Puerto Quetzal Shore Excursion: Colonial Antigua City Highlights

Your Antiguan experience begins as your expert tour guide picks you up from port for a scenic, 90-minute air-conditioned ride through forests, past volcanoes and stunning examples of Spanish Baroque influenced architecture

Arco de Santa Catalina

Built in the 17th century, originally it was connected to the convent of Santa Catalina, allowing the cloistered nuns to pass from one building to the other without going out on the street.

Antigua Guatemala Central Park

Central Park surrounded by the traditional grid pattern used frequently in urban planning in the Spanish colonies. The park is surrounded by the Palace of the General Captains, the Town Hall, the Cathedral of San Jose and the Trade Portal. Here in the park, we will also find the Las Sirenas fountain. This fountain has a traditional oral where the Count of La Gomera ordered to build the fountain in memory of his daughters, who in giving birth did not want to breastfeed their children for what the count ordered To tie his daughters to a trunk in the center of a waterhole, where they died of thirst and hunger.

Jade Maya - The original Jade factory, museum & showroom

At the Jade Factory and Museum you will learn about the various types of jade, how this mineral is mined and processed then fashioned into beautiful jewelry. Be sure to touch the jade rock formation in the middle of the showroom for good luck! A delicious lunch is included that will consist of homemade tortillas and other traditional Guatemalan food. Watch first-hand how the tortillas are made and learn about the importance of the traditions and history that is rooted in the country's food. A delicious lunch is included that will consist of homemade tortillas and other traditional Guatemalan food. Watch first-hand how the tortillas are made and learn about the importance of the traditions and history that is rooted in the country's food.

Casa Santo Domingo

Continue on to Cathedral Church and the ruins of Santo Domingo Convent. This monastery was edified in 1529 and today some of its post-earthquake remains have been converted into a hotel.

While in the city you will have time to browse the shops and admire locally hand crafted items. Pick up a souvenir or two before your return back to Quetzal Cruise Port.

La Merced

Stand outside the 17th century Church of La Merced with its twin bell towers and graceful yellow and white facade.