Welcome To
Guatemala City
Big, busy, and often overlooked—Guatemala City (or “Guate,” as locals call it) is where most Guatemala trips start. It’s the country’s capital and largest city, with bold energy, serious traffic, and more layers than it gets credit for.
You’ll find buzzy neighborhoods like Zone 4 with cafés, galleries, and nightlife, and classic markets, plazas, and local spots woven throughout the city. Most travelers don’t stay long—but if you have time to explore, you’ll see a side of Guatemala most visitors miss.
Before you head to your next stop, here are a few things to know.
Fast Facts About Guatemala City
Main arrival hub
Most international travelers fly into La Aurora International Airport (GUA), just 15 mins from the city center.
Zone matters
Looking for safety, walkability, and great dining? Stick to Zones 10 or 4. If you’re flying out early, Zone 13 is ideal for a quick airport transfer.
Culture, food & art
Explore art galleries, unique concept cafés, and street art in the revitalized Cuatro Grados Norte (Zone 4).
Heavy traffic
If your route goes through Guatemala City, add at least a 30-minute buffer—especially during rush hour.
How To Get To
Guatemala City
Whether you’re flying in, flying out, or just passing through, Guatemala City is your gateway to the rest of the country. La Aurora International Airport is located right in the capital—just a short ride from Zones 10, 9, and 4, where most travelers stay.
Traffic can be unpredictable, especially during rush hour (around 5–8 AM and 4–7 PM), so always build in extra time for airport transfers or city pickups.
RoadRunner runs daily shuttles to Guatemala City from Antigua, El Paredón, Lake Atitlán, and more. We offer drop-offs and pickups in Zones 10, 9, and 4—or right at the airport for smooth flight connections. Need more flexibility? Book a private ride for custom pickup times, door-to-door service, and a more comfortable travel day.
What Are the Top Things to Do
in Guatemala City?
Guatemala City is often seen as just a starting point for other destinations, but if you stay a little longer, you’ll find vibrant neighborhoods, modern dining, rich history, and a growing art scene. These are the experiences we always recommend to travelers looking to get a feel for the capital.
Wander Along La Sexta Avenida (Zone 1)
La Sexta Avenida is one of the busiest pedestrian streets in the city and a great way to see daily life in the capital. The avenue stretches for several blocks, lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants. As you wander, you’ll pass historic landmarks like the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the iconic Post Office Bridge. It’s a lively spot to people-watch, grab a snack, and take in the city’s mix of old architecture and urban energy.
Explore Ciudad Cayalá (Zone 16)
Ciudad Cayalá feels like stepping into a European-inspired city hidden within Guatemala city. With its clean white architecture, boutique shops, plazas, and upscale cafés, it’s a popular spot for safe, leisurely walks, dining, and shopping. Green spaces and open-air areas make it ideal for families or anyone looking for a calmer escape from downtown.
Shop and Snack at Mercado Central (Zone 1)
Located behind the Metropolitan Cathedral, Mercado Central is a massive underground market and the city’s go-to for crafts, souvenirs, and local eats. The market spans several levels where you can shop for handmade textiles, pottery, jewelry, and leather goods, then head down to the food stalls for authentic Guatemalan dishes and fresh tortillas. It’s busy but safe, and bargaining is expected.
Eat and Explore in Zone 4
Zona 4 has transformed into one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods. Known for its colorful murals, bike-friendly streets, and modern cafés, it’s a hotspot for foodies and creatives. Head to Cuatro Grados Norte for galleries, pop-up markets, and some of the best gourmet restaurants in town.
Discover the Museums of Zone 13
Zone 13 is home to some of Guatemala City’s top museums, all located within walking distance of each other. Start at the National Museum of Natural History to learn about the country’s biodiversity, then visit the National Museum of Modern Art to see works from celebrated Guatemalan artists. Additionally, the National Museum of Archaeology houses ancient Maya artifacts and is usually part of the circuit. With tree-lined promenades and cultural events happening throughout the year, Museum Street is an easy way to dive into the country’s art and history in just one afternoon.
Where to Eat and Drink
in Guatemala City?
Guatemala City’s food and drink scene surprises a lot of travelers. From hidden whisky bars and burger joints to award-winning dining and live music hangouts, there’s something for every mood and meal. Here are a few places we keep recommending:
Café Bar Esperanto (Zona 10) – For live music and laid-back nights
This cozy neighborhood bar is known for its warm atmosphere, friendly staff, and Tuesday night live music sessions. It’s the kind of spot where locals and travelers mingle over cold beers or cocktails while classic rock plays in the background. It may be small, but the energy is great – perfect for an easygoing night out with good tunes.
El Whiskey Den (Zona 4) – For whisky lovers and a taste of local culture
Hidden in the city’s historic heart, this intimate bar specializes in whiskies from around the world. Knowledgeable staff guide you through unique pours, often paired with local bites that highlight Guatemalan flavors. The vibe is relaxed yet lively, making it a great stop after exploring nearby landmarks.
Mercado 24 (Zona 4) – For modern Guatemalan cuisine
Led by acclaimed chef Pablo Díaz, Mercado 24 transforms fresh, local market ingredients into inventive dishes that celebrate Guatemalan flavors. Ranked among Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants, it’s known for tiraditos, tostadas, and an ever-changing seasonal menu. The casual, colorful space and lively terrace make it a must-visit for foodies.
Gula (Zona 4) – For inventive burgers and comfort eats
Gula takes burgers and comfort food to the next level with bold flavors like mac and cheese burgers, gorgonzola-stuffed patties, and spicy Korean fried chicken. The setting is simple and unpretentious, letting the food shine. Pair your meal with their refreshing lemonade and expect to leave happily stuffed.
Taquería Los Tíos (Zona 15) – For late-night tacos done right
A local favorite for a reason, Los Tíos is where you go when the taco craving hits hard. The menu covers all the classics, like pastor, chicharrón, sausage, and more. Sauces are flavorful, toppings are generous, and the vibe is lively and casual. It’s one of the city’s best-loved taco spots, perfect after a night out or any time you need a plate of seriously good tacos.
Donde Joselito Steakhouse (Zona 9) – For perfectly grilled steaks and standout service
With thousands of rave reviews, Donde Joselito is a must for steak lovers. Cuts like costilla and puyazo are grilled to juicy perfection, complemented by house-made sauces and warm, attentive service. The atmosphere feels special without being stuffy, making it great for celebrations or a memorable dinner in the city. Pair it with a cocktail and you’ll see why locals and visitors alike keep coming back.
Insider Tips for
Guatemala City
Before you dive in, here are a few local pointers to help you make the most of your time in this lively capital city.
- Transmetro or Uber are the easiest ways to get around the city. For longer trips outside Guatemala City, book a shuttle or private ride.
- Guatemala City is massive. Pay attention to the zones when planning your itinerary – it’s tough to hit multiple far-apart areas in a single afternoon.
- Street food is everywhere and worth trying. Look for busy vendors turning over food quickly. Antojitos (snacks) like tostadas and shucos are local favorites.
- Most nightlife kicks off late. Bars and clubs in Zones 4 and 10 don’t start to fill up until after 10 PM, so plan dinner and drinks accordingly.
- Downtown’s historic center (Zone 1) is liveliest during the day. Visit La Sexta Avenida in the morning or early afternoon to enjoy its shops and street performers without worrying about late-night safety.
Ready to Explore Guatemala City?
Roadrunner Will Get You There.
Whether you’re traveling from across the country or need a reliable airport pickup, Roadrunner makes getting to and from Guatemala City simple and stress-free.