Planning Your Destination Wedding in Antigua, Guatemala: Everything You Need to Know

Choose your wedding planner

A wedding planner is a must when planning a destination wedding. Their local knowledge and expertise will allow you to fully enjoy your special day without stress.

Venue tours & tastings

Explore wedding venues in and around Antigua — there’s something for every style, from stunning colonial ruins to boutique hotels. Some of my top picks include Villa Bokeh, Hotel Santo Domingo and Finca San Cayetano.

Once you’ve selected your dream venue, schedule a menu tasting to choose the perfect dishes for your big day. Keep in mind that Antigua has specific curfews, so consider this when selecting your venue.

Send RSVPs at least 9 months in advance

Antigua has become a highly sought-after wedding destination, and hotels book up quickly. Send out your RSVPs early so guests can secure accommodations in time. Also, consider reserving room blocks with your travel advisor to help those last-minute bookers!

Engagement & wedding photo sessions

Antigua provides a breathtaking backdrop for engagement and wedding photos. Many brides take advantage of their wedding day to capture stunning shots in the city’s picturesque streets. For our own wedding, we chose a nearby natural location with a volcano in the background — unforgettable!

Adventure activities

As an adventurous bride myself, I planned a sunrise hike up Acatenango Volcano two days before our wedding. A group of 32 of us hiked to the top, where we enjoyed breakfast and champagne — it was truly epic!

If you prefer something more low-key, Antigua offers plenty of other activities, from coffee farm tours to cultural experiences. Plan with your travel advisor to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Incorporate local culture into your wedding

• Welcome bags: Create fun, locally sourced welcome bags by visiting the central market for artisanal gifts. Add a handwritten note for a personal touch.

• Traditional entertainment: Hire a torito (a traditional firework show), have local marimba musicians play at your welcome cocktail or serve Guatemalan dishes at your reception.

Help your guests plan their trip

Some of our guests traveled from Europe and stayed in Guatemala for a couple of weeks. We recommended:

- Lake Atitlán – Stay at Hotel Palopó for breathtaking views.

- Tikal – Explore the ancient Mayan ruins.

- Antigua & surroundings – Day tours to coffee farms, scenic hikes and charming villages.

Reception planning

Work with your wedding planner and decorator to create a wedding that reflects your style while highlighting the beauty of your venue. Prioritize local vendors and flowers for an authentic touch.

Food & beverage – Get creative!

Since I’m vegetarian and my husband is a meat lover, we decided on a “his and hers” menu! We hired Sociedad del Asado, a catering company specializing in traditional grilling, which delighted our guests. Meanwhile, I enjoyed fresh salads and a live pasta station.

Bridal styling

Book your hair and makeup team well in advance — for yourself, your bridesmaids and close family. Enjoy getting ready together and capture the moment with beautiful photos and videos.

Enjoy your big day!

Let your wedding planner handle all the logistics while you and your partner focus on celebrating. Small details might not go as planned, but remember — only you will notice them!

Day trips

- Acatenango Volcano hike – A must for adventure lovers!

- Coffee farm tours – Learn about Guatemala’s world-famous coffee.

- Local market shopping – Pick up beautiful artisan crafts and souvenirs.

Breakfast:

• El Viejo Café – A historic spot in the heart of Antigua. Try the Chapin breakfast for a taste of Guatemala.
• Caoba Farms – A cozy restaurant located in a farm, great for families. They sometimes host a local market, too!

Lunch:

• Cervecería 14 – A spacious beer garden with live music, great food and volcano views.
• Angie Angie – A charming restaurant with amazing Italian dishes.
• Samsara – A simple yet delicious vegetarian spot.
• El Hato Verde – A hillside restaurant with breathtaking volcano views and floating nets where you can relax.

Dinner:

• Clio’s Antigua – French fusion cuisine with delicious cocktails. Their Paloma was my favorite! It’s great for small to medium-sized groups.
• Bistrot Cinq – A cozy, romantic French bistro in the heart of Antigua.

Drinks:

• Ulew – Our favorite speakeasy, hidden inside Antigua Brewery. Incredible custom cocktails!
• Charleston – A stylish speakeasy behind a suit shop, perfect for small groups.
• Café No Sé – A cave-like mezcal bar with a unique vibe. Ask the bartender about their house mezcal!