What to do in Masaya

Activities, attractions and tours

Lac de lave dans le cratère Santiago sur le volcan Masaya au Nicaragua
Lac de lave dans le cratère Santiago sur le volcan Masaya au Nicaragua
Masaya is located 20 km south of Managua, Nicaragua. It is Nicaragua's first and largest National Park. As you can see off to the left, it is quietly letting you know it's there. If your eyesight is bad, your nose will let you know it too!!
Our evening walk quickly evolved into an unexpected adrenaline rush when we stumbled across this moonlit outdoor boxing ring in Nicaragua. The energy of the locals created an adventure to remember at the annual Gladiadores de Masaya event. #Adventure
Active volcano in Nicaragua. Boiling lava at bottom and smoke rising off of it.
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What to do in Masaya

Popular places to visit

Western Nicaragua showing outdoor art, a coastal town and street scenes

Puerto Salvador Allende

Dine at one of the many restaurants, stroll along the lakeside boulevard and take a boat trip to nearby Love Island.

Puerto Salvador Allende
Granada Cathedral which includes a city, a church or cathedral and heritage architecture

Granada Cathedral

3/5(1 review)

Marvel at the colorful façade of this 16th-century cathedral and tour the interior for its chapels, paintings and statues.

Granada Cathedral
Mercado Carlos Roberto Huembes showing markets and street scenes

Carlos Roberto Huembes Market

Devote a few hours to exploring this vast marketplace, filled with thousands of stalls selling food, furniture and traditional arts and crafts.

Carlos Roberto Huembes Market
Managua Cathedral featuring religious aspects, heritage architecture and a church or cathedral

Managua Cathedral

3/5(1 review)

Sightsee the ruins of religious statues, chapels and altars at a derelict cathedral in the heart of Managua.

Managua Cathedral
Calle La Calzada and Cathedral de Granada, Granada, Nicaragua

Calle la Calzada

You can do some window-shopping at Calle la Calzada during your stay in Granada. You can seek out the local tours while in the area.

Calle la Calzada
Casa Presidencial which includes an administrative building and a statue or sculpture

Presidential House

3/5(1 review)

This stately building once held the official offices of Nicaragua’s president and is surrounded by the fascinating landmarks of Managua’s historic center.

Presidential House

Galerias Santo Domingo Shopping Center

During your trip to Managua, you can do some window-shopping at Galerias Santo Domingo Shopping Center. While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Galerias Santo Domingo Shopping Center

Embassy of the United States Managua

After visiting Embassy of the United States Managua, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Managua. Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this relaxing area.

Embassy of the United States Managua

Metrocentro

4/5(2 reviews)

During your trip to Managua, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Metrocentro. While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Metrocentro

Day trip destinations from Masaya

Managua showing a sunset and a city

Managua

If your looking for something to do to cool off in Nicaragua's heat, head to Laguna de Apoyo just outside Managua. Resorts line the rim of this volcanic Crater Lake and you can sit by the lakeside enjoying piña colodas. Swimming here is great though there's not much in the way of beaches. Spend the day or stay over night and be prepared to chill.

Catarina

Frequently asked questions

Is Masaya worth visiting?
Renowned for its hiking and gift and craft shops, finding fun things to do in Masaya is a breeze. Be sure to add Masaya Volcano National Park to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Masaya?
Start your adventures with a visit to Masaya Volcano National Park and Old Train Station. Then, check out different areas of Masaya for a quick bite and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Masaya?
The top tourist attraction in Masaya is Masaya Volcano National Park, so make sure to add it to your itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Masaya?
Three days in Masaya is enough to visit the city's main attractions. Many travellers stay for nine days on average. Masaya Volcano National Park, Old Train Station and Museo y Galería de Héroes y Martires are among the most popular sights. Want to experience more? Hang around a while longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Managua.
What are some activities to do in Masaya with kids?
Deciding what to do in Masaya with kids has never been easier. Whether you're getting away with toddlers or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly sights and activities to keep them happy here.

What to do in Masaya for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or outdoor explorer, there's a range of things to do in Masaya for adults.
Are there free things to do in Masaya?
From checking out parks to wandering around hip neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Masaya. If you need new ideas, ask a local tour guide for some tips. San Sebastian Church is a top spot for anyone wanting to save on their sightseeing adventures.