Today's Antigua is a cosmopolitan town that somehow manages to conserve its small town ambiance. Its streets are quiet enough for artists to set up their easels and attempt to paint or sketch their perspective of a particular church to paper. Another facet to this town is the educational scene. Aside from a wealth of Spanish Schools, the town boasts a fine library and research institute for visiting archaeologists.

Here visitors may travel back in time and read about the many churches, convents and homes that once bustled with colonial activity. Visitors will also find the town to be a cultural center. A biennial arts festival is hosted here and showcases ballet, opera, symphonic orchestras and theater. In recent years, a host of restaurants and hotels have opened their doors on these quiet streets. While all hold to the small town atmosphere, they welcome an international crowd of both vacation and business travelers.

There are plenty of activities for the visitor to experience while staying in Antigua. The town itself offers a wealth of churches and ruins where you can while away the hours. Visit a variety of museums that showcase original colonial art, silverwork, religious statues, ceramics, ironwork, books, and more. For a more active way to spend a day in the area of Antigua, take advantage of the many tour operators that run out of here.

Mountain bike tours in the surrounding hilly countryside area a great way to explore the area. Outlying towns offer fabulous shopping for those interested in textiles, ceramic, jade and woodwork. Those eager for adventure can scale the Agua volcano for a dramatic view from its summit.