Granada is one of the oldest colonial cities in the Americas— and you can feel that legacy in every single cobblestone street you walk down and pastel-colored building you pass
It’s a city where horse-drawn carriages still clip-clop through the streets, while lively cafes spill out onto sidewalks, and the sounds of street musicians fill the evening air.
For backpackers Grenada is a good base for day trips —whether you’re kayaking through volcanic islets, visiting nearby Volcanoes, or sipping coffee grown in the lush highlands just outside the city.
Where to start exploring Granada?
1. Chill Out at Parque Central
This is the beating heart of Grenada. It’s a great place to soak up the city’s culture just by people-watching from one of the many benches, grabbing a Quesillo from a street vendor, or just admiring the colonial architecture. While architecture isn’t always the main draw for backpackers you can’t help but smile at the bright yellow Catedral de Granada that towers over the square and makes for a killer photo opportunity.
2. Boat Tour Around Las Isletas
Just a few minutes from the city, Lake Nicaragua’s Las Isletas is home to 365 different islands. These tiny islands, formed by ancient volcanic activity, are scattered across the lake and can be explored by kayak or boat. You’ll float past everything from simple fishing shacks that many locals live in to luxury villas on their very own private islands. As you sail along be sure to keep an eye out for the resident Spider monkeys.
3. Explore Mombacho Volcano
The nearest Volcanic expedition from Granada is Mombacho Volcano. The hiking route starts just outside the city and offers unique trails that rise through lush cloud forests. The full hike to the summit is slightly challenging but you can make the accent to simply enjoy the insane views over Grenada and Lake Nicaragua, Mombacho.
4. Calle La Calzada
When hunger strikes you should head to Calle La Calzada. Grenada’s pedestrian-only street is lined with some of the city’s best cafes, restaurants, and bars. This street provides countless opportunities to sample authentic delicacies and local eats in Grenada including.
Our favourite was the Restaurante Comidas Típicas y Má which served the best Vigorón we had while in Nicaragua (Vigorón is chicharrones (or fried pork rind), cabbage slaw, and yucca).
Day Trips from Grenada
Grenada’s location makes it the perfect base for exploring the beauty of the area
- Masaya Volcano: as little as 30 minutes away, you’ll find the Masaya Volcano and a chance to look into its active crater.
- Laguna de Apoyo: A pristine crater lake about a 20-minute drive from Grenada. Spend the day swimming in its crystal-clear waters, exploring by kayak, or just chilling on the shore. Plus, if you want to stay a little longer there is a selection of hostels and eco-lodges nearby.
- Pueblos Blancos: Literally translating to ‘white towns’, these small, whitewashed towns are known for their local artisans and pottery. If you’re into shopping for handmade crafts or just want to see a different side of Nicaraguan culture.
