Ultimate 3-Day Guatemala City Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See
Guatemala City pulses with vibrant culture, dynamic street life, and a fascinating blend of ancient history and modern energy at the heart of Central America.

Day 1: Colonial Heart, Urban Sights & Local Flavors
Morning
Start your Guatemalan adventure at Plaza Mayor de la Constitución, the city’s grand central square surrounded by neoclassical and colonial architecture. Watch the city come alive and take in impressive sights like the National Palace and Metropolitan Cathedral.
Step inside the majestic Catedral Metropolitana, a beautiful 18th-century cathedral with stunning altars and vibrant stained-glass windows.
Afternoon
Immerse yourself in Guatemala’s past at the National Palace of Culture, a stunning green building filled with history, art, and impressive murals. Take a guided tour to uncover the stories behind its ornate halls.
Enjoy a traditional lunch at Mercado Central, a vibrant market where you can taste local specialties like pepián and tamales, and shop for handmade crafts.
Evening
Stroll down the lively Sexta Avenida, a pedestrian street lined with shops, colorful murals, and street performers. It’s perfect for people-watching and soaking up city vibes as day turns to night.
Dine at Restaurante El Portal, a classic eatery with over 80 years of history, renowned for its Guatemalan comfort food and old-world ambiance.
Day 2: Maya Heritage, Modern Art & Trendy Zones
Morning
Discover Guatemala’s ancient roots at the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, home to one of Central America’s finest Maya artifact collections, including intricate stelae, ceramics, and jade treasures.
Afternoon
For a taste of Guatemala’s creative spirit, visit the Museo de Arte Moderno Carlos Mérida, showcasing modern Guatemalan art in a striking, light-filled building.
Head to the trendy Zona 4 for lunch, where you’ll find cool cafés, international eateries, and vibrant street art in the city’s creative district.
Evening
Unwind at Cuatro Grados Norte, a revitalized urban neighborhood packed with bars, live music, food trucks, and a buzzing nightlife scene beloved by locals.
Day 3: Nature, Neighborhoods & Culinary Discoveries
Morning
Get a breath of fresh air at Cerro del Carmen Park, a peaceful hilltop park with panoramic views of the city, local joggers, and the charming Carmen Church.
Afternoon
Enjoy a relaxed lunch and a walk through Zona 10, known as “Zona Viva,” where you’ll find leafy boulevards, upscale boutiques, and some of the city’s top restaurants and cafés.
Don’t miss an afternoon visit to Oakland Mall, a modern shopping and entertainment center with designer shops, cafés, and a lively food court popular with locals.
Evening
For your final night, savor modern Guatemalan cuisine at Flor de Lis, an acclaimed restaurant reimagining traditional flavors in artful tasting menus.
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