Granada - Discovering Nicaragua

Travelling to Granada

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Granada, a pretty good destination in Nicaragua (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Granada and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Granada, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Nicaragua, here's everything to know about Granada for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Granada

Granada is a city located in the western part of Nicaragua, situated on the shores of Lake Nicaragua. It is one of the oldest cities in Central America, founded in 1524 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Hernández de Córdoba. Granada is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and vibrant culture. The city is also a popular tourist destination, offering visitors many activities such as exploring its historical sites, visiting its volcanoes, enjoying nature reserves, and relaxing on the beach of Lake Nicaragua. Granada is also famous for its local cuisine, including traditional dishes like gallo pinto and vigorón.

What to visit in Granada

1. The Alhambra: The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the best examples of Islamic art and architecture. It is a palace and fortress complex constructed during the mid-14th century and remains as a significant tourist attraction in Granada.
2. Parque Central de Granada: It is the most famous park in Granada, surrounded by bright yellow buildings with unique colonial architecture. The Park is an excellent spot to sit, relax, and watch the daily life of locals.
3. Mombacho Volcano: It is an active stratovolcano in Nicaragua and a natural reserve surrounding by rain forest. Visitors can hike the volcano and enjoy the beautiful views of the lake and the city.
4. La Merced Church and Museum: It is a stunning example of colonial architecture in the heart of Granada. Its impressive Baroque style is characterized by its vibrant colors, elaborate stucco details, and luxurious icons.
5. Laguna de Apoyo: A volcanic crater lake southeast of Granada. Its calm green waters, surrounded by lush greenery, provide a peaceful and idyllic environment.
6. Mi Museo: It is a modern fine arts museum established by an American woman who fell in love with Nicaraguan culture. The museum has a significant collection of pre-Columbian pottery and gold jewelry, ancient coins, and artworks by Nicaraguan contemporary artists.
7. Guadalupe Church: It is a small colonial church situated in the oldest neighborhood in Granada. The Guadalupe symbolizes the favorite devotion in Granada and is home to the city's most precious relic, La Negrita, the black virgin.
8. Las Isletas: A group of 365 tiny islands located about four miles from Granada. These islands are worth visiting and offer a great view of the lake, as well as opportunities to swim, fish, or simply observe the stunning flora and fauna.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Nicaragua, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Granada.

When to go on holiday to Granada

The best time to visit Granada, Nicaragua is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, you can expect sunny days and comfortable temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit. However, keep in mind that this is peak tourist season, so you may encounter higher prices and crowds. The rainy season in Granada also called the "green" season typically runs from May to November. The temperatures are still warm during this time, but heavy rain showers are common. If you don't mind the rain and want to avoid crowds, this can be a good time to visit and enjoy lower prices on accommodations and activities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Granada

There are several ways to get to Granada, Nicaragua: 1. By air: The nearest airport to Granada is Augusto Cesar Sandino International Airport (MGA) in Managua, which is located about 35 miles (56 km) away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Granada.
2. By bus: There are frequent buses that run from Managua to Granada, as well as from other cities in Nicaragua.
3. By private transfer: Many tour operators and transportation companies offer private transfers directly to Granada.
4. By rental car: If you prefer to drive yourself, you can rent a car at the airport or in Managua and drive to Granada.
No matter which option you choose, it's important to plan your trip ahead of time to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Granada, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Granada

Sure, here are some typical foods of Granada, Nicaragua: 1. Vigorón: A traditional dish of boiled yuca, crispy pork rinds, and a cabbage salad with vinegar, served on a banana leaf.
2. Sopa de Mondongo: A soup made with beef tripe, vegetables, and spices. It is a hearty and popular entrée, especially on weekends.
3. Gallo Pinto: A typical breakfast dish made with rice and beans, often served with eggs, cheese, and/or tortillas.
4. Nacatamales: A type of tamale made with corn, filled with pork, chicken, or beef, as well as rice and vegetables. They are wrapped in plantain leaves and steamed until cooked.
5. Enchiladas: A local version of a tortilla dish, where the tortillas are filled with ground beef or cheese, rolled up, and topped with tomato sauce and cheese.
6. Tostones: Fried plantain slices that are popular as a side dish or snack.
7. Indio Viejo: A hearty soup made with a type of sour orange, beef, cornmeal, and vegetables. It has a tangy flavor and a thick, stew-like consistency.
8. Rondon: A seafood stew made with coconut milk, plantains, and various types of fish or seafood. It is a popular dish in coastal areas of Nicaragua.
9. Quesillo: similar to a quesadilla, this snack consists of a tortilla with cheese, onions, and cream.
10. Arroz (Rice): Nicaragua is known for having different types of rice dishes, usually served as a side dish. The most popular ones include arroz con pollo and arroz frito.
I hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Nicaragua here.

Is Granada an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Nicaragua, Granada can be considered a bit more expensive for tourists. However, it is still a relatively affordable destination compared to many popular tourist destinations worldwide. The cost of food, accommodation, and transportation may vary depending on your preferences and budget. It's always a good idea to do some research and plan your expenses before your trip to ensure you can stay within your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Granada

In Granada, the best areas to find accommodation would be the historic center of Granada, close to the central park "Parque Central". The Calle Calzada and the surrounding streets are also popular areas with many restaurants, bars, and shops, and offer easy access to attractions such as the Cathedral, La Merced Church, and the marketplace. Another option would be to stay near Lake Nicaragua, which offers a beautiful view of the lake and is still close enough to explore the city center.
You can check hotel prices at Granada here:
Booking.com

Is Granada a safe destination for tourists?

Granada is generally a safe place for tourists, however as with any destination, it is always advised to remain aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety. While crime rates have decreased in recent years, petty theft and pickpocketing can still occur in the tourist areas, so it's recommended to keep valuables secure and not leave them unattended. Additionally, it's best to avoid walking alone at night and take registered taxis if you need to travel after dark. Overall, with proper precautions and an awareness of your surroundings, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Granada.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Nicaragua here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Granada.

What type of travelers will enjoy Granada the most?

Granada, Nicaragua is a great destination for a variety of travelers! It has something for everyone. Couples and young people looking for fun can enjoy the vibrant nightlife, tasty local cuisine, and colonial architecture. The city is also within close proximity to several beaches and outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the nearby Volcano Mombacho.
Families can enjoy activities such as visiting the Chocolate Museum, taking boat rides on Lake Nicaragua, visiting the Masaya markets and learning about the rich history of the city.
Overall, Granada offers a diverse range of attractions and activities that will cater to different types of travelers.

How to get around Granada

In Granada, most people get around by taxi, bicycle, or on foot. Taxis are readily available and affordable, and there are also bicycle rental shops in the city. Walking is a great way to explore the historic neighborhoods of Granada, but be sure to take precautions while walking at night and in unfamiliar areas. Buses also run throughout the city and are a budget-friendly option, but they can be crowded and unreliable.

What to see around Granada

There are several nice places you can visit on a day trip from Granada, Nicaragua. Here are some suggestions: 1. Laguna de Apoyo: This is a beautiful crater lake located just a short drive from Granada. It's a great place to go swimming, kayaking, or just relax on the shore.
2. Masaya Volcano National Park: This park is located about 20 minutes from Granada and offers stunning views of the Masaya Volcano and the surrounding countryside.
3. Mombacho Volcano Nature Reserve: This nature reserve is home to the Mombacho Volcano and is located about an hour's drive from Granada. It's a great place to go hiking, birdwatching, or take a zipline tour.
4. Catarina: This small town is located just outside of Granada and offers beautiful views of the Apoyo Lagoon and the surrounding countryside. It's also known for its artisan market.
5. Pueblos Blancos: This region is made up of several small towns located between Granada and Masaya. Each town is known for its distinct crafts, such as pottery, weaving, and woodcarving. It's a great place to go shopping for souvenirs.
For every travel information about Nicaragua you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.