Where to stay

in Guatemala City

While many still consider Guatemala City as little more than the gateway to Antigua, this vibrant metropolis of about two million offers a lot to visitors. This city is gradually transforming into a vibrant cacophony of cafés, bars, and restaurants. Add a good dose of history and culture, and you have an intriguing destination just waiting to be discovered. While Guatemala City is divided into 21 zonas, or neighborhoods, only a few of those are frequented by tourists. Nevertheless, with plenty of great hotel options where you can stay, this intriguing city is not as intimidating as it first appears.

Best Places to Stay for History

Home to lots of affordable accommodations, staying in Zona 1 puts visitors close to the most notable museums and architectural gems, including the National Palace and the ornate Cathedral of Guatemala City. Zona 4 offers plenty of laid-back places to stay near Torre del Reformador, an Eiffel Tower-like structure that dates back to 1935. Zonas 9 and 10 are lined with accommodations in close proximity to the city's most well-known museums, including Museo Ixchel del Traje Indígena and Museo Popol Vuh. Zona 13, close to the airport, also has several museums.

Zona 1

Zona 1 is noteworthy for its historic sites, and you can make a stop at top attractions like National Palace (Palacio Nacional) and Guatemala City Hall.

Recommended hotels in Zona 1

Zona 9

Zona 9 is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Avenida La Reforma and Torre del Reformador while you're in town.

Recommended hotels in Zona 9

Zona 10

Zona 10 is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Oakland Mall and Plaza Fontabella Shopping Center while in the area.

Recommended hotels in Zona 10

Zona 4

Visitors to Zona 4 enjoy its restaurants, and if you want to do some exploring, Avenida La Reforma is worth a stop.

Recommended hotels in Zona 4

Zona 13

Zona 13 is noteworthy for its gardens, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Avenida Las Américas and El Obelisco.

Recommended hotels in Zona 13

Great Neighborhoods for Shopping

Staying in the chaotic Zona 1 ensures that visitors are close to the city's shopping action. The 6th avenue and Mercado Central are top spots to pick up souvenirs for loved ones back home. The upscale Zona 10 is home to some of the city's poshest boutiques. Find a hotel here for close proximity to fancy malls such as the Oakland Mall and Plaza Fontabella. For more midrange shopping options, book lodgings in the neighboring Zona 14, which is well on the way to becoming the city's fashion district.

Zona 1

Zona 1 is noteworthy for its historic sites, and you can make a stop at top attractions like National Palace (Palacio Nacional) and Guatemala City Hall.

Recommended hotels in Zona 1

Zona 10

Zona 10 is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Oakland Mall and Plaza Fontabella Shopping Center while in the area.

Recommended hotels in Zona 10

Zona 14

Travelers like the restaurants in Zona 14, and Avenida Las Américas is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Recommended hotels in Zona 14

Where to Stay for Entertainment

For easy access to chic cafes, restaurants, and bars, book a room in Zona 4. This area, which is emerging as Guatemala City's trendiest neighborhood, is also home to many co-working spaces. Zona 1, also referred to as Zona Viva, comes alive on the weekends. This area is jam-packed with dance clubs, bars, hole-in-the-wall eateries, and upscale restaurants. Those who like their food fancy should find a hotel in Zona 10, the city's ritziest area.

Zona 1

Zona 1 is noteworthy for its historic sites, and you can make a stop at top attractions like National Palace (Palacio Nacional) and Guatemala City Hall.

Recommended hotels in Zona 1

Zona 10

Zona 10 is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Oakland Mall and Plaza Fontabella Shopping Center while in the area.

Recommended hotels in Zona 10

Zona 4

Visitors to Zona 4 enjoy its restaurants, and if you want to do some exploring, Avenida La Reforma is worth a stop.

Recommended hotels in Zona 4

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