The Top 10 Bars In Antigua Guatemala

Don’t be fooled by Antigua’s quaint cobbled streets: this colonial town has a buzzing nightlife and some of the best bars in the country. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a civilised glass of wine or want to party the night away, we’ve got you covered. Here are the ten best bars in Antigua, Guatemala.

1. Tabacos y Vinos

Bar, Wine Bar, Wine, Beer, Cocktails

Just under the Santa Catalina arch is Tabacos y Vinos, a tiny wine bar that most tourists walk straight past without seeing it. Tabacos y Vinos is an Antiguan hidden gem, and while the venue may be small, they have the best wine selection in the city. Every glass of wine you buy is cheaper than the last, and if you want some nibbles, cheese boards are available. Don’t wait to be offered one – you have to ask.

2. Café No Se

Bar, Cafe, Coffee, Fast Food, Vegetarian, Snacks, Wine, Beer

If you think you don’t like dive bars, think again. Café No Se is known for being the first mezcal bar outside of Mexico, and this candlelit bar is perhaps the coolest place to drink in Antigua. Full of artistic characters, quirky decor and thumping live music, the shadowy bar is also one of the best places in the city to enjoy a bit of surreptitious people-watching.

3. The Snug

Bar, Pub Grub, Wine, Beer, Cocktails

The Snug is Antigua’s best and most authentic Irish bar. Owned by an Irishman, it’s tiny space that’s always packed with locals, expats and tourists. There’s nothing new or fancy here, but that’s part of the charm. There’s a good selection of cold beers and top-shelf liquor, and the service is always with a genuine smile. A great place to begin a bar crawl.

4. Por Qué No?

Bar, Restaurant, Vegetarian, Wine, Beer, Coffee

Inside a narrow corner of an old colonial building is Por Qué No?, a fun and unique bar and café. The ambiance is relaxed and informal, the decor quirky: vintage trinkets hang from the ceilings, and the walls and tables are scrawled with the names of passing guests. If you can find space, add your own message and become part of an Antiguan institution.

5. Monoloco Antigua

Bar, Cafe, Wine, Beer, Cocktails, Pub Grub

For something more chilled, Monoloco is a safe bet. Packed with tourists throughout the week, this relaxed bar and cafe is filled with locals at the weekends. There’s a good range of beers on offer, and the food is decent (the Monoloco nachos are especially famous). If you want to watch sports, this is a good place to come, too.