“Chichi,” as it’s known locally, hosts one of Central America’s largest and oldest markets — and unlike many markets built primarily for tourists, this one is still where a large part of the surrounding highland communities actually buy and sell.
Go on a Thursday or Sunday
The market only reaches its full scale on Thursdays and Sundays, when the entire plaza and surrounding streets fill with textiles, ceramics, flowers, produce and household goods from across the highlands. Visiting on any other day of the week means a much smaller, quieter market — worth knowing before you plan your route.
What to Look For
Handwoven textiles are the highlight for most visitors — huipiles, tablecloths and fabric by the yard, each region’s patterns and colors distinct from the next. Wood carvings, ceramics and leather goods are also widely sold. Bargaining is expected and part of the normal transaction, done respectfully rather than aggressively.
Beyond the Market Stalls
The steps of the Santo Tomás church, at the market’s edge, are still used for Maya religious ceremonies alongside its function as a Catholic church — a visible example of the blending of Maya and Catholic traditions found throughout Guatemala’s highlands.
Getting There
Chichicastenango is a manageable day trip from both Antigua and Lake Atitlán, making it easy to combine with either without needing an extra overnight stay.
See our Chichicastenango Market tour for the full itinerary.