In which quarter house in Guatemala city?

Soon you're going to Guatemala and don't know where to sleep in the capital? Here is our selection of the best areas to stay in Guatemala City!

In 1773, following a earthquake that destroyed the capital Antigua, Guatemala Cuidad became the new and current capital. Today, Guatemala City does not necessarily have a good reputation. It is often considered dangerous, yet! Peasted by 1.1 million inhabitants and some 4 million in its towns, Guatemala Ciudad is divided into 15 districts, from Zona 1 to Zona 15. The main tourist areas are Zona 4, Zona 9 and Zona 13.

To help you understand the city of Guatemala, we give you some tips to find very nice neighborhoods where to stay in Guatemala City and enjoy your trip to Guatemala City.

Zona 10, most international area

If you arrive late on the first day or if you leave early, you may have difficulty finding a place to stay in Guatemala City. Thanks to its proximity to the Aurora International Airport, Zona 10 is a good accommodation solution. So, to avoid spending too much time in the caps, it is recommended to choose a hotel in Zone 10, which is only 15 minutes by car from the airport! Area 10 is also the most international and secure area in the capital: here you will find international channels, but also several shopping centres and very chic restaurants. Among other things, Barcelo, Radisson Blu and other hotel chains offering a service to small care, and prices from about 50 euros per night.

Zona 4, to discover the modernity of the capital

If you want a little more local atmosphere, Zone 4 is the most suitable for spending one or two nights. In fact, this neighborhood is the neighborhood that is gradually “mounting”: many trendy cafés, restaurants and bars have been installed in the last few years. It is also a neighborhood where the walls are covered with street art works, which makes the walk pleasant. To make the most of it, choose a hotel between streets 1 and 4. It is in this area that you can book small independent hotels, but also private apartments on sites such as Airbnb , allowing you to have more freedoms during your stay.

Zona 1, historic district

Many housing options are located in Zone 1, the historic district of the city. Here you can visit various museums, churches and dive into the heart of Guatemalan history. Zone 1 offers a wide range of luxury accommodations, ranging from luxury hotels in old homes to small local hostels, offering more affordable rates.

The neighborhoods to avoid

It is recommended, during your stay in Guatemala City, to stay only in these three neighbourhoods and their surroundings. Indeed, some areas of the capital are not recommended for travellers because they are the least secure in the city. This is particularly the case for the most excited neighbourhoods such as Zone 18 and its surrounding area. However, be aware that the ideal is to choose a hotel located in the above mentioned areas or when you find several accommodations in the same street or neighbourhood.

Also note that dorm hostels are not common in Guatemala City, so you will almost always have a private room in your hotel. Finally, there are also accommodations located near the airport, very convenient if you only spend the night before your flight back!

Main photo credit: Flickr – Clark ' Kim Kays