Guatemala's capital city center, home to the National Palace, Central Market, and gateway to Antigua Guatemala.

About Guatemala City City Center

Guatemala City's Zona 1 (city center) is the historic heart of Central America's largest metropolis, anchored by the Parque Central (Plaza de la Constitución) flanked by the National Palace of Culture, the Metropolitan Cathedral (built 1782), and the Portal del Comercio. The area bustles with street vendors, traditional markets, and colonial-era architecture.

Beyond Zona 1, the city spreads across a series of distinct zones. Zona 10 (Zona Viva) is the upscale district with international restaurants, bars, and major hotels. Zona 4 is an emerging creative neighborhood with murals, craft coffee shops, and Guatemala's contemporary art scene. The Museo Ixchel del Traje Indígena and Museo Popol Vuh in Zona 10 showcase Maya heritage.

Guatemala City is the primary gateway to the country's top destinations: Antigua Guatemala (45 min), Lake Atitlán (3 hours), Tikal ruins (1-hour flight or 8-hour drive), and the colonial city of Quetzaltenango. Shuttle services to these destinations depart from multiple points in the city.

Nearby Landmarks

National Palace Metropolitan Cathedral Central Market Zona Viva Relief Map Park

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost Varies by traffic
Time 20-40 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

Exit arrivals and go to the official taxi counter inside the terminal. Purchase a pre-paid taxi voucher to your destination zone. The taxi takes Boulevard Liberación or Avenida La Reforma to the city center.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi Varies by traffic 20-40 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Official airport taxis operate 24/7. A nighttime ride to Zona 1 costs Q150-200 ($19-26). Uber works in Guatemala City and is generally considered safer than street taxis. There are no public buses from the airport at night. Avoid walking in the city center after dark.

Luggage Tips

Airport taxis have trunk space for luggage. Keep valuables close and bags in the trunk (not on the seat beside you). If heading to Antigua the next day, many shuttles depart from Zona 1 and Zona 10 hotels and include luggage handling.

Accessibility

La Aurora Airport has basic wheelchair assistance (request through your airline). Airport taxis can accommodate folded wheelchairs. Guatemala City's sidewalks are often uneven and lack ramps. Zona 10 and newer developments have better accessibility. Wheelchair-accessible transport must be specifically arranged.