12 days in Nicaragua Itinerary

Nicaragua's largest and capital city, Managua remains relatively unknown as a tourist destination, though it boasts a scenic location on the southwestern shore of the Xolotlan Lake.

On the 6th (Tue), ponder the world of politics at PALACIO DE LA CULTURA, take in the architecture and atmosphere at Santiago of Managua Cathedral, then don't miss a visit to Puerto Salvador Allende, then make a trip to Loma de Tiscapa, and finally pause for some serene contemplation at Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.

For traveler tips, maps, reviews, and more tourist information, read Managua online day trip planner.

San Salvador, El Salvador to Managua is an approximately 5-hour flight. You can also drive. Finish your sightseeing early on the 7th (Wed) so you can drive to Leon.

A cultured and storied city, Leon attracts guests from all over the world, drawn to the second city's style, thriving intellectual life, and liveliness.

Leon is known for nature, museums, and historic sites. Your plan includes some of its best attractions: get impressive views of Cerro Negro Volcano, enjoy the sand and surf at Playa Poneloya, see the interesting displays at Museo de la Revolucion, and pause for some serene contemplation at Catedral de la Asunción.

To find traveler tips, maps, reviews, and tourist information, read Leon tour site.

Traveling by car from Managua to Leon takes 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus. In December, daily temperatures in Leon can reach 38°C, while at night they dip to 26°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 10th (Sat) so you can catch the bus to Isla de Ometepe.

Isla de Ometepe may be small in size, but it boasts two large volcanoes that dominate its landscape and influence the local lifestyle.

Isla de Ometepe is known for nature, beaches, and museums. Your plan includes some of its best attractions: head off the coast to Isla Ometepe, examine the collection at Museo Ometepe, get impressive views of Volcan Maderas, and explore the activities along Laguna Charco Verde.

To see more things to do, maps, and tourist information, go to the Isla de Ometepe online trip maker.

Getting from Leon to Isla de Ometepe by bus takes about 4.5 hours. Other options: take a bus. Finish your sightseeing early on the 13th (Tue) to allow enough time to travel to San Juan del Sur.

Set in a crescent-shaped bay, San Juan del Sur has become known as a popular surfing spot and coastal holiday destination for Nicaraguan families and international visitors alike.

Kick off your visit on the 13th (Tue): tour the pleasant surroundings at San Juan del Sur Beach and then make a trip to Mirador del Cristo de la Misericordia. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: kick back and relax at La Flor Beach Natural Reserve, then relax and rejuvenate at some of the top local wellness centers, and then don't miss a visit to Plaza del arte, san juan del sur.

To find other places to visit, traveler tips, photos, and more tourist information, you can read our San Juan del Sur tour itinerary planner.

Getting from Isla de Ometepe to San Juan del Sur by combination of ferry and bus takes about 3.5 hours. In December, daily temperatures in San Juan del Sur can reach 34°C, while at night they dip to 28°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 15th (Thu) to allow time to drive to Granada.

The lakeside city of Granada has the look and feel of a historically important economic and political center, with grand colonial architecture, a unified look, and many cultural attractions.

Go for a jaunt from Granada to La Laguna de Apoyo to see Apoyo about 36 minutes away. There's lots more to do: get impressive views of Mombacho, pause for some serene contemplation at Iglesia de La Merced, admire the local landmark of Parque Colon de Granada, and look for gifts at Soy Nica.

To see maps, reviews, ratings, and more tourist information, read Granada tour builder app.

Getting from San Juan del Sur to Granada by car takes about 2 hours. Other options: do a combination of bus and shuttle; or take a bus. Finish your sightseeing early on the 17th (Sat) so you can travel back home.