Content
Quetzaltenango is the least known city of Guatemala, but absolutely worth visiting. Especially for those who like to get a glimpse of authentic city life in Guatemala. Expect few tourists, lots of local culture and picturesque buildings and streets. These are our tips for visiting Quetzaltenango!
What to do in Quetzaltenango?
The city of Quetzaltenango, known to locals mainly as Xela, is the second largest city in Guatemala. Yet the city is virtually unknown among travelers. This may be because Xela is not a bustling city and, in addition, there are not many impressive sights to discover. Does this make the city less interesting to visit? Not in our opinion. In fact, Quetzaltenango is beautifully situated between mountains and volcanoes. These are 5 great tips for Xela:
1. Discover the authentic city center of Quetzaltenango
Although you can do many activities in the area around Xela, few tourists travel to the city. As a result, the city and local life here is not at all geared toward tourists, allowing you to experience the pure city life of Guatemala here.
The heart of downtown is the Parque a Centro América, a beautiful city square. We walked around here and sat on a bench to take in the daily routine. Around this square you will find the city's most important buildings. These all date from the 19th century. Downtown Xela is formed by the streets surrounding the square. It is fun to stroll around here and order a cup of coffee at one of the restaurants, for example at Xelapan bakery.
2. Learn the Spanish language at Celas Maya
If there is one thing Quetzaltenango is known for, it is for learning the Spanish language. Many foreign students and digital nomads travel to this city to learn Spanish. For example, in combination with doing volunteer work, as well as living as a digital nomad. You can stay in a hostel, but a much more interesting option is to stay with a host family. The way to quickly master the Spanish language. Celas Maya is the most famous language school in the city. Want to know more? Then also read our article about Learning Spanish in Gautemala!
Also read: 3 cool locations to learn Spanish in Guatemala
Want to be fluent in Spanish during your trip through Guatemala? These are 3 great places to take Spanish classes.
3. Culinary dining out at Tertulianos restaurant in Zone 3.
In downtown Quetzaltenango you will find many nice restaurants where you can eat great food, but if you are looking for a special location we can give you restaurant Tertulianos definitely recommend. The restaurant is located in a beautiful historic building, a former mansion. You will slide into one of the lounges where you will enjoy traditional dishes with a modern twist. During an evening dining out you will feast your eyes. You can walk around the property as it also houses a museum.
4. Spend 1 to 2 nights in Quetzaltenango
You can easily explore downtown Quetzaltenango in one day, but you only really experience a city when you linger a little longer. Spend at least one night in the city. Because Xela is less well known among tourists, the prices for a night in a good hotel are much lower than for example in Antigua or Guatemala City. We slept in the 3-star hotel Pensión Bonifaz which is located at the Parque a Centro America. It is a traditional hotel that has been around for many years. The hotel has a swimming pool and every day you can enjoy breakfast in the patio.
Other nice hotels and hostels in Quetzaltenango are:
5. Explore the surroundings of Quetzaltenango
The city of Quetzaltenango is located in western Guatemala, near the border of Mexico, and is surrounded by beautiful mountainous landscapes and three impressive volcanoes. The area therefore lends itself perfectly to fun activities and multi-day hikes.
The volcanoes surrounding Quetzaltenango
The most famous volcano near Xela is Tujimal volcano, which is also the highest volcano in Guatemala. You can book a multi-day trek where you climb to the top of the volcano.
The other two volcanoes are Santa Maria and Santiaguito. The summit of the Santa Maria can also be reached on a multi-day hike. The easiest volcano to visit then is the Santiaguito. This is one of the three active volcanoes in Guatemala. By the way, you do not hike up this volcano, but climb to the viewpoint on the slope of the Santa Maria. From here it is very cool to witness an eruption (or several).
Volcanic hot springs
One of the best tips for Quetzaltenango is to visit the hot springs at Fuentes Georginas. That there are many volcanoes in Guatemala you probably already knew, but that also means there is volcanic activity. And volcanic hot springs are a very attractive outcome of that. It's about a 30-minute drive from Xela to get to the hot springs. It is best to book a visit to the hot springs with a tour. In addition, remember that the hot springs are very popular among locals, so it is smart to avoid weekends.
Multi-day hike from Xela to Lake Atitlan
In three days you can go from Quetzaltenango to Lake Atitlan Hiking. You will follow an exciting route through the Guatemalan nature. Along the way you pass local villages and visit authentic Mayan tribes. This must be an incredibly special hike, one that is still on our bucket list.
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
The 7 Best Beaches in Aruba: Our Favorite Beaches & Hidden Gems
August 13, 2026
7 Best Things to Do in Tirana, Albania
July 22, 2026
More Guatemala? Be inspired!
Guatemala
August 16, 2023
