The Best Bars in Guatemala City

Electronic music is very popular in Guatemala, and one of the best places in the capital to enjoy it over a drink or three is The Box Lounge Groove. Since its opening in 2004 (when it was called the Red Box), The Box Lounge Groove has made a name for itself as an electro oasis, and excellent DJs blast out hits all night. The bartenders are quick, the drinks are cheap (try the local drinks with 7Up!) and the vibe is cool. Bajofondo bar next door is also worth a visit while you’re here.

Discover the bohemian heart of Guatemala City by visiting La Bodeguita del Centro. At this cool bar-cum-cultural-center you’ll also be able to listen to some of the best live music in the city (if you visit from Tuesday to Saturday) – everything from rock to jazz to classical. If you head here in the day you’ll probably catch some poetry readings, debates, exhibitions and films, but in the evening things rev up a notch. Entrance is free Tuesday to Thursday, and on the weekends there’s a small charge.

Located in the Portal del Comercio arcade opposite the Plaza Mayor de la Constitució, El Portal is a traditional bar that’s been popular since the 1940s. Known for being Che Guevara’s favorite watering hole when he lived in Guatemala City, it isn’t just Argentine revolutionaries who love this bar. El Portal is one of the most unique bars in the city, and the long wooden bar and old fashioned decor pleasantly evoke times gone by. Draft beers are about $2, and live marimba music is played most evenings.