Are you looking for things to do in Granada?
If you decide to come backpacking in Nicaragua, then missing out on Granada would be a major mistake.
I say that because Granada is one of the most popular places in Nicaragua for the traveler interested in history and culture.
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Things to do in Granada, Nicaragua
There is a reason why many ex-pats say it’s one of the best places to live in Nicaragua.
The views that you get from the city are hard to define with mere words; images do it proper justice.
Taking a trip here allows you to take part in a rich part of Nicaraguan culture, a culture that will go a long way to transforming your view of the city and wider region.
One of the best things to do in Granada, in my view, is a large walk around the awesome colonial city.
A trip to the abandoned hospital or even just around the city will allow you to take in architecture and daily life of the Nicaraguan people.
Alongside this, you’ll find it easy to engage with the people and their culture, gaining an appreciation for a world that’s totally different from the norm.
Best Things to do in Granada
Thinking of heading off to Granada, Nicaragua? Then you are on the right track.
As one of the most stupendously beautiful places in the country to come and visit, this is a truly blockbuster place to come visit.
What, though, makes the best things to do in Granada, Nicaragua?
Visit the Crafts Facilities
One of the main things that stand out in Granada is its rich crafting history. So, come along and see some of the amazing things being built by the locals from across the area.
Many crafts tours exist, making it easy for you to go and see how the creative minds of this country come up with their truly special creations. Definitely one of the best things to do in Granada, Nicaragua!
Go to Granada Cathedral
One of the most memorable places to look at in Granada, though, is the truly special Granada Cathedral.
This is a special location to come and visit; a unique palace that will give you a total understanding of the beauty and eloquence that is so revered here. Why not take a tour guide?
You can learn so much coming here with the City Tour that explains everything including history.
You will learn much more, and come away informed about what’s to come next.
Colonial House Tours
While colonialism is something we should never have tolerated, it’s a part of history. And for history buffs, a tour around the colonial houses of Granada is a fine example of learning history.
You will see some truly incredible – and shocking – sights as you make your away around the city.
Take the time to do this, and you will fully appreciate just what makes Granada, Nicaragua such a fine place to come and visit.
Just be sure to be respectful of the weight of history such houses had on this region.
Mombacho Natural Reserve
Probably the best way to see nature in Granada. Come along to the Mombacho Natural Reserve with a group tour, if you want to learn more.
Meet and mingle with other tourists as you go through the guide, learning about the wild and unique flora and fauna of this island.
Definitely among the best things to do in Granada, Nicaragua for those who like to try out something a bit more thoughtful and unique.
Masaya Volcano Tour
One thing you should definitely look to do when in the country is to take on the amazing Masaya Volcano night tours.
These are easily among the best things to do in Granada, Nicaragua, and will give you a truly special sight in the evening.
Come along and try this out for yourself, and you’ll soon see why so many people want to come on this particular tour.
The sights you see here are definitely worth snapping, so bring plenty of footage space!
💡 Smart Travel Tip
Avoid looking suspicious by moving around and keeping yourself busy; people don’t like loiterers here or in the old center.
Do this, and you can get a genuine appreciation for the richness of the entire region. Just beware that you can become a bit of a burden if you spend too long in one area and may bring unwanted attention.
Where to Stay in Granada
Granada was, without a doubt was one of my favorite cities in Nicaragua.
My accommodation was lush, and there were some other great hostels in Granada that I didn’t get the chance to sample.
What I liked the most was the quality of the rooms. It gets so hot that you’ll need a good A/C to be able to rest your head at night.
Take advantage of staying in one of the beautiful buildings while you can.
I also checked out Airbnb but didn’t use it in Granada. Still, it’s a great way to be able to:
- Get to know local people
- Experience authentic living
- Have a private space to think
Here are three reasons why I’d use hostels in Granada which can be a great choice if it’s your first time backpacking, especially when you’re backpacking alone.
- Connect with other travellers
- Find special activities
- To practice living on a budget
I highly recommend this as a way of connecting with other travelers on your trip. Check out this list of hotels in Granada for more ideas.
When I travel to any place, I try to use all three of the above methods of accommodation. I like to travel with less every time I travel.
Where to Eat in Granada
I ate like a king in Granada. Do you know what Quesillos are? Get ready.. these are a local specialty and are usually eaten as a snack. In a nutshell, Quesillos are soft tortillas jammed with sour cream and cheese, then served with various pickled condiments.
- Pita Pita14.ª Avenida Sureste, Managua
- Cafe de los Sueños:Cuadro a Mano Derecha Despues Del 1
- The Garden Cafe:N10 Av Suroeste, Managua
Also try Nicaraguan Gallo Pinto, which is beans and rice served with plantains, a daily dish you’ll be very familiar with after backpacking Central America.
Even though the Nicaraguan cuisine may not have the reputation of other Latin American foods, in Granada, you’ll find a handful of options to keep your tastebuds happy most of the time.
Other than that, you should find that a trip to Granada is one of immense education and cultural engagement, something that you would find hard to replicate elsewhere.
Travel Insurance for Granada
I always recommend backpackers and travelers (no matter who you are) use World Nomads Insurance for fully comprehensive cover.
If you are due to travel soon, you can get a Get A Free Quote by clicking the link or the image above and filling out your details – that way you’ll get instant cover from the exact date that you choose.
On many occasions World Nomads has provided me with reliable insurance cover for travel in Latin America and the rest of the world.
Granada, Nicaragua: Will You Go?
When backpacking Nicaragua it can be hard to work out where you would like to go first.
With the help of this simple guide, though, you should hopefully have a better idea of where to start out.
So, what catches your eye first about Granada?
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