9 days in Nicaragua Itinerary
Created using Inspirock Nicaragua trip itinerary planner
Start: New York City
Fly
1
Granada
— 3 nights
Drive
2
San Juan del Sur
— 1 night
Bus to San Jorge, Ferry to Isla de Ometepe
3
Isla de Ometepe
— 1 night
Bus
4
Leon
— 2 nights
Fly
End: New York City
Sat, Dec 22 - Sun, Dec 30
Edit
S | M | T | W | T | F | S |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
16
|
17
|
18
|
19
|
20
|
21
|
22
|
23
|
24
|
25
|
26
|
27
|
28
|
29
|
30
|
31
|
1
|
2
|
3
|
4
|
5
|
View full calendar
Granada — 3 nights

La Gran Sultana
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 22nd (Sat): look for gifts at Masaya Crafts Market. Keep things going the next day: step off the mainland to explore Islets of Granada, then contemplate the geological forces at Mombacho, and then explore the activities along Apoyo.
To find reviews, ratings, other places to visit, and other tourist information, go to the Granada trip planner.
New York City, USA to Granada is an approximately 10-hour flight. You can also drive. Due to the time zone difference, you'll gain 1 hour traveling from New York City to Granada. Finish your sightseeing early on the 25th (Tue) to allow enough time to drive to San Juan del Sur.
Side Trip
Find places to stay Dec 22 — 25:
Highlights from your trip
San Juan del Sur — 1 night

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 25th (Tue): don't miss a visit to Mirador del Cristo de la Misericordia, tour the pleasant surroundings at San Juan del Sur Beach, and then identify plant and animal life at La Flor Beach Natural Reserve.
For more things to do, traveler tips, photos, and other tourist information, refer to the San Juan del Sur holiday maker app.
Getting from Granada to San Juan del Sur by car takes about 2 hours. Other options: do a combination of shuttle and bus; or take a bus. In December, daytime highs in San Juan del Sur are 85°F, while nighttime lows are 76°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 26th (Wed) to allow time to travel to Isla de Ometepe.
Find places to stay Dec 25 — 26:
Highlights from your trip
Isla de Ometepe — 1 night

Isla de Ometepe may be small in size, but it boasts two large volcanoes that dominate its landscape and influence the local lifestyle.Start off your visit on the 26th (Wed): examine the collection at El Ceibo Museums, enjoy the sand and surf at Punta Jesus Maria, and then step off the mainland to explore Isla Ometepe. On the 27th (Thu), you'll have a packed day of sightseeing: admire the local landmark of Ojo de Agua, wander the streets of Los Ramos, and then contemplate the waterfront views at Laguna Charco Verde.
To find photos, traveler tips, more things to do, and more tourist information, go to the Isla de Ometepe travel route site.
You can do a combination of bus and ferry from San Juan del Sur to Isla de Ometepe in 3 hours. Finish your sightseeing early on the 27th (Thu) so you can take a bus to Leon.
Find places to stay Dec 26 — 27:
Highlights from your trip
Leon — 2 nights

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.Start off your visit on the 28th (Fri): kick back and relax at Playa Las Penitas, pause for some serene contemplation at Church The Recollection, and then get impressive views of Cerro Negro Volcano.
To see traveler tips, where to stay, and other tourist information, you can read our Leon trip itinerary builder app.
Traveling by bus from Isla de Ometepe to Leon takes 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus. In December, daily temperatures in Leon can reach 91°F, while at night they dip to 73°F. On the 29th (Sat), you'll have the morning to explore before heading back home.
Find places to stay Dec 27 — 29:
Highlights from your trip
Nicaragua travel guide
Still emerging as a major tourist destination, Nicaragua, the largest country in Central America, entices travelers with its rich history and remarkable natural beauty just waiting to be discovered. A holiday in Nicaragua allows you to explore a vibrant culture, scenic beaches, and plenty of spots off the beaten path. Majestic volcanoes, lakes, and forests offer numerous chances for exploration and exciting adventures, while major cities boast splendid colonial architecture. With access to coastlines on both the Pacific and the Caribbean, a vacation in Nicaragua appeals to those looking for thrilling surfing experiences, dramatic views, or a chance to spread out on a deserted tropical beach.