Antigua GuatemalavsCartagena
Can't decide between Antigua Guatemala and Cartagena? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Antigua Guatemala
Antigua Guatemala is a beautifully preserved Spanish colonial town surrounded by three volcanoes. This UNESCO World Heritage city offers cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, stunning church ruins, excellent coffee, and some of Central America's best Spanish schools.
Known for
Cartagena
Cartagena is a Caribbean jewel of colorful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and tropical energy. This walled city enchants with its romantic plazas, vibrant nightlife, nearby islands, and some of the best ceviche in South America.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Antigua Guatemala offers Central Park & Cathedral, Santa Catalina Arch, Volcano Hiking (Pacaya, Acatenango)
Cartagena offers Walled City, Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, Getsemaní
Food & Dining
Antigua Guatemala is famous for its local dining scene
Cartagena is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Antigua Guatemala offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Cartagena has legendary nightlife
Best Time to Visit
November to April
December to April
Weather
Summer: 22°C, Winter: 18°C
Summer: 32°C, Winter: 30°C
Top Attractions in Antigua Guatemala
- 1Central Park & Cathedral
- 2Santa Catalina Arch
- 3Volcano Hiking (Pacaya, Acatenango)
- 4Coffee Farm Tours
- 5Semana Santa (Holy Week)
- 6Chocolate Workshops
Top Attractions in Cartagena
- 1Walled City
- 2Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
- 3Getsemaní
- 4Rosario Islands
- 5Plaza Santo Domingo
- 6Café del Mar
Antigua Guatemala is Popular With
Cartagena is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Antigua Guatemala
- 1
Cerro de la Cruz
A hilltop viewpoint overlooking the entire city of Antigua with the Volcán de Agua perfectly framed in the background.
- 2
Café Condesa's Secret Garden
Behind the popular Café Condesa on Parque Central lies a stunning, tranquil botanical garden attached to the ruins of an old convent.
Hidden Gems in Cartagena
- 1
Convento de la Popa
A 17th-century monastery perched on the highest hill in Cartagena, offering panoramic 360-degree views of the entire city, bay, and coastline.
- 2
Mercado de Bazurto
The city's sprawling, chaotic central market where locals buy everything from fresh fish and exotic fruits to household goods and traditional remedies.
Neighborhoods to Explore
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Top Areas in Antigua Guatemala
Centro Histórico
The historic heart of Antigua, centered around Parque Central.
La Merced
A slightly quieter, more residential area northwest of the center, anchored by the stunning yellow Baroque facade of La Merced Church.
Top Areas in Cartagena
Ciudad Amurallada (The Walled City)
The historic heart and soul of Cartagena, enclosed by massive stone walls.
Getsemaní
Once a rough neighborhood, now the city's hip, artistic, and most energetic quarter.
Budget Comparison
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Budget in Antigua Guatemala
Budget in Cartagena
Book Activities
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Book Activities in Antigua Guatemala
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Book Activities in Cartagena
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
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Find cheap transport to Antigua Guatemala
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Find cheap transport to Cartagena
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Our Verdict
Both Antigua Guatemala and Cartagena are incredible destinations. Antigua Guatemala excels in volcanoes and coffee, while Cartagena stands out for colonial architecture and Caribbean beaches.
Best destination for:
nightlife
Cartagena
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