Portal del Comercio Pasajes
Step into Guatemala's past at Portal del Comercio Pasajes, a historic commercial hub with neoclassical charm and the city's oldest bar.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Portal del Comercio Pasajes
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into Guatemala's past at Portal del Comercio Pasajes, a historic commercial hub with neoclassical charm and the city's oldest bar.
"A must-see place to visit... the oldest bar in the city is located here."
📸 Capture the History
Take photos of the stunning neoclassical architecture and vibrant street vendors.
🍻 Enjoy a Local Brew
Experience the city's oldest bar and try a traditional 'chibola' of beer.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.3 · 604 reviews
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Oldest Bar in the City
Inside Portal del Comercio Pasajes
Sip on a 'chibola' of beer at the city's most historic bar, a true taste of Guatemalan tradition.
Neoclassical Architecture
Marvel at the elegant neoclassical facade, a testament to the building's rich history and architectural significance.
Diverse Shops
Browse a variety of shops selling everything from jewelry and shoes to fabrics and unique handcrafted items.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Step Back in Time
A Taste of History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the History
Take photos of the stunning neoclassical architecture and vibrant street vendors.
🍻 Enjoy a Local Brew
Experience the city's oldest bar and try a traditional 'chibola' of beer.
🛍️ Explore Unique Shops
Discover handcrafted goods, jewelry, and other unique items from local vendors.
🚶♀️ Wander and Discover
Take your time to explore the different sections and soak in the historic ambiance.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the History
Take photos of the stunning neoclassical architecture and vibrant street vendors.
🍻 Enjoy a Local Brew
Experience the city's oldest bar and try a traditional 'chibola' of beer.
🛍️ Explore Unique Shops
Discover handcrafted goods, jewelry, and other unique items from local vendors.
🚶♀️ Wander and Discover
Take your time to explore the different sections and soak in the historic ambiance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Portal del Comercio Pasajes as a must-see historic site, highlighting its unique blend of old-world charm and diverse shops. The presence of the city's oldest bar is a significant draw, offering a taste of local tradition. While generally well-maintained, some may find the abundance of street vendors and private guards notable.
"A most see place to visit... the oldest bar in the city is located here"
Pedro Arias-Mourato
"Nice old shopping center, said to be among the first such places set up for commerce in Central America. Municipal workers are almost always around keeping it clean. There are also police officers present keeping the peace. Modern shopping in old-fashioned style shops--jewelry stores, shoes, fabrics, antiques, a small hair salon, a tiny convenience store, a store offering nothing but purses and backpacks. A small pizza place--Al Macarone. Do not be alarmed by the armed private guard present in almost all shops here and in other shops, restaurants and stores in the country. Also, plenty of street vendors selling al kinds of wares, from electronic accessories like cheap headphones and selfie sticks to socks and underwear, but mostly small handcrafted items such as friendship bracelets and beaded necklaces."
Sol García-Juárez
"The mother of all shopping malls.
The Portal Del Comercio was built in 1788 by architect Luis Monzón, but was destroyed by the earthquakes of 1917 and 1918. It was rebuilt in 1924 by the Aycinena clan and was given its neoclassical aspect.
Legend has it, that the first merchants to set up shop here, were selling underwear for women. Due to this parents forbade their daughters to pass in front of the store fronts, lest they were exposed to such "indecency".
Nowadays it houses various restaurants, bars and shops."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Portal del Comercio Pasajes is located in the heart of Guatemala City. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services, or local buses that frequent the downtown area.
Parking can be challenging in the downtown area. It's often recommended to use ride-sharing services or public transport. If driving, look for nearby paid parking lots.
The area is best explored on foot once you arrive. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll want to wander through the different pasajes and shops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Portal del Comercio Pasajes is generally free. You can walk through the historic corridors and browse the shops without purchasing a ticket.
The shops and bars within Portal del Comercio Pasajes typically operate during regular business hours, usually from morning until early evening. It's best to check specific shop hours if you have a particular place in mind.
There is no admission fee to enter the oldest bar. You only pay for any drinks or food you consume.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a variety of shops including jewelry stores, shoe shops, fabric stores, antique dealers, a hair salon, a convenience store, and stores selling purses and backpacks.
Yes, there are dining options including a small pizza place called Al Macarone and the historic bar which serves drinks.
Absolutely! Many street vendors sell small handcrafted items like friendship bracelets and beaded necklaces, perfect for souvenirs.
A 'chibola' is a local term for a small bottle or can of beer, commonly enjoyed at bars in Guatemala.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, especially to capture the unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Be mindful of private shops and ask permission if you plan to photograph inside them.
The neoclassical facade, the interior corridors with their historic charm, and the lively street vendors offer great photo opportunities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit