The bustling markets of Antigua showcase Guatemala’s best shopping experiences, with several standout tours worth your time. We love the Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour – it’s perfect for food lovers who want to learn local recipes while exploring the market’s fresh ingredients. The Market Food Tour and Tortilla Workshop offers an intimate experience, teaching you the art of tortilla-making while sampling authentic market foods. For small-group experiences, the Antigua Market Culture and Cuisine Tour (max 6 people) delivers personal attention and cultural insights.
For more shopping adventures, consider visiting the famous Chichicastenango Market or heading to Guatemala City’s markets.
Let’s explore the top market tours in detail…
Good To Know
- The Chichicastenango Market Experience offers a $155 per person tour with expert insights into Maya traditions and a maximum group size of 8 travelers.
- The Shopping Tours in Guatemala provide an 8-hour excursion from Antigua to Guatemala City, exploring the Central Market and the upscale Cayala Center.
- The Cultural Market Tours in Antigua offer a personalized experience with a maximum group size of 6, including an opportunity to learn how to make authentic tortillas.
- The Market and Tortilla Workshops provide a private tour with a hands-on experience in making traditional tortillas and sampling 6 market foods, priced at $90 per person.
- The Guatemalan Cooking Classes receive a 100% recommendation rate from travelers, with a 5-hour duration, a maximum group size of 15, and a price of €94.48 per person.
Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour
One of the top-rated shopping tours in Antigua, Guatemala is the Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour.
With 100% recommendation from travelers and a 5.0 rating, this experience offers a unique opportunity to learn about the local culinary culture.
Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit a vibrant market to source fresh ingredients, then head to the Cuscun Cooking School’s rooftop kitchen to prepare traditional Guatemalan dishes like tamales and chiles rellenos.
The 5-hour tour, including transportation, is priced at €94.48 per person and accommodates up to 15 travelers for personalized attention.
Participants consistently praise the class as fun, educational, and delicious, making it a must-do activity in Antigua.
Read our full review: Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour Review
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Guatemalan Cooking Class & Market Tour
The Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour in Antigua delivers a truly immersive culinary experience.
Travelers will explore the vibrant local market, learning about the community’s significance and the fresh produce from knowledgeable guide Milton.
At the rooftop cooking school, they’ll prepare authentic Guatemalan dishes like tostadas, pepián, and rellenitos using family recipes and traditional techniques.
The intimate group size of up to 6 ensures personalized attention.
Guests can savor their creations while enjoying stunning views of the Fuego volcano.
With 100% positive reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this 5-star experience is a must for food-loving travelers in Antigua.
Read our full review: Guatemalan Cooking Class & Market Tour Review
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Market Food Tour and Tortilla Workshop
Enjoy the vibrant energy of Antigua’s local market on this private tour and tortilla workshop.
Hosted by Kukul Tales, you’ll sample 6 delicious market foods and enjoy a hands-on experience making 3 traditional Guatemalan tortillas.
The tour includes a tuk-tuk ride to El Comalote and a tasty Guatemalan lunch with a drink.
At just $90 per person, this 5-star experience is an excellent value.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t suitable for those with heart problems, most travelers can participate.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can book now and pay later to secure your spot on this immersive cultural adventure.
Read our full review: Market Food Tour and Tortilla Workshop Review
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Antigua Market Culture and Cuisine Tour
Exploring Antigua’s vibrant market is a culture like no other.
The Antigua Market Culture and Cuisine Tour offers an intimate glimpse into the heart of the city’s food scene. Visitors will wander through stalls brimming with handcrafted goods, tropical fruits, and traditional sweets.
The highlight is learning to make authentic tortillas under the guidance of a local expert. An optional lunch at a nearby restaurant provides a chance to savor the flavors of Antigua.
While a few past guests have reported minor discrepancies, the tour generally receives high praise for its unique insights and knowledgeable hosts.
With a maximum group size of 6, this market exploration is a personalized and memorable experience.
Read our full review: Antigua Market Culture and Cuisine Tour Review
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Chichicastenango Market Tour
Beyond the vibrant markets of Antigua, the Chichicastenango Market Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the heart of Guatemalan culture.
Priced at $155 per person, this highly-rated tour promises an immersive experience, with highlights including local snacks, bottled water, and an expert guide who brings the Maya traditions to life.
Pickup is available from all Antigua hotels, with an extra $30 fee for those in Guatemala City. The tour accommodates individual pacing and is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, it’s an intimate way to explore the vibrant colors, flavors, and faith of this iconic Guatemalan market.
Read our full review: Chichicastenango Market Tour Review
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Market and Mayan Cooking Class
For travelers seeking an authentic taste of Guatemalan culture, the Market and Mayan Cooking Class in Antigua is a captivating experience.
Led by a local chef, this half-day tour immerses participants in the vibrant Mayan culinary traditions. Guests will explore the local market, select fresh ingredients, and learn how to prepare traditional Mayan dishes.
The class includes round-trip transportation, all cooking supplies, and a natural drink. With a maximum of 12 participants, the experience offers a personalized and intimate setting.
Suitable for ages 17 and up, the class requires a minimum of 4 people to book. Vegetarian options are available upon request, and free cancellation and rescheduling are offered up to 24 hours before the start.
Read our full review: Market and Mayan Cooking Class Review
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Shopping Tour in Guatemala City From Antigua
Travelers seeking an immersive Guatemalan shopping experience can embark on an 8-hour excursion from Antigua to Guatemala City.
The tour provides access to unique artisanal products, including textiles, ceramics, leather goods, and carvings. Visitors can explore the Central Market for bargains and the Oakland Mall for high-end boutiques.
After a lunch break, the tour heads to Paseo Cayalá for additional shopping and activities.
Although the tour includes round-trip hotel transport and a driver/guide, food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t covered.
While the overall rating is positive, one reviewer noted the guide was late, affecting shopping time. However, the Cayala Center was a highlight, offering an upscale atmosphere.
Read our full review: Shopping Tour in Guatemala City From Antigua Review
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Market of Chichicastenango and Lake Atitlan
Originating from Antigua, the Chichicastenango Market and Lake Atitlán tour offers a captivating glimpse into Guatemala’s vibrant cultural heritage.
Priced at €543.24 per group (up to 5 people), this 12-hour private tour includes transportation, breakfast, and lunch.
However, the experience has received a disappointing 2-star rating based on one review, with the traveler criticizing the lack of detailed information, long drive times, and insufficient guide interaction.
While the market visit was enjoyable, the review highlights concerns over the tour’s overall structure, travel conditions, and unmet expectations.
Potential customers should weigh these factors carefully when considering this shopping tour in Antigua.
Read our full review: Market of Chichicastenango and Lake Atitlan Review
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Guatemala Community Tourism Santa Maria Market & Artisans Tour
The Guatemala Community Tourism Santa Maria Market & Artisans Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the vibrant cultural tapestry of Antigua.
Starting at 9:00 am, this private tour provides private transportation and a certified guide, allowing participants to explore the artisanal experiences of the Santa Maria Market. Visitors can browse a variety of handcrafted goods while learning about the local artisans.
However, the tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues or certain medical conditions. Confirmation for this tour is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
Travelers can expect to return to the meeting point at the Parque Central de Antigua Guatemala after the tour.
Read our full review: Guatemala Community Tourism Santa Maria Market & Artisans Tour Review
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Full Day Chichicastenango Cultural and Market Tour From Antigua
Although Antigua is renowned for its colonial charm, the Full Day Chichicastenango Cultural and Market Tour from Antigua offers visitors a chance to enjoy the vibrant indigenous culture of the Guatemalan highlands.
Available on Thursdays and Sundays, this tour departs from Antigua and takes travelers to the famous market town of Chichicastenango and the scenic Lake Atitlan.
With a maximum group size of 15, the tour includes land transportation, a bilingual guide, lunch, and all necessary tips.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate.
Guests can enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance or the option to reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: Full Day Chichicastenango Cultural and Market Tour From Antigua Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
There are typically no age restrictions for the shopping tours, as they cater to a wide range of participants. However, it’s always best to check with the tour operator for any specific age guidelines or recommendations before booking.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to and From the Hotels?
The tours generally include transportation to and from the hotels, providing a convenient and hassle-free experience for participants. Specific details on transportation may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour operator for the exact inclusions.
Can the Tours Be Customized for Larger Groups?
Most tour companies can customize shopping tours for larger groups. They often provide transportation to and from hotels, and can tailor the itinerary to the group’s interests and needs.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if canceled with at least 24 hours’ notice. Shorter notice may incur a partial or no refund, so it’s best to review the policy before booking.
Are Any Special Dietary Requirements Accommodated During the Tours?
Most tours accommodate special dietary requirements with advance notice. Guests can typically request vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals, and the tour operators will make the necessary arrangements to ensure everyone’s needs are met.
The Sum Up
Antigua, Guatemala offers a wealth of shopping opportunities, from bustling local markets to specialized artisan workshops. Visitors can discover the vibrant culture and flavors of the region through guided tours that showcase the best of Guatemalan cuisine, handicrafts, and community experiences. Whether you’re looking to shop for unique souvenirs or learn about the local way of life, Antigua’s shopping tours provide an authentic and memorable experience.