Daily costs per person in US dollars. Antigua is excellent value for Central America — these ranges cover the spectrum from budget backpacker to comfortable mid-range.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: GTQ (Quetzal) (USD also widely accepted)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $6–12 | $20–50 | $70+ | Hostel dorms → guesthouses → boutique hotels |
| Food | $4–10 | $12–25 | $35+ | Comedores → local restaurants → fine dining |
| Transport | $1–5 | $8–15 | $25+ | Chicken buses → shuttles → private transfers |
| Activities | $5–15 | $20–40 | $60+ | Self-guided → group tours → private guides |
| Entry Fees | $2–5 | $5–10 | $10–20 | Combined ruins pass available |
| Daily Total | $20–45 | $65–140 | $200+ | Budget backpacker → comfortable mid → luxury |
Money-saving tips
Eat at comedores
Local comedores serve full meals (chicken, rice, beans, tortillas, drink) for Q20–35 ($2.50–4.50 USD). Tourist restaurants charge 3–5x more for similar food.
Book Acatenango wisely
Acatenango tour prices vary widely — Q250–600 ($32–78 USD) depending on operator. Compare inclusions (food, sleeping bag quality, group size) rather than just price.
Stay in hostels
Dorm beds in Antigua start at Q50–80 ($6–10 USD) per night. Many include breakfast, filtered water, and communal kitchens.
Walk everywhere
Antigua is entirely walkable — you will never need a taxi within the city. Save transport costs for day trips.
Spanish schools are cheap
One-on-one Spanish tuition costs Q100–150 ($13–20 USD) per hour — remarkably affordable for personalised language learning. Many include homestay options.
Shuttle buses over tourist vans
Shared shuttle buses to Lake Atitlán, Guatemala City, and other destinations are much cheaper than private transfers. Book through hostels for the best rates.
