The Republic of Guatemala, located in Central America, is an ancient city where the Mayan civilization once flourished, and it is a region with strong ethnic characteristics. Unfortunately, the public safety in places like Guatemala City is not considered good, so it's important to act with caution. The red buses that run through the city, in particular, are said to be dangerous. Pickpocketing and other crimes are also rampant in markets, so please be careful.
Guatemala is also known for its large Mayan ruins such as Tikal and Quiriguá, which are registered as World Heritage Sites. Exploring these while shopping for traditional folk crafts is highly recommended. This is a country full of cute trinkets that make girls want to shout, “So cute!” Today, we would like to introduce some shopping spots in Guatemala. Please use this as a reference.
1. Paseo Cayalá
If you want to enjoy luxurious shopping in Guatemala, head to Paseo Cayalá, a shopping mall located within a hotel. Everything from boutique shopping to dining at a variety of restaurants is overflowing with elegance.
The 352-hectare grounds are larger than Central Park in New York and are said to resemble Paris in Guatemala, forming a European-style town. Relaxing at a gazebo decorated in Art Nouveau style, like a Paris metro station, is also a lovely experience.
It also features movie theaters and concert halls. It’s a perfect place for window-shopping luxury boutiques. Unlike the traditionally craft-centric Guatemala, this area offers a graceful atmosphere for you to enjoy the latest shopping experience.
Name: Paseo Cayalá
Address: Blvd. Rafael Landivar zona, Guatemala City 01016, Guatemala
Official Website URL: http://paseocayala.com.gt/
2. Nim Pot
A souvenir shop located in Antigua, which retains the atmosphere of a Spanish colonial city. It is one of the most visited stores by foreign tourists in Guatemala. All items are price-tagged, so you can shop worry-free without haggling. Credit cards are also accepted, which is convenient.
The spacious interior offers a wide variety of folk crafts and T-shirts. Bags, wallets, scarves made from Guatemala’s uniquely colored fabrics are also recommended. Leather goods are reasonably priced, so you'll enjoy a satisfying shopping experience. The traditional costumes of various indigenous groups are well-made, so wearing one out on the town after purchase could be fun!
Name: Nimpot
Address: 5a Avenida Norte, Antigua Guatemala
Official Website URL: http://www.nimpotexport.com/
3. Choco Museo
Chocolate is believed to have originated in the area around Guatemala. Today, Guatemala is still one of the top cacao producers in the world, making chocolate shopping a must.
At Choco Museo, you’ll find unique chocolate flavors, such as spiced varieties, and you can sample them before buying. There’s also a café in the back that serves chocolate drinks.
The shop offers interactive experiences, including chocolate-making. The workshops let you sample cacao and various chocolates, and compare different chocolate drinks—perfect for chocolate lovers. Experiencing chocolate from a fresh perspective is a delightful travel highlight.
Name: Choco Museo
Address: 4a Calle Oriente, Antigua Guatemala
4. Mercado de Artesanías La Aurora
This shopping complex is full of folk crafts, including colorful textiles and accessories using the unique “Guatemalan Rainbow” palette, as well as toys, jewelry, and ceramics. It attracts both tourists and locals, with tablecloths, clothes, and baskets being particularly popular.
Divided into small shops, the neatly arranged items make shopping comfortable. Since it's close to the airport, it's also recommended as a souvenir stop before departure.
There are restaurants inside as well, making it a good place to enjoy the local culture while sightseeing.
Name: Mercado de Artesanías La Aurora
Address: 6a Calle 10-95 | Zona 13, Guatemala City, Guatemala
Official Website URL: https://www.facebook.com/Mercado-de-Artesanias-La-Aurora-Guatemala-278804555533377/
5. ChiChi Market
When it comes to shopping in Chichicastenango, this is the place! It's a famous market held near the San Tomás Church on Thursdays and Sundays. Streets are lined with stalls selling handicrafts, ceramics, candles, and more. You’ll also find shops offering food, flowers, and spices that give you a glimpse into everyday Guatemalan life. The market layout is like a maze, so be careful not to get lost.
You’ll find traditional incense, textiles, women’s blouses, wooden masks, T-shirts, and more—perfect for souvenirs. The variety of colorful fabrics and accessories truly lives up to its reputation as a handicraft paradise.
In the center of the market square, there are small eateries as well. Why not enjoy shopping at ChiChi Market, the largest market in Guatemala?
Name: ChiChi Market
Address: Btw 7a & 8a Calle, Chichicastenango 14006, Guatemala
◎ Summary
What did you think of the shopping spots in Guatemala? Guatemala is an ancient city with a rich tradition and is even registered as a World Heritage Site. Enjoy shopping to your heart's content in a town known as a handicraft paradise, while soaking in the colonial streets and cobblestone paths. But remember, safety is a concern, so take extra precautions while sightseeing.