll be encircled by the striking National Palace, Metropolitan Cathedral and Centenarian Park. During the afternoon, venture on to Antigua Guatemala and enjoy a three and-a-half hour walking tour around the centre to absorb the Spanish Baroque architecture the city is famous for. Head to Central Park, in the heart of the city, and be surrounded by the Palace of the Captain Generals, City Hall, the church of San José, the Archbishop’s Palace and the Portal of Commerce (or the Bakers’ Portal).



Explore the Cathedral and admire its elaborate baroque façade. Originally built between 1543 and 1680, it was later rebuilt after the Santa Marta earthquake in 1773, and walk under the Arch of Santa Catalina which connects the old convent to the gardens on the other side. You also have time to be dazzled by the bright yellow walls of the Church of La Merced before we make our way back to Guatemala City.



Languages

English and Spanish.