Discover What We Offer
We have a fabulous pool, traditional sauna, extensive rooftop with unobstructed views, lush gardens, and our very own ancient chapel bar, all set in a colonial home on the most iconic street in Antigua, Guatemala.
Accommodation
Choose from dorm style accommodation or treat yourself by booking one of our private rooms.
Activities
Join us for movie night, family dinner, and happy hour specials daily.
Occasions
Join us for movie night, family dinner, and happy hour specials daily.
Rooms
If you’re feeling social, choose from our 2-bed and 6-bed dorms! Each bed is equipped with a privacy curtain, outlet, light, locker, and luxurious bedding. For those seeking the hostel experience with a touch of privacy, we also offer private rooms designed for comfort and relaxation.
The Location
Antigua, Guatemala is a jewel we enjoy sharing with the countless travelers that have passed through our doors at our first two properties, Maya Papaya and Ojala. We are delighted to be opening our third hotel/hostel hybrid, Casi Casa, set in a colonial home on the most iconic street in Antigua, Guatemala.
Casi Casa is for the travelers who want to experience a true Antigua experience, with the colonial architecture, the antiques, the volcano views, all while enjoying the atmosphere we provide. Always an interesting guest or local staff member to engage with, or if you prefer, countless lounge and work spaces set among gardens and endless views. It is our hope that Casi Casa truly feels almost like home for you, your home in Antigua and a place to return again and again.
At Casi Casa, we remain deeply committed to hospitality. Our roots are ingrained in caring for each of our guests, and our team are well equipped to act as hosts to Antigua.
Best Things to Do & See
Shopping
Antigua, Guatemala, is a wonderful destination for shopping, especially for those looking to take home unique, handmade, and traditional items that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re looking for textiles, pottery, jewelry, or local coffee, Antigua offers a variety of charming shops, markets, and artisan stalls. Here are some of our favorite places to shop in Antigua:
Mercado de Artesanias, Luna Zorro, Xibalba, Hilosophy, El Telar, Casa de Los Gigantes, and Estudio Gascon.
Nature
Antigua, Guatemala, is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, offering a wealth of opportunities for hiking, outdoor exploration, and adventure. The region is blessed with lush mountains, volcanoes, and scenic landscapes, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers. The most popular hikes are the day trip to Pacaya Volcano, the short hike to Cerro de La Cruz, and the famously difficult Acatenango overnight hike. Be sure to schedule a visit to one of the coffee farms in Antigua to learn the process of growing, harvesting, and roasting coffee, firsthand. Our favorite tours are at Finca La Azotea and De La Gente.
Local Food
Antigua offers a vibrant culinary scene with flavors deeply rooted in traditional Mayan and Spanish influences. Try perhaps the most famous dish, Pepian, at Fonda de la Calle Real, a traditional restaurant located just 2 blocks from Ojala. Other traditional favorites such as Tamales, Paches, Kakiq, and tostadas can be found at traditional restaurants and in outdoor parks.
Ruins & Convents
Antigua, Guatemala, is a city rich in history, and its cobblestone streets are lined with magnificent ruins and former convents that speak to the colonial past. These sites offer a blend of breathtaking architecture, captivating history, and picturesque views. Here’s a description of some of the must-visit ruins and convents in Antigua:
Exploring Antigua’s Convents and Ruins
When visiting these ruins and convents, take time to appreciate the unique combination of nature and history. Many of these sites are enveloped by lush greenery and provide views of the surrounding volcanoes, making for some truly stunning photographic opportunities. The interplay of crumbling stone, colorful bougainvillea, and vibrant surroundings offers a glimpse into the rich and turbulent history of Antigua, which was once the capital of Guatemala and one of the most important cities in Central America during the colonial era.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as many of these sites have cobblestone paths or uneven terrain. Whether you’re an avid historian, an architecture lover, or simply someone who enjoys the beauty of ancient places, Antigua’s ruins and convents offer a unique window into the past.
Convento de las Capuchinas (Convent of the Capuchins)
Located on the eastern side of Antigua, the Convento de las Capuchinas is one of the most iconic convent ruins in the city. This former convent was built in the 18th century for the Capuchin nuns and features a beautiful yet somber design. The remains of the complex reveal its original purpose as a place of prayer and community, with a spacious courtyard, cells for the nuns, and an elaborate chapel. The site is known for its picturesque ruins, including arches, a fountain, and a peaceful garden.
La Recolección (Iglesia y Convento de la Recolección)
A stunning and haunting example of Baroque architecture, La Recolección is an old church and convent that was built in the early 18th century by the Recollect friars. The church’s façade, adorned with elaborate stone carvings, is a prime example of the intricate craftsmanship of the era. Though much of the convent itself is in ruins, the church remains a striking symbol of Antigua’s religious history. The site’s distinct archways and the remnants of its columns give a sense of the grandeur that once stood here.
Iglesia de la Merced (Church of La Merced)
While not entirely in ruins, the Church of La Merced is one of the most notable landmarks in Antigua, with parts of its original convent still standing. Built in the mid-16th century, the church is an excellent example of baroque architecture, with a dramatic yellow-and-white façade and intricate detailing. The adjacent convent is also worth visiting, where you can wander through the courtyard and observe the remnants of the building’s former grandeur. The church’s bell tower, with views over the city, is a must-see.
Ruins of the Convento de Santo Domingo (Convent of Santo Domingo)
The Convento de Santo Domingo is one of the most historically significant and visually striking ruins in Antigua. Built in the 16th century, the convent once housed Dominican friars and was considered one of the most important religious centers in the region. The structure was devastated by multiple earthquakes, but much of the convent’s splendor can still be seen in the remaining walls, arches, and courtyards. Today, part of the site has been converted into the Museo Casa Santo Domingo, which displays artifacts and artwork from Antigua’s past.
Other Properties
Enjoyed your visit? We invite you to explore the rest of our collection. Our hospitality group offers a variety of unique stays, each with its own charm and experience.
Visit our group website to discover more destinations and plan your next getaway:
