You can get from Guatemala City to Antigua by shared shuttle, public bus, private transfer, taxi/Uber, or rental car.
The cheapest transportation option is the public bus, which costs USD 1.25 and takes 2.5 to 3 hours.
The shared shuttle is the most popular option, costing USD 19.
The fastest way to travel is by private transfer or taxi/Uber. Prices start at USD 23.
While traversing Guatemala’s routes and exploring varied modes of transport, I’ve gathered insights that I will share with you to make your travels through Guatemala easier.
This article reflects my travels and has been cross-checked with Jean Nájera, CEO of GuateGo, for accuracy.
How to get from Guatemala City to Antigua
The following table outlines all Guatemala transportation options:
| Method | Travel time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Public Bus | 2.5 to 3 hrs | $1.25 |
| Shuttle | 2 hrs | $19 to 23 |
| Private Transfer | 1 hr | $59 to 160 |
| Taxi | 1 hr | $35 |
| Uber | 1 hr | $23 |
| Rental Car | 1 hr | – |
1. Shuttle
Journey Duration: 2 hours
My preferred way is by shared shuttle. Prices are reasonable, and the trip is safe and stress-free.
To avoid lengthy waiting times for other passengers to join, I recommend pre-booking a shuttle at least one day in advance with GuateGo. Prices start at USD 19, and there are departures throughout the day.
Tour and Travel Atitrans offers daily shared shuttles at 06:00 AM, 09:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 01:30 PM, 02:30 PM, 07:30 PM, and 09:00 PM.
You can also take a shuttle from the airport straight to Antigua. Departure times are at 06:00AM, 09:30AM, 11:00AM, 01:30PM, 02:30PM, 07:30PM and 09:00PM.
Shuttle Schedule:
The table below displays the shared shuttle timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06:00am | 08:00am | 2h | $19 |  |
| 09:30am | 11:30am | 2h | $19 | |
| 11:00am | 12:30pm | 1h 30m | $19 | |
| 01:30pm | 03:30pm | 2h | $19 | |
| 04:30pm | 06:30pm | 2h | $23 | |
| 07:30pm | 09:30pm | 2h | $19 | |
2. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: 1 hour
One of the most convenient options is to book a private shuttle service. Many companies in Guatemala City offer this service.
You can book in advance online or through your hotel. They will pick you up at the airport or your Guatemala City hotel and take you to your destination in Antigua.
You can book shuttles for up to 12 persons on GuateGo.
Prices for a private shuttle from Guatemala City to Antigua
- 1-3 passengers: USD 59
- 4-6 passengers: USD 90
- 7-9 passengers: USD 112.50
- 10-12 passengers: USD 160
3. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 1 hour
Renting a car at Guatemala’s La Aurora International Airport is simple and a great choice, especially if you’re keen on adventure and exploring less-traveled destinations.
Major international rental companies, such as Hertz, Avis, Budget, and some local rental companies, operate offices at the airport.
I always prefer renting a car to be more independent! However, note that the streets in Guatemala are pretty bad, full of potholes, and many drivers ignore traffic lights and rules.
4. Taxi or Uber
Journey Duration: 1 hour
Uber is available, and this trip costs around USD 30 outside peak times.
The primary challenge with Uber in this region is dealing with traffic.
Although the distance may not seem substantial on the map, trust me, during peak traffic hours, it can turn into a multi-hour journey – and the price can go up a lot.
Ultimately, it might be even more expensive than taking a taxi. For that reason, I only recommend taking an Uber after 7 PM.
A taxi from La Aurora Airport to Antigua costs USD 35.
5. Public Bus (Chicken Bus)
I wouldn’t recommend taking the public bus, also called the chicken bus.
In fact, if you don’t speak Spanish, I strongly discourage it!
Numerous crime reports have occurred on the chicken buses between Guatemala City and Antigua, so exercise caution when considering this option.
It’s not to say you shouldn’t use chicken buses in Guatemala (you absolutely should!), but perhaps not when you first arrive and are carrying all your belongings.
To get to Antigua, you’ll need to take a shuttle to the city’s main bus terminal and catch a bus from there.
The chicken bus ride costs 10 Quetzales ($2.70).
My hotel recommendation for Antigua
I stayed at the Posada del Angel Hotel, just a few blocks from the main square of Antigua.
It is a unique hotel in an old colonial building that integrates Antigua’s Maya and Spanish heritages.
Each of their rooms is designed with a different theme and equipped with everything you might need.
I loved the breakfast on the rooftop terrace with an incredible view of one of Antigua’s volcanoes!
You can read my full review of the Posada del Angel hotel here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the closest airport?
La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City is the closest airport to Antigua.
Can I book transportation in advance?
Yes, bus companies, private transfer and shuttle services, and car rental companies allow you to book your transport in advance online or over the phone. It’s advisable to do so, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
Can I use ride-sharing apps like Uber?
Yes, ride-sharing apps like Uber operate in Guatemala and can be a convenient and safe option for travel.
Is there an airport in Antigua?
No, there isn’t an airport in Antigua. The nearest airport to Antigua is La Aurora International Airport, also known as Guatemala City Airport. It serves as the primary international airport in Guatemala.
How far is Antigua from Guatemala City airport?
The distance from Guatemala City airport to Antigua is 24.5 miles (39.4 km), and transportation takes around one hour.
If you’d like to share this advice with others, please reference:
Universal Traveller – How to get from Guatemala City to Antigua, Guatemala (7 Best Ways)
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