Granada
City Guide

Welcome to Granada, the most iconic and visually stunning colonial city in Nicaragua. A captivating masterpiece of colorful architecture and cobblestone streets, Granada offers a relaxed and sophisticated contrast to its rival, León. Here, history, culture, and adventure merge, providing a perfect base for exploring the heart of the country. Get ready to fall in love with its charm.

Practical information

How to get there:

From Managua (Airport): The most convenient way to reach Granada is by arranging a private taxi or tourist shuttle directly from Augusto César Sandino International Airport (MGA). The journey takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. For a more budget-friendly option, you can take a taxi to the UCA bus terminal in Managua and then board a local microbus to Granada, which takes a similar amount of time but costs significantly less.

From other cities: 

Granada is a major transportation hub in Nicaragua. Direct tourist shuttles and local "chicken buses" connect the city to popular destinations like San Juan del Sur, León, and Ometepe Island.

Best time to visit: 

The dry season, from November to April, is the most popular time to visit. The weather is sunny and hot, perfect for enjoying the city and its outdoor activities. The rainy season, from May to October, brings regular afternoon downpours, but this also means fewer tourists and lush green landscapes.

Getting around: 

Granada's historic center is perfectly suited for walking. The city is laid out in a grid, making it easy to navigate. Horse-drawn carriages are available for tours, offering a unique way to see the main sights. Taxis are also readily available for short trips.

Budget: 

As a major tourist destination, Granada can be slightly more expensive than León, particularly for restaurants and tours. However, it remains highly affordable for most travelers. A backpacker's daily budget can range from $30 to $50, covering a hostel bed, meals, and local activities.

Granada history

Granada holds the distinction of being one of the oldest cities on the American mainland, founded in 1524 by Francisco Hernández de Córdoba. It quickly became a center of wealth and political power, known for its conservative aristocracy and its rivalry with the more liberal city of León. 

This long-standing conflict led to intense battles and political strife throughout the 19th century. In 1856, during a civil war, the American filibuster William Walker seized control of the country and, upon his retreat from Granada, famously had the city burned to the ground. The words "here was Granada" were left as a defiant epitaph. The city was later rebuilt and has since been meticulously restored, preserving its colonial splendor.

What to do in Granada

Climb the bell tower of La Merced church: 

For the best panoramic view of Granada's colorful streets, climb the bell tower of the Iglesia de La Merced. From the top, you can admire the red-tiled roofs, the central square, and the immense dome of the Granada Cathedral. The view extends all the way to Lake Nicaragua and Mombacho volcano on a clear day.

Explore the Islets of Granada (Las Isletas): 

Located on Lake Nicaragua, just outside the city, are over 365 small volcanic islets. Take a boat tour through this scenic archipelago to see the beautiful homes of the wealthy, local fishermen's villages, and an old Spanish fortress. The tour provides a tranquil escape and excellent opportunities for bird-watching.

Hike Mombacho Volcano nature reserve: 

Just a short drive from the city, Mombacho volcano is home to a lush cloud forest. The nature reserve offers several hiking trails, from an easy 1.5-hour path to more challenging routes. Along the trails, you can spot howler monkeys and a unique variety of orchids. The summit provides spectacular views of Granada, Lake Nicaragua, and the nearby Laguna de Apoyo.

Wander the streets and main square: 

One of the most enjoyable activities in Granada is simply walking through its streets. The city's colonial architecture is a feast for the eyes, with vibrant painted facades and elegant wooden doors. The central park, Parque Colón, is the heart of the city, bustling with locals and tourists, and is a great place to people-watch from a bench or a horse-drawn carriage.

Relax at Laguna de Apoyo:

 A tranquil volcanic crater lake, Laguna de Apoyo is a short trip from Granada and a perfect place to escape the heat. The deep, crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Many lakeside hotels and restaurants offer day passes to their facilities.

Visit the ChocoMuseo: 

This interactive museum provides a fascinating look into the history of chocolate in Nicaragua. You can learn about the process from bean to bar and even participate in a workshop to make your own chocolate. It is a fun and educational activity for all ages.

Food & Drink: A Taste of Granada

Granada's food scene is a mix of authentic local flavors and international cuisine, mostly centered on the pedestrian-only Calle La Calzada.

Best restaurant: The Garden Café

A Granada staple, famous for its tranquil, lush courtyard setting. It serves fresh, wholesome food, including excellent sandwiches, international mains, and local specialties, focusing on locally sourced ingredients.

Vegatarian option: Verde

Located conveniently close to Parque Central, this spot is a haven for plant-based eaters. They excel at creative vegetable-forward dishes, hearty breakfast bowls, and specialty natural juices.

Local Favorite: Vigoro de la Abuela

You can't leave Granada without trying Vigorón. This vendor is a local legend, specializing in the classic Nicaraguan street food—cassava, crispy pork cracklings (chicharrón), and a tangy cabbage salad—best eaten roadside.

Best Coffeeshop: Espressonista

Often cited as having the best quality espresso in town. It provides a bright, comfortable space with reliable Wi-Fi, making it ideal for coffee aficionados and remote workers alike.

Best Nightlife: Calle la Calzada

This is the main nightlife artery. The street is lined with bars and restaurants spilling out onto the pavement. The Pub and Ocho are reliable choices for cocktails, beer, and people-watching late into the evening.

Where to Stay in Granada

Granada offers a wide range of accommodation, from upscale boutique hotels to lively backpacker hostels. Most are located within the colonial center, making it easy to access the main attractions.

Best Splurge: Plaza Colon

Located right on the main square, this luxury hotel offers an unparalleled central location. It features classic colonial décor, a refreshing pool, and attentive service in a historic setting.

Best Budget: Hostal de Boca en Boca

A high-quality budget choice known for its cleanliness, friendly atmosphere, and excellent facilities, including a refreshing pool. It's social enough to meet people, but not a loud party hostel.

Original option: Hotel con Corazon

A beautiful boutique hotel where you can 'sleep with a purpose.' 100% of the profits are channeled into local education projects. Enjoy luxury while making a direct, positive social impact.

Ready for your adventure in Granada? 

Hola Hola Tours offers the best tours and transport to help you make the most of your stay. Whether you are climbing a volcano or exploring a crater lake, we have the perfect tour for you. View our tours in Granada and book now!