Top Places to Visit in Nicaragua (And Why Managua Is the Best Place to Start)

Nicaragua is one of Central America’s most underrated destinations. A land of volcanoes, lakes, colonial cities, and hidden beaches, it offers something for every traveler, from adventure junkies and cultural explorers to beach lovers and digital nomads.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top places to visit in Nicaragua, with tips on how to get there and what makes each one unique. Along the way, you’ll see why Managua is the ideal travel base and why Managua Inn is a favorite among experienced travelers.

Granada: Colonial Charm by the Lake

• Take a horse-drawn carriage tour of the old city
• Visit La Merced Church and climb the bell tower
• Enjoy a boat tour through Las Isletas
• Savor local cuisine at Calle La Calzada

Getting There: Just 45 minutes to 1 hour from Managua by car or shuttle.

León: Nicaragua’s Cultural Heart

• Climb the rooftop of León Cathedral for panoramic views
• Visit the Museum of the Revolution
• Explore nearby Cerro Negro for volcano boarding

Getting There: About 1.5 to 2 hours by bus or private transfer from Managua.

Ometepe Island: Twin Volcano Adventure

• Hike to the summit of Volcán Concepción
• Swim in the natural spring of Ojo de Agua
• Rent a scooter and circle the island

Getting There: Bus or shuttle to San Jorge (~2 hours), then a 1-hour ferry to the island.

Corn Islands: Caribbean Calm

• Snorkeling and diving in coral reefs
• Fresh seafood and coconut bread
• Hammock naps and sunrise swims

Getting There: Flights from Managua (1.5 hours) or a multi-day overland + boat journey.

Quick Day Trips from Managua

• Masaya Volcano: Visit this active volcano and its museum (Note: Night tours currently unavailable)
• Laguna de Apoyo: Swim, paddleboard, or relax by this scenic crater lake
• Catarina & San Juan de Oriente: Artisan villages and spectacular viewpoints
• Pochomil or Montelimar Beach: Easy access to the Pacific Coast

Why Managua Is the Smart Travel Base

• Easy day trips to top locations
• Airport proximity for arrivals/departures
• Access to supermarkets, ATMs, and modern comforts
• Fewer crowds than tourist-heavy cities

Where to Stay: Managua Inn

• Clean, quiet rooms with garden seating
• Fast WiFi for working travelers
• Helpful staff with local insights
• Close to supermarkets, restaurants, and major bus routes
• Transportation available for airport pickups and day trips

🌐 Check availability now

Planning Your Route: Travel Tips

• Connectivity: Stay online with Airalo eSIMs for Nicaragua
• Flights: Find affordable flights to Managua
• Insurance: Get travel insurance for Nicaragua if you’re planning to hike, explore remote areas, or want peace of mind during your journey
• Suggested Itinerary: Start in Managua > Granada > Ometepe > León > Corn Islands > Back to Managua

Final Thoughts: Make Managua Your Gateway

Nicaragua is rich in experiences—from the cobbled streets of Granada to the Caribbean breeze of the Corn Islands. But to see it all without backtracking or burnout, there’s no better place to begin than Managua.

Start your adventure with ease, stay somewhere comfortable, and explore everything this beautiful country has to offer.

⭐ Book your stay at Managua Inn and make it your home base for discovering Nicaragua.