granada nicaragua travel guide

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22 fantastic things to do in granada [nicaragua] in 2024.

Granada is a beautiful colonial city in Nicaragua, and is one of the most-known cities in the country.

Located right on the shores of Lake Nicaragua - Granada has so much to offer with its fun, charm, and laid-back atmosphere .

We stayed there for 4 wonderful nights, and had the adventure of a lifetime! 

No Nicaragua backpacking itinerary would be complete without a visit to Granada and, with so much to see and do you'll want to allow at least a couple of days here.

To help you plan your visit, I’ve taken the time to write out the best things to do in Granada, Nicaragua!

Plus some extra information that you will hopefully find useful!

Travellerspoint

How to get to Granada?

Granada is the central point of the typical Nicaragua itinerary , so it’s usually a middle spot for people and easy to get to.

• ‍ Fly : You can fly to Managua (the capitals airport) and get a transfer to Granada for about $25-30 via car, or hop on a chicken bus/shuttle. ‍
• Drive : If you’re driving around Nicaragua, you can easily get to Granada via the highway. ‍
• Buses: If you're coming from Guatemala , El Salvador or Costa Rica, you can get a bus to Granada. Sometimes they will take you to Mangauga then you will have to transfer yourself. ‍
• Shuttle : Some tourist companies run shuttle services to Granada, this is quite common from San Juan Del Sur , Ometepe and Leon (all worthy stops!)

Getting around Granada

Just like the rest of Nicaragua, there is no Uber or ride sharing apps (unless you’re in the capital), so you will need to get around by Tuk-tuk, taxi or foot within the city .

If you're taking a tour, then your transport will be included, and if you’re visiting sights within the Granada city, you can get to everywhere via foot.

Taxis are much more expensive than other parts of Nicaragua, so haggle hard for a good rate.

Another popular way to get around Granada is by horse-drawn carriage and you will find them all over the city. This form of transport usually consists of a 1.5 tour that will show you best sites.

However, as with anything to do with animals we also say to look at the condition of the horse first. If they don't look like they're being well looked after - definitely give this a miss! 

Some people even choose to hire a moped to explore but that's not really necessary here as you will find local buses running in the city. Although it can take a while to get around by bus the tickets are so cheap! 

Where to stay in Granada

Granada has lots of different options when it comes to hotels. Everything is actually well-priced and you will be spoilt for choice.

I’ve recommend 5 top hotels in Granada, including the hotels Bradley and I stayed in which are both perfect for couples.

• ‍ Hotel Adela Boutique : Bradley and I stayed here for 3 nights! It’s a beautiful 4 star hotel in a colonial building that's been transformed into a small and inviting hotel. Offering a great swimming pool, beautiful and spacious air conditioned rooms and a great breakfast; it's perfect for couples and families! Read our full review of Hotel Adela Boutique here . ‍
• Selina: If you want a backpacker vibe but with air conditioned rooms, then this is a great spot. They also have a games room, library and cinema, oh and a swimming pool too. Perfect for backpackers. We stayed here for a couple nights and loved their coworking space (great for digital nomads). ‍
• Hotel Dario : I actually discovered this place from having lunch in it one day. The building is breathtaking, probably my favourite in all of Granada. The grounds are stunning, and as I looked further, the rooms are too. It’s a great price, in a great location. ‍
• Mansion De Chocolate : It’s part of the chocolate museum, so chocolate lovers should stay here. Rooms are nicely decorated and a spa and swimming pool are on-site. ‍
• Oasis Hostel: When I was looking at hostels, this is the one i liked best. I know them because they organise great tours to the Laguna. The rooms are really nice and it has a nice vibe. It was really busy when we went!

You can find our roundup of the best hotels in Granada (Nicaragua) here .

22 Top things to do in Granada, Nicaragua

Okay, so now for the part you came for: the top things to do in Granada. You can easily see all these things within a 3-4 day period!

1. Explore the Main Plaza

If you're looking for things to do in Granada then don't miss out on visiting the main plaza or Parque Central de Granada as it's often known.

This part of the city is famous for its beautiful fountains and market stalls selling souvenirs so allow some time to just wander around.

You'll also find plenty of restaurants and ice cream vendors here so you've got lots of dining options.

However, the main plaza is most famous for its spectacular cathedral as its architecture is pretty special. With its colonial design and bright yellow/orange color - this cathedral is definitely worth a visit! 

Although you can visit here during the day, this area of Granada gets lively at night so I'd recommend spending some time here after the sun has gone down. 

You can also head on this memorable carriage tour , where you’ll visit the plaza and nearby attractions in style whilst your local guide teaches you everything you need to know.

2. Visit the famous Cathedral

The Granada Cathedral is probably the most beautiful building in all of Nicaragua (in my opinion).

It’s bright, stunning and well worth a visit, especially with its wonderful colonial design and bright yellow/orange and white coloring. 

This cathedral dominates the city skyline with two distinctive bell towers and a dome. Of course you can get your pictures from the outside, but it’s actually very beautiful inside too. 

Even better - it's FREE to enter so it is the perfect attraction to visit if you're looking to save some cash . 

Try and visit when a service is on too and you’ll get to experience everyone singing hymns which is quite memorable.

Trust me - visiting this cathedral is one of the top things to do in Granada!

It’s located right in front of the main plaza , and is open from 9:00am until 6:00pm all days of the week (aside from any religious events that may be on at the time).

3. Check out the Cathedral from above

When you get to the cathedral, you’ll notice you will have a hard time trying to get a picture of this magnificent building from the front without the trees blocking it.

However, don't worry as I've got the perfect solution for you! 

You can head up to Iglesia La Merced which is another beautiful church nearby and walk up its bell tower. At just $1 it's a steal to enter, especially once you get to see the views from the top . 

Once you've climbed up the bell tower, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of Granada Cathedral and the city in general! 

This makes for a beautiful sunset location so it could be a nice romantic place to go in Granada if you’re traveling with a partner. Remember that the bell tower is only open until 5:30pm though, so try not to leave it too late.

You'll also want to make sure you've got a great-quality camera to capture the moment!

READ MORE: Getting around Nicaragua

4. Take a day trip to Apoyo Lagoon

This is without a doubt one of the top things to do in Granada!

The Apoyo Lagoon is like a “crater lake” and it’s nestled between volcanoes. It’s a massive lake that has perfect temperatures for swimming, and it’s great to tube in, paddleboard and also kayak. 

This is an excellent day out to unwind and chill! 

When you’re chatting to the tour agencies, they will quote you around $20-25 for a day trip to this area. 

That will include your transport, your entrance to the hostel on the lakefront, use of kayaks, tubes and that’s it. 

The name of the hostel you go to is Paradiso and it’s the standard place all the tours go to . It’s right on the beach front and it’s the hostel that gives you free access to tubes, sun loungers and kayaks (small fee for paddle boards) included in the entrance price. 

Actually if you message them on Facebook and book DIRECT it costs $10 per person, for transport there and back, all the stuff I mentioned above, and free tea and coffee.

The agencies are charging $20-25, when it actually costs $10 . They pick you up from your hotel/hostel and drop you back there. 

Pick up is around 9 am, and you get taken home at 4pm. You can actually do a volcano tour with them (that I mention below) for $25, and you go to the volcano and then they drop you at your hotel (including the day at the lake too and everything mentioned above).

The hostel itself is great, there is an awesome bar serving a wide range of fantastic food of different cuisines. Dishes are around $6 but the food is fresh and delicious. I had a mozzarella salad!

Drinks are available and excellent. It’s $2 for a nica libre (Which is white rum). 

You can simply spend your day relaxing as you wish. Catch up on your tan, swim in the lake, float in tubes in the lake, kayak around the lake, or read a good book, play cards or board games, play pool or paddle board! 

I warn you, it is super warm there. I put layers and layers and layers of suncream on, and I still got badly burnt (I write this 10 days later and I still have burn marks - yes seriously). 

Eventually I just had to stay in the shade to avoid burning. So be careful. 

The Apoyo Lagoon is located around 7 km west of Granada , which you can get to within 20 minutes from the city center.

If you like having everything organized for you (and not have to worry about using public transport), then you can also book this private tour to Apoyo Lagoon . This tour is customisable depending on how much time you want to spend here, where you’ll also visit Masaya Volcano and the highlights of Granada’s city center.

5. Go see real life magma in Masaya Volcano

So, I love volcanoes, I really do. I’ve been fascinated by them since I learnt about them in Geography lessons as a child and on my bucket list I wanted to climb volcanoes (check), see a crater lake (check), surf down a volcano (check) and see REAL magma...CHECK!

You take this tour in the evening, and it doesn’t involve any hiking.

You drive to the national park, and you stop at a museum to learn about the volcanoes in the area and Nicaragua in general. Then you drive up to the top of the very active Masaya Volcano (which is small- hence why you can drive).

Going at night is obviously better so you can see the bright color of the magma!

You look down into the crater and you’ll see burning lava. It’s not lots and lots and it’s not “close” to you, but you can see it clearly and see it move as it burns red. It’s AMAZING and one of the best things to do in Granada.

I found it to be a memorable experience. You only spend about 15 minutes up at the crater because the sulfur starts to get really strong (to the point you’re choking) and you have to drive away.

The tour costs $25 ish, and that includes the $10 entrance fee into the park at night . It’s quite pricey since it only lasts 2 hours, and you could arrange a taxi to take you up and down (but I doubt it will be cheaper)

But it’s worth every penny and a must-see whilst in Granada!

If you'd prefer to pay extra and have a certified guide with you at all times, then this epic night tour is one of the best options! You'll also have hotel pick-up and drop-off included, as well as transport.

Those who have more free time can instead head on this alternative day tour , where you’ll visit the crater as well as the beautiful town of Catarina. You’ll have all transport and entrance fees included in the tour.

Masaya is located some 30 km away from Granada , and on public transport (or using the tour shuttles) you can be here within 40 minutes.

Visiting Masaya Volcano is one of the top things to do in Granada - so don't leave it off your itinerary!

6. Party at Selina on Saturday Night

Selina is a popular hostel chain that is found all throughout Central and South America. They provide really cool rooms for all types of travelers, and their hostel in Granada is located in a prime location right on the Parque Central.

But, that’s not what you’re really here for though! Every night they hold different events (like beer pong tournaments) , but on Saturday night they host a BIG party that everyone in the area (including the locals) heads too. The music is LOUD, the drinks are flowing and the party is going.

If you stay at Selina then you’ll have free entrance to these parties. So if you plan on having a few wild nights in Granada, then this is your spot.

Another side note: if you’re a digital nomad, Selina has a co-working space you can pay to spend 24 hours in and it’s awesome.

High speed wifi, in an air conditioned room with meeting rooms, comfy chairs for laptops, and everything you need - plus coffee, a fax machine and printer.

$5 for non-visitors.

$2.50 for those staying.

7. Check out the colorful colonial buildings

Granada is filled with bright multi-coloured buildings that are really worth exploring when here.

You can simply wander around the streets and take photograph after photograph with a backdrop of greens, blues, pinks and yellows!

Some of the most iconic colonial buildings in the city include the Granada Cathedral , San Francisco Church , and Iglesia Xalteva . You'll also want to walk past the San Francisco Convent .

However, it's not just the main buildings you'll want to photograph as some of the houses are beautifully coloured too.

Remember that Granada is a really safe and touristy spot, so don’t be afraid to wander off by yourself!

Along the way, you’ll find quaint and unique little coffee shops to relax in and plenty of quirky buildings. We recommend heading off around 4pm with your camera, as the fading sun really makes these colors stand out even bolder.

You can also explore these colonial gems with this city walking tour , where you’ll visit many of these top delights including the Church de la Merced and the San Francisco Convent. You’ll also ride around in a traditional horse carriage whilst taking in the awesome city views.

Speaking of which…

8. Take a walking tour

Walking tours are a great way to learn more about a new destination, and also to discover spots that you may otherwise not have heard of.

There are countless tour agencies selling walking tours of Granada , and they usually take 3-4 hours as you head to all the best spots that you’d want to visit from a “top things to see in Granada” list.

A tour will give you the chance to ask questions and get real answers from people who live here. They generally cost around $15-20, although you can find cheaper ones if you're good at negotiating (and speak some Spanish).

When we were discussing tours with an agency, they said if we booked two other tours with them, they’d throw in a city tour for free...so you could do that if you wanted.

Or you can book tours that include extra destinations too, which is always a good decision! 

We highly recommend heading with this guided day tour , where you will see the city's highlights as well as having a boat ride around the Islets of Granada.

You can also take a look at this Granada city tour , which includes a guided tour of the city, a visit to Masaya Volcano, as well as a boat trip around Nicaragua Lake !

9. Visit the Islets of Granada

This is one of the things to do in Granada that Bradley and I missed out on. I wanted to do it initially, then I just simply decided against it. We were tired from traveling and I wanted to sleep haha!

But, it looks fantastic and great. The Granada Islets are made up of hundreds of little islands and you can go via boat (or your own kayak) to visit them .  

The boat will take you to a few islets that allow you to spot an array of animals (including curious monkeys and a wide range of marine birds). The tour via boat only lasts a couple of hours, but if you decide to kayak yourself, it will take longer (make sure to wear good sunscreen given the sun can be really hot here!).

Either way, it looks beautiful and I spoke to a couple who went and they said it was amazing, so definitely include it if you want a unique experience here in Granada.

The Islets of Granada are located on Lake Nicaragua , just a few kilometers off-shore from the city.

It’s around $25 for a tour, or you can arrange your own transport (it’s only about 15 minutes away) and rent out a boat or kayak from the “dock”.

If you'd prefer to do a tour, then this sunset tour of the islets is the perfect option! Not only will you go on a cruise of the lake, but you'll get to see the 'Island of Monkeys' and El Castillo Fortress.

10. Take a Cooking Class

What better way to experience local culture than by learning how to cook the local cuisine?

With a cooking class in Granada, you’ll have the chance to buy fresh ingredients from the markets, then learn how to make a variety of authentic Nicaraguan dishes .

These include local staples like Gallo Pinto and Nacatamales, as well as regional specialities like Vaho and Tajadas.

It’s a cool skill to learn and you can recreate the dishes at home for family and friends, or if you’re craving the food - which you definitely will once you leave!

Nicaragua as a country has delicious food and there are so many incredible dishes to try! 

You'll find plenty of cooking schools in the city to choose from, but you'll just need to compare the prices to find the best deals.

One of the most popular options is Spanish School Express who are primarily a language school, however, they do offer cooking classes!

If you have a serious sweet tooth, then you can also book your spot on this chocolate workshop , where you’ll learn how to make some tasty chocolate - Nicaraguan style.

11. Hit up the markets

Wandering around the markets is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Granada!

There are a variety of markets in the area that run on different days, so there will always be one to explore.

Whether you're looking for a food market, to buy clothes, or you're after a souvenir - this city will have something for you!

You can even find market stalls that sell local chocolate so make sure that's at the top of your list.

Those who want awesome souvenirs will definitely want to head to the Cultural Center Old Craft Market , which is located in nearby Masaya. It only takes 25 minutes to get there by car, and is open 9:00am until 5:00pm all days of the week.

If you're looking for something specific or you're unsure, you can always speak to a local or your accommodation owner. Seriously, they’ll point you in places you didn’t know existed!

Just make sure you head to the main market during your trip. It’s located just a couple of blocks south of the Parque Central , and is open from as early as 5:00am until 5:00pm all days of the week.

12. Dive into a Volcano

This is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Granada, and can be done at the Apoyo Lake that we mentioned above.  

It’s a project run by Volcano Divers Nicaragua and is a must for any adventure-seeker out there !

Although diving into a volcano sounds super crazy, you'll actually be diving into a crater lake which sounds much more pleasant. 

You’ll get to discover crazy rock formations left over from ancient eruptions, and see numerous thermal vents releasing hot water from deep within the Earth’s crust.

As well as this, during the dive in the Apoyo Lagoon you can also spot a variety of crabs and rare fishes.

If you choose to do this you won't regret it!

Volcano Divers Nicaragua are actually hoping to increase the number of crater lakes possible to dive into, so there may be more opportunities in the future too!

If you want to read more about diving in this volcano lake, then read about this guy's experience !

13. Learn Spanish

Granada is actually one of the cheapest places in Nicaragua to learn Spanish, so whether you’ve got a week free, or a month, you can spend some time learning the language.

It will be super useful if you plan on backpacking the rest of Central America , South America, and Spain of course.

You’ll learn quicker in an environment where everyone speaks the language, than say learning at home. So it’s well worth it!

There are plenty of awesome language schools to choose from including Casa Nica Spanish , SOL Spanish School , and Casa Xalteva .

Just have a shop around and decide how long you're staying in the area. This way, you can decide how many lessons you want and can compare packages.

14. Visit the Chocolate Museum

Chocolate lovers rejoice! I’ve found the best thing to do in Granada for you….

You can visit the ChocoMuseo , take a chocolate workshop and create your own masterpiece , or even take a trip to a cacao farm.

You’ll get to learn about the history of chocolate making first, and then you can take chocolate in its pure form and make your own! You can even make it how it was first used in Central America, before it was further sweetened after the arrival of the Spanish.

Whilst you can take chocolate tours in other countries, Nicaragua is an especially great place to do it. This is because it's just one of nine countries worldwide that has been recognised as a 100% fine cocoa origin by the International Cocoa Organisation.

This is a great way to learn about one of Nicaragua's most popular productions, and create a unique souvenir for family or friends back home (or eat yourself!)

Chocolate workshops ( Direct purchase on website ) is $21 per person lasting 2 hours, and the Farm tour costs $89 per person.

Those who want everything sorted for them can pre-book their spot here , which includes round-trip transportation from their accommodation as well as having all entrances and tastings included!

The ChocoMuseo is located just a couple of blocks north of the Parque Central , and is open from 10:00am until 6:00pm all days of the week.

15. Check out the Mombacho Volcano Cloud Forest

Over the years, Mombacho Volcano has transformed into a unique cloud forest region. 

You can visit the volcano on your own, but with tours coming in at around $30, it’s often more convenient to just go with a guide .

As you walk through the beautiful, cool cloud forest you’ll find lots of wonderful trees and animals, and it’s good to have a guide to tell you more about them.

If you’re lucky you might even spot tree frogs! 

You can climb to the peak of the volcano, or you can just wander through the cloud forest. Either way it’s one of the great things to do in Granada and you can read more about it here...

You'll find plenty of tour operators who offer this activity, but this guided tour of Mombacho is a fantastic option! Here you’ll visit the volcano along with Masaya and the Apoyo Lagoon all on the same tour.

PS, you can also take a zip line tour through the trees in Mombacho and as someone who ADORES ziplining, I really wish I did this.

You book your spot here which includes access to all 17 platforms, and also includes your transportation and entrance fees. I think it’s a really good thing to do in Granada with kids.

The Mombacho Volcano is located some 30km south of Granada , which takes around an hour to arrive by car. The park is open from 7:00am until 4:00pm all days of the week.

16. Visit some of Granada's Museums

The best way to learn about a new country or city is to explore the nearby museums!

Luckily, Granada has lots to choose from so I'd allow plenty of time to wander around and get to know the area's history.

The museums in Granada are all pretty small so they won't take too long to visit, and they're cheap too.

You've got the choice of Casa de los Tres Mundos , Mi Museo , and the San Francisco Convent .

Each one has something unique to offer, and exhibitions tend to change throughout the year! 

Casa de los Tres Mundos is more of a cultural center, but they do have displays you can explore making it worth the visit.

It’s located right next to the Parque Central , and is open from 8:00am until 6:00pm, Monday through to Saturday.

17. Hire a bicycle to explore the Waterfront

Although many people choose to explore Granada by foot - hiring a bicycle is a great alternative option!

It offers you a quick and easy way to get around, and you'll be able to visit more attractions.

One of the best places to explore by bicycle is the waterfront so you can take in the breathtaking views.

If you make your way down to Calle Calzada, you can then cycle along the Malecon which is a beautiful area overlooking Lake Nicaragua.

Hiring a bicycle is easy in the city as there are plenty of rental shops to choose from! Just make sure you shop around for the best deals.

You can also pre-book online with Nicaragua Travel Guide , who offer daily hires for as little as $3!

18. Visit La Polvora Fortress

Exploring La Polvora Fortress is one of the best things to do in Granada so don't miss this place off your itinerary!

This fortress has been around since the 1740s and was originally built to protect the city from pirates. Today however, it's a military museum and there are plenty of awesome exhibits to see.

Not only is this fortress FREE to visit but you'll get spectacular views from here too.

During your visit, make sure you walk up the fortress tower as the views from the top will truly take your breath away .

You'll get panoramic views of the city of course, but you'll also get epic vistas of Lake Managua and Mombacho Volcano.

If you're wondering what to do in Granada, make sure you head up this tower! 

La Polvora Fortress is located just a block away from the Xalteva Church , which is around a 5 minute drive west from the Parque Central.

It’s open from 8:00am until 5:00pm, Monday through to Saturday (however is closed on Sundays).

You can also head to the Polvora Fortress with this guided day tour , which also includes visits to other key sites throughout Granada. 

19. Visit some of the city's awesome restaurants

Now, all this exploring is going to make you extremely peckish! 

Luckily, Granada is full of awesome restaurants and cafes serving a wide variety of cuisines (including both Nicaraguan and international).

One of the most popular spots in the city is the famous Garden Cafe which focuses on sustainability and wholesome foods. They prioritize the environment by providing filtered water instead of bottled, and by having a 'skip the straw' campaign. It’s open from 7:00am until 9:00pm all days of the week.

Another fantastic restaurant in Granada is the Monna Lisa , which serves delicious thin crust pizzas. It's the perfect place to eat if you're craving some international cuisine. Opening hours here are somewhat varied, so it’s best to double-check on the day. They are open from Friday until Monday (12:00pm until 10:00pm), and on Tuesday and Thursday (from 4:00pm until 10:00pm). They are closed on Wednesdays.

Both are located close to the Parque Central, so it’s just a case of picking whatever takes your fancy on the day.

If you're still not convinced then you can head to Kathy's Waffle House , Restaurante El Zaguan , or Pita Pita ! 

So, if you're wondering where to eat in Granada - just pay some of these places a visit.

Day trips from Granada

If you’re only spending your main bulk of time in Granada, then it’s possible to take some great day trips from there. Below I discuss my favourites.

Leon is about 2.5 hours from Granada and one of the most popular reasons for visiting here is to learn about the Nicaraguan revolution and try your hand at Volcano boarding!

Aside from those two, there are plenty of things to do in Leon as well! 

Whether you're looking to hike up a volcano, relax on the beach, or party the night away - this small town has something for every type of traveller.

You'll also get to visit the largest cathedral in Central America so there's lots to see! Just make sure you start your day trip early as you won't want to rush your time here.

To reach Leon you can hire a moped, take the tourist shuttle, or hop on one of the local minibuses.

21. San Juan Del Sur

‍ Want to surf!? Then head to the coast of San Juan Del Sur ! Even if you don’t want to surf, you can relax by the beach and dine at one of the beach front restaurants - with 2-4-1 margaritas you can’t complain.

Like with Leon, to reach San Juan Del Sur you can take a tourist shuttle, hop on a local bus, or hire a moped . You can even take a taxi but expect to haggle hard for the price!

The journey will take between 1.5-2 hours , and you'll want to get there early!

There are tons of fantastic things to do here like hiking up to the Christ of Mercy, heading out on a catamaran ride, and horseback riding on the beach. Sounds like a dream right?

22. Managua

‍ If you want to visit the capital to explore the area or visit a TGI Fridays (I know I know, but we visit them all across the world and it’s new!), then Managua is only an hour away via shuttle bus that leaves every 15 minutes just off the central plaza .

This makes it the perfect day trip from Granada!

Managua is one of the largest city's in Central America so it's quite the experience.

Located on the shores of Lake Managua, this city is beautiful and has so much to offer!

You'll find plenty of attractions to visit here including the iconic cathedral, the scenic waterfront, and Revolution Square. Here's some more information on the things you can do in Managua !

Granada Travel Tips/FAQ

When is a good time to visit granada.

The “peak” season to visit Granada is during November to April as this is the dry season which greets you with long days of hot sun...very hot sun!

It does mean some waterfalls aren’t going to be the best, so some people choose to visit between April and June.

However, we visited in March and the weather was perfect!

How long should you spend in Granada?

There are so many awesome things to do in Granada so I recommend staying at least 4-5 nights . This will give you plenty of time to see the best attractions and head out on some day trips without having to rush.

However, if you're looking to relax as well then it might be wise to add an extra day or two onto the end of your trip!

What is a good budget for Granada?

As with many other countries in Nicaragua, Granada is very cheap! You'll find endless budget-friendly accommodation options, cheap food, and many of the attractions are FREE too.

For this reason, you can get by on around $35-40 per day , but add a bit more to this if you want to go on plenty of tours! 

Can you just book a tour for Granada?

You can certainly book a tour for Granada and you'll find plenty of options! This fantastic city tour offers you the chance to explore Granada with a guide, but you'll also have a trip around Las Isletas included too .

Or why not check out this Granada city tour ? Not only will you get to explore the city's colonial architecture, but this epic tour also includes a visit to Masaya Volcano, and a boat trip around Nicaragua Lake .

Where to next?

After visiting Granada, you have a few choices of your onward destination, depending on the way your route through Central America has taken you.

If you have come from Costa Rica, then you may find yourself wanting to visit San Juan Del Sur , or heading to Leon , which is a natural stop before venturing into El Salvador (don’t skip El Salvador and head straight to Guatemala, you’re missing out on one of the greatest little countries !)

If you have come from El Salvador/Guatemala/Honduras direction, then head to Ometepe next and discover more stunning volcanoes, hot springs and epic sunsets.

So there you have it, my guide to the top things to do in Granada. I hope you’ve enjoyed this post and found it informative.

If you think there is anything I have missed out, then please do comment below.

Happy travelling!

Read More: Our Ultimate Backpacking Nicaragua Travel Guide

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Granada Nicaragua Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

The beautiful colonial city Granada Nicaragua is a must visit on any Nicaragua trip. Granada was our home for a year and is one of our favourite places in the world! Charming colourful buildings line the streets. Dramatic views of Mombacho Volcano can be seen from many vantage points throughout the city. Additionally, the sound of horses clip-clopping through the town brings you back to a simpler time. The heart of the city is Parque Central de Granada – a pretty central park overlooking the distinctive Granada Cathedral. Here you can find street vendors selling delicious Nicaraguan street food. Conveniently located in the centre of the country, Granada is a great base for exploring Nicaragua. Day trips from Granada include boat rides on Lake Nicaragua as well as trips to the stunning Laguna de Apoyo and the active Masaya Volcano. Find out more in this Granada Nicaragua destination guide.

What is Granada Nicaragua famous for?

Granada is a city that is rich in history. It is the oldest colonial city in Nicaragua and also one of the oldest continuously inhabited European-founded cities in Central America. Granada is known as a popular Nicaraguan tourist destination due to its picturesque colonial architecture and in particular its stunning cathedral.

Why you should visit Granada Nicaragua

Granada Nicaragua is a charming colonial city with beautiful and colourful architecture as well as plenty of activities to suit all ages. At the heart of Granada is a beautiful central park which is right next to a stunning cathedral. From here you can take horse and carriage rides to explore the city. Mombacho Volcano overlooks Granada and this stunning volcano can be seen from many vantage points throughout the city. Granada also has bustling local markets and a great food scene. Calle La Calzada is the main eat street in Granada with plenty of al fresco dining options. Additionally there is a great selection of cafes and restaurants throughout the city. Granada also has delicious street food, which is perfect for those wanting to see Nicaragua on a budget.

Granada is also the perfect base for a Nicaragua vacation. Its central location means there are plenty of great day trips from the city. Furthermore, it is less than an hour drive from the Nicaragua main airport, which makes getting in and out of the country from here a breeze.

Granada Nicaragua Destination Guide: Know before you go

Basic info about granada nicaragua.

• Date founded – Granada Nicaragua was founded by Francisco Hernández de Córdoba on April 21, 1524.
• Language – Spanish; Many tour operators and hotel staff speak English in popular tourist areas, but if you prefer travelling and shopping local you will need a basic understanding of Spanish.
• Currency – Nicaraguan córdoba (NIO). Many hotels and restaurants also accept United States dollars (USD). ATMs dispense both cordobas and US dollars. For more details on money in Nicaragua , see this post .
• Population – 133,086 (2021)
• Area – 592 km 2 (229 sq mi)
• Department (Departmento) – Granada. Granada is the capital of this department.
• Emergency number – 118
• Police number – 101 (tourist police), 118 (police)

Utilities in Granada Nicaragua

• Electricity – Nicaragua uses Types A and B power plugs, which is the same plug type as the United states. It operates on a 120v supply voltage at 60Hz. Power outages in Nicaragua are not uncommon but generally don’t last for too long.
• Water – the tap water in Granada Nicaragua is safe to drink. However many expats and tourists prefer to drink filtered water. Most accommodation in Granada provides filtered water for guests to use.
• Toilets – sit-down flushing toilets are the most common type of toilet in Nicaragua. Don’t flush your toilet paper – use the bins provided. Public toilets are not common in Nicaragua, but you can usually find toilets in cafes and restaurants.
• Telephone country code: +505

Where is Granada Nicaragua?

Granada Nicaragua is a city in the department of Granada Nicaragua. This city is on the shore of Lake Nicaragua (Lago Cocibolca) and also at the foot of Mombacho Volcano . It is an inland city located in western Nicaragua .

The closest cities to Granada Nicaragua are Masaya , Managua and Rivas. Granada Nicaragua is 20 minutes by car from Masaya and around an hour by car from Managua as well as from Rivas.

How to get to Granada Nicaragua

Granada nicaragua destination guide: arriving by land, granada nicaragua intercity land transport.

The main transport options for travelling overland to Granada Nicaragua are:

• Private vehicle
• Private transport operator

Driving to Granada Nicaragua from within Nicaragua

If you are driving to Granada Nicaragua from within Nicaragua , here are the travel times and distances:

• Masaya – 22 minutes (18km, 11miles) without tolls
• Managua – 48 minutes (41km, 26miles) without tolls
• Rivas – 1 hour 7 minutes (70km, 43miles) without tolls
• San Juan del Sur – 1 hour 31 minutes (98km, 61miles) without tolls
• Peñas Blancas border crossing to Costa Rica – 1 hour 35 minutes (104km, 65miles) without tolls
• León – 2 hours 14 minutes (134km, 83miles) without tolls
• Estelí – 2 hours 46 minutes (171km, 106miles) without tolls
• Las Manos border crossing to Honduras – 4 hours 30 minutes (272km, 169miles) without tolls
• Bluefields – 5 hours 41 minutes (319km, 198miles) without tolls

Intercity trains to Granada Nicaragua

There are no trains in Nicaragua .

Shuttle buses to Granada Nicaragua

Shuttle buses operate between major tourist destinations in Nicaragua . You can often book these shuttles through your accommodation or through tour operators. Expect to pay around $15 per person for a shuttle between Granada and San Juan del Sur (as at 2023). Additionally there are two shuttle bus companies that provide shuttle services to Nicaragua from other countries in Central America : Nicabus and Ticabus.

Local buses to Granada Nicaragua

A common way to get around Nicaragua is by using local buses. Tourists often refer to these as chicken buses. Nicaragua public buses are old US yellow school buses that are often painted in bright colours. They have the destination on a sign at the front of the bus. Buses rarely leave on time, so patience is key. Before the bus leaves as well as during the journey a number of vendors may get on the bus selling food and other goods. This is a great opportunity to get a snack for your trip or even do your grocery shopping.

Bus terminals in Granada Nicaragua

Granada does not have one centralised bus terminal. The bus stop to use will depend on your destination.

• Granada – Huembes Terminal GR-MAN: this is the terminal for buses from Granada to Managua (goes to Terminal de Autobuses Mercado Roberto Huembes in Managua).
• Granada – Estación de autobuses Masaya Jinotepe: this is the terminal for buses from Granada to Masaya and Jinotepe (central Nicaragua , west of Granada).
• Granada – Terminal de Buses Rivas, Nandaime, pueblos blancos: this is the terminal for buses from Granada to the white towns (central Nicaragua, west of Granada).
• Granada – Nueva terminal de buses a Rivas: this is the terminal for buses from Granada to Rivas (from Rivas there are buses to San Juan del Sur and Popoyo (Pacific Coast of Nicaragua). It’s also a 15 minute drive from San Jorge, which is where the ferries to Ometepe Island depart from.

Common bus routes for Granada Nicaragua

Details for some of the most common bus routes for Granada Nicaragua are listed below:

The above bus fares are as at 2021.

Microbuses or minivans to Granada Nicaragua

An affordable but slightly more expensive alternative to buses in Nicaragua are microbuses or minivans. These vans generally seat around 10-15 people. They are more direct and generally only a few córdobas more expensive than buses. They usually leave when they are full and are also typically more frequent than buses. We personally think that buses are more comfortable than the minivans as people do get crammed into the minivans and minivans generally don’t provide much legroom. However you do always get a seat in minivans, albeit once my seat was just an upside-down crate in between two other seats. Microbuses in Granada Nicaragua depart from the microbus terminal: Granada – UCA Terminal de Buses Granada – Managua (UCA).

Granada Nicaragua destination guide: Arriving by air

The closest airport to Granada Nicaragua is Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (Airport code MGA). This international airport is located in Managua , 33km (21 miles) away. However a popular alternative is Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (Airport code LIR) in Liberia Costa Rica. This airport is 155km (97 miles) away.

Other nearby airports include:

• Costa Esmeralda Airport (Airport code ECI). This airport is 57km (35 miles) away.
• Nosara Airport (NOB). This airport is 220km (137 miles) away.

Nicaragua does not currently have a national airline of Nicaragua. Airlines that service Nicaragua include American Airlines, Aeromexico, Copa Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Avianca Airlines as well as United Airlines. The domestic carrier in Nicaragua is La Costeña.

Granada Nicaragua destination guide: Arriving by boat

Puerto de Granada (Granada Pier) is on the banks of Lake Nicaragua, about 15 minutes walk from the city centre. Ferries from Granada to Ometepe Island and San Carlos run once a week in each direction. Ferries depart from Granada at 5pm on Mondays, stopping at Altagracia on Ometepe Island at 9pm before finally arriving at San Carlos at 6am the next morning. The return journey departs from San Carlos at 5pm on Tuesdays, stopping at Altagracia on Ometepe Island at 1am before reaching Granada at 6am on Wednesday.

Ferry fares for ferries servicing Granada Nicaragua are as follows:

The above ferry fares are as at 2023.

The ferries will allow cargo for an additional cost. For more information and to make a reservation call 2552-6618 or 7829-0672.

Granada Nicaragua destination guide: How to get around Granada Nicaragua

Walking in granada nicaragua.

Granada Nicaragua is a very walkable city. However it does get very hot and sunny in the middle of the day and there’s not too much shade on the streets so we’d recommend wearing a hat if you plan to walk around the city. Additionally, avoid walking around the lake at night for safety reasons. We also recommend exercising caution around the lake during the day. While we have walked around the lake during the day many times without incident we have heard of robberies occurring in that area.

Local buses in Granada Nicaragua

Local buses service Granada Nicaragua. However these are mainly used to go from Granada to other cities and towns in Nicaragua .

Trams in Granada Nicaragua

Granada Nicaragua does not have a tram system.

Local trains in Granada Nicaragua

Granada Nicaragua does not have a local train line.

Metro trains (subway or underground) in Granada Nicaragua

Granada Nicaragua does not have an underground train line.

Vehicle hire in Granada Nicaragua

A wide variety of vehicles can be rented in Granada Nicaragua. This includes:

• Motorcycles

In Nicaragua they drive on the right side of the road.

Horse and carriage rides in Granada Nicaragua

A charming way to get around Granada Nicaragua is by horse and carriage. This is a relaxing way to see the sights and familiarise yourself with the area. Expect to pay around US$5 for a 30 minute tour or US$10 for a 1 hour tour. Carriages hold a maximum of 4 passengers. In Granada horse and carriage rides depart from Parque Central de Granada.

Tuk-Tuks in Granada Nicaragua

Auto-rickshaws or tuk-tuks are common in Nicaragua . They are a cheap and quick way to get from one place to the next. Agree on a price before you start your journey. Expect to pay around C$20-C$30 for a couple for a 10 minute trip. Tuk tuks may pick up other passengers along the way, so don’t be surprised if you have to share a ride with other passengers.

Taxis in Granada Nicaragua

One of the most convenient ways to get around Nicaragua is by taxi. Taxis in Nicaragua don’t generally have metres, so be sure to agree on a price before you begin your journey. In Granada the fare to get to anywhere within the city is C$10 per person during the day (7am-10pm) and C$15 per person after 10pm. Taxis may pick up other passengers along the way, so don’t be surprised if you have to share a ride with other passengers.

Ride-share in Nicaragua

Uber, Lyft and Grab do not operate in Nicaragua . In Managua there are some alternatives:

• Ray Nicaragua

Granada Nicaragua destination guide: Is Granada Nicaragua worth visiting?

Granada is one of the unmissable destinations on any Nicaragua trip. Its central location makes it an easy stopover from Nicaragua’s international airport regardless of whether you’re visiting the popular Nicaragua beach destination of San Juan del Sur or the spectacular Ometepe Island. Furthermore the city itself is full of charm, infinite photo opportunities and great food. It is a very tourist friendly Nicaraguan city with plenty to do and see. Additionally, if you are considering living in Nicaragua, we highly recommend calling Granada home.

Granada Nicaragua destination guide: How long to spend in Granada Nicaragua

Located less than an hour drive from Nicaragua airport, Granada is a great base for exploring the country. It is a very ex-pat friendly city and we called it home for one wonderful year. If you’re pressed for time, you only need one day in Granada to see most of the attractions in the city. However if you have more time we recommend a longer stay to experience all that the area has to offer. Granada is also perfect for day trips, with major Nicaraguan attractions such as Masaya Volcano, Laguna de Apoyo and Mombacho Volcano being just a short drive away.

Granada Nicaragua destination guide: What to do in Granada Nicaragua

Granada Nicaragua is a peaceful Nicaraguan city with a number of interesting activities. It has a range of great free activities as well as paid activities.

Granada Nicaragua destination guide: Free things to do in Granada Nicaragua

There are enough free activities in Granada Nicaragua to keep you entertained for a day or two:

• Parque Central de Granada
• Catedral de Granada
• Calle La Calzada
• Mercado Municipal
• Malecón de Granada
• Iglesia La Merced
• Capilla María Auxiliadora Parque Xalteva
• Palacio Episcopal
• Ruinas Hospital Sn Juan deDios
• Monument of Cordoba
• Guadalupe Church
• Cemetario de Granada
• Old Train Station Museum
• Fortaleza de la Pólvora

Granada Nicaragua destination guide: Paid activities in Granada Nicaragua

A number of attractions in Granada Nicaragua charge a fee:

• Islets of Granada (Las Isletas) – boat rides around the islets are available for a fee.
• Mombacho Volcano – entry fee $5 USD for foreign adults plus trail fee $2 USD, $4 USD or $6 USD depending on the trail chosen (as at 2023).
• Hotel Darío – this is a beautiful historic building in the heart of Granada. While there is no fee to enter the hotel, you should have a drink or a meal at the restaurant if you want to look around the premises.
• Magician Lounge – 1,500 cordobas for a welcome cocktail, 3 course meal and the show.
• San Francisco Convent Museum – entry fee $5 USD for foreign adults (as at 2023).
• Nicaragua Butterfly Reserve – entry fee $5 USD for foreign adults (as at 2023).
• Zapatera Island – boat rides around the island are available for a fee.

Events in Granada Nicaragua

Granada Nicaragua hosts a number of events throughout the year, including:

• Año Nuevo – New Year’s Day 1 January. Typically celebrated with bombas (fireworks) in the street as well as setting alight effigies.
• International Poetry Festival – the largest poetry festival in Central America . This is celebrated in February each year.
• Semana Santa – Holy Week (Easter). This is celebrated in March or April each year. Local families often flock to the beaches for holidays during this period.
• Hípica de Granada – a horse riding festival which includes horse parades as well as plenty of food, music and dancing. This is typically held in August each year.
• Patron Saint festivities – the patron saint of Granada is the Virgin of the Assumption. The patron saint festivities are celebrated between August 6 and 15 each year.
• Tope de los Torros (Running of the bulls) – bulls run through the main streets of Granada. This happens on the Sunday before 15 August each year.
• Nicaragua Independence Day – 15 September.
• Día de los muertos – 2 November.
• La Purísima – a festival celebrating the Virgin Mary. This festival is held from November 29 to December 8 each year.
• La Gritería – this is the final day of the La Purísima festival. It culminates in a parade, fireworks and performances.

Weather in Granada Nicaragua

The climate for Granada Nicaragua is classified as tropical, with relatively uniform hot temperatures and also high humidity throughout the year. The hottest month is April with an average temperature range of 24°C to 34°C (77°F to 93°F) and coldest month January with an average temperature between 22°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F). There are two main seasons in Nicaragua ; a wet season that typically commences in May and continues through to the end of October; and the dry season, which lasts from November through to April.

Best time to visit Granada Nicaragua

We lived in Granada for a year, so we have seen the city at every point throughout the year. As such we have first hand experience of when is the best time to visit Granada Nicaragua. Most people visit during the dry season, which is November to April. However don’t be deterred from visiting during the wet season, as the rain is typically for only an hour or two in the last afternoon and shouldn’t greatly impact your travel plans. Additionally, during the wet season Granada is typically less crowded and prices may be lower.

If you can time your Granada Nicaragua trip to coincide with one of the festivals or events, we highly recommend doing so. We have experienced a number of festivals in Granada first hand and they are really fun to be part of. We particularly enjoyed La Purísima, which is celebrated from late November to early December. Other events we recommend include Hípica de Granada and Tope de los Torros (Running of the bulls) which are both celebrated in August.

Internet and mobile phones in Nicaragua

The main internet and phone companies in Nicaragua are Tigo and Claro. Tigo has the widest coverage but is slightly more expensive. Both currently operate on 4G. Movistar is another common provider.

The phone messaging app Whatsapp is used extensively in Nicaragua, along with the other popular social media platforms.

High speed optic fibre internet is available in some areas of Nicaragua. The best speeds we’ve experienced have been around 40 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload. More common speeds that we have found in city hotels have been 4-5 Mbps download and 1-2 Mbps upload (as at 2021). Free wifi comes standard with most accommodation and you can find free wifi in many restaurants and cafes catered to tourists.

Cell phone SIM cards can be bought in many places throughout Nicaragua, including local corner stores known as pulperias.

For more on internet in Nicaragua, see this post .

How much to budget for Granada Nicaragua?

Is granada nicaragua expensive.

Nicaragua is one of the most affordable destinations in Central America and the city of Granada is also one of the best value tourist destinations in the country. We lived in Granada for a year and were shocked at how inexpensive a place it is to live in or to visit. There’s a reason why it’s a popular destination on the Central America backpacking trail. However if you want to stay in luxury accommodation in Nicaragua, Granada also has plenty of options that are much cheaper than what you’d pay for equivalent accommodation in other countries. Getting around the city is also very budget friendly. Granada is easily walkable, and even if you take a taxi it will only cost you C$10-C$15 cordobas per person depending on the time of day. Food in Granada Nicaragua is very cheap and street food in Granada costs as little as $1 USD. Furthermore, tours and activities in Granada are very affordable.

Granada Nicaragua destination guide: Daily spend for a couple travelling in Granada Nicaragua

Granada Nicaragua is a great value budget destination, but it also caters to those after a more luxurious experience.

As a rough guide, we recommend the following budgets for a couple:

• Low-budget daily spend – US$40 per day for a couple will get you hostel accommodation, meals at local eateries and markets, local transport and free or cheap activities such as visiting the central park, churches and local markets.
• Mid-range daily spend – US$100 per day for a couple will get you mid-range accommodation, local transport, taxis within the city and a few tours.
• Luxury spend – $500 per day for a couple will get you a premium experience in Nicaragua, staying in luxury accommodation, travelling by private transport, doing a range of tours and eating at high end restaurants.

Granada Nicaragua destination guide: Accommodation in Granada Nicaragua

There is a good range of accommodation to suit most budgets in Granada Nicaragua. However what makes staying in Granada particularly special is its abundance of beautiful colonial properties. Airbnb also operates in Nicaragua , and there are a number of Airbnb properties in Granada Nicaragua. Additionally, property management companies such as Granada Property Services have fully-furnished properties available for short-term or long-term rent.

Where to stay in Granada Nicaragua

We recommend the following accommodation in Granada Nicaragua:

• Best hostel in Granada Nicaragua – Hostal De Boca en Boca is one of the best hostels in Granada Nicaragua. It’s clean and comfortable with delicious free breakfasts. There is a spacious common area and it also has a well equipped kitchen.
• Best value hotel in Granada Nicaragua – We highly recommend staying at Hotel La Gran Sultana for budget friendly accommodation in Granada Nicaragua. We stayed here ourselves and thought it was a great value option. It’s also conveniently located, has a pool, delicious breakfasts and a spectacular rooftop area.
• Best hotel in Granada Nicaragua – Hotel Jardín de Granada is one of the best hotels in Granada Nicaragua. It has an amazing garden and pool area. It is within easy reach of the major attractions of the city whilst also being in an area that is peaceful and quiet.
• Best luxury accommodation in Granada Nicaragua – If you are after an impeccably presented villa and a luxurious experience in Granada Nicaragua, you can’t go past Casa Bubu Guesthouse . The team at Bubu offer exceptional service in a little piece of paradise.

How much is accommodation in Granada Nicaragua?

For short-term accommodation, a general price per night is as follows:

• Budget accommodation – US$8-33 for a bed in a dorm.
• Mid-range accommodation – US$29-150 for a private room.
• Luxury accommodation – US$150-200 a night for a luxury hotel.
• Rental property – US$90-370 a night for a fully furnished 3-4 bedroom home.

Granada Nicaragua destination guide: Food in Granada Nicaragua

How much does food cost in granada nicaragua.

Our price guide for your food budget in Granada Nicaragua is as follows:

• Restaurant meal – US$10-15 for a main dish (350-500 cordobas)
• Local eatery – US$3-5 for a main dish (100-200 cordobas)
• Street food – US$1 (30-40 cordobas)
• Beer (try the local Nicaragua beer Toña) – US$1 (30-40 cordobas)
• Local fruit drink (refresco) – US$0.30-0.50 (10-15 cordobas)

Must eat food in Granada Nicaragua

• Local street food from local fritangas. Our favourite fritanga in Granada is Fritanga La Chinita.
• Nacatamales
• Grama (a non-alcoholic drink)
• Indio Viejo (Nicaraguan Beef Stew)

Cheap Eats in Granada Nicaragua

• You can’t go past street food for a cheap and delicious treat. Our favourite street food includes enchiladas, nacatamales, hamburgesas and raspados. You can find street food all around Granada, particularly at Parque Central de Granada as well as around the local markets as well as at transport hubs. A lot of street vendors sell food from in front of their homes or else go door to door down the street, so you’re never far from great food!
• Bakeries are a great place to get cheap and delicious food.

Granada Nicaragua culture

Weekends in granada nicaragua.

Weekends in Granada are on Saturdays and Sundays. Sundays are typically quieter in the city and public transport may be less frequent on Sundays as well.

Granada Nicaragua public holidays

Public holidays for Nicaragua are as follows:

• New Year’s Day – 1 January
• Maundy Thursday (Holy Thursday) – the Thursday before Easter Sunday, typically in March or April
• Good Friday – the Friday before Easter Sunday, typically in March or April
• Easter Sunday – typically in March or April
• Labor Day – 1 May (holiday on the Monday if it falls on a weekend)
• Mother’s Day – 30 May
• Sandinista Revolution Anniversary – 19 July
• Battle of San Jacinto – 14 September
• Independence Day of Nicaragua – 15 September
• Indigenous Resistance Day – 12 October
• All Souls Day (Day of the Dead) – 2 November
• Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Immaculate Conception Day) – 8 December
• Christmas Eve – 24 December
• Christmas Day (Navidad) – 25 December (holiday on the Monday if it falls on a weekend)
• New Year’s Eve – 31 December

National symbols of Nicaragua

• Nicaragua flag – two blue bands with a white band containing the Nicaragua coat of arms in the middle. The blue bands represent the Pacific Ocean as well as the Caribbean Sea and the white band symbolises peace.
• Nicaragua coat of arms – this consists of a triangle, the Cap of Liberty, a rainbow, the rays of sun as well as 5 volcanoes. The Cap of Liberty represents national freedom, the 5 volcanoes represent the original 5 member states of the United Provinces of Central America and the rainbow and sun represent the bright future of Nicaragua.
• National flower – sacuanjoche (the flower of the frangipani tree).
• National bird – guardabarranco.
• National heroes – poet Rubén Dario, revolutionary leader Augusto C. Sandino.

Nicaragua pastimes

• National dish – gallo pinto. This is a dish of fried rice mixed with red beans and also spices. It can be eaten at any time of day. It is typically served at breakfast along with eggs, tortillas, fried plantains as well as a type of cheese called queso fresco.
• Popular drinks – grama, Toña beer, Flor de Caña Rum.
• National sport – baseball.
• Religion – 56% Catholic, 28% Protestant, 1% Jehovah’s Witness (as at 2010).

Famous people from Granada Nicaragua

• Famous people born in Granada Nicaragua – catholic priest Ernesto Cardenal Martínez, painter Armando Morales, poet José Coronel Urtecho.
• Sports stars from Granada Nicaragua – Major league baseball player Dennis Martínez, surfer Carlos Muñoz.

Is Granada Nicaragua Safe?

Nicaragua travel guide: safety in granada nicaragua.

We found Granada Nicaragua to be a very safe place to visit. Petty crime and crimes of opportunity can be an issue, so we recommend taking care to keep your valuables secure and out of sight. As with any country, there are some areas that are safer than others. For Granada, the area around the lake is a hot spot for theft as well as robberies, particularly at night. However we generally found Granada very safe. For more information on safety in Nicaragua , watch this video .

Nicaragua did experience a period of civil unrest in 2018. This has now passed, and as a tourist you should not be affected.

General safety considerations in Nicaragua

Other general safety considerations for travel in Nicaragua :

• Drinking water – Tap water in Granada Nicaragua is safe to drink. We drank tap water without issue. However many tourists prefer to drink bottled water. Additionally, most accommodation provides purified water for guests to use.
• Mosquitoes – The mosquitoes in Granada don’t generally carry tropical diseases. Additionally, Nicaragua has mosquito control programs and many buildings are sprayed regularly for mosquito control.
• Scorpions – Granada has scorpions. We recommend checking your shoes before putting them on and keeping bags zipped closed when not attended to ensure you don’t get any nasty surprises.
• Road safety – In Nicaragua we often travelled standing up in the back of vans or in vehicles without helmets or seat belts. This does come with an element of risk
• Water safety – take care when swimming as currents and waves may be stronger than you expect. Also, the Nicaragua bull shark is in Lake Nicaragua.
• Earthquakes – Nicaragua experiences regional and local earthquake activity. In an earthquake, stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls and anything that could fall. If inside, get under a table, desk or solid furniture and hang onto it. Cover your head and torso to protect from falling objects. If outside, stay outside and go to an open area away from buildings.
• Volcanic eruptions – the closest volcanoes to Granada are the active volcanoes Mombacho Volcano and Masaya Volcano.
• Hurricanes – Granada is not typically significantly affected by hurricanes. You may get some heavy rain during hurricane season and blackouts may occur.
• Sun safety – The UV Index is very high in Nicaragua. Therefore sun protection such as sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses is very important.
• Dogs – stray dogs are common. For more on dog safety, watch this video .

As with any destination, take all of your normal safety precautions.

Nicaragua Blogs

You can find our Nicaragua blogs below.

Esteli Nicaragua Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Ometepe Island Nicaragua Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Masaya Nicaragua Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

San Juan del Sur Nicaragua Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Managua Nicaragua Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Leon Nicaragua Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Transport in Nicaragua – Complete Guide to Nicaragua Transportation (2024)

Where should I live in Nicaragua?

Top 5 Things to do in Managua Nicaragua (2024)

Granada Ferry: How to get to Ometepe Island

Nicaragua Costa Rica Border Crossing: Complete Travel Guide

Home Invasion in Granada Nicaragua

Ojo de Agua: Paradise in Nicaragua!

How Good is the Internet in Nicaragua?

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Nicaragua's oldest town is also its most beguiling. It’s no wonder many travelers use the city as a base, spending at least a day bopping along cobblestone roads from church to church in the city center, then venturing out into the countryside for trips to nearby attractions.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Convento y Museo San Francisco

One of the oldest churches in Central America, Convento San Francisco boasts a robin's egg–blue birthday-cake facade and houses both an important convent…

Museo de Chocolate

Granada's new chocolate museum is excellent if you're traveling with children: the 'beans to bar' chocolate workshop, where participants learn to roast…

Iglesia La Merced

Perhaps the most beautiful church in the city, this landmark was built in 1534. Most come here for the spectacular views from the bell tower – especially…

Casa de los Leones & Fundación Casa de los Tres Mundos

Founded in 1986 by Ernesto Cardenal, the Fundación Casa de los Tres Mundos moved to elegant Casa de los Leones in 1992. Casa Los Leones was built in 1720,…

Cementerio de Granada

Used between 1876 and 1922, this beautiful cemetery on Granada's outskirts has lots of picturesque mausoleums and tombs, including those of six Nicaraguan…

This museum displays a private collection of ceramics dating from at least 2000 BC to the present. Hundreds of beautifully crafted pieces were chosen with…

La Capilla María Auxiliadora

This gorgeous 1918 Gothic church with white-and-blue trim is worth a look for its interior – arguably the most beautiful of all of Granada's churches –…

Iglesia de Xalteva

The dilapidated but attractive colonial church that houses La Virgen de la Asunción was almost completely rebuilt in the 1890s after suffering serious…

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Granada Itinerary (3 Days) in Nicaragua: Complete breakdown

A visit to Nicaragua wouldn’t be complete without spending at least 3 days in Granada. It’s one of Nicaragua’s most iconic cities, and for good reason! Founded in 1524 by Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba, it’s the oldest colonial city in the country, bringing with it much European influence. Granada’s politically-charged past as the opposition to the more liberal and revolutionary León , has further shaped the city we see today. Whilst there are similarities between these two major backpacking hubs, Granada has its own distinct character which I grew to enjoy! Streets laden with colourful colonial architecture, their faded walls providing a dated charm. The clopping of hooves against tarmac as work-horses tow their carts and carriages. And the juxtaposition of quiet, ornate streets with the bustle of daily Nicaraguan life that you can find with the turn of any corner. If this is your first time visiting this wonderful city, then look no further. This 3-day Granada itinerary will cover everything you need to know, including the best things to do; how to budget, and tips for your stay.

Let’s get started!

Granada Itinerary in Short

• Day 1 : Explore the city and see the lava at Masaya Volcano
• Day 2 : Islets Boat Tour
• Day 3 : Visit Mombacho Volcano (+ Optional Treehouse Party)

How to use this Granada Itinerary:  This itinerary compiles what I think is the best 3 days in Granada for first-timers. The days and activities can easily be shuffled around to suit your needs. There is plenty more to do in Granada if you want to add additional days (I wouldn’t blame you!).

Granada Itinerary in Full

How many days do you need in granada, nicaragua.

I recommend spending at least 3 days in Granada. This will give you a chance to see all the main sights that the city has to offer, without being rushed off your feet.

Having said this, if you prefer to travel slowly, you could easily spend another couple of nights here. If you intend to stay for the Treehouse party on a Friday night, you may also need to extend your stay. Either way, there are still even more things to do in Granada if you have time !

If you want to compare the length of your stay in León with your stay in Granada. My honest view is that you should allow similar amounts of time to explore each. I found Granada to be prettier and larger, while León had more character (though a little rough around the edges), and a more obvious connection with its revolutionary history. Both cities offer options outside of town to extend your stays closer to day-trip activities such as Las Peñitas for Leon, and Apoyo or Mombacho for Granada.

3-Day Granada Itinerary

Day 1: explore the city + masaya volcano.

Your first day in Granada will allow you to familiarise yourself with the local area and your surroundings. Plus you’ll get a taste of Nicaragua’s unmatched volcano scene!

AM: Explore the city

When visiting any new city, I try to either join a walking tour or explore independently with my camera.

Dubbed as the prettiest city in Central America (alongside its sister city of Antigua in Guatemala), Granada is not one to be missed!

This colourful colonial city is best explored at street level, exploring its array of churches and cathedrals; witnessing the workhorses in action; smelling the aromas of the city; and maybe even stopping off to try some street food!

You can join one of the many walking tours around the city, which normally last anywhere between 2 and 4 hours. You can either book online or with tour operators.

NOTE : Another popular option for tourists is the horse-drawn carriage tours, which last around 90 minutes and cover Granada’s main sights. Having seen the way the horses are ‘looked after’, I can’t really endorse this activity.

Main Sights

Walking tour or not, here are some of the best things to see whilst walking around Granada. What’s great is that they’re all so close together!

• Parque Central de Granada : The main plaza is filled with market stalls, fountains, ice cream vendors and more! It’s a great place to get souvenirs and grab food, but I recommend returning again after dark as there’s a buzz of activity.
• Granada Cathedral : Situated on the edge of the main plaza is Granada Cathedral (aka Our Lady of the Assumption Cathedral). This well-preserved, colonial building in yellow and white stands majestically in the centre of town. It’s the main landmark of the city, plus it’s FREE to enter!
• La Iglesia de la Merced : This beautiful church offers 360-degree views of Granada. It costs $1, to go upstairs to the bell tower, which is 100% worthwhile to get a different perspective of the city.
• Sidestreet Markets : If you are looking to see a more authentic side of Granada, take a wander down some of the sidestreets. Here you will see a hub of activity as people go about their day-to-day lives and sell things. Though avoid going down any back alleys at night!
• La Polvora Fortress : This medieval fortress on the edge of the city was originally built to protect Granada from pirates as well as store gunpowder! Now you can explore the lookouts and wander the exhibits as it’s been converted into a museum. Once again it’s FREE to enter and offers impressive views of the city.
• Xalteva Church : Perhaps not as iconic as Granada Cathedral or La Iglesia de la Merced, but Xalteva Church is certainly one of the prettiest in the city. With a bright orange exterior and baroque and Islamic influences, this reconstructed church really stands out.

TOP TIP : If you are considering booking a walking tour of Granada, decide what other activities you want to do while you’re here. Most operators offer a variety of different tours, so you can use the walking tour as a bargaining tool to get the price down for other activities.

PM: Masaya Volcano

No Granada itinerary is complete without a visit to the Masaya Volcano. Whilst there are many volcanoes in Central America, this offers a unique experience as you can look directly into the crater to see the bubbling lava within .

Tours of Masaya Volcano cost approximately $25 , including transport from Granada and a guide to show you around. Whilst you can arrange your own transport, with the park entrance fee of $10, it probably works out somewhat similar.

Arrive just before sunset to explore the multiple craters and watch the sun go down. It’s a short walk up to the best viewpoint. You can also take a sneak peek at the Masaya crater during the daylight to compare it with night.

After dark, return to the main crater. This time you should be able to see the glowing red lava. Visibility varies depending on the wind blowing the fumes.

Day 2: Visit Las Isletas de Granada

Las Isletas, which translates to ‘the little islands’, are a series of land formations scattered across the surface of Lake Nicaragua.

Formed by the eruption of Mombacho many years ago, 365 islets are now dotted across the lake. Over time their surfaces have become habitated with lush plant life and wildlife.

There are various ways to explore the islets in Granada. The most popular being by boat!

There are a variety of tours available, from day tours to sunset rides or even booze cruises. They can last anywhere from 1 hour to half-days. Pretty much all tour operators and hostels in Granada will offer excursions to Las Isletas.

Alternatively, you can explore a smaller section of the islets by kayak if you would prefer to rent and explore at your own pace. Kayak rental costs a similar amount ($20-$25).

Day 3: Mombacho Volcano + Treehouse

On the outskirts of Granada is the mighty Mombacho volcano.

It’s a volcano unlike any that I’ve visited! So much so that it almost doesn’t feel like a volcano! Home to a cloud forest with dewy plants and an abundance of life. Keep a look out for monkeys, sloths, and a variety of bird species (including the quetzal).

You can either hike up to the volcano from the very bottom (it’s a steep climb up winding roads) or get a lift most of the way. We decided to hitch a ride with a very kind local who was heading in that direction. This helped avoid paying the additional cost for vehicle entry and the sweaty uphill walk.

Once you’re at the reserve, there are three well-maintained walking trails to fully explore Mombacho.

• Crater Trail : A 1.5km loop circling around the main crater of Mombacho. It’s free, doesn’t require a guide, and heads out to a couple of epic viewpoints looking back towards Granada, Lake Nicaragua and Apoyo Lagoon.
• El Tigrillo Trail : This is a continuation of the Crater trail leading to two additional viewpoints. It wasn’t the best signposted and I didn’t realise I’d completed it until we circled back.
• El Puma Trail : The hardest trail on Mombacho takes you deeper into the forest along a 4.5km route. The walk requires a guide and an additional entry fee. You will see the Puma trail cordoned off from the other hiking trails.

There are tours available to visit Mombacho from Granada, however I chose to explore independently which I was grateful for. I also opted to hike without a guide to save on cost which was perfectly fine as the trails are easy to follow. The only downsides of no guide was that I couldn’t complete the Puma Trail (however tempting hopping the un-manned fence seemed), and I couldn’t get the local knowledge and stories about the volcano.

While you are in the Mombacho area, there are places to zipline or explore a coffee plantation. These can often be booked alongside the tours.

There’s also a cafe ( Cafe Las Flores ), halfway up to Mombacho which offers a place to grab food and refreshments. It’s not always open so avoid relying on this and bring your own water and snacks.

Treehouse Party

If you align your stay in Granada with a Friday night , you can head to the Treehouse party in the canopy aside Mombacho Volcano. This party has a reputation spanning the whole of Central America. I’ve written a more detailed post about it here .

The hostel where the rave takes place lets guests watch the sunset before the party starts. You can buy all your food and drinks there and enjoy the music until it finishes at 3am. The music is predominantly techno and house music but varies each week.

Granada Itinerary Map

Granada Budget

Since I didn’t follow this exact 3-day Granada itinerary (extending longer and staying in the Treehouse), I have broken down the costs of each of the individual aspects to calculate how much you should expect to spend during this 3-day Granada itinerary.

The breakdown is approximately as follows:

Day 1 – £43

• Iglesia de la Merced: $1
• Masaya Volcano Tour: $25
• Accommodation: $9

Day 2 – $40

• Islets Boat Tour: $25

Day 3 – $49

• Transport to Mombacho: $4
• Entry to Mombacho National Park: $5
• Treehouse Party: $25

NOTE : Alcohol not included. Breakfast was included with my hostel.

While Nicaragua felt cheaper than other Central American countries, it’s easy for activities to add up. It was probably one of my more expensive stops in Nicaragua. While, I could quite easily tell you that it costs $30/day to travel in Granada (which is entirely possible, especially if you stayed longer), I want to give you a better representation of how much a backpacker could be spending to do the activities they wanted. I averaged approximately $44/day during my time. Probably slightly more including the unaccounted-for alcohol and personal items.

What to do if you have more time in Granada?

If you are not on a strict timeline; are killing time before the Treehouse on Friday night, or want to experience more than just the ‘highlights’ of Granada, here are a few more options for your Granada itinerary:

Apoyo Lagoon

If you are in the mood for a relaxing day, head over to Apoyo Lagoon, a crater lake just outside of Granada. You can swim, rent kayaks, bob around in an inner tube, or simply chill out on the beach! I think there’s even scuba diving available!

If you have seen a lot of Central America already, this might be an activity to skip to save money. However, if the idea of swimming in a crater lake excites you, then go check it out!

Most tours will drop you off at El Paradiso, a hostel on the beachside of the lagoon. Tours are approximately $20-$25, though you can contact the hostel directly for a cheaper price. Another way to make the visit cheaper is to combine it with an evening excursion such as the Masaya Volcano tour.

Booze Cruise

If you like to party, the booze cruise in Granada is definitely something to add to your list! Every Wednesday from 16:00 til midnight, the boat sets sail into Lake Nicaragua for an evening of partying. Heading out towards the islets and watching sunset before returning to shore for a beach party.

Spanish Schoool

Like many of the other Central American cities, Granada offers the opportunity to improve your Spanish. What’s great about learning Spanish in Nicaragua is that it’s cheaper than the likes of Guatemala or Costa Rica with all the same benefits. There are plenty of options with homestays, language schools, or 1:1 lessons available.

Where to go after Granada?

Once you have seen all that Granada has to offer, you have a number of choices for where to go next. The south of Nicaragua is generally well-connected so  you have lots of flexibility .

If you are travelling east through Nicaragua, your next stop could be in  Ometepe or San Juan del Sur . Ometepe is the closer of the two

Whereas, if you are travelling west through Nicaragua, your next stop should be in Leon where you can try out volcano boarding !

Alternatively, you could check out  Managua  for a day before flying out and exploring somewhere else entirely! Take a flight to the idyllic  Corn Islands  in the northeast of Nicaragua.

Before you go

Thank you for reading my 3-day Granada itinerary in Nicaragua. If guides, itineraries and travel content like this interest you, head over to  my blog page  to find out more.

If you are new to  Matt’s Next Steps , check out the  About Me  page to find out a bit more about who I am, my travel adventures, and why I wanted to become a travel writer.

Please comment below and let me know your thoughts and experiences, or if there is anything else you want information on.

Happy travelling!

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By: Melanie Gordon (Contributor) · Last Updated: February 12, 2024

10 Unforgettable Things to Do in Granada, Nicaragua

Planning to visit the charming colonial city of Granada? As a top destination for travelers adventuring through vibrant Nicaragua, it’s no wonder why. With countless amazing things to do (and eat) in Granada, you’re in for an unforgettable stay.

In Central America’s oldest colonial city, you’ll find decadent chocolate (cacao) drinks, plenty of delicious Nicaraguan food, colorful streets, an authentic local market, multiple grand churches, and of course, buzzing city squares and green parks. Not to mention, with the active Masaya Volcano, massive Lake Nicaragua, and the Apoyo Lagoon all nearby, outdoor adventures await!

Ready to explore Granada? Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Granada, Nicaragua! These 10 things to do, see, and eat are sure to put Granada straight to the top of your list of favorite cities.

Where to Stay in Granada, Nicaragua

Before we dive into the top 10 things to do in Granada, Nicaragua, let’s talk about where you should rest after your full days of exploring!

This colorful city has many hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs to choose from. And luckily, Granada lodgings cater to the backpacker, digital nomad, romantic getaway couple, and luxury traveler. No matter your price range, there’s something here for you.

Affordable Luxury Accommodation

If you’re looking for luxury , Granada hotels, then we’ve got you covered. Here are our top recommendations for luxury accommodation in Nicaragua (just, without the typical luxury price tag!).

• Hotel Plaza Colon : This boutique hotel is in front of the main plaza and boasts a huge blue tiled swimming pool, gorgeous verandas, and chic bar “El Bar”. Plus it is the only hotel certified in sustainable practices by the Rainforest Alliance in the region! Click here to book your stay at Hotel Plaza Colon.
• Hotel Dario : You can’t miss this iconic blue and white colonial building turned boutique hotel. The history of this Neoclassical architectural hotel makes it a heritage site to the city of Granada. You’ll not only appreciate the ambiance and central location of this 5-star hotel, but the great food at their El Travía restaurant, too. Click here to book your stay at Hotel Dario.
• Tribal Hotel : In the heart of Granada, you’ll find the definition of stylish indoor-outdoor living. Tribal Hotel’s tropical garden oasis and plush rooms are complete with cool textiles, earthy tones, and a touch of whimsical charm. On a balmy evening, there’s nothing better than lounging beside Tribal Hotel’s beautiful torch-lit pool and sipping a perfectly crafted cocktail from your private cabana. Chic, luxurious, and easily our favorite hotel in Granada.

Click here to find other amazing deals on Granada hotels and apartments.

Budget Accommodation

Hostels and budget accommodation in Granada are aplenty, and we easily recommend:

• De Boca en Boca : Free breakfast & fabulous location right next to Iglesia de la Merced. This hostel also offers tons of fun activities and excursions. Click here to book your stay at De Boca en Boca.
• Treehouse : Come here for the jungle vibes and stay for the one of a kind sunsets. Never slept in a treehouse? Now is your chance! Click here to book your stay at Treehouse.
• Selina : Selina’s Granada location is front and center on Parque Central and is known for excellent internet and co-working spaces. Plus, free yoga! Click here to book your stay at Selina.

How to Get to Granada

Taxi or shuttle.

If you want to visit Granada, the oldest colonial city in Nicaragua, you’ll find it is a breeze! Augusto C. Sandino International Airport in Managua is the only airport with scheduled flight traffic in Nicaragua, and a short 47-minute drive from Granada makes travel easy. There are plenty of taxis to choose from when you exit the airport, and like most travel in Nicaragua, it is inexpensive .

Generally speaking, taxis and shuttles are super affordable throughout the country. If you’re traveling from elsewhere in Nicaragua, such as from San Juan del Sur, arranging a shuttle or taxi through your hotel is just as easy.

If you’re feeling adventurous, then you may prefer to book a rental car so you can explore more of the country with ease – and maybe even drive down to Costa Rica . If that’s the case, Discover Cars is our go-to rental car company worldwide, but locally, Dollar Rent a Car Nicaragua is also a great, cheap option.

CLICK HERE to book your rental car now! Free cancellation is usually included, so lock it in.

Best 10 Things to See & Do in Granada, Nicaragua

Okay, let’s get into it! From visiting La Iglesia Merced and browsing the local market, to strolling down Calle La Calzada and eating at the Garden Cafe, here are our top picks for the best things to do in Granada, Nicaragua! Plus, a few hot tips along the way.

#1 Discover Las Isletas on a Boat Tour

Lake Nicaragua, or Lago Cocibolca, is the largest lake in Central America (but it looks more like an ocean!) . Without a doubt, of all the things to do in Granada, Nicaragua, exploring this lake and its many islands is #1.

You won’t have a hard time booking a tour of the isletas , as it is the most popular excursion and offers a relaxed, fun way to explore the many mini islands (isletas) of the lake.

Simply catch a taxi to the Asese Port and ask around, click here to book a boat tour , or find a tour through your hotel… and hop aboard to explore Las Isletas on the edge of Granada! If you’re extra adventurous, you can book a kayaking tour . Or you can opt for a party catamaran (book through your hostel, this ends at famous “party island”).

Have fun swimming in the freshwater, feeding monkeys hanging off trees, and sipping a drink as you watch the sunset (the best time to do the Isleta Tour ).

Las Isletas Tours:

• Boat Tour of the Isletas
• Kayak Tour of the Isletas

#2 Afternoon Trip to Active Masaya Volcano

Unlike most active volcanoes in Central and South America, here in Nicaragua, you can get eerily close to the molten lava just about an hour from Granada! It’s easy to book a Masaya Volcano trip . You can either book it online , ask your hotel to help you, or speak to any of the city’s certified tour operators lining the Central Plaza.

We recommend doing an afternoon or “night tour” , this ensures you’ll see the red bubbling lava as the sky begins to darken. How captivating !

The fee for entering the Masaya Volcano National Park is $10 for the evening tours, so a bit steeper than the $2 daytime fee, but well worth it !

Masaya Volcano Tours:

• Masaya Volcano Night Tour
• PRIVATE Masaya Volcano Night Tour

#3 Day Trip to Laguna de Apoyo

Indisputably, the Laguna de Apoyo is one of the top things to do in Granada. ( Okay , technically it’s not in Granada, but the municipal of Catarina in Masaya, Nicaragua.) Still , being just a quick 20-minute ride away, it’s a frequently booked day trip for visitors in Granada – and often a favorite day in Nicaragua!

The Laguna de Apoyo is a freshwater, mineral-rich crater lake formed by volcanic implosion 23,000 years ago. Epic , right? Many of the hotels around the laguna offer day passes to the city folk for a small fee.

We highly recommend Paradiso Hostel for those looking to have major fun in the sun and Casa Marimba if you want a more relaxing, tranquil jungle environment on the beach (with an amazing restaurant, too). Both places offer kayaks, inner tubes, food, drinks, and floating docks. Don’t skip this trip!

P.S. If you want to extend your stay in Laguna de Apoyo (we wouldn’t blame you), then Casa Marimba is one of the best places you could possibly stay!

READ MORE: Laguna de Apoyo, Nicaragua Travel Guide: Where to Play, Stay & Eat

#4 Sunset at the Bell Tower of Iglesia de la Merced

It’s true that Iglesia la Merced is beautiful on the inside, but a $1 climb up the spiral staircase to the bell tower, especially at sunset, offers peak viewing pleasure!

This colonial church was built way back in 1534 and offers panoramic views of downtown Granada as well as the magnificent Mombacho Volcano.

Hot tip: If you’re a fan of meandering through colonial church halls, we recommend the two-kilometer walk down Calle La Libertad from Chapel Maria Auxiladora to Guadalupe Church .

You’ll pass Iglesia Xalteva , Iglesia la Merced , and the Cathedral of Granada on the way. What a lovely afternoon!

READ MORE: Why Visit Nicaragua? 10 Reasons to Travel to Nicaragua ASAP!

#5 Explore the Local Market

If authentic , local experiences draw you to travel, then you already know that the local mercado is a must !

Just a five-minute walk from the city center, down Calle el Comercio, you’ll run into the distinct sounds and scents of the local, open-air market of Granada. Here, you will find avocados the size of your head, freshly picked mangoes (or pitaya, depending on the season), huge blocks of fresh Nica cheese, and all kinds of exotic, organic fruits and vegetables.

Be sure to try some street food from the local market stands! We recommend tajadas (fried plantain chips) and vigaró , a traditional Nicaraguan dish that comes wrapped in a banana leaf. So authentic!

#6 Hop on a Horse Carriage City Tour

Perhaps the most romantic way to explore the city of Granada, Nicaragua, is to sit back and relax in one of the classic horse-drawn carriages . Let’s be honest, sometimes it’s just too hot out to enjoy a long walk, and why not kick up your feet for while? For a low cost of around $10 per hour, it’s hard to pass up!

Appreciating the colorful buildings and antique colonial houses surrounding the city streets is much easier while you let someone else take the reins ( literally ) . The carriages are pulled by two horses and can comfortably fit a group of four for a city tour or quick ride to your isleta boat tour !

#7 Party at Treehouse Jungle Rave

If parties aren’t your thing, move down to #8 on our list of the best things to do in Granada, Nicaragua. However, if you enjoy dancing late into the night surrounded by lush jungle , look no further than the classic Friday Night Treehouse Party at the Treehouse Hostel .

As you walk across the drawn bridge to Treehouse Hostel at sunset, you’ll begin to feel the palpable energy of nature and the beat of the speakers. Get ready to get down!

The Townhouse Hostel offers shuttles from Granada to the Treehouse Hostel and back, including multiple nighttime return trips to the city. Why not celebrate? You’re in one of the coolest countries in Central and South America!

Hot tip: The Treehouse Hostel is one of our top budget accommodation recommendations in Granada! Why wouldn’t you want to stay in a treehouse in the jungle? (Hint: Choose the “Deluxe Double Room.”) Click here to book your stay at Treehouse.

#8 Eat a Tostone Burger at Tostometro

The perfect day-after food ! Picture it, a big juicy burger sandwiched between two huge tostones , not buns. If you haven’t had a tostone before, don’t worry, you’ll fall in love with this local food (fried, smashed green plantains).

Tostometro is an adorable little local restaurant nestled between stalls at the beginning of the local market. Finding it is almost as exciting as taking your first bite!

Of course, they offer an exceptional veggie tostone burger too, for all of our plant-based friends!

And did we mention, Tostometro is a great location for people-watching, too?

#9 Learn All About Cacao (At ChocoMuseo)

The famous Chocolate Museum, ChocoMuseo , located just one block northwest of Parque Central, is a quick and fun thing to do while in Granada, Nicaragua. The grand building of the museum also has a hotel and restaurant, with a beautiful foyer to enjoy your cacao drink and rich brownie .

They offer a “Bean to Bar” workshop as well as a “Chocktail” workshop – in addition to the free museum.

We recommend checking out this interactive and informative museum while having a day exploring the city of Granada!

#10 Visit the Garden Cafe

This next spot is absolutely iconic. If you’ve heard of The Garden Café in Granada, Nicaragua, you probably know it as the spot where “influencers” love to take aesthetic photos – and for good reason! After all, this place was designed around a beautiful garden.

People rely on the Garden Cafe’s dishes to be healthy, local, and light on the stomach (okay, maybe not the calala cheesecake, but I digress) . The staff always serves with a smile and enthusiasm, and we love that!

Frothy green matcha drinks photograph well in the open-air dining area – where butterflies also love to mingle in the sun. The Garden Cafe also has an adorable gift shop with beautiful clothing, jewelry, and leather works. If you’re not interested in buying new, definitely scope out their excellent used bookcase. There are many gems!

Top 10 Things to Do in Granada, Nicaragua

Well, friends, there you have it. Those are the 10 best things to do in Granada, Nicaragua.

Granada is not only the oldest, but in our opinion, the most beautiful colonial city in Nicaragua .

It’s impossible not to appreciate Granada on a sunny afternoon as the sky clears over Mombacho Volcano. Or as you simply people-watch in Parque Central in front of the regal Granada Cathedral.

No matter what you choose to do, even crossing just one of our “to-dos” off your list will leave you with lasting memories of this unique place. Just don’t forget to take pictures! Granada is Nicaragua’s most popular city to visit for a reason!

FIND MORE NICARAGUA INSPIRATION HERE!

• Is it Safe to Travel to Nicaragua? A Solo Female Traveler’s Perspective
• The Ultimate Nicaragua Itinerary (For 1, 2, or 3 Weeks)
• Laguna de Apoyo, Nicaragua Travel Guide: Where to Play, Stay & Eat
• 10 Reasons to Visit Nicaragua ASAP: Central America’s Hidden Gem
• Nicaragua Rainy Season: What to Know & Why You’ll Love It!
• 11 Best Things to Do in Popoyo, Nicaragua + Must-Know Travel Tips
• Ometepe Island, Nicaragua Guide: Best Things to Do, See & Eat!

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Granada, Nicaragua Travel FAQs

There are so many amazing reasons to visit Granada. A hidden gem, smack in the middle of Central America, Granada has it all: beautiful colonial buildings, stunning nature (like the Masaya Volcano, Lake Nicaragua, and the Apoyo Lagoon Nature Reserve), authentic culture, friendly locals, and delicious traditional food. With this list of the best things to do, see, and eat in Granada, you can’t go wrong.

When it comes to safety, Nicaragua doesn’t have the best reputation. However, when you arrive in Granada, we think you’ll be quite surprised by how safe you feel. People in Granada are warm, friendly, and welcoming – and there’s an obvious community of digital nomads and ex-pats living here too. Overall, Granada is safe enough , but as with anywhere else, you should be cautious and follow general safety guidelines. Like… Be aware of your surroundings and keep your wits about you. Don’t be flashy with your cash or other valuables. Use common sense. And remember, there’s always safety in numbers – especially at nighttime. It’s also worth noting that you should steer clear of any political events or protests in Nicaragua. If you can do those things, you should feel (and be) perfectly safe in Granada.

There are no ride-sharing apps in Granada. The city center is small, so you can easily get around on foot. Otherwise, taxis and tuk-tuks are at the ready! Feeling something a little extra? You can also opt for one of Granada’s iconic horse-drawn carriages.

Define “beach”! If you’re asking about ocean beach, the answer is no . But if you’re asking about lake beaches, then the answer is yes ! There are beaches in Granada! This beautiful colonial city lines the shore of the largest lake in Central America, Lake Nicaragua (or Lago Cocibolca ). In fact, one of most fun things to do in Nicaragua is taking a boat tour to the many mini islands (isletas) on the lake. The beautiful Apoyo Lagoon (a freshwater, mineral-rich crater lake) is also nearby. Taking a day trip here is another one of the most popular things to do in Granada, Nicaragua.

Founded in 1524, Granada is the oldest colonial city in all of Central America (that still remains in the same place it was founded). Granada’s centuries-old, colorful buildings and cobblestone streets give the city its charm, while the surrounding volcanoes, lakes, lagoons, and rolling hills offer endless natural beauty. Not to mention, the city’s authentic culture, good food, museums,

There are so many incredible things to do in Granada! Some of our favorites include strolling down the Calle La Calzada, trying Nicaraguan food, and exploring the city via horse-drawn carriage. Not to mention, visiting Masaya Volcano, spending a day at Laguna de Apoyo, and touring the tiny islands of Lake Nicaragua by boat. This guide details all of the best things to do and see in Granada – as well as the best places to stay in Granada!

As far as affordable luxury in Nicaragua goes, you can’t find much better than the Hotel Plaza Colon. This cozy boutique hotel is located right in front of the main square and features a beautiful blue-tiled pool, lovely verandas, and chic bar. Plus it’s the only hotel in the region that follows sustainable practices, certified by the Rainforest Alliance. Click here to book your stay at Hotel Plaza Colon.

Have you been to Granada before? What are your favorite things to do there? Visiting Granada and have a question? Leave your comments for Melanie below!

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About Melanie Gordon (Contributor)

Melanie contributes travel writing and photos to Maddy's Avenue. Melanie began traveling after life threw her a major curveball in the form of a condo fire. Losing everything (including her beloved cat, Moby) presented her with the opportunity to turn a tragedy into a catalyst for growth. With nothing to lose, she set out for a solo “soul searching” journey. Turns out, this curveball set her path straight in the direction of her destiny. Through work like website design, travel writing, and sharing her passion of teaching yoga and hula hooping, she’s found the life she’s always envisioned. Follow along for more of Melanie’s travel writing, and reach out through her website or Instagram (livinginflowco.com & @livinginflowco).

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October 31, 2022 at 12:41 am

i spent two weeks in granada, lived with a local family and took spanish classes at casa xalteva. it was just fabulous. i also volunteered to teach some english classes to some of the local students. it was a blast. there was also the opportunity to take several different trips with some of my fellow students. just a wonderful experience.

November 14, 2022 at 3:47 am

Thanks for sharing, Doug! Those sound like some some wonderful memories.

May 25, 2023 at 6:58 am

Bate Bate Chocolate just around the corner on Calle Libertad is much better than ChocoMuseo. The presentation, ambience, menu, and staff are fresh and new, and the chocolate they create is out of this world.

June 6, 2023 at 5:48 pm

Hi Karen, I’ll have to try Bate Bate next time I’m in Granada. Thanks for the tip!

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Granada, Nicaragua: Ultimate Travel Guide

• Author david
• Date August 1st, 2023

The city of Granada, Nicaragua , situated on the shores of the mesmerizing Lake Nicaragua, offers a captivating blend of timeless beauty, colonial heritage, and vibrant culture. Known as one of Central America’s most important cities, Granada is often referred to as the “Great Sultan” due to its Moorish namesake in Spain. The city’s enchanting past is visible in its Spanish colonial architecture, brightly colored houses, and majestic churches, all of which are nestled among lush vegetation and stunning landscapes.

Each cobblestone street in Granada is a gateway to a rich history, a testament to the city’s resilience and charm. This is a place where you can traverse centuries just by turning a corner. From the echoing bells of the ancient cathedrals to the bustling marketplace filled with local artisans’ crafts, Granada is a sensory feast.

I visited this beautiful colonial city, and the nearby cities of Masaya and Masatepe back in the spring of 2022. Along with my guide, Carlos from Visita Nicaragua, I explored the bustling markets, stunning architecture, vibrant culture of these cities, along with the warmth of the Nicaraguan people. These are the top things you must experience in Granada, Nicaragua!

Granada, Nicaragua

Enjoy nicaraguan street food at the central market.

I’ve often said if you want to experience local life in any destination, visit a local market. In the Central Market in Granada, Nicaragua, you’ll find countless vendors and an array of authentic local street foods. Local frito, or fried pork or pork rinds, is a must!

You’ll also find massive whole chicharrones and chancho con yuca (made with marinated pork, yucca, and cabbage). The tortillas rellenos stuffed with rice and meat are also savory and filling! For a more unique offering try the pinol de iguana, a corn stew containing iguana meat, onions, and egg. You’ll also find spice and produce vendors, as well as those selling home goods and clothing!

Go on a carriage tour of Granada, Nicaragua

Another phenomenal way to experience Granada, Nicaragua is by horse-drawn carriage! I went on a spontaneous carriage tour that took me around this beautiful colonial city. We started by passing historical homes and seeing Pedro Joaquin Guardia Chamoro Plaza and the Park of Galteba.

We continued past the Monument of Ruben Dario , dedicated to a renowned Nicaraguan poet. In the Xalteva area, our carriage driver showed us Calteba Church, which dates back to 1731. It’s a fascinating historical tour and only costs 350 Cordoba, or about $10 USD!

Go on a food and attraction tour of the city

You don’t have to go to the Central Market to experience great street food in Granada, Nicaragua. At Central Park, I highly recommend trying vigorón , a popular local dish made with cassava, yucca, cabbage, and fried pork. Add some pickled chilies and wash it down with some coyolito, a refreshing drink similar to grape or cherry juice.

You may also find vendors selling traditional sweets like coyolito candies and candied papaya. If you’re looking for artisanal beers, visit Nectar Bar & Restaurante, where you can also sample the national drink, macuá. Elsewhere are vendors selling everything from gallo pinto to fried cheese to fresh plantain chips!

Get a pampered in Granada, Nicaragua

If you’re staying at Hotel Real La Merced in Granada, Nicaragua, there’s a luxurious pampering experience waiting for you right across the street! There, you’ll find a barber shop that offers one of the most amazing self-care experiences I’ve ever had in Latin America.

My barber, Asiyadora, gave me a refreshing neck, face, and head shave, along with a mud mask to tighten my skin. But the highlight of my experience was the massage, where Asiyadora used a machine to knead my head, face, neck, arms, chest, and hands. I felt rejuvenated afterward! Best of all, the entire experience only costs 500 cordobas ($14 USD), a fraction of what I’d pay for just a haircut in my hometown of Miami!

Elsewhere, you can find fantastic local spas where you can enjoy manicures, pedicures, and foot massages. I visited one on a free night in Granada, Nicaragua, and the women there were fantastic. They soaked and exfoliated my feet, clipped and buffed my toenails, gave me a manicure, and even massaged my feet, all for 500 cordobas, or $14 USD!

Masaya, Nicaragua

Try traditional nicaraguan sweets at freddy chavez dulceria.

I’ve never been a huge sweets person, but when they’re as tasty as the ones in Nicaragua, I make an exception! At Freddy Chavez Dulceria in Masaya , I sampled a traditional sweet called almíbar. These candied fruits are typically made during Easter week and have a sticky consistency and extremely sweet taste.

They use several different fruits, including mango, coconut, papaya, and jocote. The process involves boiling the fruit to ensure it is safe to consume and then combining it with sugar. The mixture is slow-cooked for several hours until it transforms into a thick and sugary fruit marmalade. The almíbar captures the unique flavors of each fruit and is a saccharine and surprisingly meaty treat everyone should experience!

Explore Masaya Market

No trip to Granada, Nicaragua is complete without visiting Masaya Market in nearby Masaya. One of the largest markets in Nicaragua, is a must-visit for those driving between Managua and Granada. There, you’ll find a variety of unique crafts, including masks, woven baskets, wooden toys, dolls, guitars, and figurines. Vendors there also sell traditional foods like rosquillas, cerdo con yuca, and chicharron.

If you’re looking for clothing, you’ll find leather sandals, dresses, jerseys, shirts, belts, wallets, and coin purses. Some of my favorite highlights were trying chicharron, morongo, and an earthy pork organ dish called chanfaina. And if you want to buy some unique souvenirs, check out the mask vendors. They sell beautifully crafted animal and traditional masks that make a great gift for friends and family!

When in the Granada, Nicaragua area, you must try one of Masaya’s most popular dishes, baho . It’s a flavorful combination of beef, yuca, sweet and green plantains, onions, tomatoes, and green peppers, steamed together in a large pot with banana leaves. I recommend trying it at Baho Vilma, a famous restaurant that specializes in this dish.

After watching the cook, Doña Vilma, prepare the dish—which looked incredible—it was time to eat. The baho came served on a banana leaf and was an explosion of flavors and textures. The meat was tender, the cabbage provided crunch, and the plantains added sweetness. The yuca contributed a starchy element to the savory-sweet combination.

I also tried a corn-based drink with cacao called tiste, gallo pinto with tortillas and leche agria, a thin Nicaraguan yogurt. The leche agria added creaminess to the gallo pinto. If you have room, try some creamy meringue or a coconut candy called cajete de coco for dessert!

Personally, I went with both, as well as buñuelos, sweet yuca fritters topped with honey and filled with cheese!

Visit the mask makers of Masaya

During our visit to an exhibition hall and gift shop, we had the opportunity to witness the artistry of local mask makers. The collection showcased a diverse range of masks, including those depicting animals, skulls, and people.

You’ll find masks made from wood and papier mache, both of which go through an intricate manufacturing process. The papier mache masks are molded and left to dry in the sun for 72 hours before being meticulously painted. I couldn’t help but appreciate the talent and dedication that goes into making the. I bought two for 800 Cordobas, or roughly $22 USD!

Masatepe, Nicaragua

Eat mondongo.

In nearby Masatepe, near Granada, Nicaragua, I suggest visiting El Rancho del Mondongo, a rustic, open-air restaurant that specializes in making mondongo. This local specialty is a soup containing tripe, corn, cassava, ginger, lettuce, and squash.

The tripe was spongy and delicious, with a rich earthy flavor and a hint of iron. Along with plenty of fat and vegetables, the soup also included calf ribs, cabbage, and various types of corn. On the side, we had fresh tortillas, avocado, lemon, salt, cheese, and rice. It’s a fantastic dish that you must try if you like meat, especially organ meats!

Meet the furniture makers near Granada, Nicaragua

You can’t pass through Masatepe without meeting its sensational furniture makers. To meet them, I headed to Mercado de Artesanias Mazatepelth, a furniture factory in the central part of town. Here, I found a wide variety of furniture, including wicker chairs, wicker baskets, wooden tables, wooden chairs, storage ottomans, and more. The craftsmanship and beauty of the pieces were truly impressive.

At a nearby shop called Muebles Zulema, I got to see the workers sanding pieces of gorgeous carved wooden furniture. The rocking chairs immediately caught my eye with their intricate horse carvings on the sides. Each piece exuded beauty and expert craftsmanship and was a sign of the heart and soul of the people of Masatepe!

Book a trip to Granada, Nicaragua

When you visit Granada, Nicaragua, be sure to explore the city, but before moving on, take some time to visit Masaya and Masatepe as well. These three unique cities provide different aspects of Nicaraguan culture and are must-visits.

From their markets to their attractions to their mouthwatering cuisine, they’re full of the types of experiences that entice curious travelers. Book a trip to Granada, Nicaragua today to explore all three cities as soon as possible!

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Granada, Nicaragua – Travel Guide

Granada is the most beautiful city I’ve ever been to, and I’ve been to a lot of beautiful cities. The streets of Nicaragua’s oldest colonial city are lined with charming yellow-painted houses, laid-back mango sellers and delicious courtyard caf é s.

Things To Do in Granada, Nicaragua

Granada, though Nicaragua’s sixth largest city, is really quite small. It’s the ideal city for exploring slowly, and if you have a couple of days, there really is no need to rush.

Amble Through the Streets

Granada’s beauty really lies within its streets. Endlessly ambling around was one of our favourite things to do in Granada because we had plenty of time to take in the surroundings and appreciate the colonial architecture.

Cycle to Lake Nicaragua

Once you’ve exhausted ambling the city, rent a bicycle and peddle your way down toward the lake. If you cycle too far to the right, you’ll end up in a strangely colourful ghost town of beach bars and climbing frames out of season (I don’t know what it’s like in high season!)

Climb the Bell Tower of  La Merced Church

The bell tower of La Merced Church is the best place for incredible city views. We saw the bell ringing first hand – it was loud! – while we were skirting our way around the edge of the tower.

Things We Decided Not To Do in Granada, Nicaragua

As with all touristy places, there are some activities that you should think twice about before signing up.

A Boat Tour of the Islets

We were originally keen to take a boat tour of the islets, but when we took a closer look at some of the tour operators, they all boasted photos of monkeys jumping onto the boats and performing for tourists. A further look at TripAdvisor revealed a lot of negative reviews, some which mentioned that the monkeys were not native to the islands, but had been “imprisoned” there for tourism.

Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

We never found any information to suggest that anything unethical is going on, however a horse-drawn carriage ride around the hot city isn’t our thing. Not only is it reasonably expensive and unnecessary to see the city this way, but we were further put off when we saw two horses pulling a carriage laden with seven people.

Places To Eat in Granada, Nicaragua

Breakfast at the garden cafe.

This place is no secret, which means it’s much quieter in the mornings than it is around lunchtime. Enjoy a locally-sourced breakfast of fresh fruits, yoghurt and granola, or oatmeal with dried apricots and almonds, in the garden courtyard.

Eat Healthy at Cafe de los Suenos

We discovered this place, which is down the quiet end of the main strip, thanks to a recommendation from a friend. The menu is filled with healthy options, from passion fruit juice to Greek salad.

Greek salad with goat’s cheese and almonds.

Grab an Espresso at Cafe Fitzcarraldo

The best espressos in the city can be found here at this little French style caf é just off of Central Park. The caffe frappes are delicious too.

Try Street Food in Central Park

There’s not a massive variety of street food in Granada, but what they do have is pretty good. For vegetarians like us, freshly sliced mango is sold on the street corners by day and corn is grilled up by night. Pupusas – flat, circular corn tortillas – are cooked up on hot griddle plates and served in large leaf.

Eating pupusa in Central Park in Granada, Nicaragua.

Pupusa con queso (with cheese).

Places to Stay in Granada, Nicaragua

After arriving late and crashing for the night in an average hostel, we moved the next morning and stumbled upon De Boca en Boca Hostal . Tucked in the corner next to La Merced church, this new little hostel had just been opened by a couple of total lovebirds. The owners, a French guy and his Nicaragua girlfriend, were friendly, happy and completely in love. A double room for $14 per night was perfect for us as a couple on a tight travel budget .

Are you tempted to travel to Granada, Nicaragua, or maybe you’re already been? 

Charlie Marchant

How Much Does It Cost to Travel Costa Rica on a Budget? [Infographic]

The truth about costa rican eco-lodges.

That greek salad with goats cheese and almonds looks real tasty. I love places that offer a lot of healthy types of foods. This is interesting.

A good range of photos you’vet taken here Charlie. Will have to see it one day! :)

Charlie on Travel

Oh so tasty! Yes, me too, sometimes places like that can be really hard to find, but Granada had a lot of good options :)

Thank you, and I hope you do, Ken!

OMG you just had my mouth watering at the Garden Cafe. We stayed in Granada for a month and went there way too many times trying everything on the menu!

We also avoided the touristy things – like you we felt a little uneasy. Although I do have to say that every time we went past those carriages they were always feeding/watering the horses, so it seems like they’re pretty well taken care of, all things considering.

I know right, I wanted to try everything on their menu too! Especially the breakfast and smooth menu!!!

Yes, uneasy is the word. The horses seemed content most of the time, though a long time standing in the heat and a few too many passengers at times. But, as I say, it was more us feeling uneasy and not wanting to do things where we weren’t completely sure about the treatment of the animals.

I’m not well travelled myself, so love your blog and never miss reading and looking forward to the next posting. Perhaps where the more ethically and socially aware traveller like yourself boycotts some of the tourist activities for one reason or another, including not wanting to be apart of animal cruelty, do you think that there would be a way of travellers being able to share their sustainable, acceptable and desirable pursuits, not just in their blogs, but by informing the local tourist information authorities in each Country/region in some way? Is this too idealistic? I was just thinking small acorns! For example, one of your previous blogs highlighting chained elephants and not riding them, but seeking to wash and feed them perhaps with the help of the locals, and then discovering like minded travellers seeing and thinking the same thing. How could we find someone in authority wanting to listen. What do your readers think?

This is a great question, Sharon, and one that is really difficult to answer too. I’ve read that in this instance, a lot of tourists have let the boat tour guides know that they weren’t happy with the monkey island situation, and some who have taken individual tours (not with a group of people) have asked guides specifically not to take them to that part of the boat tour. It’s a good start, but the problem lies within the fact that there are still lots of tourists who do want to do these activities, and when there’s money coming in, people are still selling. I wouldn’t like to comment on the situation with the horses as I don’t have any credible information on how well they actually are treated.

Certainly many countries don’t have quite so strict ethical guidelines, especially relating to animals, and sometimes this treatment of animals is culturally rooted. With the elephants in Vietnam, for instance, there were no government restrictions on the treatment of wild elephants and many villagers involved elephants in their work – knocking down bamboo, carry logs etc. Now that the elephants are endangered and laws are in place, locals who have lived this way for generations can’t understand why these things re going on.

I think that as the discourse of these topics grows – from bloggers, travellers commenting to guides, word of mouth, and news articles – better treatment and ethical awareness will come with it. You’re very right, small acorns.

Such a lovely post! Seems like the perfect transition from the quietude of your previous stops and experiences in Costa Rica. Judging the photos and your description it must be really pleasant place indeed. Especially the cafés look fabulous! Enjoy your time and keep exploring… :)

The cafes were some of the most delicious I’ve ever been in – which was wonderfully unexpected :) We’re now back to Costa Rica to house sit in a much more touristy area then before, so it’s been a good step up to that you’re right, especially after becoming near recluses in that gorgeous mountain house!

Back to Costa Rica and having another gig in the pipeline already!? Awesome! Hope you have fabulous time and a lovely experience again… :)

Yes, we’re really lucky! There’s a real need for house sitters in Costa Rica actually, the demand is high. We’ve even had to turn people down! We never expected it. Thanks, Oliver :)

Manouk - Bunch of Backpackers

Hi Charlie,

I’m going to Nicaragua this winter so this tips will come in handy :)! Will add them to my Nicaragua trip inspiration list!!

Awesome! What month are you going? We’re going to be over there again in October =)

Gordana Govic

So glad you enjoyed visiting Granada. I was just going to mention that on Sunday’s there is a ferry that goes to the Isletas. You take the ferry at the Pier at the end of La Calzada. You can’t miss seeing it. Nicaraguan families love to take the ferry as an outing. There is usually a clown to entertain the kids or they might have a troop of break dancers and blaring music. Think its like $100 cordobas for an adult. I love it when we leave the pier and the ferry toots its horns and the view you have of Granada is spectacular. The ferry skirts the isletas and then finally pulls in to turn around in an old dock yard and then stops at the Old Fort. Everyone gets out and usually has lunch there or takes photos. We always bring friends visiting Granada on this tour, they love it. We usually take the 11:00 am ferry and I think they have one at 2:00 also. You can buy food and drinks on the ferry and its all very inexpensive. Way more entertaining than taking the expensive boat tours to see rich people’s houses on the isletas.

Hey Gordana – thanks for the tip! An expat mentioned this to me on Facebook but didn’t give me all the details. How long is the trip? A couple of hours?

Not sure about the clowns.. but the stops sound much better, as does the price, compared to the boat tours. Unfortunately I wasn’t in Granada on a Sunday, but I’ll definitely look this up if I’m lucky enough to get back there =)

francaangloitalian

We have been to Granada but the one in Spain which I particularly liked. I have to admit the street food in Central Park looks pretty delicious, do the pupusa come only with cheese or also on their own?

Haha, I’ve not been to the one in Spain yet! It was really delicious – those particular pupusas had cheese in the mixture, but you can get them without cheese in other places. You can also get plain tortillas with shredded cabbage in some places too :)

Really beautiful post and photos!

Thank you! :)

I’m definitely tempted! It looks like a lovely place.

I was just wondering, what camera do you use? Your pictures are always beautiful and very sharp and colorful. Is it the camera or do you alter them with a program later?

I use a Canon 550D. And thank you :) I originally bought the camera to use for video filming, which it’s supposedly better at than general picture taking (for the price) but actually, I find the photo quality is better and the video quality not so great. That might also be because I’m rubbish at knowing what settings to use.

I don’t really edit my photos much. I just open them on windows and up the contrast. Sometimes I up the saturation or the yellow tint, but not always – only if it was a dull day or darker light.

Katie Featherstone

I love that your first idea for what to do is amble through the streets. That really should be the top thing to do in any city, but sometimes is overlooked by attractions. Your photo with the bell is awesome. What a lovely composition.

I would love to travel more in Central America. I’ve only been to Honduras and not for a good few years. Maybe soon!

Yes, I definitely think it should be top of the list for nearly all places (with the exception of a few big cities where that’s not the best thing to be doing).

How’d you like Honduras when you went? Costa Rica and Nicaragua are the only countries I’ve been to so far, am looking forward to eventually working my way up though.

Escaping Abroad

I visited Granada last year, and yes it’s very pretty, although a bet less maintained and kept than some other colonial cities I visited. If you enjoyed this one then Antigua and San Cristobal are definitely recommended!

Interesting. I thought it was reasonably well maintained. Will definitely put Antigua and San Cristobal on the list, thanks for the recommendations :)

Ambling through the streets is always the best thing to do in any city – it lets you discover so many cool places that you otherwise would never find. Granada looks absolutely amazing and I can’t wait to go there next year!

I completely agree. You’re heading to Central America next year? When?

To be honest, I am not surprised you fell in love with this place – it’s truly amazing! So colorful and charming :) !

I know right! Have you been to Nicaragua, Agness?

Thanks for posting such a comprehensive guide for visiting Granada! Nicaragua is high on my list of places to experience I am looking forward to taking some of your recommendations :)

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• 1 Understand
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• 2.4.1 From Costa Rica
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• 13 Stay safe

Granada is the oldest colonial city in Nicaragua and the all-time-rival of Leon . It is on the northwest side of the Lago Cocibolca. Its colored colonial buildings, interesting history and relative safety make it an important tourism destination. It is the city in Nicaragua with the largest presence of expats and one of the most developed for tourism compared to other cities in Nicaragua. Both these things will be immediately apparent to the visitor.

Understand [ edit ]

Granada, nicknamed La Gran Sultana after her Muslim-influenced namesake in Spain, was founded in 1524 and is the oldest cities of Nicaragua and the oldest European settlement in the Americas mainland that lasted (the only older cities are Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic and Panama, which moved afterwards). A rich town for most of the colonial period, Granada has always been and continues to be a conservative city. As a (sort of) "Caribbean port", connected to the ocean by the lake and the Rio San Juan, Granada was attacked by pirates several times in its early history. However the attack that left the biggest mark on the city was carried out by an American in 1856, when the city was burned down.

The town recovered however and became the dominating force culturally and politically for the next three decades until the liberal general Jose Santos Zelaya took control of the country. You can still see a lot of the wealth and power Granada once had in its colonial houses and churches. And there is still a monument for some former president or other who was born here at almost every corner downtown.

Granada still is very much a conservative town and the ruling Sandinistas are not as well liked here as they are in León, which contributes to their ongoing rivalry. But nowadays, Granada is also notable for winning awards in American magazines as supposedly one of the best places on earth to live, and many retired Gringos have made Granada their second home. Many colonial houses and even some small islets just out of town in Lake Nicaragua are still for sale, so ask the locals if you want to move here long term and have the necessary cash on hand.

Although the Gringo influence here is stronger than in most other places in Nicaragua, Granada has lost nothing of its charm and continues to attract tourists, locals and expats alike.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Fly to Managua International Airport ( MGA  IATA ) and from there make your way by bus (every half hour from Mercado Huembes or the UCA station) or taxi (around US$35 from the airport depending on your bargaining skills). As an alternative, you can take an air conditioned shuttle for US$15 from the airport to Granada. In most cases, the shuttle will deliver you to any point in Granada. There is a tourist information counter as soon as you clear immigration. Ask the representative and s/he'll point you to a reputable shuttle service. The trip by taxi or shuttle is about 40 minutes. Another option may be to fly to the Liberia Airport over the border in Costa Rica, but it would involve about 5 hours of travel and a border crossing. Rental cars are not allowed to cross the border, but agencies will arrange for car swaps and pickups on the other side of the border. Managua is by far your best option.

The small Las Lajas Airport a few miles from Granada on the highway to Masaya does not have any commercial flights as of Oct 2020.

The airport on Ometepe ( OMT  IATA ) receives domestic flights (from Managua, and from San Juan de Nicaragua (Greytown) ( SJN  IATA ) via San Carlos ( SCA  IATA ) twice a week (Su and Th) as of Oct 2020 on La Costeña Airlines (US$58 one-way). There is a boat from there to Granada that takes roughly three hours.

By train [ edit ]

The train was shut down during the era of Violeta Chamorro (1990-1996). So, no, there's no possibility to take any train to get there. Nevertheless, you can have the chance to visit the old train station, which is used as a technical school sponsored by the Spanish Cooperation.

By car [ edit ]

Yes you can get there by rental car, which is often really expensive to hire, since imported cars are expensive too and the risk of theft is high. Most of the principal highways are in excellent condition, however other obstacles (cows, horses, people, people on horses) can surprise you - especially at night, so be alert. Secondary roads range from paved to gravel. The roads from the airport are excellent on the most direct route.

From Costa Rica, take the Panamerican Highway, which leads from San José through Liberia, the border crossing at Peñas Blancas, the first bigger town in Nicaragua is Rivas , after Nandaime take a right onto the Granada-Nandaime road. Look for Granada-related signs.

By bus [ edit ]

Buses from Managua to Granada leave from the UCA Terminal (C$25 ( córdobas ) and from Mercado Huembes as of April 2016. If you have oversized baggage you might be asked to pay an extra C$25) and Mercado Huembes on a very frequent basis The trip takes about 2 hours. There is no scheduled public transport that does the León-Granada run directly, so you'll have to change buses in Managua. If you take the chicken bus from Leon your last stop in Managua will be the Israel Lewites Terminal from where you will have to go to either the UCA Terminal or Mercado Huembes. Minibuses from Leon to Managua depart from the same location in Leon but terminate at the UCA Terminal so they might be a more convenient way to reach Granada as they lessen the need to change terminals in Managua. Granada can also be reached by first-class buses from neighboring Costa Rica and Honduras.

From Costa Rica [ edit ]

There are two main options, either take the ordinario buses which cost half the price (US$10) and fuzz your way through, experience a lot of interesting sights and the heat or hop on one of the (often agonizingly) air conditioned coaches, which are comfortable, take you there in about 8-10 hours (crossing the border might take a while, and you will have to exit the bus twice for passports and customs) and cost US$20. The best options going from Costa Rica to Nicaragua are Central Line, TransNica and Ticabus . Back from Granada to Costa Rica you might as well take the Tica Bus or NICABUS. Just ask any taxi driver in whatever city you are in to take you to the Nica or TICABUS-station.

From Honduras [ edit ]

From Tegucigalpa , you can also get the TICA bus, which leaves daily around 09:00 for Managua , for around US$20. Then take another bus (at a different station), or taxi, to Granada.

By boat [ edit ]

There's a boat running twice a week from San Carlos via Ometepe to Granada and back. It leaves San Carlos at Tuesday and Friday at 14:00. The trip to Ometepe takes about three hours. San Carlos-Granada is roughly 12 hours one-way. There is a ferry running between Granada and Ometepe, but as of July 2016 it was canceled until further notice, as the lake levels are too low. In general the ferry may be canceled due to low lake levels as well as storms, so enquire locally if possible.

Get around [ edit ]

Granada is a small city; everything can comfortably be reached by foot. For some outlying points (e.g. the Asese peninsula) taxis, coches and bikes come in handy.

By taxi [ edit ]

Local taxis work on set prices: C$10 by day, and at night after 9PM C$20 per person, wherever you go within the town's borders.

Buses (old stylish US or Canadian school buses) go just about everywhere at about every time, you see them and if you slightly look like anybody wanting to go anywhere, be sure they'll load you on their bus. Another option are the mini buses which have a bit more set time, they're more comfortable and also faster but cost a bit more. The buses leave either west of the Central Market building (50 m into Calle Yo Yo) or near the petrol station UNO. Just ask around, people are very friendly and tell you where you need to go. Also, many people know at least partially the timetables.

By coche [ edit ]

Horse-drawn carriages, known as coches , are a wonderful way to see the extent of the city limits. From the cemetery in the southwest, to the converted Rail Station in the north, to the water front in the east. US$30 for an hour and a half tour. They can also be hired just like taxis.

Granada's islets are not to be missed, and the way to see them is by boat. Boat tours leave from Puerto Asese, about 5-10 minutes from downtown by taxi. Try to book them as a group as it gets cheaper for each individual. Also a boat that is almost full might make special deals for a single traveler or a small group

By bike [ edit ]

Most hotels and hostels rent bikes and if yours doesn't, some are willing to rent to people staying elsewhere. You should pay roughly US$10 a day. As the city is rather flat and traffic is manageable it is a good way to get around, although the heat might get uncomfortable. Robberies and assaults at machete - point have happened along parts of península de Asese.

See [ edit ]

There are six main churches  : the Cathedral, La Merced, Guadalupe, Xalteva, San Francisco and María Auxiliadora, which all have interesting historical backgrounds and are in very different states.

• Fuerte La Polvora is an 18th-century fort (built in 1748) that's open for tours. A few historical exhibits are available on the main level, you can climb the towers for views of the quiet city streets, or wander through the lovely courtyard.
• Lake Cocibolca (also known as Lake Nicaragua and, locally, as Lago de Granada), is the 10th largest fresh-water lake on earth and is inhabited by Bull Sharks, informally named the Nicaragua Shark, and sawfish. The beach area is not the safest area in town at night and comes with a rather unpleasant smell during the day. However, during the day this is a nice place to catch a breeze, and there are many Nicaraguan families that come here to pass the time. Vendors pass selling all kinds of food. Tours of the islands are available from Puerto Asese, near the pleasant Asese restaurant (known for its boneless fish).

A bit further along the shore is the Centro Turistico, a park like area complete with bars and restaurants. It's a bit cleaner then the beach right down from the city.

• The local market is definitely worth a glimpse, it's chaotic little market stands where you can get almost everything. The market is open everyday except holidays around and in the old Market hall, you can't miss it.
• The Central Park with the Cathedral and the Colonial houses surrounding it. The lively center of town with a lot of handicrafts or snacks to buy, or just sit down at a bench and watch the city and its people. Next to it is the Parque Independencia with a monument to the independence movement of 1811 and the famous "Puerta de los Leones".
• The streets with their charming colored Colonial houses are always worth a wander themselves.
• Take a boat tour of the Isletas. Boats leave from the marina at Puerto Asese. Your guide will tell you how all the islands are owned by millionaires. You will even visit an old fort that is on the island. Not to mention you will see adorable monkeys that live in the tree.
• Mi Museo , Calle Atravesada 505 ( In front of Bancentro ), ☏ +505 2552-7614 . Daily 08:00-17:00 . Private collection of over 5,000 Nicaraguan Pre-Columbian ceramics. Free .  

Do [ edit ]

{ Mombacho Beach Club . The heat in Nicaragua is hard to stand, so you'll love refreshing yourself in the 60-foot pool. On top of that, it's located in a gorgeous courtyard, with a bar and free WiFi. Enjoy a range of massages from aromatherapy to Shiatsu to ChocoTherapy, or just have a manicure, pedicure or facial. Entry to pool US$5. Spa treatments $9-28.

• Rent a bike from Mapache on Calle Cisne, 2nd left off Calle La Calzada. You can bike the entire city in one day.
• Go up the church tower at the Iglesia La Merced (US$1) and watch the sun go down over the bustling city.
• Take a Canopy Tour , where you will go flying on cables through the rainforest trees on the side of Mombacho Volacano. (US$25)
• Try interesting drinks at local market stands (such as cacao de leche, linseed drink or red beet drink, beware: often painfully sugary!).
• Take a bus to Masaya and visit the local and giant hand craftmarket (good advice: better see the new than the old market, same stuff, half the price).
• Get a very inexpensive table or seated massage at Seeing Hands Blind Massage , located in Computadoras de Granada, Calle 14 de Septiembre, 1/2c. south of the Firehall (Bomberos).and the other location they have is on Calle La Calzada before Guadulpe Church.
• Visit the Mombacho volcano (that's the one next to Granada). There's a paved road all the way to the top and a tropical rain forest inside the crater. Allow several hours to walk inside the crater. There's a great view of Lake Nicaragua from the top.
• You can also go to the Masaya Volcano reserve and watch over the wide land, see the Managua lake and maybe get some stinky smoke in your lungs and be happy about the beautiful nature surrounding the Volcano.
• The Choo-Choo train There's that weird train that goes all around town, designed for kids, but hey, it's great fun: it plays the latest reggaeton-tunes over and over again and it only costs C$5. Hop on whenever you find it.
• Casa de los Tres Mundos ( Casa de los Leones ),The Foundation "Casa de los Tres Mundos" is an institution created to initiate, support and promote cultural projects in Nicaragua and Central America. Besides these artistic, musical and educational activities, which emphasize support for the poorer segments of Nicaraguan society, the foundation finances and coordinates an integrative rural development project in Malacatoya.
• Horse and carriages circle the city center.
• Live music at Restaurant Imagine 1st left off Calle la Calzada, going towards the lake on Calle la Calzada from the Cathedral turn left first block (right after Cafe de Arte). One of the only places playing live classic rock (unplugged version) in the city. Live music starts at around 9PM almost every day of the week. Check the sign posted on the door daily to see who is playing. Very relaxed atmosphere and great food although a little bit pricey. No cover charge.
• ChocoMuseo . Take a free tour of the Museum learning where chocolate comes from and the history of the evolution of chocolate. Get a hands-on lesson of how to make your own chocolate in a chocolate workshop for US$24.15 at 09:00, 11:00, 14:00 or 16:00. For the extreme chocolate enthusiast, the Museum and Factory also offers tours to a cacao plantation on the Mombacho Reserve. You also get a chance to swim in the thermal waters, see the Isletas and ride on horseback. Tour cost US$65 on horseback, $55 to hike. Try the daily all-you-can-eat breakfast for $6 + tax.  

Learn [ edit ]

There are several Spanish language schools in Granada:

Casa Nica Spanish School is a cooperative of women that has been teaching Spanish since 1998. They tailor Spanish classes according to students' skill level and interests, and you also get to meet people at afternoon activities. They can also provide home-stay accommodations and connect you with their favorite local organizations if you want to volunteer.

One On One Tutoring Spanish School , One on One Tutoring Spanish school by Roger Ramirez On Calzada Street # 450 near to Guadalupe Church is the only Spanish school in Nicaragua that uses a unique teaching system where each student has four different instructors per day of class (the same four instructors for as long as the student stays at the school) if you decide to take 1-4 hours a day for five days or more. Having four instructors makes the course much more intensive and much less boring for the student. Open every day including holidays. +505 7678 9305

The local Red Cross school is also a good option to go to, because you can buy 1-on-1 Spanish lessons from them and so support them. For more options, look around for flyers.

Work [ edit ]

Volunteer opportunities abound. La Esperanza Granada is an organization that sends volunteers into local schools to help out, or supports women's working groups, built a community center, etc., for the impoverished outskirts of Granada. Volunteering is completely free of charge, minimum commitment is generally eight weeks but shorter stays are possible. Another volunteer option is Educación Plus de Nicaragua , a local NGO that educates and feeds children in the marginalized outskirts of Granada.

Buy [ edit ]

Granada is known around the world for its high-quality rocking chairs which can be seen all around town. The main vendors a bit out of town on the road to Masatepe .

If you want to go cheaper, there's the option to buy local and famous Nicaraguan pottery , which you can buy in town, but the better option is to go to San Juan de Oriente where there's a more varied selection and the experience of meeting the artisans.

Also very typical are the hammocks , there are several hammock stores and factories in Masaya, but you can find them made in Granada on Calle Xalteva, a half bloc west of the central park at Tio Antonio https://tioantonio.org/en/home/ .

You can buy heaps of mangos at the market for about C$1 each.

Eat [ edit ]

There are many street vendors selling quesillos, tamales, revueltas, carne asada, and other local specialties such as gallo pinto (rice & beans), fried plantains, nacatamales, bajo (yucca, plantain, beef mix). Very inexpensive. The local specialty is Vigoron : cabbage, tomatoes, onions, and fried pork rind (or roast pork) on mashed yucca for C$40 from the kiosks in the parque central. Great value and taste (provided you are not a vegetarian).

Budget [ edit ]

• The Garden Cafe , Calle La Libertad ( 1st left off Calle La Calzada, One block north ), ☏ +505 2552 8582 . 11:00-23:00 . Friendly and relaxing. US$3.50 .  

Mid-range [ edit ]

• Charly's Bar & Restaurant , 4 blocks west of Old Hospital , ☏ +505 2 5522942 . German cuisine and best BBC. Draft beer and homemade cheesecake by owners Charly and Maria Elena.  
• NEcTaR , Calle La Calzada ( 1½ blocks E of the cathedral ), ☏ +505 2552 6095 . They arrange the local traditional meals into tasteful and beautiful dishes. They offer a selection of freshly made juices and cocktails.  
• Las Jarras , Calle Libertad ( from Central Park, 2½ blocks up Calle Libertad ), ☏ +505 8582-4943 . Chicken, beef or pork, marinated and char-grilled, served on a bed of fried plantains, and topped with salad, with optional side orders of gallo pinto and fried cheese. The portions are hearty, to say the least. In addition to the tables on the street, there's a nice interior patio with a bar. US$2.50-4.00 .  

Splurge [ edit ]

• Puerto Asese , ☏ +505 8957 5936 . Has a beautiful location, on the edge of Lake Nicaragua, with lush foliage surrounding it and a rustic, spacious dining area. Boneless fish platters are the house specialty.  
• Café De Arte ( Parque central 1c al Lago, 1/2 C. Norte ), ☏ +505 7659 6508 . Offers delicious international (some organic) food and excellent drinks. Snacks and meals are between C$40-150. Surrounded by local art. Daily specials.  
• El Zaguan ( on the street along the back/E wall of the cathedral ). The best churrasco, the delicious Nica grilled steak, cooked over an open grill. Set in beautiful colonial open-air garage. US$8 .  

Groceries [ edit ]

Granadans do most of their grocery shopping in the huge chaotic central market (along Calle El Comercio, aka Calle Atravesada, a few blocks south of downtown) or in a similarly chaotic Palí supermarket (same area).

Besides Palí, the city has two other supermarkets, cleaner, less crowded, and more upscale: La Union and La Colonia, which are next to each other in Calle La Inmaculada about a kilometer northwest of the central square. La Colonia is the more upscale of the two, with a better selection of products such as wine, ice cream, or exotic (to non-Nicaraguans) fruit. There is also a good bakery a block or two west of La Colonia (on the same, southern, side of the street). In 2018, La Colonia started selling their own baked bread - try their baguettes!

Drink [ edit ]

Great drinks can be purchased from local vendors at the corner in Parque Central , such as flaxseed drink, hibiscus ( jamaica ) iced-tea, or red beet drink or anything else, completely overloaded with sugar. Nice alternative: The local Cacao drink, milk and powdered chocolate beans, almost like chocolate milk, available in most cafes. Also Raspados made with crushed ice and raspberry syrup are very delicious and are usually sold by vendors around the Central Park.

And then of course, the local coffee! You have the biggest range: organic, shade grown, fair trade....

• 11.92926 -85.956 1 Café de las Sonrisas , Calle Real Xalteva, next to Hotel Real Merced , ☏ +505 8559 8315 . Tu-Sa 8AM-8PM, Su 8AM-1PM . Supports deaf, blind, and mute Nicaraguans through the sale of their coffee, food, and hammocks. ( updated May 2022 )
• 11.93264 -85.95379 2 La Sultana y el Café , Calle Corrales , ☏ +505 7542 9848 . Daily 7AM-7PM . Breakfast and some very embellished coffees. ( updated May 2022 )

Here are a few bars worth mentioning:

• El Bar , Hotel Plaza Colon ( in front of the main square ). 12:00-22:00 . El Bar offers a select wine list, classic cocktails and appetizers. Outdoor sitting and indoor AC sitting. splurge .  
• Chichería París at the top of the Calle Real, across from La Pólvora fortress. Chicha and natural drinks.
• 11.93086 -85.95706 3 Sandbar , C. El Hormiguero ( next to the party-atmospheric Townhouse Hostel ), ☏ +505 8793 3836 . Tu-F 4PM-2AM, Sa 4PM-Midnight . Here you can come and schmooze with lots of like-minded refreshment-seeking patrons in their open bar setting with food, drinks, music, and games. ( updated May 2022 )
• 11.93058 -85.95275 4 Clandestino Bar & Grill , C. La Libertad , ☏ +505 8597 3526 . Mojitos, beer, food available here in a relaxed courtyard environment. ( updated May 2022 )

Sleep [ edit ]

• 11.928036 -85.955705 1 Hostel Oasis , Calle Estrada 109 ( from Parque Central, 1 block south, 1½ blocks west ), ☏ +50525528005 , [email protected] . Very nice colonial hostel with a swimming pool and a great rooftop with 360-degree view on the historical center. Very well ubicated, clean and safe, free Internet, snack and bar. Free breakfast and free happy hour. Modern colonial style interior, hammocks, ping pong table, pool table, darts... Weekly activities (beerpong tournament, booze cruise, trivia night for a local community project...). Daily shuttle to Paradiso hostel in Laguna de Apoyo. Whatsapp +50576453203. Dorm bed $9, room from $15 .  
• 11.93147 -85.95466 2 Hostal el Momento ( Calle el Arsenal, close to Calle Atravesada, 1 block north of Parque Central ), [email protected] . Colonial House and a brand new hostal with a really nice garden with lots of seating and lounge areas. Very good security as it is close to a bank, they also have security cameras and safe boxes in the rooms and the dorms have lockers also. The privates come with and without bathrooms but all have cable tv and there is free wifi with iPads free to use.They have a bar and cafe in the garden or you can use their guest kitchen and make use of the Spa for a massage. Great set up and willing staff looking to help in anyway. US$12-16 single room and $16-26 double room .  
• 11.92878 -85.95346 3 Casa del Agua , Avenue Guzman ( SE corner of Central Park, S ½ block on Avenue Guzman ), [email protected] . Small guesthouse a half a block from the Cathedral. Has a great pool to relax in after a long hot day in Granada. All rooms have a private toilet and bath with hot water. Each room comes with a flat-screen HD television. A/C is available in the double rooms for US$6. There is a large full kitchen with appliances and utensils so you can make use of the fresh food at the market that is a few blocks away. You can book the entire place for a group and there are studio apartments with a private entrance available as well. US$15 for a single room and $34 for a double .  
• 11.9265 -85.95529 4 Hospedaje Esfinge ( across from the Mercado on Calle Atravesada ). This very quiet and quite large place is fairly nice for a budget option. In early 2009 a double with shared bath was US$13, and was festively painted. A safe place, but near the worse part of town. The entrance is watched 24 hours a day by the wife and husband owners and another man. Quite time begins at 22:00, which means you have to turn the TV off and if you want to go out, you have to knock to get back. ( updated Sep 2020 )
• 11.93128 -85.95657 5 Hostel Libertad , Calle 14 de Septiembre , ☏ +505 8168 9661 . A nice, clean, quiet hostel in an airy and spacious colonial building. Well-equipped kitchen. Warm atmosphere with wifi and three computers with internet. Unlimited coffee in the morning included. Dorms US$6, private w/bath US$20, w/o US$15 .  
• 11.933879 -86.054545 6 Laguna de Apoyo , [email protected] . Day trip or overnight stay in a crater lake. Swim in fresh water. Restaurants and bar available on site. 30 minutes from Granada. Shuttles leaves from Oasis Hostel (calle Estrada, Granada) at 09:00 and 15:00 daily. Book the day before. Whatsapp +50581874542 US$25-70, breakfast included .  
• 11.93345 -85.9524 7 Hotel Il Padrino , From the S. Francisco square, 1½ blocks north, in front of the Gymnasium Sport , ☏ +505 8777 4478 . A small, family-run hotel with en-suite rooms and a large tropical garden. $35 .  
• 11.93271 -85.95284 8 Hotel Casa San Francisco ( [email protected] ), 207, Calle Corrales ( diagonal from the San Francisco Convent ), ☏ +505-2552-8235 . Check-in: 13:00 , check-out: 11:00 . Beautiful boutique hotel with pool, Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, air conditioning, hot water, tv/cable. The first boutique hotel in Granada. Great staff to take care of your travel plans, also offering, longer term housing. US$45-70 .  
• 11.9273 -85.9568 9 Casa Silas Bed and Breakfast , 206 Calle La Concepcion ( at Calle La Concepción 1½ blocks west of the market ), ☏ +505 8883 6834 , [email protected] . Check-in: 13:00 , check-out: 11:00 . The casa features 2 guestrooms with wireless internet, AC, swimming pool and full breakfast. US$46 . ( updated Jun 2017 )
• 11.93094 -85.95766 10 Hotel El Club , at Calle La Liberdad and Avenida Barricada , ☏ +505 2-552-4245 , [email protected] . The hotel features 11 rooms with wireless Internet. This hotel doubles as a disco, so be ready to party.  
• 11.93389 -85.95353 11 Hotel con Corazón , at Calle Santa Lucia 141 , ☏ +505 2552 8852 . Hotel con Corazón is a beautiful hotel (15 rooms) in the center of Granada. A double for US$64/71 including taxes and a extensive breakfast. Swimming pool and WiFi included.  
• 11.92831 -85.94848 12 Hotel Casa Vivaldi , Calle El Caimito, from the Alcaldía, 4½ blocks to the lake . Discover one of the most comfortable hotels in Granada, Nicaragua: an oasis with the biggest pool in town surrounded by tropical vegetation will offer to you beautiful moments of relaxation, away from city daze. US$44-54/night  
• 11.93252 -85.95405 13 Hotel El Almirante , Calle Corrales 111, Granada , ☏ +505 2552 4628 , [email protected] . In a renovated colonial house in the historic center of Granada. The hotel rooms have bathrooms, flat screen TV and safe deposit box. Swimming pool, free wireless internet access and cable TV. US$60 .  
• 11.92782 -85.95151 14 La Islita Boutique Hotel , Calle El Cisne, 3 blocks south of Calle La Calzada . Chic, Intimate, Stylish; cozy boutique hotel; eight rooms with comfortable beds, AC, WiFi, cable TV, private bathroom, continental breakfast; stunning rooftop terrace. US$50-75/night .  
• 11.92896 -85.95029 15 Hotel La Pergola , from City Hall, 3 blocks towards the lake , ☏ +505 2-552 - 4221 , [email protected] . An antique colonial house built in the 19th century that has been restored conserving the characteristic of the wonderful houses of Granada.  
• 11.93089 -85.95462 16 Hotel Colonial Granada ( 50 meters from plaza ), ☏ +505 552 7581 . from US$55 .  
• 11.92982 -85.95451 17 Hotel Plaza Colon ( across the street from the central plaza ), ☏ +505 2552 8489 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Beautiful boutique hotel. US$79-104 .  
• Jicaro Island Eco Lodge , ☏ +505 2558 7702 , [email protected] . On Lake Nicaragua. Very close to downtown with easy access to Granada. Private all-inclusive. Secluded 2-story casitas. Swimming pool. Free Wi-Fi. Yoga retreats. from US$300 .  
• 11.93035 -85.95447 18 Selina Alhambra , ☏ +505 2552 4486 . In the middle of town. Beautiful. US$50-$80/night. ( updated Sep 2020 )
• 11.92891 -85.95366 19 La Gran Francia , ☏ +505 2552 6012 . In the middle of town, across from the Cathedral. Beautiful. US$90-$200/night ( updated Sep 2020 )

Connect [ edit ]

Internet -- up to C$20/hour.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Nicaragua is rated the safest country in Central America. Granada, the sixth largest city, is very safe but using common sense and always walking with someone else at night here and everywhere else in the country is recommended.

Robberies are known to have occurred along the Peninsula de Asese. If you plan a tour keep your wits about you and maybe leave the camera in the hotel.

In Granada, the moneychangers are licensed and provide a terrific alternative to the banks.

Cope [ edit ]

Social workers in Granada strongly advise to not give money or food to begging children. In Granada the homeless situation is moderate. Orphanages and charity organizations take care of homeless children, and poor people have access to charity kitchens. The kids that beg and sell items to tourists do this to make easy money, and are being exploited by adults. Anything you give to these children keeps them from the place they belong: in school.

Occasionally inclement weather will create an outage, as you'd expect anywhere.

Urban tap water is fine.

Insect repellent is widely available in pharmacies and supermarkets. Use as required. Nicaragua does have dengue . This is especially a concern during the wet season. In the early morning, and at dusk cover up or spray on as a precaution against insects.

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17 Best Things to Do In Granada, Nicaragua

• Hidden Nicaragua
• July 11, 2022

Bursting with color and historic neoclassical structures, Granada, Nicaragua is a dream . Just one hour outside of Managua, you’ll find the small city nestled in the shadow of Mombacho Volcano. Rich in history, surrounded by natural wonders, and centrally located for endless day trips, this Central American hidden gem has something for everyone. But what are the BEST things to do in Granada?

You could spend weeks here and only scratch the surface of all this charming colonial city has to offer. Luckily, we’ve narrowed down the list for you. 

Here are the 17 BEST things to do in Granada, Nicaragua:

Climb the Cathedral Bell Towers

If you’ve ever looked up pictures of Granada, Nicaragua, you’ve probably seen the iconic red and yellow Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción . Popularly known as Granada Cathedral , this church is a must-visit in Nicaragua.

First built in 1525, the Cathedral is a stunning neoclassical structure that dominates the city skyline. Climb to the choir loft for a better view of the elaborately painted ceilings, or drop $2 and ascend the steep spiral staircase to the top for an unbeatable view of Granada.

HN Hint: On your way up the tower, pose in one of the round windows for a unique photo op. 

Granada Cathedral may be the cornerstone, but don’t let it steal all the attention. If you’re looking for more things to do in Granada, Iglesia La Merced is a baroque beauty with a bell tower that offers spectacular sunset views. (Just make sure you start the ascent before it closes at 5:15pm).

If you have time, be sure to check out churches Iglesia Xalteva and Iglesia Guadalupe for more incredible architecture.

Make Your Own Chocolate Bar at ChocoMuseo

If you are bringing kids on your trip to Nicaragua, then you have to stop by the interactive Granada ChocoMuseo . This free museum is all about everyone’s favorite food: chocolate!

Tours are available every day in English and Spanish. The friendly guides will walk you through the life of a chocolate bar from start to finish. They teach you all about the history of chocolate and how to roast, peel, and grind the cacao into a paste. You’ll even get to see and touch real cacao beans and pods.

For the best experience, we highly recommend booking the ChocoMuseo Bean to Bar Workshop . Offered every day at 11am and 3pm, this two-hour activity lets you make your very own chocolate bar . You get to pick between milk and dark chocolate, then customize it from your choice of over 15 different flavors. You’ll also have the chance to sample chocolate drinks inspired by the Mayans (including alcoholic versions for adults!). The entire event will run you around $25 per person. 

Short on time? Try the 45-minute mini workshop.

HN Hint: Don’t wander too far after the tour. Factor in another hour once the workshop ends to pick up your chocolate when it’s ready. We recommend grabbing lunch in Granada while you wait. 

Looking for a day trip? The ChocoMuseo also offers an off-site tour to the Hacienda los Malecos cacao, coffee, and plantain farm. This activity includes lunch, exotic bird watching by rowboat, and a guided farm tour by horseback or walking. If you’re lucky, you might meet a monkey! The immersive experience runs daily from 8:30am to 1pm, and will cost you $69 per person.

Grab Street Food at Parque Central

No vacation is complete without a taste of the local eats. If you want to try authentic Nicaraguan food , look no further than the street vendors in Granada’s scenic Parque Central . 

Located right outside Catedral de Granada , this picturesque park is a vibrant hangout for city residents and tourists alike. By day, you’ll find people relaxing on benches shaded by manicured trees and old men playing chess. By night, the space comes alive with couples and teens passing through to go out on the town. 

HN Hint : Parque Central is also known as Parque Colón . 

Head to the carts set up in the corners of Parque Central to sample a Granada specialty : Vigorón . Served in a banana leaf, this delicacy is a blend of soft yuca root, cabbage slaw, and crispy chicharrones (pork rinds). 

HN Hint : Look for this woman, known by locals as “La Abuela,” in El Mercado for the best vigorón. 

The combination might sound strange, but don’t knock it ’til you try it—it’s famous for a reason. The vinegar in the salad blends magnificently with the sweet yuca, and the fried chicharrones tie the city’s signature dish together with a satisfying crunch. The whole thing will only set you back about $2. Dive in with your hands or use a fork.

Granada’s Central Park also features merchants selling artisan crafts. Stop by the stalls ringing the square if you’re looking for handcrafted souvenirs like jewelry or trinkets.

Pose for a Picture at the Lake Nicaragua LOVE sign

A cool feature of Granada is its proximity to the lake. Sitting on the shores of Lago Cocibolca , city dwellers can reach the water’s edge in just 15 minutes. You can walk out onto the largest lake in Central America by heading to the colorful Granada Pier .

On your way to the pier, you will pass through a tropical square called Parque Azul . Here you’ll find palm trees, lush flowers, and even horses grazing along the coast. But what you really want to look for is the iconic LOVE sign . 

HN Hint: The statue in Parque Azul depicts Spanish conquistador Francisco Hernández de Córdoba , who claimed ownership to Granada in 1523.

Acclaimed artist Robert Indiana’s famous red sculpture is a great spot for a Granada photo op. Find it between the park and the pier.

Take a Boat Cruise Through the Isletas de Granada

If you’re down by Granada pier, there is one activity you absolutely cannot miss: the Isletas de Granada .

These natural wonders were formed 20,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption. Flung across Lake Nicaragua, the 365 islets are today occupied by exotic wildlife, fishermen, and some of the country’s wealthiest inhabitants. 

HN Hint : You can rent out a private islet for an overnight stay at one of the luxury hotels that have been developed on Lake Nicaragua.

Taking a boat tour through the maze of volcanic islets is an unforgettable experience. With Mombacho Volcano looming in the background and parrots flying overhead, you’ll learn all about the ancient archipelago while immersing yourself in an enchanting jungle cruise.

HN Hint: Bring a banana to feed Lucy, the friendly monkey who climbs aboard boats! You’ll see snacks are sold at the Fort of San Pablo islet stop for this very reason. 

If you’re up for it, you can also kayak through the Islets of Granada instead of riding in a boat. This serene two to three hour adventure will bring you face to face with the many tropical birds and monkeys that inhabit the region. It’s more physically demanding, but Lake Nicaragua is a beautiful place to paddle.

HN Hint: Some places in this area charge around 10 córdoba ($0.30) to use their restrooms. Bring small bills if you anticipate needing a toilet before or after the tour.

To get there, hail a taxi to Terraza Las Palmas or sign up for an organized tour that includes roundtrip transportation. Expect to spend around $40 for a one-hour guided ride in the 8-person boat (per group, not per person), or $25 per person for a kayaking trip.

Take Colorful Street Photography

One of the best things to do in Granada is 100% free: snapping shots of the city’s iconic rainbow facades . 

Nicaragua is famous for its many-hued streets. Hot pink houses with turquoise doors aren’t unusual here. As you walk through Granada, hunt for the details that set this vibrant city apart. 

A painting of toucans on a pair of puertas . An intricate archway design. Lime-green columns set against a yellow building. Once you start looking, you’ll find it hard to stop. 

HN Hint : Walk along Calle La Libertad for a seriously stunning door tour.

Granada is a photographer’s playground. There’s no shortage of opportunities for creative frames or authentic street portraits. 

And if you’re not a professional artist? This is one seriously Instagrammable city . Pick out a bright outfit and get ready to create some eye-catching content.

Roll Your Own Cigar at Mombacho Cigar Factory 

Whether you smoke a pack a day or you’ve never touched tobacco in your life, touring the Mombacho Cigar Factory is easily one of the best things to do in Granada, Nicaragua. 

This is no industrial plant. The factory is set inside a repurposed Spanish colonial mansion in the heart of Granada. The canary yellow building, “Casa de Mario Favilli,” was designed and occupied by an Italian architect in 1925 and retains many of its original features today. Visitors are greeted by a grand marble staircase, al fresco courtyard, and intricate handmade tiles.

Like the idea of holding a handmade cigar in one hand and a glass of 18-year aged rum in the other? Then you’ll want to check out the Mombacho Cigar Factory lounge . With a full Flor de Caña rum bar, in-house roasted Nicaraguan coffee , and no shortage of smokes, this is the ultimate tasting room.

Want to roll the cigar yourself? Take a factory tour and opt for the workshop add-on. You’ll learn the process and technique of cigar making, see the humidor aging room, and go home with your very own case of Mombacho Cigars to keep or gift to a friend. At just $14 per person for the full package or $4 for the factory tour alone, even non-smokers can’t pass up this awesome experience in Granada.

HN Hint : Cigar enthusiasts should consider visiting Nicaragua for Puro Sabor Festival del Tabaco , an annual cigar festival held each January that starts in Granada and ends in the northern city of Estelí . *This event is currently virtual due to COVID.

Anticipate spending around 2 hours at Casa Favilli, and countless more relaxing on the rooftop terrace. Mombacho Cigar Factory boasts one of the best aerial views of Granada and the nearby volcano after which it was named. You can visit any weekday from 9AM to 4:30PM.

Eat Ice Cream at La Gelateria

Move over, Rome. Granada, Nicaragua is the new place to go for artisan gelato. 

La Gelateria is a cute little corner shop that will satisfy all your ice cream cravings on steamy afternoons. This local gelato parlor is located right off of Calle La Calzada , a popular stretch of eateries. Here you can get all the classic flavors you know and love, plus tropical fruit varieties like pitaya. 

HN Hint : Ice cream isn’t your thing? Gelateria Granada also offers crepes and smoothies.

Granada weather can get hot and humid, and gelato is the sweetest way to cool off. Every time I’m in the city, I find myself at La Gelateria one way or another. At just $1 a scoop, it’s hard not to keep coming back. 

Check Out the Stone Carvings at Convento de San Francisco

Are you an art aficionado? Then you have to make time for the Convento de San Francisco . This 16 th century convent and museum has been rebuilt several times over the years, and today is home to historical paintings and thousand-year-old artifacts. 

HN Hint : You will also hear it called the Centro Cultural Convento San Francisco .

The highlight of Convento de San Francisco’s exhibits has to be the volcanic stone statues from Isla Zapatera . Traced back to as early as 800 AD, this collection is attributed to the Indigenous tribes of pre-colonial times. It’s a rare look at early Nicaraguan art forms that is well worth a visit for anthropology buffs.

The museum also features murals depicting the history of Granada , eccentric religious and folk paintings, arte primitivista , 12 th century pottery, a scale model of the city and Granada Cathedral, and much more. Learn all about Granada’s history and Nicaraguan ceremonies, then relax in the museum’s peaceful Spanish courtyard.

HN Hint: Aim to visit on a Sunday so that you can get a glimpse into the adjoining Iglesia San Francisco , Granada’s oldest church.

You can spot the large white monastery on Calle Arsenal . It is open to the public from 8AM to 5PM on weekdays and 9AM to 4PM on weekends. The scant $5 entry fee includes a bilingual guide who will shed light on the displays (please consider tipping on this complimentary service).

Go Shopping at El Mercado

Forgot something? No worries. El Mercado in Granada, Nicaragua has anything you could possibly need. 

Otherwise known as Mercado Municipal , this bustling street market is a hectic hub of haggling locals. Here you can find massive avocados and plantain bunches, endless tables of socks and t-shirts, giant baskets of beans, and stacks of toiletry essentials. Birthday balloons are even sold by some merchants.

HN Hint:   Find local eats in the back of the market, like Comedor Chayito .

Just be prepared: this is no air conditioned mall . The market vendors are set up in close quarters, and things can get pretty loud. But if you’re up for a truly immersive Nicaraguan experience, chaotic El Mercado can be a fun place to go.

Take a Break in Historic Parque Xalteva

If you end up on the western side of the Granada city center, take a water break in Parque Xalteva . This quaint little park is packed with history dating back to colonial times. 

During the period of colonization, native Nicaraguans were not permitted to enter the city. Instead, they formed their own settlement in the Xalteva neighborhood. Situated on the old demarcation line between the Spanish and Indigenous communities, Parque Xalteva serves as a reminder of the time of segregation in Granada. The original wall that divided the two populations in 1751 still stands in the park today.

Recently revitalized, Parque Xalteva now features lovely floral landscaping while retaining its unique original stonework. This is a great spot to relax and take in the magnificent baroque façade of Iglesia de Xalteva across the street. 

If you are interested in learning more about Granada’s colonial history, hire a guide who can bring the park’s past alive. You can book one through the tour operators set up in Plaza de la Independencia behind the Granada Cathedral.

See the City in a Horse-drawn Carriage

Want to see all of Granada but don’t have the physical stamina for it? A carriage tour might be the perfect activity for you.

Lining Ave Vega, the street along the western edge of Parque Central, the traditional coches are easily spotted. These colorful carriages are pulled by a pair of horses that are often adorned with ribbons and flowers. 

The tour will take you through all the historic landmarks and highlights of Granada . You’ll get to see the brightly-painted colonial homes and churches, old forts and monuments, and hustle and bustle of the cobblestone city streets all from the comfort of a shaded seat. 

The ride is a romantic one : the traditional style of the coches takes you back in time to the early days of Granada, when horse-drawn carriages were the only way to navigate Nicaragua.

HN Hint : If there are specific places you really want to see, tell the driver. Unless you name a preference, they’ll set the route.

Bringing a guide along will enhance your experience , but you can freely approach any of the 30 drivers yourself and ask to climb aboard. There’s no need to reserve a spot ahead of time. You can choose between a 30-minute ride for $5 or a full hour for $10. Each covered carriage holds up to 4 people.

HN Hint : Plan your coche de caballos tour around sunset to see Granada lit up by golden hour rays.

Hang Out on Calle La Calzada

To find the heartbeat of Granada, look no further than Calle La Calzada . Granada’s colorful main street is a cultural hub. Here you’ll find outdoor restaurants and bars, boutique shops and hotels, and plenty of live music. The cobblestoned pedestrian thoroughfare is illuminated by string lights, and manicured trees line the walkway.

Calle La Calzada comes alive at night . Peddlers hawk goods and street performers breakdance tableside. Karaoke isn’t out of the question. Couples dance bachata and cumbia in the street, and buckets of cold cervezas come cheap. The majestic Granada Cathedral serves as a backdrop to all the action. 

Spending the evening hanging out on Calle La Calzada is one of our favorite things to do in Granada . Nothing beats sitting outside on a warm night with a plate of fried flautas and a bottle of Victoria Clásica, absorbing all the good energy. You don’t want to miss this Nicaraguan gem.

HN Hint : Calle La Calzada is fun for dining, but not so much for sleeping. Light sleepers may want to find lodging a few blocks away from this main street, which can get noisy at night.

It’s easy to reach La Calzada street. Walk through Parque Central in the direction of Lake Nicaragua . You’ll quickly come across the bright boulevard. 

Chances are, you’ll hear Calle La Calzada before you see it. Let the lights lead you, and sit down anywhere to be served food and drinks.

Party At A Club

It wouldn’t be a city without nightlife. Granada isn’t known for its club scene (that title goes to Managua ), but it does have several fun options for those looking to go out drinking. 

Encuentros Club on La Calzada street is one of them. This converted Spanish colonial home is a nightclub that doubles as an inn. Most of the action takes place in the open-air inner courtyard, where guests drink Nicaraguan rum around a swimming pool. With good music and strong drinks, Encuentros is a popular Granada club for a reason. You can also stop by before the sun goes down to sip mojitos from gorgeous rooftop views. 

If you want a bigger venue, Level One is a hot new discoteca that’s always packed. This spot has more of a rave feel, with pulsating beats and neon lights. If you like to get dressed up when you go out, then this club is a great move for you. The trendy space is also located on Calle La Calzada.

Not your speed? Lots of hostels in Granada throw weekend parties. The Selina across from Parque Central hosts one every other Saturday that’s free for guests. On Calle La Libertad, The Townhouse also has parties every Friday night, plus shuttles to booze cruises and offsite raves. Oasis Hostal   offers pub crawls, and The Madhouse runs a karaoke night with free shots.

Remember, Granada is a small city. It doesn’t have the nightlife of Miami or Ibiza, so don’t expect to find massive multi-level clubs. But tequila shots cost less than a dollar in Nicaragua, so if you want a fun night out, you really can’t go wrong.

Visit the Granada Cemetery

Tour an Art Gallery

Granada has a small but impressive art scene. Running perpendicular to Calle La Calzada on Avenida Miguel Cervantes Savedra, you’ll find an art gallery, a cultural center called Casa de los Tres Mundos , and even a restaurant called Café de Arte . 

Stop in to see the artwork, or sign up for a painting workshop.

Take a Day Trip  

One of the many wonderful features of Granada is its prime location . The city is in close range to many of Nicaragua’s top outdoor adventures. If you need a break from urban living or simply want to explore the country’s natural beauty, then Granada is the ideal home base for day trips .

In just over an hour, you can be ziplining through a cloud forest amongst the sloths and toucans at Mombacho Volcano Nature Reserve . 

In 40 minutes, you can be standing on the edge of an active volcano at Masaya National Park . 

( NOTE : Check for closures due to recently elevated activity)

In 30 minutes, you can be listening to marimba players as you take in the panoramic views of Mirador de Catarina . 

In 20 minutes, you can be diving into a 23,000 year old crater lake at Apoyo Lagoon . 

HN Hint : Take a night tour of Masaya Volcano for an electric view of the crater’s bubbling lava lake.

Reaching any of these destinations is easy enough. There are several ways to take a day trip from Granada:

If you want to get there by yourself, you can hail a taxi or save a few bucks and take a public chicken bus . 

HN Hint : A “chicken bus” doesn’t actually carry chickens. It’s just the name for decommissioned U.S. school buses that have been sent south and are now used as painted public buses in Nicaragua. 

Depending on where you are staying, many hotels in Granada also offer shuttles to popular destinations for a small fee. 

For the full-service experience, you can find tour operators like Abdalah Tours , Tierra Tours , and Danny’s Tour open for business in kiosks on Calle La Calzada. They will take care of your entire Granada day trip from start to finish at reasonable rates.

There are so many amazing things to do in Granada, Nicaragua. 

Whether you like to plan an itinerary down to the minute or prefer to see where the road takes you, you’ll find there is no shortage of adventure here.

Pack your bag, and get ready to discover new wonders around every corner in Granada. 

Meet your Tour Guides

Hola! We’re Gail & Luis, a team of two with a deep love for Nicaragua. Luis, a professional tour guide, is the knowledgeable source behind the blog. Gail, an American writer, is the voice. 

We started this blog as a way to stay connected from afar and support Nicaragua in our own small way.

Today, our mission is to open hearts and minds to the wonders of Nicaragua and make it easier than ever to start planning your trip.

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Amazing coverage! I look forward to my upcoming visit even more now thanks to your wonderful reportage. Thank you and all the best.

Thank you so much, Diana! What an exciting trip. We hope to hear about it!

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Granada, Nicaragua

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Things to Do in Granada, Nicaragua

A luminous cathedral stands in front of one of the country's most vibrant squares, surrounded by pretty cobbled streets, which run down to the dark shores of Lake Cocibocha (also known as Lago de Nicaragua). Granada is a delightful surprise, in contrast to the mediocre shabbiness of Managua; history clings to every chunky terra-cotta tile covering this town's multicolored one-story cottages and town houses. Beguiling church facades and large handsome Spanish doorways make it a living museum to the opulence of the old Spanish Empire, and it's a city that should be top of your list to explore while traveling in Nicaragua.

Granada's perfectly preserved beauty is all the more surprising considering its tumultuous history of violence and plunder. Back in the 16th and 17th centuries, the city was pillaged by pirates and buccaneers, and completely razed by the despot William Walker. The American tyrant went so far as to plant a sign in its smoldering ruins declaring: "Here was Granada." The words, and the man, soon died, but the city lived on. Originally a Chorotega Indian settlement called Xalteva, the city was founded in 1524 by Francisco Fernandez de Córdoba. It is Nicaragua's oldest city and sits at the foot of the broad, tropical Volcán Mombacho. Its access to the Caribbean via the Río San Juan allowed it to become a rich city of Spanish merchants and landowners. British and French pirates raided it several times in the 17th century, most famously Henry Morgan and William Dampier. They looted and burned each time, and yet the city always managed to resurrect itself. Granada now literally blooms with colonial, neoclassical, and Italian architecture. It is, and was, the conservative bastion of Nicaragua and was capital of the country several times as it pursued a sometimes vicious tug-of-war for control with the more liberal Léon in the north.

Today, Granada is a prosperous, conservative city, benefiting greatly from a surge in tourism and property development. Tourists have replaced pirates, and the only rumpus these days is caused by the squawking flock of jackdaws that swarm through the trees in its central plaza. More and more foreigners are deciding to stay, and there is a legitimate fear that the city will be swamped by well-meaning expats who will nevertheless alter its character and push the locals out. Yet, I suspect this beautiful city will never lose its proud Nicaraguan roots and will handle its surge in popularity with the same resilience with which it met previous invaders. It has some of the country's best hotels and restaurants and is an ideal base from which to explore the rest of the country. Nearby is the finger of islands called Las Isletas, the handicrafts center Masaya, and the towns of Pueblos Blancos, as well as outdoorsy excursions to Volcán Mombacho and Laguna de Apoyo.

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The Best Things To Do In Granada, Nicaragua

Discover the best things to do in Nicaragua. From gorgeous lagoons to beautiful architecture  – it’s time to explore. 

Often overshadowed by neighboring countries such as Costa Rica, in recent years Nicaragua has finally received the recognition it deserves. 

Granada sits nestled at the heart of it all – a charming place that should be at the top of any visitor’s list of places to go in Nicaragua. 

I heard a lot about Granada during my last trip through Central America . All the way from Mexico through Guatemala and other parts of Nicaragua, other travellers talked about how much they’d loved the town – framing it as the perfect blend of laid-back charm and adventure activities. 

You know what? They weren’t wrong either. Here’s why. 

Looking for somewhere to stay in Granada? I love the Tribal Hotel – check rates and availability here .

Top 5 Things to do in Granada

Spend time at apoyo lagoon.

One of Granada’s not-so-hidden gems, Apoyo Lagoon sits in the centre of the chain of volcanoes that runs through Nicaragua and is one of Granada’s main attractions. 

At first glimpse, it looks like paradise – clear blue water surrounded by trees and volcanoes in the distance. It’s not just about looks though. Spend the day kayaking, swimming or floating in inner tubes enjoying the lagoon’s peaceful atmosphere.

Even though Apoyo Lagoon is a popular thing to do in Granada,  it’s not overcrowded. The lagoon’s size means there’s never more than a smattering of visitors in one place.

After spending your day on the water, make sure that you stay for the lagoon’s spectacular sunsets. Watching the sun disappear behind the mountains shouldn’t be missed. 

Hike Up Mombacho Volcano

Take advantage of Granada’s location and explore the surrounding volcanoes that surround the town – the most famous of which is Mombacho . 

Home to unique wildlife and mystical cloud forest, Mombacho Volcano offers a completely different experience to your normal mountain hike. 

First of all, there’s the lush, cool greenery that has slowly spread over the volcano since its last eruption over 400 years ago. It is the perfect setting for your 10-mile hiking adventure. Add to that Howler monkeys swinging on branches around you and the views from the top and you can’t help but agree that it’s well worth the effort. 

If you’re heading to Granada, be sure not to forget your hiking boots – this hike is worth skipping a day sunbathing for.

Book Your Mombacho Tickets Here

Explore Lago Cocibolca and Las Isletas de Granada 

Granada is home to the largest lake in Central America, Lago Cocibolca – venture to it to discover the lake’s 365 islands – collectively known as Las Isletas de Granada . 

The majority of these islands are developed as many of the local fishermen live on them. You should spend at least a day while you are in Granada exploring a few of them to spy the local wildlife and beautiful scenery.  

The best time to jump on a boat to tour around the lake is right before dusk – with the added bonus that you’ll have the chance to watch a magnificent sunset while sailing through the waters. I recommend this kayak tour , which allows you to savour breathtaking views from a new perspective.

Book Your Kayak Tour Here

Spend Some Time in Granada’s Parque Central

Parque Central sits at the heart of Granada and there’s no doubt that spending an evening meandering between the bars, restaurants and sitting areas is one of the best things to do in Granada. 

Filled with local markets, churches and museums, it’s brimming with historic architecture and rainbow hues that light up the streets. 

During the day you would never imagine that the sleepy area dedicated to fountains and statues becomes the place to be when the sun goes down. Locals and tourists fill the streets, hopping into the many bars and restaurants on the parque and in its surrounding streets. 

Marvel at the Beautiful Convento y Museo San Francisco

One of Nicaragua’s most popular attractions is Convento y Museo San Francisco. The church is not only an important monastery, but also one of the best museums in Central America. 

What makes Convento y Museo San Francisco one of the best things to do in Granada? It’s the ancient catacombs sitting far below the church.

Since 1546 citizens of Granada have been laid to rest in the catacombs – which is now estimated to have the remains of 75,000 people in its walls.

Brilliant Things to See & Do in Granada During the Day 

Visit fortaleza la polvora .

From the continuous pirate attacks on the city in 1748 Granada built Fortaleza la Polvora to defend themselves. 

Though, since then, Fortaleza la Polvora has been used as an army garrison, a jail and now is the home of a popular military museum. 

Visitors are able to climb one of the five towers for a scenic view of Granada. I recommend combining a visitor with a tour of Granada’s other colonial buildings – this tour is my favourite as it also takes you to the San Francisco Convent and Merced Church.

Book Your Tour of Colonial Granada Here

Head to Mercado Municipal 

Alive with vendors and customers is Granada’s main market, Mercado Municipal. Mercado Municipal is full of the freshest meats, vegetables and fruits you can find in Granada. 

This large colorful market is where you’ll find most locals in the morning as the products are best when bought early as possible. If you’re looking to immerse yourself into the lives of locals in Granada, there is no better place to do so than at Mercado Municipal.

Taste Granada’s Impressive Street Food

It’s difficult to miss the vibrant street food vendors as you walk through Parque Central – if the delicious smells don’t draw you in then the cheerful calls from locals certainly will. Offering delicious local food to visitors, these street vendors are not to be missed. 

On every corner you’ll find a street cart offering one of Granada’s most popular dishes- Vigarón. A salad consisting of fried pork skin, pickled cabbage and mashed yuca served on a plantain leaf is what you’ll find almost every visitor of Granada enjoying while strolling through Parque Central.

Climb the Clocktower at Iglesia de la Merced 

Dating back to 1539 is one of Granada’s oldest structures, Iglesia de la Merced – this Granada landmark is located only a few blocks away from Parque Central. 

Iglesia de la Merced has suffered damage since first being built, but continue to stands tall today. The highlight of Iglesia de la Merced is it’s clocktower which visitors can climb to the top and be rewarded with a 360-degree view of Granada. 

Dine at The Garden Café 

Popular with many tourists visiting Granada, The Garden Café offers a menu full of fresh healthy food options – a nice retreat from the, often heavy, Nicaraguan food.

A light and artfully decorated setting gives The Garden Café a coffee house vibe – not to mention the free wifi is why many tourists stop by.

Cool Things to See & Do in Granada at Night

Indulge in sushi and sake at bar kanpai.

Craving fresh sushi while visiting Granada? No worries, Bar Kanpai is home to the freshest sushi you can find in Nicaragua. 

Bar Kanpai is owned by a talented Japanese chef who prides himself on serving fresh, authentic sushi rolls to the people of Granada. While enjoying your sushi roll be sure to listen to the stories the sushi chef has to tell about his time in Japan and how he ended up falling in love with Granada.

Get a Culture Fix at Casa de los Leones + Fundacion Casa de los Tres Mundos 

Looking for a Granada culture fix? Then Casa de los Leones and Fundacion Casa de los Tres Mundos is one stop you should make. 

As you enter the building, you’ll find a bulletin of special events taking place which can range from a movie night to a traditional folk dance performance. This is a great way to immerse yourself into the night life of locals living in Granada.

Chow Down at El Tercer Ojo

One of the best restaurants in Granada is El Tercer Ojo. Specializing in Asian and Latin fusion cuisine, El Tercer Ojo attracts many tourists not only for the food, but the bohemian atmosphere of the restaurant. 

Regardless if you have a desire to try the food or not (though, you definitely should – it’s delicious) El Tercer Ojo is worth visiting just to enjoy a drink with locals. 

Try Tiste at The Volcano Café

At first glance, The Volcano Café may look like just another café on the streets of Granada, but in fact it’s a bit more special than the others in the city.

Located near La Merced Church, The Volcano Café is home to mouth-watering Quesillo and the only place in Granada where you can receive the traditional drink called “Tiste”- a primitive drink made from clove, cinnamon, toasted corn, and a variety of other spices in milk or water. 

Things to do in Granada: Practical Tips for Your Trip

How Long to Visit in Granada? 

I recommend at least 4 days in Granada, Nicaragua. This will give you plenty of time to explore the historic heart of the town, as well as venture out to climb the volcano and spend time immersed in the local culture.

Best Time to Visit Granada

The best times to visit Granada fall between May and June and September and October. This is when the weather is hot (but not too intense) and there are plenty of cultural events to get involved in.

Where Should I Stay in Granada? 

Hotel Colonial Granada

Not far from Parque Central is Hotel Colonial Granada , a spacious yet small hotel consisting of 36 rooms and a pool. When designing Hotel Colonial Granada, builders made sure that the hotel reflected the area’s colonial style to match the older houses that surrounded the property. 

Check Rates and Availability at Hotel Colonial Granada

Tribal Hotel

Tranquility awaits you at Tribal Hotel . Tucked away in the heart of Granada, this hotel offers guests a peaceful stay with the convenience of being central to Granada’s historic treasures.

Tribal Hotel is a great place for couples looking to stay in Granada as their lounge area becomes a torch-lit romantic getaway at night. You can also take advantage of the hotel’s outdoor lounge area featuring comfortable cabanas and easy access to the hotel’s pool. 

Check Rates and Availability at Tribal Hotel Here

Recommended Tours in Granada  

• Mombacho Wildlife Reserve Tour
• La Isletas de Granada Guided Kayak Tour
• Walking and Carriage Tour of Colonial Granada

Things to do in Granada: Map

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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12 amazing things to do in Granada Nicaragua

From lava-bubbling volcanoes to colonial churches, Granada deserves a visit! Read my guide on the best things to do in Granada Nicaragua.

Granada is one of Nicaragua’s most visited cities. And it’s easy to see why. The city is charming, crime rate is low, and it’s the most developed and tourist-friendly place in the country. There are tons of great things to do in Granada Nicaragua , so you won’t leave this city disappointed.

Let’s take a look at what Granada has to offer. 

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Table of Contents

Things to do in Granada Nicaragua

Granada is a great city to spend a weekend or maybe even longer. We spent four days in Granada and got to do everything we wanted to. 

A good thing about Granada is that everything is within close distance and it’s walkable. And speaking about walking…

You can easily see all the things to do in Granada on your own, but you can also opt for a walking tour. They are a great way to learn more about a place from a local and to discover spots you may otherwise not have heard of. They usually take 3-4 hours and cost $15-20.

1. Visit the colonial churches in Granada

As a Catholic country, Nicaragua has no shortage of beautiful churches. 

Some of the most memorable churches include Iglesia de Guadalupe, Iglesia de La Merced and of course, the colourful Granada Cathedral. 

2. Visit the mesmerizing Granada Cathedral

Granada Cathedral is a neoclassical Catholic cathedral from 1583. It has been destroyed many times since, and this version, built in 1915, has four chapels and a dozen stained-glass panels in the dome. 

3. Walk the colourful streets

One of my favourite things to do in Granada was wandered the streets with my camera, snapping photos of the colourful houses and cute little streets.

The houses are old, but their colourful facades are so charming in traditional colonial style. I also felt safe walking here and didn’t experience any unwanted attention like in Leon. 

4. Discover new fruits

One of the fun things to do in Granada Nicaragua include discovering new food and fruits. For instance, I’d never had plantains before I visited. 

You can try much of the local food in restaurants, but the best place to explore the many varieties is at a local market. I saw at least 10 fruits that I’ve never seen before. My favourite from back home is avocados, and they’re both huge, delicious and cheap here.

5. See bubbling lava at Masaya volcano

Want to see real-life magma in a volcano?

At Masaya volcano, you can visit an active volcano up close without doing any hiking. Although you can visit both day and night, I highly recommend a night tour as the sight is much more spectacular in the dark.

Since Masaya volcano is fairly small, you can drive all the way up to it. You get to look down into the crater and see hot, bubbling lava, which to me is one of the absolute coolest things to do in Granada Nicaragua. 

Read next: How to try volcano boarding in Nicaragua

6. Granada’s Parque Central

Parque Central is the heart of Granada, and it’s the perfect place for observing people in their daily life and just relax.

In general, Nicas are friendly people. If you look past the machismo or “macho” men and bossy women , people here are very helpful and chatty. That’s actually the main thing I preferred over Leon , where locals stared at us to a point where it got awkward and uncomfortable. In Granada, they are more used to tourists and also more welcoming.

7. Stroll down La Calzada

La Calzada, also known as Gringo Street, is a modern pedestrianised street with bars and touristy restaurants. It’s the place to go especially after dark where you’ll also find artisans, vendors and street performers.

I preferred it during the day, though, when it was more quiet and peaceful.

8. Shop at Masaya Mercado Municipal

The main market in Masaya, the Mercado Municipal, is a lively and colourful food and crafts market, that will show you the heart of the city and people.

You could also visit the Mercado de Artesanias, which sells typical Nicaraguan souvenirs, like vibrant woven blankets and small purses and sandals. It’s kind of overpriced, though, and also crowded, so I recommend the Mercado Municipal.

Masaya is an easy day trip from Granada. You can get there independently by chicken buses, which leave regularly from the bus terminal (close to Pali Supermarket) and stops right next to Masaya’s Mercado Municipal. A one-way ticket costs 10 cordobas ($0.36).

9. Try Nicaraguan food

Nicaraguan food is made up of rice and beans (gallo pinto), but there are lots of other foods to try. You should try the quesillos, which is a soft tortillas with cheese and sour cream or vigoron, pork with cabbage salad, wrapped in a banana leaf.

10. Get a chocolate massage

Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like. You’ll get covered in chocolate, scrub it off and then enjoy a lovely massage afterwards. Granada is the place to get it ($34 for an hour).

11. Day trip to Laguna de Apoyo

One of the popular things to do in Granada Nicaragua is visiting Laguna de Apoya. 

Laguna de Apoyo is a natural lake in a volcanic crater, just 30 minutes from Granada. You can go here to swim or do water sports, or 

12. Day trip to Islets of Granada

An alternative to Laguna de Apoya is visiting the Islets of Granada , a series of 365 small islands in the middle of Lake Nicaragua that came from Mombacho’s last eruption.

You can rent a kayak or join a tour of las isletas, but just know that the tour includes a visit to a small island dubbed “Monkey Island” where they’ve stranded four monkeys and put up a high-voltage wire to keep them there. We didn’t know this when we joined a tour there, so just a heads up. 

Why you shouldn’t take a horse-drawn carriage

Staying on the subject of animal welfare, you will inevitably see the horse-drawn carriages in Granada. 

We walked by a row of horses at the main square, and I was very sad to see every single one of them horrifically thin, had untreated sores, and breathing heavily, even though they weren’t moving. It was pretty upsetting.

Nicaragua is one of the poorest countries in Latin America and access to basic services is a daily challenge for many. Much of the misuse of horses might not be intended by locals, but derives from lack of knowledge or means. Considering distances are so short in Granada, please reconsider if you really need a carriage and want to support this activity. 

Is Nicaragua safe in 2023?

Granada is generally safe to visit. There’s always the issue of pickpocketing and scams (as in all other countries), but common sense will take you a long way:

• Don’t walk alone after dark
• Avoid flashing your belongings (expensive watch, camera and jewellery)
• Also, read my general travel safety tips   and how to avoid  common taxi scams , because much of it applies here as well

Local protests:  Since 2018, Nicaragua has had outbreaks of violent protest against the government. The situation is more stable today (2023), and although protests still take place, they are rare and always prearranged with police forces around. If you decide to visit Nicaragua, my advice is to watch the news and avoid the protests if you happen to run into one. 

Hotels in Granada Nicaragua

You have lots of options when it comes to great hotels in Granada Nicaragua. We stayed at Hotel Granada and couldn’t have picked a better place. The hotel is really lovely with comfortable air-conditioned rooms, perfectly located and a very relaxed environment. 

Find the latest prices here: booking.com

How to get to Granada Nicaragua

Granada is at the south of Nicaragua, making it easy to reach by International bus from Costa Rica. From within Nicaragua, I recommend shuttle busses. A shuttle from Leon to Granada Nicaragua will cost from $15 per person and the journey takes 2.5 hours.  

Shuttle bus 

It’s easy to get a shuttle bus from Leon, San Juan del Sur or Managua to Granada Nicaragua. Simply ask at your hotel or one of the travel agencies. Shuttles are air-conditioned, safe and have friendly drivers; at least in my experience. 

International busses

Getting to Granada from Costa Rica is also pretty straight-forward. Take one of the International bus lines like Ticabus .  We traveled with them through all of Central America and always found them reliable and comfortable.

Looking for more things to do in Granada Nicaragua? Ask me anything in the comments!

More posts from Nicaragua

• 12 epic things to do in Leon Nicaragua
• A night out at ViaVia Leon, Nicaragua
• Volcano boarding in Nicaragua: All you need to know
• How to visit the volcanic islets of Granada (Nicaragua)
• A quick Nicaragua travel guide
• Hotel review | The luxurious Hotel Granada Nicaragua
• Hotel review | The Oasis hostel, Nicaragua

Miriam Risager is the founder of Adventurous Miriam. She has traveled to 62 countries in the past 18 years and has done most of it solo. She helps over 100,000 people per month plan their travel adventures across the world.

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Nicaragua Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Known as the “Land of Lakes and Volcanoes,” Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America. Home to Lake Nicaragua (Central America’s largest lake), beautiful islands, expansive volcanic terrain, mangrove swamps, ethereal cloud forests, and tropical rainforests, Nicaragua is a stunning destination with tons of things to see and do — no matter your interests.

In fact, I loved my visit to Nicaragua so much I ended up extending my visit!

While Granada, León, and San Juan del Sur tend to pull in the crowds, if you leave the main southern cities and get a little off the tourist trail, you can discover even more varied landscapes, friendly locals, and little explored towns and national parks.

This travel guide to Nicaragua shows you how to visit on a budget, save money, and make the most of your trip.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Nicaragua

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Nicaragua

1. Visit Little Corn Island

This archipelago off the Caribbean coast is one of the best places to relax in the country. It boasts diving with hammerhead sharks and underwater caves, fresh seafood, and plenty of hammock downtime on deserted beaches (invest in a good hammock if you’re serious about your R&R). Don’t miss Otto’s Beach.

2. Relax in San Juan del Sur

This picturesque surfer paradise is fringed with prehistoric volcanic hills and was the first destination to put Nicaragua on the map. Backpackers flock here in droves to surf and party under the stars. It’s a must-visit destination in the country!

3. Admire colonial Granada

Nicaragua’s oldest city is revered as the colonial jewel of Central America. Many of the pastel-painted buildings have been meticulously restored. Bask in Granada’s historic grandeur as you weave through the cobblestone streets, visit local art galleries, and sip on a coffee in a plaza.

4. Tour León

From world-class museums, Central America’s largest cathedral, and other beautiful monuments to a lively party scene fueled by the ample student population, León is one of my favorite places in the country. Sample the best roadside quesillo and see the local artists who give the city its eccentric flavor.

5. Explore Ometepe Island

Spend your days hiking, kayaking, or cycling around the island, spotting howler monkeys and archeological ruins in the process. Two of the two volcanoes here (Concepción and Maderas) offer strenuous 8-10-hour hikes. Guides are mandatory and cost 530 NIO.

Other Things to See and Do in Nicaragua

1. hike miraflores.

Miraflores national park was the highlight of my entire trip. Located in Estelí in northern Nicaragua, this is a stunning cloud forest with rivers and waterfalls. You can take day-hikes or multiday treks to the park (the multiday trips enable you to stay with local host families in small communities) and there are also programs to help you learn to farm. The one-day trek that I did ran from 7am-4pm and cost 550 NIO which included two meals and a mandatory guide. An extra bonus that I loved is that all the money goes back into supporting the community and farmers.

2. Explore Rio San Juan

This river is a wonderful stopover for nature enthusiasts looking to go kayaking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Despite the surge in eco-tourism in the region, accommodation options are still no-frills and very low-key, with Wi-Fi and phone coverage being scarce. Most tours leave from San Carlos, which is located at the mouth of the river on Lake Nicaragua.

3. Hike a volcano

Nicaragua has 19 volcanos (9 of which are active). The two peaks on Ometepe –– Concepcion and Maderas –– are the two most popular day hikes in the country. Concepción, towering at 1,600 meters (5,249 feet) is a baking hot hike, so bring lots of sunblock and water. Maderas is easier but muddier, with a lake at the summit. Cerro Negro (near León) offers a comfortable sandy route from top to bottom and is also well-known for “volcano surfing.” Masaya Volcano is the most active volcano in Nicaragua and you can actually see the lava bubbling there (visits are limited to 10 minutes due to the fumes). For people wanting a challenge, try San Cristobal, Nicaragua’s highest volcano. If you’re hunting for scenic Insta-worthy views, hike to Telica (also within easy reach from León) for a spectacular sunset (you can actually camp at the top).

4. Relax at Lake Apoyo

Laguna de Apoyo is a breathtaking body of water that sits upon the Apoyo volcano crater near Granada. This 200-meter-deep lake is the perfect spot for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and sailing. Hostels offer day trips from Granada for around 300 NIO, which include a return shuttle and include use of another hostel’s facilities, kayaks, and tubes on the lagoon. You can also visit independently and stay overnight if you want a longer visit.

5. Tour a coffee plantation

Coffee is Nicaragua’s primary export and Jinotega, the misty and mountainous northern region, produces over 80% of the country’s output. You can organize a coffee tour in any of the eco-lodges/hostels dotted around the region. I particularly liked Eco Albergue La Fundadora. Even though I don’t drink coffee, it’s a fascinating and important industry in the country (and region) and worth learning about.

6. Relax at the Pearl Cays

The remote string of crescent-shaped playas that make up the Pearl Cays (pronounced “Pearl Keys”) offer some of the best Caribbean beaches in Nicaragua. Unfortunately, due to climate change, this stunning collection of white islands is steadily shrinking. Located near the Corn Islands, there are currently only 10 left from the original 18. Accommodation on the island is super exclusive and very pricey. However, day trips by shared speedboat can be easily arranged to make visits affordable. Private boats start from around 8,800 NIO and fit up to 10 people. Come here to snorkel, swim, and lounge away the day.

7. Visit the Bosawas Biosphere Reserve

Bosawas is the second-largest rainforest in the Western Hemisphere and is home to jaguars, tapirs, spider monkeys, harpy eagles, and more. A huge chunk of the country’s bird population — 600 out of 790 species — are located here, making it the prime spot for wildlife and bird watching. Multi-day trips, where you can truly immerse yourself in the wilderness, hike cloud forests, swim in waterfalls, and meet Mayangna and Miskito indigenous communities start at around 12,000 NIO per person.

8. Explore the Solentiname Archipelago

Isolated on the southwest tip of Lago de Nicaragua, the Solentiname Archipelago is a cluster of 36 islands revered for their pristine collections of primitive art, birdlife, and laid-back lifestyle. It’s best to base yourself in Mancarrón and organize day trips to other neighboring islands throughout your stay. It’s roughly a four-hour drive from Managua to San Carlos and then and then a two-hour boat ride to the dock in Mancarrón. There are no ATMs to be found on the islands so bring plenty of cash.

9. Shop at the Masaya Markets

Stock up on rum, coffee, hammocks, and ceramics at the Masaya Markets in Masaya National Park near Managua. Barter your way through the markets and soak up the colorful atmosphere. While there is a lot of tourist junk here, there are still plenty of artisanal handmade crafts as well. On Thursdays, a weekly ‘Night of Revelry’ features traditional dancing, local food, and music. The market is just thirty minutes from Managua.

10. Visit the stone carving hermit

Near Estelí in the north you can find Alberto the hermit. He’s been living here for almost 40 years, carving stone figures and sculptures in the jungle. He’s eccentric, kind, and incredibly knowledgeable about the flora and fauna in the region. Stop by to see his carvings and learn about his life in the jungle. Here’s a video of my visit .

11. Check out the Isletas de Granada

Southeast of the city of Granada in Lake Nicaragua, you can find the Isletas de Granada (Grenada Islets). There are around 365 of these volcanic islands, some of which are inhabited. A few have hotels on them or you can take a one-hour boat ride around them to admire their pristine beauty (it costs around 1,400 NIO for a boat that can take 8 people).

12. See Somoto Canyon

Dating back to the Miocene epoch (23-25 million years ago), Somoto Canyon is a relatively unexplored part of Nicaragua. Located near the border with Honduras, it was discovered by Czech and Nicaraguan scientists in 2004 and, since then, its spectacular walls and clear water have become a popular tourist destination. Activities here include hiking, boating, and scaling the canyon walls. The narrowest part of the canyon can only be reached by swimming or by tubing. Somoto Canyon Tours offers a variety of tours lasting from 3-6 hours with prices starting at 880 NIO.

13. Do a homestay/Learn Spanish

If you have a bit more time to spend in Nicaragua, there are lots of opportunities to volunteer, learn Spanish, and farm by taking part in a homestay (Estelí, Ometepe, and León are popular destinations for this). Hostels and tourist offices in any of the big cities can help you arrange it.

Nicaragua Travel Costs

Accommodation – Small 6-8-bed dorms generally cost around 250-350 NIO per night, with private rooms costing between 700-1,700 NIO. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are common and many hostels also have a swimming pool.

For a budget two-star hotel, expect to pay between 1,000-2,600 NIO for a double room including breakfast. Expect basic amenities such as Wi-Fi, A/C, a TV, and sometimes a swimming pool.

Airbnb is available on Nicaragua’s Pacific coast as well as in Grenada and Managua (there are no rentals on the Atlantic side). You can score a great beachfront property from 2,800-4,200 NIO depending on group size and house style. For a private room, expect to pay at least 880 NIO per night.

Food – Beans, rice, and meat are the backbone of most meals in Nicaragua. Grilled chicken, pork, and beef are common options (especially for street food). Gallo pinto (fried rice and beans) is the go-to breakfast and dinner meal, with an egg often being added for the breakfast option. Be sure to try the popular quesillo , a tortilla wrapped around white cheese smothered cream, and nacatamales , a tamale made from maize dough stuffed with pork and potato.

A typical lunch, eaten in a comedor (local eatery serving tradition cuisine), or street stall costs between 100-175 NIO. Nicaraguans are more accustomed to dining out for lunch so travelers can expect to see fewer evening options available in non-touristy spots.

On the coast, seafood is the main staple so expect a lot of grilled fish. On the Caribbean side, the cuisine is heavily influenced by Caribbean culture as well.

A meal at a restaurant serving local cuisine costs around 345-520 NIO for a three-course meal with a drink.

The touristy towns and on the coast have more international cuisine options. Expect to pay 800-1,200 NIO for a three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant. A large pizza costs around 270-350 NIO. For fast food (think McDonald’s), expect to pay around 210 NIO for a meal.

A domestic beer or latte/cappuccino costs around 30-90 NIO.

If you’re buying a week’s worth of groceries, expect to pay between 1,100-1,300 NIO for basic staples like rice, beans, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Nicaragua Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 1,100 NIO per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, use public transportation and chicken buses to get around, limit your drinking, cook all of your meals, and enjoy free and cheap activities like free walking tours and lounging on the beach.

On a mid-range budget of 2,800 NIO per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or hostel room, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi or coach between cities, and do more paid activities like diving or guided day hikes.

On a “luxury” budget of 8,200 NIO per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you’d like take domestic flights to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in NIO.

Nicaragua Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Nicaragua is one of the cheaper countries in the region but prices are rising quickly as it becomes more of the “it spot” to retire and work remotely from. Here are some of the best ways to save money during your trip:

• Take the chicken bus – Chicken buses (crowded local buses that make multiple stops) are the cheapest way to travel. You can save big time if you’re willing to trade A/C and cushioned seating to travel on a decommissioned school bus for a few hours. For example, the 3.5-hour trip from Granada to Rivas costs just 70 NIO!
• Refill your water bottle – The tap water here is not safe to drink so make sure you have a reusable bottle with you. To stay safe, bring a water filter like LifeStraw to ensure your water is clean and safe!
• Use the right currency – Pay with US dollars in bigger cities and save your córdobas for purchases at small businesses in rural areas and villages since they won’t have change for larger USD bills.
• Bring cash – Cards are accepted in major establishments and big cities. However, electricity can be fickle on the coast so it’s best to carry plenty of cash in case you’re caught out in a blackout.
• Learn some Spanish – Inflated tourist prices are common here. To avoid getting overcharged, learn some Spanish. Even just a few words and phrases can help you avoid being overcharged.
• Travel during the shoulder season – Prices are highest during the dry months (December-April). To avoid the crowds and save money, travel during the rainy season or shoulder season. You might get rained on, however, accommodation and activities are cheaper.
• Choose less-traveled routes – Prices for activities and accommodation plummet when you leave the tourist triangle (Granada, León, and San Juan del Sur). Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America so don’t be afraid to think outside the box and venture off the beaten path.
• Share private taxis – If you’re traveling in a small group, a taxi can often work out cheaper and more time-efficient than a bus or shuttle. Negotiate the price beforehand and ask your hostel for the normal rates so you have a reference.

Where to Stay in Nicaragua

If you’re looking for places to stay during your visit, here are some of my favorites:

• Hola Ola Hostel (San Juan del Sur)
• Viavia Leon (León)
• De Boca en Boca (Granada)
• Managua Backpackers Inn (Managua)

How to Get Around Nicaragua

Bus – Chicken buses (i.e. converted school buses) are the cheapest way to get around. They are slow and stop often but have dirt cheap prices (around 35 NIO per hour of travel).

If you’re looking for a more comfortable journey, book with a coach company or private mini-shuttle, the latter of which are air-conditioned with cushioned seating and have storage room for your luggage.

For private mini-shuttles, expect to pay between 880-1,750 NIO per trip, however, you can try and buddy up with other hostel guests to drive down the price since it’s a private booking.

Most of the large cities have public transportation with local bus tickets costing under 6 NIO.

Air – La Costeña, Nicaragua’s domestic carrier, is based out of Managua and serves most of the country. Even if you’re keeping spending to a minimum, you have to take a flight if you want to visit the Corn Islands. Return tickets from Managua to the Corn Islands cost 5,700 NIO. For the 2.5-hour flight from Managua to Bluefields, expect to pay at least 4,500 NIO.

Train – There are no trains in Nicaragua.

Car Rental – A 4WD is recommended if you’re planning to visit rural areas as the roads here can be rough. Prices start from around 1,400 NIO per day for a multi-day rental. You’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) and you’ll definitely want to have extra insurance too.

When to Go to Nicaragua

There are two distinct seasons in Nicaragua: the dry season, which falls between November-April, and the green (rainy) season which is from May-October.

To avoid the crowds and peak prices, visit during the rainy season. The rainier months also offer ideal surfing conditions and deserted beaches to enjoy the waves. Just keep in mind the Caribbean coast sees more rain than the Pacific. Expect daily highs around 30°C (86°F).

The San Sebastian festival in Diriamba runs between January 17th-27th and is an amazing way to celebrate a local fiesta, with colorful parades, traditional music, and street-side buffets filling up every corner.

Easter (Semana Santa) is when you can find most locals hitting the mountains or beaches with family and friends. Buses and hotels, particularly on the coast, fill up fast so be sure to book in advance if you’re visiting during this time. Note that cities are much quieter during this period and many local businesses adapt their opening times/hours and events to celebrate the religious holiday.

How to Stay Safe in Nicaragua

Nicaragua is one of the safest countries in Central America, though petty theft and robberies are still relatively common. For that reason, keep your belongings secure and out of sight at all times — especially on crowded public transportation.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here when out during the day, however, they will want to avoid traveling alone after dark. Additionally, the usually standard precautions apply here as well (always keeping an eye on your drink at the bar, never walking home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight, and make sure to have suitable insurance just in case as break-ins can occur.

Scams are rare here, but they do happen. Be wary of random strangers asking for medicine or other financial assistance. Just politely decline and be on your way. You can read about common scams to avoid here .

Inflated tourist prices are common in Nicaragua. To avoid getting overcharged, learn some Spanish. Even just a few words and phrases can help you avoid being overcharged

Many people come to Nicaragua to party as drugs and alcohol are both cheap and abundant. However, the fines and penalties for drug use are steep. Police often expect bribes that can cost of hundreds — if not thousands — of dollars. Police won’t hesitate to strip search you if they suspect narcotics so avoid using drugs here to stay safe.

Moreover, the drug trade contributes to deaths, instability, and unrest in the region. Don’t contribute to that.

Protests and clashes in the major cities aren’t uncommon. Should a protest occur during your visit, avoid the area and return to your accommodation. While you’re unlikely to be hurt, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

As always, keep your wits about you at night time, particularly in the capital. Ask your hotel to call you a taxi in Managua (always negotiate the price before getting in the car), which can be an intimidating spot for travelers due to the lack of road names, tourists, and landmarks.

If you experience an emergency, dial 118 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, before you leave on your trip.

If you wouldn’t do it at home, don’t do it in Nicaragua!

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Nicaragua Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Nicaragua Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Central America and continue planning your trip:

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 6 Best Hostels in Panama City, Panama

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

How to Get Around Central America on a Budget

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Granada (Nicaragua)

Contact [ edit ].

Internet typically costs up to NIO20/h.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Nicaragua was rated the safest country in Central America, however, minor gang violence has been filtering into Nicaragua from Honduras and El Salvador. The capital, Managua, has the largest number of inhabitants but the majority of crime there is petty theft. Granada, the sixth largest city, is generally safe but using common sense and always walking with someone else at night here and everywhere else in the country is recommended. In Granada, the moneychangers are licensed and provide a terrific alternative to the banks.

Cope [ edit ]

Social workers in Granada strongly advise to not give money or food to begging children. In Granada the homeless situation is not nearly as severe as in other poor cities. Orphanages and charity organizations take care of homeless children, and poor people have access to charity kitchens. The kids that beg and sell items to tourists do this to make easy money, and are being exploited by adults. Anything you give to these children keeps them from the place they belong: in school. [1] , [2] , [3] Power outages can be frequent, especially during the dry (tourist) season. Electricity, water and internet can go out at any time and it is advised that you shower early to avoid the unexpected water shutdown. Occasionally inclement weather will create an outage, as you'd expect anywhere. Some will advise not to drink the tap water as it will make you sick, though most have no problems. Also, make sure when you buy bottled water that the top has not been opened because some people without scruples will fill the bottles with tap water. You must also be careful with the insects; be sure to bring repellent as Nicaragua does have malaria and chikungunya, this is especially a concern during the wet season.

Get out [ edit ]

There are different bus terminals for different destinations. The buses to Rivas (for Ometepe and San Juan del Sur) leave from near the MaxiPali on Calle Nueva at the southernmost (towards Volcan Mombacho) end of Avenida Barricada (take a taxi 20C/person, 20C for the trunk), UCA buses to Managua leave from Calle Vega 1/2 block south from the west corner of the central park (33C to MGA).

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Granada, Nicaragua – City Guide for Nomads and Expats

February 8, 2017

Granada, Nicaragua.

Granada is the oldest colonial city in Nicaragua, and the largest tourist destination in the country.

Many colorful buildings and a rich history of conflict and conquest. Although most folks who visit Nicaragua will stop here, I’d still say it’s underrated (after all, not all that many people visit Nicaragua). Locals are friendly, the weather is favorable and it has an understated colonial charm.

POPULATION: 120,000

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Warm year-round (24-32 ° C).

Churches. Even if it isn’t your thing, take some time to check out the many different ones. Interesting from both a historical and architectural standpoint.

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RENT AN APARTMENT IN GRANADA, NICARAGUA

$200 rent will get you something nice in Granada. $400 will get you something really  nice.

THINGS TO DO IN GRANADA

The must do activity in Granada is visiting the active volcano of Mombacho . Mombacho tops out at nearly 4,500 feet. The site is also home to cloud forest, hiking trails around the crater, and zip lines.

Do a coffee plantation tour . People here are proud of their coffee!

COST OF LIVING IN GRANADA, NICARAGUA

Nicaragua is a very cheap country for someone coming from the US, Europe, or any other richer region. USD is widely accepted in the country, but you’ll often make out better using the local currency. Many nicer restaurants will accept credit card. Some spaces may charge a fee to use credit cards. 

BEST BARS & NIGHTLIFE IN GRANADA, NICARAGUA

6.25/10 

Nightlife in Granada is not quite as good as in Leon , its colonial city rival, but there’s enough if you’re only there a few days. Stick to La Calzada , a main street which contains most of the bars and clubs – I think there are about 30 restaurants and bars in Granada. You’ll find a mix of both locals and tourists. A few good looking European girls and a few good looking Nicaraguans. La Calzada is busy enough every night of the week, but if you can get a group together, I’d recommend heading out to one of the clubs by the lake. I don’t know the names of them.

My Latin Life recommends:

Club Encuentros : Great party atmosphere and cheap drinks.

Treehouse Hostel : Well known for the Weird Wednesday party.

The Magician Lounge : Expect a show and a unique experience. Mind reading, magic and mentalism. Definitely check this place out if you’re in town.

HOW LONG SHOULD YOU STAY IN GRANADA?

One week in Granada is the perfect amount of time. Hit the hostel bars, do some hiking. See a few waterfalls. You can see everything pretty quickly. You’ll want to enjoy it but it can start to feel small pretty quick. You could spend a one month here if traveling as a couple. You could also spend a month here if you want chill in nature, work remotely and focus.

WHERE TO STAY IN GRANADA

Most of the hostels are in the area around the Parque Central de Granada . 

BEST HOSTELS IN GRANADA

I’ve heard good things about the Treehouse Hostel.

HOW TO GET TO GRANADA

Take a 1 hour bus from Managua . You can expect buses leaving for Granada running on an hourly basis, 7 days a week. Most shuttles or taxis to San Juan del Sur from  Managua pass through Granada as well.

IS GRANADA, NICARAGUA SAFE?

Granada is safe. It’s unlikely that you’ll have any problems here, even at night. The city feels very pleasant  with all the old Spanish style architecture and the laid back vibes.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Plenty of volunteer options in Granada. Working in a hostel, or shop geared towards foreigners is possible for English speakers as well. Like everywhere else, you can also teach English in Granada.

FINAL THOUGHTS

A visually-pleasing colonial town, and a must-visit if you’re in Nicaragua. Great laid back feel with impressive architecture but a bit quiet and small overall. It’s a bit more laid back than Leon , Nicaragua’s other colonial gem. Cheap and comfortable. Nicaraguans are extremely friendly and welcoming. The nightlife in Granada ticks most of the boxes for a small city. If you’re looking for more of a party, I’d favor Leon. For something more tranquilo ? Granada is a fine choice!

OVERALL RATING: 6.25/10

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Granada (Nicaragua) Prices & Travel Costs

Central America’s capital cities tend to be overcrowded and somewhat charmless, and Granada is another example of a colonial town that ends up being the primary tourist hub as a result. About 40 kilometers south of Managua International Airport, Granada is often the first stop visitors make in this country, often before they head to Leon, which is its colonial rival a bit to the north.

Travel Costs to Granada (Nicaragua)

Accommodation costs in granada (nicaragua).

Granada has a fascinating history and still has wonderful Colonial architecture that helps tell the story. Hotels here are surprisingly expensive for Central America, at least in that there are very few cheap options that you’d expect to find in a town like this. The good news is that quality is also generally high, so if you can afford a hotel at least it won’t feel like you are getting ripped off.

Granada (Nicaragua) Hotel Seasons

Generally speaking, hotel rates go hand in hand with the weather, meaning that rates tend to be higher during the dry season ( November through May) and lower during the wet season (June through October), especially when the rains are in full effect. The highest rates however, will be found during Holidays, whether they’re religious or not. Christmas, New Year and Easter see extremely high hotel rates with Holy Week and Purisima close behind.

Granada (Nicaragua) Hotel Prices

Granada (nicaragua) hostels prices, granada (nicaragua) attractions prices, granada (nicaragua) food and drink prices.

Food and drink prices are refreshingly cheap, however, and much more in line with what you’ll be paying all over Central America.

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Granada (nicaragua) transport prices, when to visit granada (nicaragua), temperature and rainfall, granada (nicaragua) weather advice.

When planning a vacation to Granada, you’ll want to take into account the local weather as it does change through the year. The hottest months tend to be March, April and May, though there is a bit of variation with that year to year. Summertime is when the rains hit, generally from about May to September with September being the wettest. These rain storms can last just an hour or two or sometimes a whole day, so you’ll want to bring some form of rain gear with you if you’re visiting during the wet season.

Most people tend to visit during the winter months, when the area is drier. Because of the dry weather however, expect to find a lot of the landscape more on the brown side whereas during the rainy season everything comes to life.

Sunrise and sunset

Where to go before and after.