Where to Stay in Antigua Guatemala with Kids: Top Picks for Family Travel
Antigua, Guatemala is one of those rare places that manages to be both breathtaking and incredibly family-friendly. Cobblestone streets lead to pastel-colored buildings and bustling markets, all surrounded by active volcanoes and lush hillsides.
It’s no wonder so many traveling families, worldschoolers, and expats find themselves drawn here — we certainly did.
Our family has stayed in Antigua multiple times, most recently for 3 months. From boutique hotels, budget-friendly long term stays, and even in quieter neighborhoods outside the tourist zone, Antigua has something for every family. Each time, where we stayed made a huge difference in how relaxed, connected, and safe we felt.
As a mom of two young kids, I approach travel a little differently. I’m not just looking for a “top-rated” hotel — I’m looking for a place where our family can actually breathe.
A safe space with a kitchen for allergy-friendly meals, walkable streets, safe roads, and maybe even a volcano view for us adults to soak in after bedtime. That’s the lens this guide is written through.
If you’re planning a trip and wondering where to stay in Antigua, Guatemala with kids — this is for you. Whether you’re here for a quick visit, a worldschooling adventure, or just trying to figure out which neighborhood won’t keep your baby up at midnight — I’ve got you.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Antigua with Kids
When traveling with young kids, where you stay can make or break your trip. Antigua may be small, but each neighborhood has its own rhythm — some perfect for walks and quiet mornings, others better suited to travelers without nap schedules.
Here’s a breakdown of Antigua’s best areas for families, including quieter neighborhoods that often get overlooked, like Jocotenango and San Bartolomé Becerra.
1. Central Antigua (El Caseo)
📍 Best for first-time visitors who want to walk everywhere
Central Antigua is the heartbeat of the city. Think postcard-perfect streets, colonial churches, local markets, and historic ruins around every corner. You’ll be steps away from restaurants, coffee shops, and tour departure points — which can be a major plus when you’re juggling naps and snack breaks.
Pros:
- Walkable to most sights
- Tons of dining options (including allergy-friendly spots)
- Great for short stays or first-time visits
Cons:
- Can be noisy during festivals, weekends, or near nightlife spots
- Cobblestones aren’t great for strollers — baby carriers work better
- Lodging can be pricier for less space
Family Tip: Try to stay a few blocks off the central park for a bit more peace and quiet while still being close to everything.
2. Santa Ana
📍 Best for a quieter, local feel with easy tuk-tuk access
Just a 5-minute tuk-tuk ride or 15-minute walk from central Antigua, Santa Ana offers a more local experience. It’s perfect if your family wants to stay in a spacious home with a kitchen and maybe even a courtyard to let the kids play.
Pros:
- Quieter streets and more local flavor
- Affordable homes with kitchens and outdoor space
- Still close enough to Antigua’s main sights
Cons:
- Less “tourist infrastructure” (you’ll want some Spanish basics)
- Sidewalks can be inconsistent — baby-wearing or all-terrain strollers recommended
Family Tip: The Santa Ana park is a hidden gem with local families hanging out on weekends — a great spot for spontaneous playdates.
3. San Bartolomé Becerra
📍 Best for long-term stays or families on a budget
This lesser-known neighborhood borders the eastern edge of Antigua and feels like a peaceful suburb tucked into the hillside. It’s a favorite among families staying longer than a week, with many affordable houses or apartments for rent.
Pros:
- Great value for money
- Quiet streets and a more residential, relaxed pace
- Some homes have larger kitchens, gardens, or terraces
Cons:
- Not many tourist services in the neighborhood — be prepared to walk or hop on a chicken bus into town
- Not ideal for super short stays
Family Tip: If you’re a worldschooling family or staying 2+ weeks, this is a great area to settle in and get to know neighbors. We’ve loved our stay in this neighborhood we’ve extended our stay 3x!
4. Jocotenango
📍 Best for cultural immersion and creative families
Technically just outside of Antigua, Jocotenango is a vibrant community full of life, color, and authentic Guatemalan daily rhythm. It’s a great base for families who want to stay a bit off the beaten path while still having easy access to Antigua.
Pros:
- More affordable prices and spacious accommodations
- Local markets and bakeries right outside your door
- Home to Casa K’ojom (a fantastic music and culture museum great for kids!)
Cons:
- You’ll need a car or tuk-tuks to get around
- Can be noisy and dusty in parts
Family Tip: Visit in the morning for a peaceful vibe, and explore the musical instruments at Casa K’ojom as part of a worldschooling lesson.
5. San Pedro Las Huertas
📍 Best for slow travelers and nature-loving families
A quiet town just south of Antigua, San Pedro is ideal for families who want more space, slower mornings, and views of the volcanoes. Many properties here are surrounded by trees or farmland, which can feel like a breath of fresh air after bustling cities.
Pros:
- Beautiful nature and volcano views
- Larger homes with gardens or patios
- Feels more rural while still being close to Antigua
Cons:
- Not walkable to town
- Less social infrastructure unless you’re here long-term
Family Tip: Perfect for digital nomads or long-term travelers who want a peaceful base with room for kids to roam.
Where to Stay in Antigua, Guatemala with Kids: Neighborhood Comparison Table
| Neighborhood | Best For | Pros | Cons | Family Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central Antigua (El Caseo) | First-timers, short stays | Walkable to all major sights Great restaurants Vibrant atmosphere | Noisy during festivals/weekends Stroller-unfriendly cobblestones | Stay a few blocks off the park for quieter nights |
| Santa Ana | Local feel, affordable Airbnbs | Quiet Spacious stays Easy tuk-tuk access | Less tourist infrastructure Uneven sidewalks | Great local park for playtime and meeting other families |
| San Bartolomé Becerra | Budget travelers, longer stays | Affordable homes Peaceful, residential vibe | Fewer nearby restaurants/tours Not ideal for short trips | Ideal for worldschooling families staying 2+ weeks |
| Jocotenango | Cultural immersion, creative travelers | Vibrant and local Great markets Casa K’ojom museum for kids | Not walkable to center Can be noisy/dusty | Visit in the morning and pair with a cultural activity |
| San Pedro Las Huertas | Slow travel, nature lovers | Volcano views Spacious properties Quiet atmosphere | Requires tuk-tuk/car Limited short-stay options | Perfect for families craving a reset from busy city travel |
Top Family-Friendly Lodging Picks
Below you’ll find our favorite hotels that we recommend to our close friends and family when they come visit. We love these hotels because they prioritize family friendly spaces, like playgrounds & walkability. Also, most of these are close to the Central Antigua, which is great for first time visitors.
Camino Real Antigua
If you’re looking for comfort, style, and space to stretch out, Camino Real Antigua is one of the top family-friendly luxury stays in town. The spacious rooms are blissfully quiet (a rarity in Antigua!), cribs are available upon request, and there’s a lush courtyard and heated pool that our kids loved.
We especially appreciated the on-site restaurant with allergy-friendly options and the overall peaceful vibe — even though it’s just a short walk from the action.
Want the serenity of a luxury retreat without missing the city’s magic? Camino Real Antigua offers the best of both worlds. Book Camino Real Antigua.
Porta Hotel Antigua
Porta Hotel is a family dream. With a dedicated playground, a kids’ club, and beautiful pool along with incredible volcano view-it’s one of the best-equipped hotels for traveling families in Antigua.
The traditional architecture and volcano views are just icing on the cake. It’s ideal for families who want a resort-like feel without sacrificing cultural charm.
Need room to play and relax in Antigua? Discover why Porta Hotel’s quiet, beautiful rooms are a hit with families. Check prices and availability at Porta Hotel Antigua
Hotel Casa del Parque by AHS
Hotel Casa Del Parque is a mid-range hotel is a gem for families wanting comfort and convenience without luxury prices. It’s just steps from the central park, yet tucked away enough to offer peace and quiet. There’s a lovely pool, a garden courtyard for downtime, and spacious family rooms that come with cribs upon request. We love this one for shorter stays.
Stay steps from Antigua’s central park—without the noise or the price tag. Casa Del Parque is the sweet spot for families on the go. Book Hotel Casa del Parque now.
Hotel Soleil La Antigua
Hotel Soleil is ideal if you want a resort-like experience while staying close to Antigua’s charm. It has multiple pools, a kid-friendly atmosphere, tennis courts, and open green space to let little ones roam.
It’s a perfect choice if you’re doing multigenerational travel or have a larger family group.
More pools, more space, more family fun—Hotel Soleil is the top pick for big family groups visiting Antigua. Reserve your family room at Hotel Soleil La Antigua.
Posada de San Carlos
This affordable and family-welcoming hotel offers a peaceful courtyard for kids to explore, comfortable rooms, and even rooftop volcano views. It’s a great budget-friendly option right in the heart of Antigua, close to the Santa Catalina Arch.
Want volcano views without blowing your budget? Posada de San Carlos delivers peaceful charm steps from the Santa Catalina Arch. Check availability at Posada de San Carlos.
Selina Antigua
While Selina is often known as a digital nomad spot, it’s surprisingly family-friendly too. There’s a game room, communal kitchen, and a small pool, plus comfy family rooms and a social vibe for longer stays. If you’re worldschooling or traveling with older kids, it’s a great value.
More than just a digital nomad hub—Selina Antigua is surprisingly perfect for families craving community and comfort in Antigua. Book your stay at Selina Antigua
Hotel Casa El Calvario
Casa El Calvario is a peaceful, budget-friendly hotel with kitchenette options — a game-changer for families managing food allergies or picky eaters. The rooms are simple and clean, and the location is within walking distance of central Antigua but far enough out for restful nights.
Need to manage picky eaters or food allergies while traveling? Casa El Calvario’s in-room kitchenettes are a lifesaver. See rooms at Hotel Casa El Calvario.
Casa Encantadia
This boutique guesthouse is full of warmth and local charm. It’s ideal for families who want something quiet, cozy, and beautiful — and the included breakfast means one less thing to plan in the morning. We loved the rooftop views and how it felt like a home away from home.
Start your day stress-free with included breakfast and local charm that’ll make your whole crew feel cared for. Book Casa Encantadia.
Family Travel Tips for Antigua, Guatemala
Antigua is vibrant, full of history, and very kid-friendly — but there are some things we wish we had known before landing with tired toddlers and a suitcase full of the wrong shoes. Here are our most helpful family-tested tips to make your trip smoother, safer, and more connected.
1. Bring Shoes with Grip
Those charming cobblestone streets? They’re slippery when wet and hard on little feet. Pack sturdy shoes with good tread for everyone — especially for wobbly walkers and tired grown-up knees. We’ve compiled our favorite toddler and children’s shoes for travel, and use the ones on this list in Antigua daily.
2. Babywearing > Stroller Life
Antigua is not stroller-friendly. Sidewalks are uneven, narrow, or simply disappear. A structured baby carrier or wrap is the best way to navigate the city and the cobblestone streets, whether you’re exploring ruins or just trying to cross the street without a meltdown. I’ve tested 11 different baby carriers, and now only travel with my favorite baby carrier.
3. Always Carry Layers
The weather can shift quickly in Antigua. Mornings start cool, afternoons heat up fast, and evenings cool down again. In the rainy season, heavy afternoon rain is common. Layering is key — lightweight jackets, sun hats, and breathable fabrics will keep everyone comfortable.
4. Be Street-Smart
We’re not exaggerating when we say crossing the street feels like playing Frogger. Drivers don’t stop for crosswalks. Hold kids’ hands tight, cross with confidence (and caution), and teach older kids to wait for a clear path — not for a car to wave them through.
5. Stick to Purified Water
Don’t drink the tap water. Even locals don’t. Use purified water for drinking and brushing teeth. Many hotels and restaurants offer refill stations — bring your reusable bottles. At our house, we use a clay filter, you’ll see these around Antigua.
6. Learn a Little Spanish
Even just a few words — gracias, por favor, cuánto cuesta — go a long way. Guatemalans are warm and welcoming, and showing an effort matters. Antigua has many language schools so if you’re looking for a place to study Spanish, this is a great place to learn.
7. Say Yes to Local Food
Antigua is full of delicious, kid-friendly food. My children, while not picky eaters, have loved the incredible, fresh food in Antigua. From tostadas to tamales to loads of delicious fruit, there is something for everyone.
8. Expect Laundry Runs
Kids = stains. Luckily, Antigua has great drop-off laundry services — usually same-day, and very affordable. It’s one of our favorite low-stress parenting hacks while traveling.
Where to Stay In Antigua Guatemala FAQS
How long to stay in Antigua with kids?
If you’re just coming to soak up the highlights — think colonial ruins, cobblestone charm, and a few fun outings — 3 to 5 days in Antigua can be magical.
But if you’re worldschooling, easing into travel with young kids, or just trying not to live out of your suitcase every other night, 1 to 2 weeks gives you the chance to slow down, build rhythm, and actually enjoy the pace of Guatemala.
We thought we would stay in Antigua for 4 weeks while we attended a worldschool hub, and now months later, we are still here!
Are there good day trips for families?
When you need a break from wandering ruins (or from each other), Antigua has some amazing kid-friendly day trips that don’t require a long haul.
Hobbitenango is a whimsical eco-park in the hills that looks like something out of a storybook — complete with hobbit houses, giant swings, and sweeping views.
You can also take a family-friendly volcano hike (we’re talking moderate trails with guides, not summit scrambles) or spend a morning wandering through the local markets to let kids snack, touch textures, and hear the rhythms of life in Guatemala.
How easy is it to find diapers and snacks?
Antigua has you covered. La Bodegona is a large grocery store right in the center of town with everything from fresh produce to boxed mac & cheese. La Torre is another great store where you can find everything from goldfish to artisan salami.
And don’t underestimate the tiny tiendas (corner stores) — they often carry bananas, crackers, and kid-friendly drinks. Pack some familiar snacks for peace of mind, but know you can find what you need once you’re here. It is easy to find diapers and wipes at any grocery store and even some tienditas.
Are there playgrounds for kids?
While Antigua isn’t bursting with playgrounds, there are still some great spots for kids to let out energy. Parque Central is the city’s heart — and while it’s more social than sporty, it’s a fun place to people-watch and chase pigeons. Cerro de la Cruz offers a short hike with a view (and a huge open space at the top that’s perfect for running around). There are many fincas (farms) that have restaurants, playgrounds, bike rentals, animals, and more- check out Finca Azotea, Caoba Farms, & eco Farms. One thing we love about Antigua is that many restaurants have playgrounds so while grown ups eat, kids can play.
Is Antigua stroller friendly?
We’ll say it straight: Antigua’s cobblestone streets are stunning, but brutal on strollers. Narrow sidewalks (if any), unexpected steps, and uneven stones make it a challenge even for rugged wheels. Baby carriers are your best friend here. If you’re bringing a stroller, go for the all-terrain kind, and use it for naps on the go — not for getting around easily.
What is medical care like in Antigua?
Medical care is available, but limited. Antigua has small clinics and pharmacies, but you’ll need to head to Guatemala City for anything more serious. We always travel with a mini first-aid kit, any prescriptions in labeled containers, and screenshots of local emergency numbers. Be sure to read our important safety tips for travel with kids as well as how to prepare for medical emergencies while abroad.
So, Should You Stay in Antigua with Kids?
If you’re looking for a destination with history, hands-on learning, welcoming people, flavorful food, and just the right amount of travel grit — yes, Antigua is a fantastic place to stay with kids.
It’s a place where your child might learn the word gracias one minute and spot a puffing volcano the next. The old city charm comes with quirks: uneven sidewalks, tricky intersections, and the occasional puff of ash from Volcán de Fuego. But the sense of wonder here is real.
It’s not Disneyland. And that’s the point. Antigua invites families into a deeper kind of travel — one that doesn’t just entertain your kids but shapes their worldview. With the right prep (and snacks), it can be an incredible chapter in your family’s journey.
