La Erre
In a converted warehouse in Zone 4 you will find the cultural space known as La Erre. It’s a cavernous venue that normally hosts art shows, but there are regular gigs put on by experimental musicians too. The programming is invariably interesting, and it’s a great place to see up and coming artists from Guatemala.
Via 6 2-60, Ciudad de Guatemala, Guatemala +502 2331 4383
Trovajazz
Over in trendy zone 4, this small venue provides space for traditional Latin sounds. There are regular trova nights as well as intermittent concerts for other styles. The cover charge can be a bit steep for special events, so check before you go if you’re on a budget.
Via 6, Ciudad de Guatemala, Guatemala +502 2334 1241
TrovaRock
Over in one of the less savory parts of zone 1 lies this grungy underground venue, where the beer is cheap and the floors are invariably sticky. Expect punk and metal bands to be playing here. Things can get rowdy in the pit, so take care if you don’t want to get involved.
Monoloco Guatemala City
This huge bar is famous for its after-work parties and array of screens for watching sports, but the management also bring in musicians to keep the punters entertained on a regular basis. You can check the listings online before you go, but expect to hear rock and acoustic artists on stage.
Avenida reforma Plaza Obelisco, 16 Calle, Ciudad de Guatemala, Guatemala +502 2367 3283
Esperanto
This neighborhood bar is set in an unlikely residential street in chichi zone 10. Nonetheless it’s a stalwart of the music scene, with regular performances. Even when there isn’t any live music, it’s worth stopping in to listen to the eclectic musical tastes of the owner.
Proyecto Poporopo
This cultural centre hosts art exhibitions as well as regular live music performances in a converted house in zone 2, Guatemala City. Check out the art, listen to the music, and then head up to the roof terrace for some drinks. It’s popular with the bohemian crowd, and you’re sure to meet some interesting people.
4A Calle, Ciudad de Guatemala, Guatemala +502 2230 3452
La Esquina Jazz Café
In the daytime, this place serves up one of the best value set lunches in the whole of the city. By night it turns into a jazz venue, with dinner tables set around a cozy courtyard. You’ll have to make a reservation to get one of the prime courtyard tables, but it’s worth the effort.
Guatemala City, Guatemala +502 2230 2859