The bustling markets of Antigua offer a perfect gateway to authentic Guatemalan culture. Two standout experiences rise above the rest: The combination cooking class and market tour – which we love for its practical, hands-on approach to local cuisine – and the fascinating Chichicastenango Market Tour, where centuries-old Maya traditions come alive through colorful textiles and crafts. Budget travelers will appreciate the shared shuttle service to “Chichi” market, while foodies shouldn’t miss the Market Food Tour with its excellent tortilla-making workshop. For those willing to venture further, Guatemala City’s Shopping Tour reveals modern retail alongside traditional markets. Check out these top market tours to experience the best of Guatemala’s shopping scene.
Key Points
- The Chichicastenango Market Tour offers a culture in indigenous Maya traditions with colorful textiles, handicrafts, and local produce.
- The Shared Shuttle to Chichicastenango Market provides a budget-friendly option for travelers, with accommodations for up to 20 people.
- The Market Food Tour and Tortilla Workshop by Kukul Tales includes food tastings, a tuc tuc ride, and a traditional Guatemalan meal.
- The Shopping Tour in Guatemala City covers a range of destinations, including the Central Market, Oakland Mall, and Paseo Cayalá, showcasing various textiles, ceramics, and carvings.
- The Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour at the Cuscun Cooking School in Antigua provides a hands-on cooking experience and an exploration of local dishes.
Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour
For those seeking an immersive culinary experience in Antigua, Guatemala, the Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour at Cuscun Cooking School offers a must-try opportunity.
With a 100% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this 5-hour activity provides a hands-on cooking class and a lively market tour.
Customers praise the knowledgeable guides, the beautiful rooftop setting, and the high-quality local dishes such as tamales, pepián, and chiles rellenos.
Priced at $98.11 per person, the tour includes transportation, lunch, snacks, and alcoholic beverages.
Ideal for families and groups of all skill levels, this cooking class is a fantastic way to explore Guatemalan cuisine and culture.
Read our full review: Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Guatemalan Cooking Class & Market Tour
The Guatemalan Cooking Class & Market Tour at Cuscun Cooking School in Antigua offers an immersive culinary experience that has captivated travelers.
With a 100% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this class provides an authentic taste of Guatemalan cuisine. Guests can expect a hands-on cooking session featuring traditional dishes like Pepián and Subanik, as well as local snacks and desserts.
The market tour offers a glimpse into the community’s agricultural roots and the opportunity to learn from the engaging guide, Milton.
Rounding out the experience are personal stories, stunning rooftop views, and the chance to connect with Guatemalan culture through food.
Read our full review: Guatemalan Cooking Class & Market Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Chichicastenango Market Tour
Nestled in the Guatemalan highlands, the Chichicastenango Market Tour offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the vibrant cultural traditions of the indigenous Q’eqchi and K’iche’ Maya communities.
Starting at 7:00 AM, this small-group tour takes travelers through the bustling market, where they’ll discover a wealth of colorful textiles, handicrafts, and local produce.
With wheelchair accessibility, snacks, and bottled water included, the tour provides a seamless experience. Priced at $155 per person, the tour also includes pickups from Antigua hotels and an additional $30 fee for those coming from Guatemala City.
Past guests have praised the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to connect with living Maya traditions.
Read our full review: Chichicastenango Market Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Visitors seeking a more budget-friendly option to explore the renowned Chichicastenango Market can consider the shared shuttle service from Antigua and Panajachel. The shuttle accommodates up to 20 travelers at a cost of $18 or more per person.
While not wheelchair accessible, the service allows children under 3 to ride for free. Reviewers note the shuttle’s efficiency and safety, though some report delays and vehicle discomfort.
Travelers should confirm details like one-way tickets and pickup times, as the service has faced some organizational challenges, especially during peak hours.
Read our full review: Shared Shuttle – Visit Chichicastenango Market Review
Book now: Check availability
Market Food Tour and Tortilla Workshop
Kukul Tales, a reputable tour operator in Antigua, Guatemala, offers a captivating Market Food Tour and Tortilla Workshop.
The tour includes six market food tastings, a tuc tuc ride to El Comalote, and the opportunity to make three tortillas yourself. You’ll also enjoy a Guatemalan lunch with a traditional drink, and snacks are provided.
The tour is private, so only your group will participate. Priced at €86.67 per person, the tour departs from and returns to the Parque Central de Antigua Guatemala.
While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, and the tour receives consistently excellent reviews.
Read our full review: Market Food Tour and Tortilla Workshop Review
Book now: Check availability
Solola Market, Panajachel Cloud Forest and Mayan Villages From Antigua
Exploring the vibrant Solola Market, the tranquil Panajachel Cloud Forest, and the rich Mayan villages along the shores of Lake Atitlan, this full-day tour from Antigua, Guatemala, offers an immersive cultural experience.
Priced from $127.79 per person, the tour accommodates up to 8 travelers and includes round-trip transportation. While food and gratuities aren’t included, the tour highlights authentic Mayan culture, including a shaman-led ritual.
Reviews are generally positive, with praise for knowledgeable guides, though some report logistical issues. The tour provides an opportunity to discover the region’s indigenous heritage in a wheelchair-accessible and family-friendly setting.
Read our full review: Solola Market, Panajachel Cloud Forest and Mayan Villages From Antigua Review
Book now: Check availability
Combo Walking and Market Tour
Delving into the vibrant heart of Antigua, Guatemala, the Combo Walking and Market Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
Over a half-day, groups of up to six participants can explore Antigua’s highlights, gaining insights into the country’s history, culture, and politics. The tour includes a visit to a local food market, where a knowledgeable guide helps navigate the lively stalls and sample local delicacies.
Travelers can also indulge in Guatemalan sweets and a traditional lunch after the market exploration. Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour involves extensive walking, making it suitable for most travelers who don the recommended comfortable, closed-toe shoes.
Read our full review: Combo Walking and Market Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Tour: Chichicastenango Maya Market and Lake Atitlan From Antigua
This full-day tour from Antigua offers travelers a chance to enjoy Guatemala’s highland culture and stunning natural scenery.
The itinerary highlights include visiting the vibrant Chichicastenango Maya Market, exploring the colonial architecture, and taking in the scenic views of Lake Atitlan from Panjachel.
The tour includes a driver/guide, local guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and an air-conditioned vehicle. Participants can opt for an optional lunch and purchase alcoholic drinks.
While reviews note some comfort issues with the bus seating, the overall experience is well-organized with a friendly guide, and travelers appreciate the spectacular locations visited, especially Chichicastenango and Panajachel.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour: Chichicastenango Maya Market and Lake Atitlan From Antigua Review
Book now: Check availability
Shopping Tour in Guatemala City From Antigua
For travelers seeking a more immersive shopping experience in Guatemala, the Shopping Tour in Guatemala City from Antigua offers a chance to explore the country’s bustling markets and upscale shopping centers.
The 8-hour tour includes visits to the Central Market, Oakland Mall, and Paseo Cayalá, where visitors can browse a range of artisanal products like textiles, ceramics, leather goods, and carvings.
Accompanied by a driver-guide, the tour provides round-trip hotel transportation and the opportunity to enjoy lunch at one’s own expense.
With a maximum group size of 12 travelers, this shopping excursion promises a personalized and convenient way to discover the shopping highlights of Guatemala’s capital city.
Read our full review: Shopping Tour in Guatemala City From Antigua Review
Book now: Check availability
Market and Mayan Cooking Class
In Antigua, Guatemala, travelers can enjoy the vibrant local culture by participating in a Market and Mayan Cooking Class.
Guests will visit the Central Market to shop for fresh ingredients, then learn to prepare traditional Mayan dishes like pepian, hilachas, and jocon.
The all-inclusive class provides roundtrip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and covers all costs, including ingredients, a typical dish, drink, dessert, and recipe.
With a minimum of 4 and maximum of 12 participants, the experience ensures personalized attention.
Vegetarian options are available, and the class isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Booking and rescheduling are flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Market and Mayan Cooking Class Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Bargain Effectively With Local Vendors?
When bargaining with local vendors, be polite yet firm. Start low and negotiate up gradually. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the price isn’t right. With patience and respect, you can often get a great deal.
What Are the Best Payment Methods to Use in Markets?
Cash is the most common and convenient payment method in markets. Using a credit or debit card can work, but there may be fees. Negotiating a fair price and paying in the local currency are ideal ways to get the best deals when bargaining with vendors.
Can I Take Photographs of the Local People?
Taking photos of locals is generally permitted, but it’s considerate to ask for permission first. Be mindful of cultural sensitivities and avoid intrusive or exploitative shots. Respect the privacy and comfort of the people you photograph.
Are There Any Safety Precautions I Should Be Aware Of?
For any destination, travelers should exercise caution. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuables, and respect local customs. It’s also wise to research any potential safety concerns before your trip and follow the guidance of your tour guide.
What Are the Recommended Souvenirs to Purchase in Antigua?
Some of the top recommended souvenirs to purchase in Antigua include traditional crafts like wood carvings, woven baskets, and pottery. Visitors should also consider buying locally-made spices, rum, and specialty foods as authentic keepsakes of their time in the island.
Recap
Antigua offers a range of shopping tours that showcase the vibrant markets and cultural traditions of Guatemala. From cooking classes to guided market tours, visitors can enjoy the local way of life and bring home unique souvenirs. Whether you’re looking to explore Chichicastenango or experience a Maya cooking class, Antigua provides ample opportunities to shop, learn, and connect with the rich heritage of this captivating destination.