Things to Do in Guatemala City

Guatemala City is one of the highest capital cities in Central America, sitting at 1,500 metres above sea level in a mountain valley.

The city was founded in 1776 as a replacement capital after earthquakes destroyed the previous capital, Antigua, making it one of Central America's youngest major cities.

The Metropolitan Cathedral, completed in 1815, was built to be earthquake-resistant with thick walls and a low profile—a direct response to the region's seismic history.

Guatemala City's culinary scene reflects its highland location, with fresh black beans, corn tortillas, and chiles rellenos being staples rooted in indigenous Maya traditions.

The city sits in the Valley of Hermitage (Valle de la Hermita), surrounded by volcanic peaks and prone to dense morning fog due to its altitude and tropical location.

Zone 1, the historic colonial centre, contains some of Central America's finest neoclassical architecture despite the city's relatively young age compared to other colonial capitals.