Where to Stay in Antigua, Guatemala | The Best Hotels, Airbnbs & Hostels

By @alongdustyroads Nov 21, 20240

For those planning a trip to Guatemala’s prettiest city, our guide on where to stay in Antigua includes a hand-picked selection of the best accommodation for every travel style.

The picturesque city of Antigua, renowned for its colonial architecture, cobbled streets, and stunning volcano views, is an increasingly popular destination in Central America. It attracts not just backpackers but digital nomads and language learners, as well as an increasing number of North American holiday-makers taking advantage of short flights and good weather.

Since our first visit in 2014, Antigua’s accommodation scene has really expanded, offering a solid mix of options for all types of travellers and budgets. Whether you’re after a lively social hostel, a stylish boutique hotel tucked into a restored colonial building, a family-run guesthouse where you’ll feel right at home, or a sleek modern Airbnb, there’s somewhere to perfectly match your vibe.

However, prices are relatively higher than other Central American destinations and last-minute availability is challenging in high season (November – March) for private rooms.

Normally in our curated ‘where to stay’ posts for cities, we break down the options by area + neighbourhood, as the location of your accommodation can have a decent impact on your overall experience of a place. However, as Antigua is really quite small, walkable, and designed on a colonial Spanish grid pattern layout, it isn’t really necessary to worry about the location.

Instead, just be assured that all hotels, Airbnbs, hostels and guesthouses we’ve selected for this article are highly-rated and in a good location: either slap bang in the historic centre, just a couple of blocks away, and walking distance from all the best things to do in Antigua.

And many include that essential ingredient too – a rooftop for guests to enjoy fantastic views of volcanos at sunrise and sunset!

Where to Stay in Antigua | The Essentials

Hostels / Tropicana to party, Ojala if you need to work & Somos is a great all-rounder

Luxury Hotel / Casa Santo Domingo

Boutique Hotel / Good Hotel (that’s the name!)

Guest House / Hotel Casa Rustica

Mid-Range Hotel / Hotel Las Farolas

Budget Airbnb / Villa Carmen Elisa

Family or Group Airbnb / Palatial Home With Rooftop Jacuzzi

Unique Airbnb / Casa-Museo de 1926

Our Airbnb / Apartment With Terrace

eight fantastic Hostels in Antigua

Hostels in Antigua are more than just a bed for the night. Many come with rooftop terraces for sunset volcano-watching, buzzing communal areas, and thoughtful extras like yoga classes or tours to get you out exploring. Whether you’re flying solo or keen to meet other travellers, these spots keep things affordable without skimping on style or atmosphere.

One point to note: most hostels in Antigua skew toward dorms and fewer private rooms. For couple travellers, this means last-minute availability or affordability can be non-existent at the better hostels. So, if you’re flying into Guatemala City and spending your first nights in Antigua, it’s a good idea to book up a private room sooner rather than later.

Here are our top picks:

Tropicana | One of Antigua’s more party-friendly hostels, this place is all about the social vibe. The lively rooftop bar offers fantastic views of Antigua and is great spot to unwind with a drink, while the pool provides the perfect hangout for lazy afternoons. Known for its popular Acatenango hiking trips, it’s a great choice for younger travellers looking to meet like-minded people. They offer a mixture of dorms and privates, and have a pretty decent cafe too.

Ojala| This stunning hostel beautifully combines colonial charm with the needs and wants of the modern traveller, and its super fast broadband make it an ideal spot for digital nomads. It offers a variety of private rooms and large dorms, alongside a gorgeous rooftop, lush courtyard and garden area plus several hidden away private areas to relax or work. It also has an on-site bar and coffeeshop. No wonder it’s one of Antigua’s most popular hostels – check availability here

Maya Papaya | A funky, laid-back hostel that combines comfort with a bit of luxury, Maya Papaya is relatively new but already popular. The vibrant decor, including local art and bright colours, adds character while the lush courtyard and cosy corners provide perfect spots to relax. Guests enjoy a free Guatemalan breakfast every morning, and the on-site bar is a top hangout. The owners have created a really unique vibe, and the communal spaces are a hit with solo travellers.

Yellow House Hostel and B&B | This is where we stayed for the first half of our return to Antigua this year and we couldn’t recommend it highly enough. Halfway between a guesthouse and a hostel, it’s a good option for those that don’t need luxury but no longer want to stay in a dorm either. The privates are a little on the small side but cosy and comfortable, it’s locally-run, they do an excellent breakfast served up by a lovely team of local women, plus it has a communal kitchen and several chill out areas on the rooftop.

Barbara’s Boutique Hostel | This boutique hostel feels more like a small hotel, with an emphasis on personal service and stylish rooms. The charming, colonial-style design is complemented by modern touches, creating a wonderful atmosphere for both couples and solo travellers. Guests love the communal spaces and the large kitchen for cooking up meals. The social vibe is relaxed but definitely lively enough for those looking to meet other travellers.

Flore Hostel | We love the style of this chilled hostel just around the corner from Convent Santa Clara. With its impeccably designed terrace and spacious dorms, it’s perfect for guests seeking both peace and the chance to meet fellow travellers, plus the on-site cafe is a solid spot for a decent coffee or rejuvenating smoothie. It’s easygoing, friendly, and absolutely ideal for longer stays.

Somos | Stylish and sociable, Somos Hostel is ideal for those looking to connect. Dorm beds offer privacy curtains, reading lights, and lockers, with a chic private room available for those wanting more comfort. The hostel features a lush garden, a rooftop bar with incredible views, and a hot tub perfect for unwinding after a busy day. Regular events – plus the hostel bar – and welcoming communal areas ensure it’s easy to meet fellow travellers whilst enjoying modern facilities in the heart of Antigua.

Selina Antigua | With modern, stylish interiors, this flashpacker hostel features a mix of private rooms and dorms, all designed with both function and flair in mind. Its on-site café and bar make it the perfect place to unwind, while its coworking spaces and fast Wi-Fi cater to digital nomads. However, we’ve had several bad experiences with Selina hostels (there’s a lot of them across Latin America), and sometimes the marketing and photos do not match the reality. They also have a price-tag to match in comparison to other hostels, especially for privates.

Plan / 13 Wonderful Things To Do in Antigua (published soon)

our top Boutique & Luxury Hotels

For those wanting to embrace Antigua’s colonial charm in style, boutique hotels deliver an exquisite experience. Many are housed in restored historic buildings, blending traditional design elements – such as ornate courtyards and hand-carved furnishings – with modern luxuries. Each boutique property offers its own unique character, from ultra-luxurious spa facilities to landscaped gardens and even on-site museums!

We’ve also included a couple in this list that cater more to the traveller who craves the contemporary aesthetic. There’s not as many in Antigua as we would have thought prior to putting together this article, but we suspect more will probably come with time.

Here are our top picks:

Good Hotel | This contemporary hotel (one of our favourites) blends minimalist industrial design with lush greenery, creating a tranquil retreat. Rooms are thoughtfully simple, many offering serene garden views, while the on-site ‘Living Room’ restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Just outside the historic centre, this property combines quiet charm with a meaningful mission of supporting local education programmes, making it ideal for conscious travellers seeking both style and substance.

Los Pasos Boutique Hotel & Spa | Set within a historic townhouse, this highly-rated 5* hotel pairs colonial elegance with modern comforts. Its spacious, traditionally styled rooms feature dark wood, warm tones, traditional furnishings, and private balconies, and previous guests speak highly of the rooftop restaurant for its sweeping views and menu.

Hotel Posada de Don Rodrigo | This charming colonial property combines historic allure with a warm, family-run ambience. Located steps from Antigua’s bustling main square, its rooms boast unique decor, handwoven textiles, antique furnishings and high ceilings (meaning lots of light -something that’s not always guaranteed). The on-site restaurant treats guests to Guatemalan cuisine and live marimba performances, whilst the shady courtyards and lush gardens provide a welcome retreat from the busy streets beyond the gates.

El Convento | A sophisticated blend of modern luxury and colonial elegance, El Convento offers spacious suites with vaulted ceilings, artisanal touches, and fireplaces. Its serene gardens, fine dining at “Santo Domingo del Cerro,” and proximity to iconic landmarks, like the Santa Catalina Arch, make it a standout. Guests particularly appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and tasteful design, perfect for unwinding after exploring Antigua’s lively streets

Posada del Angel | Tucked in a quiet neighbourhood, Posada del Angel is a refined hideaway with just seven individually styled rooms, each brimming with Guatemalan charm. Its rooftop terrace showcases breathtaking volcano views, while the cosy library and garden pool evoke a homely, boutique feel. Known for its excellent service and intimate setting, it’s a favourite for those seeking romance and a slower pace (and somewhere we’d personally love to stay).

Casa Santo Domingo | Housed within a 16th-century monastery, steeped in history and grandeur, Santo Domingo is an experience as much as a hotel. Its sprawling grounds include museums, art galleries, and manicured gardens which are open to the public as part of the ‘Paseo Los Museos’.

The spacious rooms feature high ceilings, orginal wooden beams, functioning fireplaces and elegant antiques, while some offer private terraces or jacuzzis. Guests speak highly of its fine dining restaurant and the on-site spa, making this iconic hotel perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in history while enjoying contemporary luxuries.

Las Cruces Boutique Hotel is a popular hotel with a similar vibe, but we can’t quite see how it’s worth the very pretty price tag applied (it does have truly excellent reviews however).

Cacao Boutique Hotel |One of the more affordable boutique options in Antigua, this small, chic hotel offers a contemporary take on colonial design, combining sleek lines with touches of rustic charm. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with a minimalist yet cosy vibe – some even have fireplaces perfect for winter visits. Guests can relax in the lush courtyard or enjoy a drink at the bar while soaking in the stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes.

Plan / 23 Travel Tips for Antigua, Guatemala (published soon)

Our Airbnb Picks – for all travellers & budgets

Travellers in search of flexibility and a touch of independence will find an abundance of Airbnbs, from sleek, modern apartments to sprawling villas designed for groups. Many rentals showcase Antigua’s signature architectural style, complete with private courtyards or terraces ideal for soaking in views of Volcán de Agua. Perfect for longer stays or families who need extra space, these rentals offer a comfortable base for exploring the city at your own pace.

These are our top picks:

Kuxtal Nest| Okay, so this three-bed property is a little bit extra. Super modern interiors, large open plan living spaces, en-suite bedrooms, a gorgeous rooftop, and even a freaking pool! But if you’re looking for a three-bed property and ‘luxurious’ is your main requirement (and you don’t mind paying for it), you need to check it out.

If you’re looking for a really stunning three-bedroom property but at a slightly lower price point, be sure to take a look Carmelo Concept Villas, Casa del Rosario and this charming historic house. The former is full-on luxe whilst the latter two are a little more contemporary cool; both will definitely elevate your time in Antigua.

Play del Arco | This collection of three apartments (you can choose between the one-bed, two-bed or three-bed) located just a few steps away from the Arco de Santa Catalina, are renovated to a high standard incorporating traditional and contemporary designs, with wonderful extras like open-fireplaces, hand-painted tiles, private terraces, antiques and handmade furniture.

Casa-Museo de 1926| If you’re looking for a truly unique stay, don’t miss this two-bedroom house filled with art, curios, antiques and hidden spaces. A labour of love, it remains owned by the same family who built it and would be ideal for those that crave more than just four walls when picking their accommodation.

If you don’t mind being a 15-minute walk from the historic centre, you must check out this outrageously beautiful two-bedroom property that manages to fuse Bali-inspired design with traditional Guatemalan features. Light-filled, contemporary and thoughtful, it even has a tropical garden replete with a pool.

Other two-bedroom properties to take a look at are La Casa del Centro, Casa Elisa (we particularly like this one) and this Cozy Townhouse.

Apartment With Terrace | This is the lovely little place we stayed in. Perfectly located, it’s one of several apartments within a large colonial-era property with access to a shared rooftop for incredible volcano views. The interiors are simple but comfortable, it has a great kitchen, fantastic shower (not always a given in Antigua), and was perfect to work from. The hosts are also really lovely.

If this sounds right up your street but it’s not available, take a look at Apartmento del Arco.

Posada Luna | This property is actually one of seven within the same garden courtyard. Lots of space, it’s got an open-plan living room and kitchen plus a really good sized bedroom. The style is very traditional and whilst it’s not a design-led place, it’s super comfy and would be perfect for a longer stay. Internet is also excellent and the reviews fantastic.

You can find all the other listings here.

If you’re travelling Guatemala on a bit of a budget but fancy an apartment over a hostel, the good news is that there are still a decent number of really good value options in the city. A few of our favourites include:

Villa Carmen Elisa | This studio likely wouldn’t suit super long stays but it’s super charming and there’s been a lot of thought put into the design. It’s also very well-located and has excellent reviews.

The same host also has the gorgeous little Villa Cecilia and Villa Elena (they actually have quite a large number of properties in Antigua, and if you can stretch your budget a little further it would be worth checking out Villa Marta Irene and this really rather wonderful – and large – one bedroom, both of which can be booked for around £100 a night).

Lush Cabin | The design, space and facilities of this little cabin puts should put this property outside of the ‘budget-friendly’ range, but at around £50 a night it’s exceptionally good value and perfect for a couple seeking a hideaway amongst Antigua’s busy streets.

Sacred Space studio is really wonderful, but its outside kitchen means this is strictly a dry season option.

A few others one-bedroom options to take a look at include Downtown Antigua Apartment, El Amasijo, Distrito Antigua, Apartment in Centre, Casita & Garden, Your Home in Antigua and Cosy Bohemian Studio.

Alternatively, if you really need two bedrooms but still want to keep costs down, don’t miss the truly charming La Casa Turquesa. Recently remodelled it’s filled with hand-made furniture and Guatemalan crafts and is just super sweet. Also has a fab kitchen and even a rooftop terrace.

Perhaps unsurprisingly given the number of huge colonial houses within the historic centre, the are an abundance of large properties in Antigua that cater perfectly to a group of friends or a large family travelling together.

If four bedrooms will suffice and you’d prefer something more contemporary, then take a look at the gorgeous Casa 5, House 1 and Palatial Home With Rooftop Jacuzzi (the second two are particularly lovely). However if it’s more traditional design with a touch of luxury that you’re craving, our picks are the equally gorgeous Casa Colibri and Casa San Sebastian.

Alternatively, if you need even more space, don’t miss Casa Sor Juana XVI and Casa de Calidad (or if money’s no object, this seven-bed beauty).

Mid-range and budget Guesthouses & hotels

Those seeking a more personal experience will find a welcoming option in Antigua’s locally-run guesthouses and small hotels. These spots, often tucked down quiet streets, combine comfort with authenticity, attentive hosts, and homely details.

In this section you’ll find a mix of more budget-friendly spots alongside those whose prices land them firmly in the mid-range bracket.

A few of our top picks are:

Hotel La Villa Serena | This highly-rated 3* hotel is a perfect mid-range option located on a quiet street. The rooms are excellent for the price, super comfy and well-designed. The included breakfast is apparently excellent and it benefits from a lovely roof terrace.

Hotel Las Farolas | This is an excellent choice for travellers who want a mix of colonial charm and modern amenities. The rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated, offering a comfortable space to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The on-site restaurant serves delicious Guatemalan dishes, and the hotel’s serene garden area is perfect for a quiet moment away from the hustle and bustle of the city – and is a real selling point.

Posada El Antaño | If you don’t mind switching up a garden for an internal courtyard, you should definitely take a look at this hotel. Dripping in colonial charm, the rooms are individually decorated, charming and filled with beautiful antiques – many also come with fireplaces perfect for the cooler months.

Other similar options – both in price point and aesthetic – are Hotel la Galería and Casa Noble Hotel.

Hotel Casa Rustica | Incredibly colourful, comfortable and with friendly staff, this is a solid choice for those looking to save a few pennies. It’s got a guest kitchen and lovely garden and the rooms are all of a good size.

Posada Doña Luisa | Large comfortable rooms with colourful accents, this small guest house offers a mix of privates and dorms, a guest kitchen and a small courtyard. You can also use the pool of a neighbouring hotel for a $5 fee.

Selah Hotel & Coffee | This super modern hotel also functions as a coffee shop, so has an abundance of spots to work from (making it ideal for digital nomads). The rooms are thoughtfully decorated with colourful accents and clean lines, and it has hundreds of excellent reviews.

Hotel Las Camelias Inn | You get a lot of bang for your buck in this hotel! The rooms are spacious, colourful and well-furnished in a traditionally Guatemalan style and it has lots of communal spaces including a gorgeous, plant-filled garden and rooftop terrace with views over the city.

Other simple but pleasant budget-friendly options to consider include Hotel Casa Sofia, Hospedaje El Viajero Antigua, Hotel Posada San Pedro, Hotel Posada Santa Teresita and Francisco’s Rest House.