Best things to do in Managua

Go for a stroll along Lake Managua while taking in the sights and sounds of Puerto Salvador Allende. The waterfront is vibrant and colorful, with many restaurants and souvenir shops lining the harbor. You’ll notice many local families enjoying the view throughout the day, along with people taking advantage of the nearby skating grounds, playground, basketball courts and soccer field. Small huts, perfect for a picnic or enjoying a cold beverage, line the shores of the lake. At night the harbor turns in to a party destination for the local youth, with many bars and restaurants open until early in the morning.

Explore the historic ruins of Santiago of Managua Cathedral, an important historical monument for the city. The cathedral survived several earthquakes since construction began in 1928. However, it was the disastrous 1972 Nicaragua earthquake that led to the building’s closure. Many thought the structure to be damaged beyond repair, but in recent years plans for the renovation and reopening of the site have begun. Although you can't enter the cathedral, its exterior makes an impressive sight. Created by Pablo Dambach, the building was not only designed in Belgium, but parts were actually constructed there and then shipped to Managua. Look up to the two intact towers, said to represent San Pedro and San Pablo, supported from the central structure by Christ.

Visit Cathedral-Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the largest cathedral in Central America. A World Heritage Site, the imposing 18th-century cathedral was the first Catholic diocese in Nicaragua. Admire the grandiose building, designed in an eclectic mix of architectural styles including Baroque, Gothic, and Neoclassical. Step inside to see the luminous interior, featuring notable artworks such as a Flemish altarpiece and national artist Antonio Sarria's depiction of the stations of the cross. Some prominent nationals are laid to rest here, including poet Ruben Dario. Climb to the roof for panoramic views of the scenic city surroundings.

Trek up Central America's youngest volcano, Cerro Negro Volcano. Born in 1850, the volcano has erupted frequently over the decades since it first appeared, but tour groups run hikes up towards the crater during times of inactivity. The basalt cinder cone looks entirely at odds with the surrounding lush hillsides, giving the opportunity for dramatic photography. Make sure you bring lots of water on your hike up the volcano: it's hot, dry, and windy the farther you go on the 45-minute hike. The way down remains much simpler, whether you wish to walk or sled down the volcano.

Head into the hills to observe Loma de Tiscapa, a park and statue commemorating the great Nicaraguan freedom fighter Augusto Sandino. You’ll get to see an original tank from the time, and can also take a ride on a zip line if you’re feeling brave. The location affords spectacular views across the city to the sea, with volcanic scenery in the distance, so don’t forget your camera. Hire a guide to give you some background invormation about Sandino and the rebellion he led.

Explore an important part of Nicaraguan history with a visit to PALACIO DE LA CULTURA, a grandiose structure that houses the national museum. Commissioned by President Juan Bautista Sacasa in 1935 and built by architect Pablo Dambach, the building is one of the country's oldest structures undamaged by the devastating earthquake of 1972. Having housed the national congress for over 50 years, the building now holds the national library and the national museum, displaying pre-Columbian petroglyphs among other artifacts connected to Nicaraguan history.

Witness the grand architecture standing tall over the historic center of the city at Plaza de la Revolucion. A cathedral, park, monument to the heroes of the revolution, and the museum of national culture surround the square, made from flat asphalt. It remains well lit day and night as floodlights and the surrounding buildings stay illuminated in the evening. Combine a visit to the square by heading inside the national museum or strolling through the park.