9 days in Managua, Granada & Liberia 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.

Start off your visit on the 19th (Fri): indulge in some personalized pampering at Ayurveda Marma Spa, pause for some serene contemplation at Santiago of Managua Cathedral, and then don't miss a visit to Puerto Salvador Allende. Keep things going the next day: contemplate the geological forces at Masaya Volcano and then don't miss a visit to Plaza de la Revolucion.

To find other places to visit, photos, more things to do, and tourist information, read our Managua trip maker tool.

Chicago, USA to Managua is an approximately 10.5-hour flight. You will leave for Granada on the 21st (Sun).

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.

Kick off your visit on the 21st (Sun): take in the architecture and atmosphere at Iglesia de La Merced and then pause for some serene contemplation at Catedral de Granada. Keep things going the next day: tour the pleasant surroundings at Islets of Granada and then get impressive views of Mombacho.

To find where to stay, reviews, photos, and other tourist information, read Granada planner.

You can drive from Managua to Granada in an hour. Alternatively, you can take a bus. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 23rd (Tue) so you can go by car to Liberia.

Tourism in Liberia has been growing since the opening of its airport, with more and more international visitors using the city as a starting point for explorations of the country's northwest.

Step out of Liberia with an excursion to Shark Diving in Playas del Coco--about 40 minutes away. Spend the 25th (Thu) among the fascinating landscape of Parque Nacional Rincon de la Vieja. Spend the 26th (Fri) exploring nature at Palo Verde National Park. It doesn't end there: admire the sheer force of Cataratas Llanos de Cortes.

To find photos, more things to do, and other tourist information, read Liberia trip planner.

Traveling by car from Granada to Liberia takes 3 hours. Alternatively, you can drive. Finish your sightseeing early on the 26th (Fri) to allow enough time to travel back home.