Antigua Guatemala: Private Shore Excursion from Quetzal Port

Summary

Private day tour from Quetzal Port to Antigua’s colonial heart

You’ll travel from Quetzal Port through Guatemala’s lush countryside to explore Antigua with a local guide. Take in sweeping views from Cerro de la Cruz, wander colonial streets past La Merced Church and Santa Catalina Arch, and visit historic ruins like Casa Santo Domingo. With round-trip port pickup included, you’ll get both comfort and real insight into daily life here—moments you’ll remember long after heading home.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember the first thing I noticed — that faint, smoky scent in the air as we drove out of Quetzal Port, windows cracked just enough to let in the countryside. Our driver, Mario, pointed out the volcanoes as we wound through green hills; he joked about which one was “behaving” today. The drive took about an hour and a half but didn’t feel long at all. I kept staring at Volcán de Agua looming over everything — it’s almost cartoonish how it sits behind Antigua.

Cerro de la Cruz was our first stop. It’s not a tough walk up, but I was glad for the breeze at the top. The view of Antigua spread below, with those pastel buildings and cobbled streets, honestly made me pause (and I’m not usually sentimental). Our guide Ana told us stories about old earthquakes and how people rebuilt — she even pointed out her favorite bakery down there, which made me hungry right away.

The walking part through Antigua was relaxed — no rush, just wandering past La Merced Church with its yellow walls and that wild mix of Mayan and European details. We ducked into Casa Santo Domingo too; it’s a hotel now but you can still see old convent ruins poking through the gardens. At one point Ana laughed when I tried to say “Santo Domingo” with a proper accent — definitely didn’t nail it. There were kids playing soccer in Parque Central and a guy selling roasted nuts that smelled sweet and burnt at the same time.

I took too many photos under the Santa Catalina Arch (everyone does), but honestly it’s hard not to when the light hits just right. By the end I felt like I’d actually gotten a sense of how people live here — not just ticking off sights. The drive back was quieter; maybe everyone else was tired or just thinking about what they’d seen. I know I was.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Antigua Guatemala Highlights

• Drive from Quetzal Port through countryside
• Visit lookout point Cerro de la Cruz
• Explore ancient convent ruins hotel
• Walk to captain's palace, cathedral, city hall
• Photo stop at Santa Catalina Arch
• Visit La Merced Church

Top questions

How long is the drive from Quetzal Port to Antigua?

It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes each way by car.

Is this Antigua Guatemala tour private or shared?

This is a private tour but may be shared with another couple; maximum group size is 8 people.

What are the main attractions visited on this day trip?

You’ll visit Cerro de la Cruz lookout, La Merced Church, Santa Catalina Arch, Parque Central, Cathedral ruins, and Casa Santo Domingo.

Does this tour include pickup from Quetzal Port?

Yes, round-trip transportation from Quetzal Port cruise terminal is included.

Is lunch included on this Antigua Guatemala shore excursion?

No lunch is mentioned as included in this tour.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options and all areas are wheelchair accessible.

Are entrance fees covered?

The entrance fee for Cathedral Ruins is included in your tour.

Can infants or small children join this day trip?

Yes, infants can ride on an adult’s lap or in a stroller/pram during the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transportation from Quetzal Port cruise terminal, entry to Cathedral Ruins and La Merced cloister, plus guiding throughout by a local expert who shares stories along every stop—so you don’t have to worry about logistics or missing any of Antigua’s best corners.