Parque Central: You can’t miss the town’s central plaza, easily Guatemala’s loveliest and the heart and soul of Antigua.

Arco de Santa Catalina: A beautiful colonial archway, which is also one of Antigua’s most photographed landmarks, provides a suitable frame for views of Agua Volcano.

Cerro de la Cruz: This large stone cross on a hill overlooking the valley and volcanoes makes a good afternoon stroll. Bring a camera.

Iglesia y Convento de las Capuchinas: One of Antigua’s best-preserved colonial monuments has many interesting features, including a tower and 18 nuns’ cells built around a patio.

Centro Cultural Casa Santo Domingo: The city’s finest museum lies on the grounds of a fantastic restored monastery, which now functions as a five-star hotel.

Casa Popenoe: This fully restored colonial mansion offers a rare glimpse into the life of a royal official in 17th-century Antigua in addition to wonderful city views from the second-story terrace.

Volcano Climbs: Antigua’s fantastic mountain scenery is dominated by the presence of Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango Volcanoes, affording excellent opportunities for mountaineering at a variety of difficulty levels. Active Pacaya Volcano, though not within sight of town, is not too much farther and is another popular day trip. It is also the easiest of these to climb.

Centro Cultural La Azotea: This three-in-one coffee, music, and indigenous costume museum has excellent displays and offers an interesting glimpse into many aspects of modern-day Mayan culture.