What Are the Best Places to Live in Guatemala?

Guatemala is a beautiful country with a lot of amazing places to live. From its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, to its rich history and delicious food, Guatemala has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed beach lifestyle or an adventurous mountain retreat, there are plenty of great places to call home in Guatemala.

One of the best places to live in Guatemala is Antigua, a colonial city located in the central highlands. This picturesque town is full of beautiful Spanish-style buildings and cobblestone streets, as well as plenty of cultural attractions.

From museums and churches to outdoor markets and festivals, there’s something for everyone in Antigua. The city is also home to some great restaurants, bars, and cafes where you can sample traditional Guatemalan cuisine.

If you’re looking for a more rural lifestyle, Lake Atitlán may be the ideal spot for you. Located in the western highlands, this stunning lake is surrounded by breathtaking mountains and volcanoes.

The area is known for its small villages with traditional Mayan culture, as well as its abundance of outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and bird watching. There are also plenty of quaint cafes and restaurants serving up delicious local dishes.

For those looking for a beach escape without sacrificing any creature comforts, Monterrico is the perfect spot. Located on Guatemala’s Pacific coast south of Antigua, this small fishing village offers stunning beaches with white sand and clear blue waters. Monterrico also has some great restaurants serving up fresh seafood dishes as well as plenty of activities like horseback riding and ATV tours.

Quetzaltenango, or Xela as it’s often called by locals, is another great place to live in Guatemala. Located in the western highlands about 2 hours from Antigua, Xela is known for being one of the most culturally rich cities in Central America with many traditional festivals taking place throughout the year. It’s also home to some fantastic restaurants serving up regional dishes like tamales and pupusas.

Livingston, located on Guatemala’s Caribbean coast near Belize border offers an amazing combination of Caribbean culture with Garifuna music and dance combined with lush jungle landscapes nearby Rio Dulce river that flows into El Golfete lake.

Flores, situated on an island at Peten Lake close to Tikal National Park offers unique Caribbean atmosphere combined with tropical rainforest teeming with wildlife.