Antigua

Antigua is one of the most beautiful colonial cities in the Americas, a UNESCO gem and former capital of Guatemala set in a highland valley ringed by three dramatic volcanoes. Its grid of cobbled streets is lined with brightly painted low houses, grand baroque churches, monasteries and evocative ruins left by centuries of earthquakes, all in a mellow, atmospheric setting. It is famed for its Spanish-language schools, its coffee, its lively cafes and its spectacular Holy Week celebrations.

What you actually see

• The cobbled streets - the pastel houses and colonial architecture.
• The Santa Catalina Arch - the iconic yellow arch framing a volcano.
• The churches and ruins - the baroque churches and earthquake-ruined convents.
• The volcano views - the three volcanoes ringing the town.

When to go

November to April, the dry season, for the best weather; the spectacular Semana Santa, or Holy Week, celebrations before Easter, with their carpets of coloured sawdust and processions, are extraordinary but extremely crowded, so book far ahead if visiting then.

Honest expectations

It is popular and, in the tourist core, gentrified and touristy, though genuinely lovely. During Holy Week it is packed and prices soar, so book far ahead. It sits in an earthquake and volcano zone, and one of the volcanoes, Fuego, is active and frequently erupting, safely viewed from a distance. Its beauty, coffee and setting are a highlight of Guatemala.

Nearby

The active Pacaya and Fuego volcanoes, Lake Atitlan and Guatemala City are within reach.