Two of Nicaragua's major cities, Granada and León, were once Spanish settlements and are now known as must-see colonial cities with stunning historic architecture and old-world attractions.
Here are some highlights of these colonial cities:
GRANADA
Located near the shores of Lake Nicaragua, Granada is one of Nicaragua's most historically important cities and is currently one of the nation's tourist centers. Founded by Francisco Hernández de Córdoba, its plazas and cobblestone streets are filled with colorful colonial architecture.
Things to see: A popular way to take in the beauty of Granada's vibrant old-world charm is to rent an ornate horse-drawn carriage. Attractions to see in Granada include El Parque de Cristóbal Colón, Casa de los Leones, Casa de los Tres Mundos, La Plaza de la Independencia, Monumento a la Cruz del Siglo, Palacio Municipal, the churches of San Francisco, and the old train station.
Nearby attractions: Visitors can enjoy a relaxing boat ride around the 365 islets of Lake Nicaragua. For a deeper exploration of nature, the nearby Mombacho Volcano Nature Reserve has a rich variety of flora and fauna in a cloud forest, as well as hiking and ziplining.
LEÓN
The third largest city after Managua and Granada, it has been home to many of Nicaragua's most notable artists and writers, including the famous Nicaraguan poet Rubén Darío.
Things to see: An important architectural monument that stands out among the city's 16 churches is the León Cathedral, which was built over 113 years. Beneath the church entrance are the remains of Rubén Darío, Nicaragua's most renowned literary figure.
Nearby attractions: León is a popular stop for visitors looking to visit the Cerro Negro volcano and experience ash boarding, as the volcano is less than an hour away by car. León Viejo, the ruins of the ancient city of León, is also just 30 kilometers away and the World Heritage Site offers an insight into the old city of León.
