Guatemala City is the capital and largest city of Guatemala, serving as the country’s economic, political, and cultural hub. Located in the Valle de la Ermita, the city is surrounded by mountains and volcanoes, offering a dramatic landscape that contrasts with its modern urban development. If you’re planning to visit, figuring out the best areas to stay in Guatemala City is key to making the most of your time there, especially since safety can be a concern.
Founded in 1776 following the destruction of Antigua Guatemala by a series of earthquakes, Guatemala City has grown into a sprawling metropolis divided into 22 zones, each with its distinct character. The city blends colonial architecture with contemporary high-rises, bustling commercial districts, and a thriving cultural scene. The National Palace of Culture, Metropolitan Cathedral, and Miguel Ángel Asturias Cultural Center are among its most notable landmarks. See accommodation in Guatemala City.
Other important attractions in Guatemala City include Museo Popol Vuh, Torre del Reformador, Museo Miraflores, Museo Nacional de Arte Moderno Carlos Mérida, the Railway Museum, and Avenida La Reforma.
Outdoorsy types and nature lovers, as well as those traveling with kids will enjoy attractions like Parque Zoológico La Aurora, IRTRA Mundo Petapa theme park, La Asunción Ecological Park, and Senderos Alux Ecological Park.
Due to its high-altitude location, Guatemala City has a tropical savanna climate. The city has an almost constant temperature (14 – 24 ºC) year-round. The rainy season lasts from May to November, while the rest of the year is drier. The best time to visit Guatemala City is during the dry season (December through April). During these months, you can enjoy outdoor activities without having to worry about the humid season’s torrential rains.
To get to Guatemala City by air, the city is served by the La Aurora International Airport. Located 6 kilometers south of the City Center, this airport offers regional connections to several destinations in Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean and a handful of international services to cities in the US, Spain, and Colombia. A network of long-distance buses also connects Guatemala City to most cities in the country and neighboring nations. Book bus tickets.
Guatemala City’s central location and transportation system, including an extensive network of buses, Transmetro rapid transit, and taxis, make it a strategic base for exploring the country. You can rent a cheap car in Guatemala City here.
What are the best areas to stay in Guatemala City?
The city offers visitors a mix of luxury hotels, boutique stays, and budget accommodations, particularly in Zona 10, also known as Zona Viva, the city’s entertainment and nightlife district.
The best area to stay in Guatemala City, especially as a foreign tourist, is Zona 10. Also known as Zona Viva, this upscale area is home to some of the city’s main shopping centers and best international hotels. Zona 10 is also the safest area to stay in Guatemala City. Find accommodation in Zona 10.
Other districts among the safest areas to stay in Guatemala City include the Zona 4, the Zona 13 and the Zona 16. Meanwhile, the City Center (or Zona 1), while not a safe as the other zones, is the best area for culture and budget-friendly accommodation.
To make sense of these seemingly random numbers, keep reading to learn more about the best areas to stay in Guatemala City.
1. Zona Viva (Zona 10)
The safest area to stay in Guatemala City
South of the city center, Zona 10 is an upscale and safe district in Guatemala City.
Zona 10, also known as Zona Viva, is Guatemala City’s most modern and upscale district. Located just 3 mi (5 km) south of the Historic Center, this area is known for its vibrant nightlife, fine dining, and high-end shopping. It is the preferred choice for business travelers and foreign visitors seeking comfort and convenience. It is also considered one of the safest and most luxurious districts in the country.
This district developed rapidly in the late 20th century, becoming the city’s main commercial and entertainment hub. Today, it is home to international embassies, corporate offices, luxury hotels, and shopping malls, such as Oakland Mall and Plaza Fontabella, which offer a mix of international brands, boutiques, and gourmet restaurants. Reforma Avenue, one of the city’s most important thoroughfares, runs through Zona 10, lined with modern buildings, restaurants, and business centers.
Beyond shopping and dining, Zona 10 is rich in cultural attractions. The Ixchel Museum of Indigenous Textiles and Clothing showcases Guatemala’s weaving traditions, while the Popol Vuh Museum houses an impressive collection of Mayan artifacts.
The nightlife in Zona 10 is among the most vibrant in Guatemala City, with many trendy bars, lounges, and nightclubs concentrated along its main avenues.
Transportation in Zona 10 is well-developed, with Transmetro stations such as Seis 26 and Torre del Reformador on Line 13 providing direct connections to other parts of the city. The district is also just a short drive from La Aurora International Airport.
Zona 10 offers a range of accommodations, including five-star hotels, business-friendly serviced apartments, and boutique properties.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Zona 10 (Zona Viva)
Apart-Hotel Casa Serena
Apart-Hotel Casa Serena provides accommodations with an outdoor swimming pool, a garden and a shared lounge. This 4-star hotel offers a business center, a 24-hour front desk, airport transportation, room service and free WiFi.
2. Zona 4
A Bohemian and central district to stay in Guatemala City
Famous for its bohemian vibe, Zona 4 is a colorful neighborhood south of the Old Town.
Zona 4 is Guatemala City’s creative and cultural district, located just 1.5 mi (2.5 km) north of Zona 10. Known for its urban renewal projects, it has transformed from an overlooked commercial area into a vibrant hub of art, technology, and innovation. The district is home to colorful street murals, coworking spaces, independent cafés, and an energetic social scene that attracts young professionals, artists, and entrepreneurs.
Once a traditional business zone, Zona 4 has been revitalized through projects like 4 Grados Norte, a pedestrian-friendly area filled with boutique shops, design studios, and cultural venues. This walkable neighborhood is one of the best places to experience Guatemala City’s modern and alternative side, offering everything from live music performances to open-air markets and contemporary art exhibitions.
The district is also home to notable institutions like the Centro Cultural Miguel Ángel Asturias, a striking Brutalist-style cultural complex that houses theaters, art galleries, and concert halls. Art lovers will also appreciate the many independent galleries showcasing Guatemalan contemporary art and design.
Zona 4 has a thriving café culture, with a mix of specialty coffee shops, craft breweries, and trendy restaurants serving local and international cuisine. Its nightlife scene is more relaxed than Zona 10, with intimate bars and rooftop lounges offering a laid-back atmosphere.
Public transportation is convenient, with Transmetro stations like Plaza Municipal and Estación 4 Grados Norte providing easy access to the city’s main areas. The district’s central location also makes it easy to reach the Historic Center and surrounding business hubs.
Zona 4 offers a mix of boutique hotels, modern apartments, and budget-friendly hostels, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking for a creative, walkable, and culturally rich area to stay in Guatemala City.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Zona 4
Tequila Sunrise Hostel
Tequila Sunrise B&B is located in Guatemala, 0.9 mi from Popol Vuh Museum. Free WiFi is offered.
3. Zona 13
A convenient area to stay near the airport
Home to the La Aurora International Airport, Zona 13 also stands out for its many green spaces.
Zona 13 is Guatemala City’s transportation hub and greenest district, located 6 mi (10 km) south of the Historic Center. Best known as the home of La Aurora International Airport, it is a strategic area for travelers arriving or departing from Guatemala. But Zona 13 offers more than just convenience—it is also home to some of the city’s most important museums and parks.
La Aurora International Airport operates direct routes to major cities in the United States, such as Los Angeles, Miami, and New York, as well as destinations in Canada, Mexico, Latin America, and Europe. Ground transportation options such as taxis, shuttles, and car rental services are readily available at the terminal.
One of the main attractions in Zona 13 is the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, which houses an extensive collection of Mayan artifacts, including pottery, stelae, and jade pieces. The Children’s Museum is another highlight, featuring interactive exhibits that make it an excellent stop for families. Additionally, the Natural History Museum showcases Guatemala’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
For outdoor activities, La Aurora Zoo is a well-maintained park featuring native and exotic animals. At the same time, Parque Naciones Unidas offers hiking trails and panoramic views of the city and surrounding volcanoes.
Transportation in Zona 13 is efficient, with Transmetro stations like Aeropuerto and Plaza Berlín connecting the district to other parts of the city.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Zona 13
L’Aurora Inn
Located in Guatemala, 3.5 miles from Popol Vuh Museum, L’Aurora Inn has accommodations with a terrace and private parking.
4. Zona 1 (Centro Histórico)
The best area to stay in Guatemala City for backpackers
While it may not offer the luxury of other districts, the Historic City Center provides an authentic experience in Guatemala City.
Zona 1, also known as Centro Histórico, is the heart of Guatemala City and the country’s political and cultural center. Located at the city’s founding site, this district is home to some of Guatemala’s most important historical landmarks, colonial-era architecture, and vibrant public squares.
The district’s centerpiece is Parque Central (Plaza de la Constitución), surrounded by key landmarks such as the National Palace of Culture, a grand neoclassical building that once housed the government, and the Metropolitan Cathedral, a symbol of the country’s colonial past. Nearby, Portal del Comercio is a historic arcade filled with cafés and shops, adding to the plaza’s lively atmosphere. Other notable attractions include the National Library and the Post Office Palace, both reflecting early 20th-century architectural styles.
Zona 1 is also home to several museums, including the Museo Nacional de Historia, which chronicles the country’s past, and the Museo del Ferrocarril, dedicated to Guatemala’s railway history. The area’s traditional markets, such as Mercado Central, offer a glimpse into local life with stalls selling handicrafts, textiles, and street food.
The district has a growing nightlife and arts scene, with independent theaters, live music venues, and bars catering to a diverse crowd. Calle Real and surrounding streets feature cultural centers, art galleries, and traditional cantinas, making it a hub for those interested in local culture.
Public transportation is easily accessible in Zona 1, with Transmetro stations like Plaza Barrios and Parque Central offering direct routes to other parts of the city. Walking is a popular way to explore the district, though some areas require caution after dark.
Accommodations in Zona 1 range from budget hostels and historic hotels to modern boutique stays.
5. Zona 15
An excellent district to stay in Guatemala
Zona 15 is a great choice for travelers looking for a quieter yet well-connected stay in Guatemala City.
Zona 15 is an upscale residential and commercial district located 5 mi (8 km) east of the Historic Center of Guatemala City. Known for its quiet neighborhoods, modern developments, and green spaces, it is a preferred area for families, professionals, and expatriates.
The district is home to Las Américas Avenue, a key thoroughfare lined with shops, restaurants, and office buildings. Zona 15 also features Plaza Varietá and Centro Comercial Pasaje Naranjo, offering a variety of dining and shopping options. The area is known for its well-maintained streets, tree-lined avenues, and a generally safe and residential atmosphere.
For nature lovers, Ecoparque Kanajuyú is a highlight of Zona 15, offering walking trails, picnic areas, and green spaces ideal for outdoor activities. The district also houses several embassies and international schools, reinforcing its status as a diplomatic and expatriate-friendly area.
Zona 15 has a range of mid-range and upscale accommodations, including boutique hotels and serviced apartments.
6. Zona 16
An exclusive district in Guatemala City
With its blend of modern urban planning, natural beauty, and high-end amenities, Zona 16 is an excellent choice for those seeking a refined and tranquil stay in Guatemala City.
Zona 16 is one of the most exclusive residential districts in Guatemala City, located 5 mi (8 km) east of the Historic Center. Known for its green spaces, upscale gated communities, and modern developments, this area offers a quieter alternative to the busier commercial zones while still providing access to key city attractions.
One of the highlights of Zona 16 is Universidad del Valle de Guatemala (UVG), one of the country’s most prestigious private universities. The district is also home to Cardales de Cayalá, a modern mixed-use development featuring high-end shopping, restaurants, and cultural spaces. Nearby, Paseo Cayalá is a pedestrian-friendly commercial complex designed in a European-inspired architectural style, offering a variety of dining options, luxury boutiques, and outdoor areas. Zona 16 is also home to the US Embassy, reinforcing its status as an important diplomatic and residential area.
Zona 16 is ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed, suburban atmosphere with access to nature. The area features several parks and green spaces, including Reserva Ecológica Cayalá, a protected forest area with walking trails and opportunities for birdwatching. Additionally, Club de Golf San Isidro, one of the city’s premier golf courses, is located here, offering a private retreat for golf enthusiasts.
Although Zona 16 is primarily residential, it has a selection of boutique hotels and serviced apartments, catering to visitors looking for a peaceful stay. The area is well-connected by road, though public transportation is more limited compared to central zones. Taxis and ride-hailing services are the most convenient options for getting around.
Read this in other languages:
- |ES| Dónde alojarse en Ciudad de Guatemala.
- |PT| Melhores áreas para se hospedar na Cidade da Guatemala.
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