Avenida Reforma

The basics

Avenida La Reforma is easy to explore in less than an hour. Stroll or ride your bike through the grassy median at the boulevard's heart, stopping to pop into some of Guatemala City’s upscale restaurants and cafés. The northern end of the avenue terminates at Parque Obelisco, commemorating Central American independence. While you can visit alone, a guided tour can illuminate the boulevard's significance to Guatemala's cultural legacy.

Things to know before you go

• Though Avenida La Reforma is generally considered safe, especially in daylight, you should stay aware of your surroundings.
• This area can have a lot of traffic, so driving while sightseeing is not recommended.
• Crowds tend to be highest on the weekends. Consider visiting on a weekday for fewer people and less traffic.

How to get there

The easiest way to get to Avenida La Reforma is to take Transmetro line 13. Estación Torre del Reformador, Estación 626, and Estación IGSS Zona 9 are all one block away from Avenida La Reforma. You can also travel by taxi or walk; it’s about a 10-minute walk from the heart of Zone 10.

When to get there

Strolling and shopping on Avenida La Reforma is an ideal way to spend a sunny day. Visit mid-week for the fewest crowds, and plan to wrap up your trip before sunset—it’s generally not advised to stay too long after dark. On Sundays, the street partially closes to traffic from mid-morning to early afternoon, making it an ideal time to enjoy the area without worrying about cars.

History of Avenida La Reforma

Presidente José María Reina Barrios ordered the construction of Avenida La Reforma, at the time called Boulevard 30 de Junio. It was inaugurated in 1895. Today, Avenida La Reforma has a historical marker and is within walking distance of eight other sights with historical markers, including a memorial to Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, who helped lead the Mexican War of Independence.