Granada Nicaragua: Top 3 Things to Do + Tips
Published July 5, 2023, Updated September 17, 2024
Ever thought about a jaunt to Central America? Granada, Nicaragua should be high on your list!
Nicaragua is not only one of my favorite things to chat about, but it’s also one of my most cherished travel destinations.
During my travels, I’ve explored Nicaraguan cities like Granada, San Juan Del Sur, and Leon. The country tends to be overshadowed by Costa Rica, but Nicaragua is the perfect place for those who crave the unexpected!
Granada is Nicaragua’s colonial city with vibrant streets and colorful buildings just waiting to be discovered.
Need ideas for things to do in Granada? That’s where I come in!
I’ve categorized my experiences into 3 sections. Each one includes a variety of Granada attractions that you absolutely must indulge in.
And don’t dash off before the end, I’ve got some golden booking tips to share!
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How to Get to Granada Nicaragua
Here’s a little heads-up: I found flying into Nicaragua to be a little bit of a challenge.
First, you can’t fly directly to Granada. You’ll need to get a connecting flight from fly into Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA) in the capital city of Managua.
Also, I was flying in from Mexico and couldn’t locate any direct flights. Each option either detoured me via Panama City or took me on a scenic route through Miami.
If you’re flying from the US, you might have an easier time getting a flight to MGA from a major airport. Just prepare to give yourself extra planning time to navigate this issue!
Once your feet touch Nicaraguan soil, the next puzzle is transportation to Granada, which is about a 45-minute drive from the airport.
The local bus station offers quirky options like the chicken bus, which is an experience, but it’s not for everyone (especially if you’re on a tight schedule). Instead, consider a shuttle bus. It’s slightly pricier but oh-so-convenient.
Top Things to Do in Granada
Now you’re in Granada, Nicaragua, so what do you do first? Below I’ve divided my list into 3 sections:
- The City of Granada, Nicaragua
- Climb a Volcano
- Get on the Water
Want to know more? Keep reading for all the amazing things to do in Granada!
And if you’re looking for more inspiration for Central American travel, check out my guide to Guatemala here.
The City of Granada, Nicaragua
Granada is a veritable feast for the senses with its colonial buildings, cobbled pathways, and a vibe that’s unmistakably its own. It might be a compact city, but trust me, it’s a great place for explorers.
A small safety note: Granada, while beautiful, has its quirks. A few catcalls here and there was my constant companion.
Annoying? Yes. Dangerous? Didn’t feel like it.
I kept my cool, gave them the cold shoulder, and continued to enjoy the relaxed air of the Nicaraguan people. Just to be safe, I had my adventures during daylight hours.
Stroll Down Calle La Calzada
Granada’s main square, Calle La Calzada, is more than just a pedestrian street; it’s the heart and soul of the city.
Lined with vibrant colonial buildings that date back to the 1500s, you’ll encounter street performers, food stalls, and spirited street vendors.
This lively street is a testament to the relaxed air of the Nicaraguan people. And this is your chance to take in the city’s captivating historic center.
See Parque Central and the Granada Cathedral
You’ll find Parque Central at the western end of Calle La Calzada. As you enter the busy square, you’ll hear street musicians and see locals chatting under the shade of palm trees.
Nearby, pretty horse-drawn carriages line the streets, while vendors sell fresh coconut water and handmade crafts. And the bright yellow Cathedral Granada feels like the centerpiece of it all!
This is the perfect spot to get a feel for what Granada is really like. You can also go inside the cathedral and take in views from its bell tower.
Visit the Convento y Museo San Francisco
The city’s history is beautifully preserved in the Convento y Museo San Francisco. The museum is one of Granada’s oldest and most historic landmarks.
Originally built in 1529, this former convent has been beautifully restored and now serves as a history museum.
Inside, you’ll find mix of pre-Columbian statues, indigenous art, and colonial-era artifacts. It tells the story of old Granada. Don’t miss out on the statue collection from Zapatera Island!
Climb the Bell Tower at Iglesia La Merced
For the best views of the city, make your way to Iglesia de La Merced. Built almost 500 years ago, this is one of Granada’s most beautiful colonial churches.
The real treat is climbing the bell tower! A small fee and a short climb later, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Granada’s colorful rooftops, Lake Nicaragua, and the surrounding volcanoes.
And if you time it right, you’ll enjoy a sunset over the region that’s truly unparalleled!
Explore Casa de Los Tres Mundos
If you need a break from historical landmarks, immerse yourself in Granada’s modern culture. One of the top things to do in Granada is visit the Casa de Los Tres Mundos for a taste of the city’s thriving arts and culture scene.
This cultural center hosts rotating art exhibits, live music, and theater performances, all set in a gorgeous colonial building.
It’s a great place to learn about Nicaraguan traditions and support emerging artists while soaking in the laid-back, artistic vibe of Granada!
Visit the Chocolate Museum of Granada
Chocolate lovers, I got you. Nicaragua’s love for the cacao bean has indigenous roots and today the country is the largest producer of cocoa in Central America.
So a visit to the Chocolate Museum of Granada is a sweet necessity! The museum offers free walking tours where you’ll learn about the history of cacao in Nicaragua and see how chocolate is made.
Or you can take a workshop where you’ll make your own chocolate bar! Don’t miss out on the samples and gifts you can take home.
Shop at the Local Market
A great way to dive deep into any local culture is by visiting the local market. And Granada, Nicaragua’s bustling Mercado Municipal is no exception.
Word of warning: it can be a bit overwhelming! I suggest taking a shopping bag and just wandering the market, taking in all the amazing sights and smells until you find something you want to buy.
This is a great place to try local favorites like Vigorón de Joel and Fresco de Grama. From banana leaf-wrapped goodies to handcrafted souvenirs, it’s another great spot to get a feel of Granada’s pulse.
Relax at the Garden Café
In the heart of the city, the Garden Café is the perfect place for digital nomads and travelers alike.
The whole interior is like stepping into a jungle, which is a great break from the bustling city outside. It’s a great place to relax or write since they offer free Wi-Fi and have such a serene ambiance.
They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner but are probably best known for their locally-sourced artisan coffee.
Stay at Hotel Plaza Colon
Looking for a great place to stay with a touch of luxury?
Hotel Plaza Colon offers private rooms, free breakfast, and is located right off Parque Central, making it ideal for explorers.
Looking for a seasoned traveler’s tips for travel booking? I’ll share more below.
Things to Do in Granada: Climb a Volcano
Granada, Nicaragua is set close to 2 incredible volcanoes, Mombacho Volcano and Masaya Volcano. And there are plenty of opportunities to see one of both!
Visit the Masaya Volcano
Visiting Masaya Volcano National Park is one of the most amazing things to see in Granada. This is your chance to get up close to one of the most active volcanoes in Nicaragua!
Masaya Volcano is a true testament to the raw prowess of nature. Imagine peering deep into the Santiago Crater, venturing through mysterious lava caves, and getting acquainted with the park’s diverse flora and fauna. Sounds like the best time, right?
I love the memories I created during my night tour, where the molten lava pulsates and glows against the darkness! But I plan to go back for a full-day adventure to the park during my next visit.
Just be prepared. The national park is a popular place, so expect a crowd!
Climb Mombacho Volcano
If seeing cloud forests is on your bucket list, visit Mombacho Volcano. This dormant volcano is located just outside of Granada.
Mombacho has a variety of hiking trails that wind through its dense jungle. A hike here is perfect for wildlife sightings, with its exotic birds, monkeys, and more!
But the best part is the view — at the summit, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramas of Granada, Lake Nicaragua, and the Islets of Granada.
Things to Do in Granada: Get on the Water
Granada is a popular destination for water lovers because it sits right on the shores of Lake Nicaragua, the largest lake in Central America. Here, you can also explore the Islets of Granada. Nearby, there’s also Laguna de Apoyo.
Whether you’re into boating, fishing, or just relaxing on the beach, Granada offers plenty of ways to enjoy the water.
Relax at Laguna de Apoyo
Laguna de Apoyo is a natural marvel and hands down one of my favorite places!
It’sa stunning crater lake surrounded by thick forests just outside Granada. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing by the shore.
Fun fact: Laguna de Apoyo is naturally warm! Since it was formed inside a volcanic crater, geothermal activity helps keep the water at a comfortable, warm temperature year-round.
I collaborated with the Paradiso Hostel, which is such a great way to organize your day.
For a small fee, you’re granted an all-access pass to the lake’s serene beauty. Thinking about commuting? They’ve got a cheap shuttle bus that’ll fetch you at 10 AM and ensure you’re back by 5 PM.
I spent the whole day lounging and swimming with occasional pit stops at their bar/restaurant! A quick tip: It’s a cash game, so keep those bills handy for the amenities and entry fees.
Kayak on Lake Nicaragua
Lake Nicaragua is the largest lake in Central America and the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation as you connect with nature.
Rather than just taking the usual stroll along the coastline (which is also enjoyable), consider renting a kayak for the day. You’ll find several places along the water’s edge that offer affordable rentals and tours.
You can paddle around the Islets of Granada, stopping at a quiet islet for a picnic. Or just enjoy the stunning views of Mombacho Volcano in the background.
Explore the Islets of Granada
The Islets of Granada are made up of 365 small islands that were born through ancient volcanic activity. These tiny land parcels are scattered across Lake Nicaragua and they’re best explored during a boat trip.
Along the way, you’ll learn about the islands from a local guide. You’ll observe local fishermen preserving age-old traditions and have a variety of exotic birds keeping you company.
From Monkey Island to local communities, it’s a journey you won’t forget.
If you love water-based adventure travel, read my post on the cheapest locations for your scuba diving certification.
Ometepe Island Day Trip
If you do nothing else on Lake Nicaragua, a day trip to Ometepe Island is a must. From howler monkeys to breathtaking views of the dormant Mombacho volcano, the island offers a slice of paradise.
You could book a private kayaking experience to see the island. What’s better than learning about Ometepe from a knowledgeable guide?
Or see Ometepe Island more intimately on a guided hiking excursion. This full-day tour will take you to the top of Volcano Concepcion.
Tips for Travel Booking
While you’re planning an unforgettable trip to Granada, Nicaragua, here are some of my best travel booking tips:
- For the budget-savvy backpacker in you, hostels are the best way to go. My favorite place to book is here!
- Fancy a bit more privacy? Hotels are your next best place. Snag the deals here.
- How to fly into Nicaragua? I found the best option through Kiwi but always check to see if CheapOair has great deals as well.
- Long layovers? They don’t have to be tedious. Lounge access is the game-changer. Grab your pass to relaxation here.
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