The largest and most populated city in the country and in all of Central America, Guatemala City is the capital of Guatemala and home to about 3 million residents.

The city was founded in 1776 and was the third designated capital of Guatemala. However, before it was the colonial capital, it was the site of the Mayan city of Kaminaljuyú. Ruins are still present and can be viewed by visitors.

Geographically, Guatemala City sits at an elevation of just under 5,000 feet (about 1,500 meters) and is surrounded on all sides by mountains and volcanoes. Most travelers arrive here at La Aurora Airport, which is just outside the city. The tourist area here boasts excellent hotels, restaurants, theaters, galleries, and museums.