First time in Guatemala in Feb 2017

How are you getting from chichicastenango to Tikal in in one day? Bus to GC, and fly to Flores? Then transfer to Tikal? nightbus from GC.? This would be very hectic. Why not enjoy Antigua, lake Atitlan and that area instead of rushig to Tikal. There are beautiful villages to explore around the lake.

This is EXACTLY why I decided to discuss itinerary here as I started to question whether spending so much time in transfer to Tikal is really worth it. My budget allows to fly but I am not not sure if it's worth it.

I have to agree. On a trip this short, if you must visit Tikal, you'd do it right at the beginning of the trip, flying there from the GC airport. And you really only need one whole day to see Tikal once you get to Flores, not 2-3 days.

Your time is much better spent in Antigua and on Lake Atitlan. And stay in San Pedro if you want. But you have to at least visit the north side of the island by boat, so you can see the best views of the volcanoes. Personally, I prefer to stay in Santa Cruz or Jaibalito on the north shore, for the views.

I can't imagine visiting Guatemala for the first time and staying only one night in Antigua. There's so much to see there.

I think you do have time for Tikal and Tikal really is amazing. Not just the temples, also the rainforest and the wildlife. When you arrive you could spend some time in Guatemala City (see the historical center: cathedral, national palace, market, pedestrian street...). Then fly to Flores or take an overnight bus. Day 2 visit Tikal and stay overnight at the park. Day 3 in the evening back to Guatemala City and on to Antigua. Day 4-5: Antigua (maybe consider volcano Pacaya if you have not been close to an active volcano before). Day 6-10: Lake Atitlan. You can visit Chichi on day 9. Just take a shuttle there and back. Or even better take a bus so you can go early and beat the crowds. And/or go to the Solola market on Friday (it is on Fridays and Tuesdays). A short bus ride from Panajachel. Very colourful. San Pedro is a good base for Indian Nose or volcano San Pedro. Make sure you also go up the hill in San Pedro to explore the village. I would also spend some time in Panajachel or Santa Cruz/Jaibalito as I agree with the previous poster that the view of the lake with the three volcanoes from these villages is unbeatable.
There is so much to do at the lake: you shouldn't miss Santiago (take a boat there from San Pedro or Pana). Go see Maximon, explore the market, see the church with the saints, the weaving museum. Take a boat to Santa Cruz and walk to Jaibalito (or even to San Marco, probably best with a guide). There is the nature reserve in Pana with hanging bridges, waterfalls, monkeys, coatis, butterflies and ziplining. From Pana you can take a pick-up truck to Santa Catarina Palopo and explore the narrow village paths.

Oh no, now it's so tempting again to include Tikal in itinerary. Thank you so much to all of you for all the suggestions and places! I am glad I've asked for opinion here. Point taken about the villages and lake Atitlan places.

Yes,I agree with #4...if you fly both ways (from GC) you have enough time for Tikal.Even with the nightbus,though more tiring in your short timeframe.

2 days in Antigua is enough (for me) and the rest of your time at the lake..with a day trip to Chichi.Why not?

I always wonder how people can go to the market at Chichicastenango in the middle of a long trip without buying something? Then they have to carry it for the rest of the trip. Maybe a piece of fruit?

I didn't buy anything there ;-)

Just an interesting place to take photos and people watch.....plus one of the nicest places to stay in the country (El Arco).

A lot of people on here will rant and rave about Lake Atitlan. Yes, there is lots to see and do there, but it's also not for everyone. I'm actually headed for a quick trip this Friday for a short 9 day stay and will be spending most of my time exploring the Peten region and maybe two days in Antigua.
mstep, haha only one day in Tikal? That's ridiculous.
I would suggest what soniaberode recommends. You'll get a good feel for what you like or don't like and hopefully when you come back you'll have a better idea of where you want to spend your time.