I didn’t do a lot of the initial planning for where to stay in Guatemala City. My friends, Katie and Dan, are the ultimate planners and took the reins with sourcing options during the shared portions of our trip. That being said, I did stay, solo, in Guatemala City for a few days at the beginning and end of my trip. Intentionally I chose different types of accommodation in different city zones. Another location where I stayed overnight was unplanned and a welcome invitation from a friend once I was in Guatemala. Read on to know exactly where to stay in Guatemala City and start planning your dream trip to this beautiful country!
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Where are Guatemala and Guatemala City Located?
Guatemala is a country in Central America that’s located between the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. It shares borders with Mexico, Belize, El Salvador, and Honduras.
Guatemala’s capital city, and the largest city in Central America, is home to approximately 3.3 million inhabitants between the city itself (1 million) and surrounding area (2 million). It’s located in the southwest of the Guatemala, just under a 4 hours’ drive from Santa Ana over the El Salvadorian border and roughly 3-4 hours to El Paredón on the coast.
Kinds of Accommodation to Book in Guatemala City
For different types of affordable accommodation, there’s Airbnb and VRBO for vacation home rentals or Hotels.com for discounted hotel stays. Hostelworld is an excellent website to research and compare hostel options.
If you’re looking for a more personable stay, consider seeking out a cozy B&B like Casa Carmel Bed and Breakfast. There are also many unique hotels, such as the sleek and colourful Hyatt Centric in Guatemala City, the very zen La Inmaculada Hotel in Guatemala City, or this super cool A-Frame at Cabañas Alpinas Jadeita Resorts in Guatemala City.
Where to Stay in Guatemala City
Guatemala City is partitioned into 25 different zones, or neighbourhoods. Numbering starts in the centre, with Zone 1 being the city’s oldest area. From there they spiral counterclockwise, similar to how Paris (France) is laid out. Locals call this formation a “caracol”, which means “snail” in Spanish!
Each zone has a different vibe and, sometimes, a nickname. For example, Zone 10 is known as “Zona Viva” (“lively zone”) because of the energy of the nightclubs, restaurants, and hotels. On the contrary, some zone names have negative sentiments. “Zonas rojas”, or “red zones”, are the poorer and more dangerous areas of the capital city.
A few zones in particular are marketed to travellers and tourists, each of which have different vibes and suit different budgets and travel styles. During my trip to Guatemala, I stayed in a hostel in Zone 4, an Airbnb in Zone 10, and a friend’s family’s home in another zone.
It is suggested, by locals and the Canadian government travel advisory, that foreigners do not stay in certain zones due to violence. These include Zone 1*, Zone 3, Zones 5-7, Zone 18, and Zone 21. There’s an asterisk beside Zone 1 because during the day it’s safe for tourists and in the evening it’s not advisable to walk around. I provide more detail on each zone you might consider staying in below.
In my research, I came across an interesting LA Times article about the “Missing Zones” in Guatemala City. Technically, there are 25 zones as indicated on the map below. However, a few zones tend to be forgotten by city planners and in local opinion. The disappearing zones include Zones 20, 22, and 23. Notice that those 3 are missing in the map below. I’d highly suggest reading the article to learn more about these mysteries.
Pro Tip: Wherever you travel, stay in a variety of accommodation. It’s an excellent way to become acquainted with a new place from many different angles.
Zone 1
Guatemala City’s historical centre is known as Zone 1. There’s plenty to explore here, especially for the history buffs. Start at the Plaza de la Constitución (main square) that connects the National Palace of Guatemala (which is also a museum), the Cathedral of Santiago, the Commerce Portal, and the famous shopping street, Paseo la Sexta (Sexta Avenida). Hop on a walking tour to learn more about the local history which dates back to 1776!
It is common to see police and security in Zone 1’s public spaces. Because of this presence, violent crime is less likely. Pickpockets may still give it a go here as there are several tourist attractions. Overall, it’s safe to walk around Zone 1 during the day.
I spent some time walking in the historic centre on my own and then walking through the markets later in the evening with a fellow female traveller. We were aware of the advisory, however both of us felt safe. There were many friendly people around, including families, I speak some Spanish, and the atmosphere felt comfortable. I say this not to give the green light, but to add my experience to your research. I did not stay overnight in Zone 1. As with anywhere, you must take in information from multiple reliable sources and then decide for yourself what is appropriate.
Book Accommodation in Zone 1
- Budget: Apartamentos “El Lago”
- Mid-Range: Casa Stella Centro Histórico
- Boutique: Vivotel Boutique Hotel
Zone 4
Zone 4 was my favourite of the areas I stayed in Guatemala City. It’s got an artsy, boho, vibe that is welcoming and warm. The neighbourhood is full of coffee shops, bars, and co-working spaces. I felt completely safe walking around here and would love to spend more time checking out the various street art pieces and food spots. In contrast, you’ll also find the Supreme Court and other government buildings in Zone 4. Cuatro Grados Norte (4 Degrees North) district is where the foodies can be found.
Book Accommodation in Zone 4
- Budget: Tequila Sunrise Hostel *I stayed here, as did a friend of mine a few years back. Both of us had positive experiences.
- Mid-Range: Torre Modra Apartamento
- Boutique: ESTU Habitaciones
- Luxury: Good Hotel Guatemala City
Zone 9
Zone 9 is west of Zone 10 and more or less its extension. The Avenida La Reforma, a beautiful tree-lined boulevard with statues and sculptures, separates Zones 9 and 10. These zones are where the wealthy of Guatemala live.
Book Accommodation in Zone 9
- Budget: Hotel Bluehouse
- Mid-Range: Apartamento Avenida Reforma
- Boutique: Casa 080
- Luxury: Hotel Residencia del Sol
Zone 10
“Zona Viva”, the lively zone, is a popular spot for visitors to stay in Guatemala City. With many beautiful restaurants, upscale hotels, lots of shopping, and plenty of newer office buildings, there’s a balanced mix of work and play. There are several great museums like Museo Ixchel del Traje Indígena, the Botanical Gardens, and Popol Vuh Museo. On this tour you can visit several of Guatemala City’s museums. Zone 10 is very safe to walk around.
I stayed in an Airbnb in Zone 10 and had the delight of watching airplanes land and take off while working from the balcony. It’s only about 10-15 minutes by car to the airport from Zone 10, which is an additional perk.
Book Accommodation in Zone 10
- Budget: Central Hostel Dolce Vita
- Mid-Range: Airali 1 – Apartamento con piscina *I stayed in this building (picture below), but in a different unit with a different owner.
- Boutique: La Inmaculada Hotel
- Luxury: Hyatt Centric Guatemala City
- Special Mention: Eco Suites Uxlabil Guatemala
Zone 16: Ciudad Cayalá
Guatemala City’s Zone 16, also known as “La Ciudad Cayalá” is, in my opinion, an odd place. “Cayalá” translates to “paradise” in Kaqchikel, a Mayan Indigenous language. Whether or not this rings true, is up for debate. On the outside looking in, Cayalá’s crisp white buildings and walkable streets are a stark contrast to the rest of the capital city. Look closer yet and you’ll realize that the ancient-appearing buildings are less than 30 years old.
Cayalá is, in reality, a privately-developed-and-owned shopping district and gated residential area. It is built for the wealthy, foreigners, Instagrammers, and those that like pretty things and don’t look beneath the hood. Most Guatemaltecos cannot afford to live here. Access to the main commercial area is free and available to the public. It is squeaky clean, pedestrian-friendly, and lacks character.
Book Accommodation in Zone 16
- Budget: Cabañas
- Mid-Range: Naths Apartment
- Mid-Range: Cozy Stays Cayala Apartments (407)
Sneak Peek of Your First Trip to Guatemala
Curious to preview your itinerary? Have a sneak peek here! Still have questions about planning your first trip to Guatemala? Send me a DM on Instagram or through my website contact page and I’ll be happy to help where possible.
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Helpful Tips for Booking Your Trips
Flights
If you want affordable flights, you must get into the points and miles game. Check out my Points and Miles Travel Coaching services to help Canadians fly for less than a tank of gas!
Car Rentals
To help you explore new destinations, turn to Discover Cars for a huge range of vehicle options and excellent prices.
Accommodation
There are so many options for affordable, comfortable, and unique accommodation. Some of my favourite accommodation options are housesitting and hostels. I’ve been using Trusted Housesitters and Hostelworld for years. If you prefer hotels, then check out Booking.com.
Activities
Get Your Guide is a fantastic resource for different activities to try when travelling. They have everything from walking tours, food tours, tickets to attractions, and multi-day trips, and more. Check out this super cool view I had of Helsinki when I was in Finland for the Christmas markets. My favourite GYG tour so far was the fantastic walking food tour I did in Dublin. That experience had a wild twist, but you’ll have to read this blog post to find out why!
