The range of options offered as a part of Antigua Guatemala must do's is extensive—ranging from exploring the natural wonders to learning the nuances of horse-riding. Antigua Guatemala is regarded among the most well-preserved of colonial cities in Central America. The monuments of this city are a reminder of its long history of Spanish rule. Most of the houses, streets and the city ruins have a distinct, colonial aura. Antigua Guatemala offers a wide range of things that are equally applicable across all groups. However, the most recommended, top 5 Antigua Guatemala must do's include:

1. Pacaya Volcano

Pacaya is the most unique volcano location across the Caribbean. For starters, visitors don’t need to trek or climb much to reach the volcano. This is because a majority of the distance can be easily traveled in a car! Secondly, this volcano is actually active. However, it is still accessible since the volcanic activity is subdued, i.e., it isn't violent to the extent of harming the visitors. The rivers of molten lava and solidified volcanic ash are easily visible. Many times, fresh lava being spewed by the crater can be seen. Most trips to the Pacaya volcano are half-day excursions. It takes about 3 hours to reach the main crater. Only the crater requires some serious trekking—this part of the journey lasts for just about 30 minutes. Strangely, the summit of the volcano is a bit cold. This is despite the entire area being surrounded by hot, molten rocks. Even more bizarre is the fact that a few feet away from the chilly summit, active, thermal water-springs are present!

2. Amatitlan and Banos Termales

Amatitlan is a small town, situated about 30 minutes from the main Guatemala Antigua region. A trip to the Amatitlan invariably means spending some time at the Amatitlan Lake. Visitors can take long boat-rides for economical prices. Amatitlan is particularly popular for its unique variety of candy that is called the Mazapan. A suggested trip is to include Banos Termales Santa Teresita Spa en route to Amatitlan. This popular spa uses water heated by the lava emanating from the Pacaya Volcano. The day spa should be visited for its thermal-water treatments that are known to be highly curative.

3. La Ronda Equestrian Club

This club exudes a snobbish charm. Most of its members are expats and the present generation of the former, Spanish rulers. This exclusive equestrian club provides visitors an opportunity to get acquainted with professional horse-riding. This involves visiting some of the stables and getting a first-hand account of how this business is run. The ranch at La Ronda is a massive stretch wherein hundreds of professional horses are bred.

4. Shopping at the Markets

Visitors can take a bus-ride to the most popular local market, called the Chichicastenango market. Another option is the Mercado de Artesanias market that opens on all days of the week. The Mercado is particularly recommended to those who love shopping for the local crafts. There are more than a hundred vendors here, cramped into small stalls, selling all sorts of local offerings. The most popular shopping items in Antigua Guatemala include Mayan crafts, sold as mementos. Other demanded goods include wood-carvings, items made from jade and silver, ceramics and hand-woven bags.

5. Walking Tours and Biking

Mountain biking is a very famous activity in this region. There are dedicated paths for cycling and biking. Further, the biking tracks are very penetrative, extending into some of the nearby forests. There are safe walking zones too and walking tours are regularly arranged. The most popular walking tours are the Valley Ride and the Tierras Altas Walk. The Valley Ride takes visitors through the unknown backstreets and the countryside. An important part of these tours is visiting the Macadamia Farm. This popular organic farm distributes freebies to its visitors. Another famous but demanding walking tour is along the Rio Dulce that heads towards the nearby Caribbean coast. Old Town Outfitters is a small group that arranges for such activities in Antigua Guatemala. They also rent-out bikes for mountain biking.