In a city known for its colonial beauty, Antigua’s workshops and classes stand out as the best way to experience real Guatemalan culture. The hands-on cooking classes let you master dishes like pepian soup while learning from skilled local chefs. Having tested many options, I’m especially fond of the market-to-table tours – they combine shopping at local markets with practical cooking lessons. The chocolate workshops are another highlight, showing you the entire process from raw cacao to finished bar.
For craft enthusiasts, the backstrap weaving classes are exceptional, teaching an authentic Mayan technique that’s been passed down for generations. Language classes here are intimate and effective, usually featuring one-on-one instruction in colonial courtyards.
Our carefully selected top picks offer authentic experiences at fair prices:
Key Points
- Authentic Guatemalan cooking classes in Jocotenango village, Antigua, offer hands-on learning from local chefs, including vegetarian options and personalized attention.
- Bean-to-bar chocolate workshops at ChocoMuseo, Antigua, teach participants the chocolate-making process and provide 120g of handmade chocolate as a takeaway.
- Guatemalan cooking classes and market tours in Antigua provide a 5-hour immersive culinary experience, including learning to prepare traditional dishes and sourcing local ingredients.
- Mayan Pepian cooking classes in Antigua offer private, hands-on learning to prepare the traditional thick soup, along with making Guatemalan tortillas and a Mayan beverage.
- Cultural workshops in Antigua include backstrap weaving, market food tours, and Spanish language classes, with discounts on purchases at the Kakaw Designs showroom.
Authentic Guatemalan Cooking Class in Antigua
Experiencing authentic Guatemalan cuisine is a highlight for many visitors to Antigua, Guatemala.
The Authentic Guatemalan Cooking Class in Antigua offers an immersive culinary experience, recommended by 100% of travelers with a 5.0 rating.
You’ll learn hands-on from local chefs in a cooking school in Jocotenango village, choosing from a variety of traditional dishes, including vegetarian options.
The class includes lunch, snacks, drinks, and private transportation, with the option for hotel pickup.
Guests consistently praise the quality of food, friendly chefs, and the overall fun atmosphere.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and learn about Guatemalan culture through cooking.
Read our full review: Authentic Guatemalan Cooking Class in Antigua Review
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Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Workshop in ChocoMuseo Antigua
ChocoMuseo in Antigua, Guatemala offers a captivating Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Workshop, immersing visitors in the rich history and intricate process of chocolate-making.
Over a 2-hour session, travelers learn the chocolate-making journey from cacao bean to candy bar. The hands-on experience includes preparing chocolate desserts and tasting various drinks, from chocolate tea to spiced hot chocolate.
Participants take home 120g of their own handmade chocolate. With a maximum of 15 travelers, the workshop provides an engaging and interactive group experience.
Highly recommended by 95% of previous participants, this 5-star rated activity is a must-try for chocolate enthusiasts visiting Antigua.
Read our full review: Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Workshop in ChocoMuseo Antigua Review
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Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour
A captivating Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour at Cuscun Cooking School in Antigua, Guatemala, offers travelers an immersive culinary experience.
This 5-hour activity includes a visit to the local market to source fresh ingredients, followed by hands-on cooking lessons in a scenic rooftop setting. Participants will learn to prepare typical Guatemalan dishes like tamales, pepián, and chiles rellenos, guided by knowledgeable instructors.
With a maximum group size of 15, the class provides personalized attention. Reviews highlight the engaging market tour, friendly guides, and delicious food. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated.
Read our full review: Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour Review
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Guatemalan Cooking Class & Market Tour
Travelers can embark on a captivating Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour at Cuscun Cooking School in Antigua, Guatemala. This hands-on experience earns a 5.0 rating from 76 reviews and is recommended by 100% of participants.
For $85 per person, the class offers a culinary journey through local flavors, from tostadas and dobladas to pepián, subanik, and jocón. Guests learn to make traditional corn tortillas and desserts like rellenitos and torrejas.
The tour begins at the central market, followed by cooking on a rooftop with stunning volcano views. Included are snacks, drinks, and insights into Guatemalan culture and family recipes.
Read our full review: Guatemalan Cooking Class & Market Tour Review
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Make Your Own Mayan Pepian – Cooking Class
Participants of the “Make Your Own Mayan Pepian – Cooking Class” embark on a captivating culinary journey through the rich flavors of traditional Guatemalan cuisine.
Hosted in Antigua, Guatemala, the highly recommended class invites guests to learn how to prepare the iconic Mayan Pepian – a thick, aromatic soup made with roasted ingredients.
Along with the main dish, you will also learn to make Guatemalan tortillas and enjoy a refreshing Mayan beverage.
This private, hands-on experience not only teaches valuable cooking skills but also provides a glimpse into the vibrant local culture.
Priced from €66.44 per person, the class offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Make Your Own Mayan Pepian – Cooking Class Review
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Two Hours Private Backstrap Weaving Workshop in Antigua
Immersing oneself in the rich cultural heritage of Antigua, Guatemala, the Two Hours Private Backstrap Weaving Workshop offers a captivating opportunity to learn the intricate art of traditional backstrap loom weaving.
Operated by Kakaw Designs, this private workshop is recommended by 92% of travelers and boasts an impressive 4.8-star rating from 12 reviews. Participants will be guided through the process, using a backstrap loom provided during the class, and receive a PDF guide with pre-recorded videos for further learning.
Located just 3 blocks from Antigua’s central park, the workshop concludes at the meeting point, allowing guests to browse the studio’s showroom and enjoy a 20% discount on purchases.
Read our full review: Two Hours Private Backstrap Weaving Workshop in Antigua Review
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Market Food Tour and Tortilla Workshop
During this private market food tour and tortilla workshop, guests embark on an immersive culinary exploration of Antigua, Guatemala.
The experience includes six market food tastings, a tuc tuc ride to El Comalote, and the opportunity to make three traditional Guatemalan tortillas. Participants also enjoy a Guatemalan lunch with a traditional drink, as well as snacks.
While alcoholic beverages aren’t included, the tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the local cuisine. With a private tour format, the experience is tailored to the group’s preferences.
Priced at $90 per person, this tour offers an authentic and engaging way to discover Antigua’s vibrant food culture.
Read our full review: Market Food Tour and Tortilla Workshop Review
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1-on-1 Spanish Language Class
Travelers seeking to dive into the local language can sign up for a 1-on-1 Spanish Language Class in Antigua, Guatemala. This class supports the NGO Ninos de Guatemala, with proceeds going directly to the charity to aid local children’s education.
Led by a certified teacher, the class focuses on conversation, adapting to individual learning styles in a relaxed environment. Participants can choose to have their lessons in a beautiful garden or while walking, discussing topics of personal interest.
The class is held at the easily accessible Good Hotel Antigua, providing coffee and tea. It’s wheelchair accessible, with options for strollers, infant seats, and service animals, making it a flexible and inclusive experience.
Read our full review: 1-on-1 Spanish Language Class Review
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Sum Up
Antigua offers a wide range of immersive workshops and classes for visitors. From learning to cook authentic Guatemalan dishes to weaving traditional textiles, these experiences provide a deep dive into the local culture. Whether you’re interested in food, crafts, or language, Antigua has something to suit every traveler’s interests. These hands-on activities are the perfect way to truly connect with the vibrant heritage of this historic city.