Tourism
León has a rich history and has served as the capital of Nicaragua many times. León has an architecturally interesting city center and is full of old cathedrals and colonial homes.
León is home to the largest cathedral in Central America built from 1706-1740. This cathedral sits on the eastern side of the central park. León currently has a population of around 400,000 making it the second largest city in Nicaragua. Leon is located 50 miles northwest of Managua and only 11 miles from the Pacific Coast.
Poneloya and Las Penitas Beaches
The Pacific Beach towns of Poneloya and Las Penitas are located about 15 minutes from the center of León. These are great places to spend the day or a few days of relaxation in one of the many hotels to choose from.
Cathedral Tour
The cathedral is the most prominent building of León. It is situated on the central plaza, and the construction of this huge building started over two centuries ago. You can enter the building, get a tour, and see on some great architecture and art or enjoy superb views from the rooftop of the building.
Hot Springs of San Jacinto

These hot springs are a short ride from the city of León. The bubbling mud pits are located in the town of San Jacinto. The mud is said to have healing powers. This is also a jumping off point to climb the Volcano Telica.
Cerro Negro Volcano
This is León’s most famous volcano. It sits in a national park that features various volcanoes as well as the beautiful laguna Asososco. It is now possible to sled down the volcano at breakneck speeds or spend the day enjoying the unique landscape on various hikes.
León Viejo
The old city of León was designated a UNESCO world heritage site in 2000. The ruins of the abandoned city have been excavated and preserved and it is an interesting piece of history to visit.
El FortÃn
Get a bird’s eye view of the city of León from the old Sandinista Fort located on the hill of Acosasco. It is one of the only places in León to see the ocean as well as the volcanic mountain range of the Maribios.
Contact us for more information about things to do and places to visit in Leon, Nicaragua.
Hotels, Bars, and Restaurants in León:
La Perla
One of the finest examples of the neoclassical style of architecture that exists in Nicaragua. The central courtyard, typical of colonial construction, is dominated by their fountains in the shape of magnificent marble lions. Located just two blocks north of the western corner of the main plaza. Across the street is La Perla Casino, recently opened and tastefully done, try your luck at cards, slots, or roulette.
El Convento
A beautiful old colonial convent that was converted into a hotel. It sits three blocks west of the central park. Across the street is an art museum with an extensive collection of Latin American and European Art.
La Posada del Doctor
La Posada del Doctor is a nice colonial house, recently renovated, close to the center of León. It has a familiar and friendly atmosphere. It offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning, decorated with national arts and crafts.
Los Balcones
The Hotel Los Balcones is a charming boutique 2-story hotel, colonial style, located in the heart of León. It has 20 air-conditioned rooms with hot water, phone for national and international calls, Internet in the room and laundry service.
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Taquezal
Arguably the most inviting dining ambiance in the city, Taquezal is a great place for dinner or drinks. On the weekends it hosts live music and karaoke.
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El Sesteo
Situated right on the central plaza, this makes for the best people-watching restaurant in town. With the coldest beers in town and a varied menu of traditional Nicaraguan dishes, you can’t ask for anything else.
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La Terraza
The only two-story restaurant in town. Perfect for sunset cocktails or a quick bite, it makes for a great place to take in the beautiful panoramic vista.
Aurora Leon, Coastal & Colonial Realty
Address: ½ block east of Hotel
Los Balcones. Leon,
Nicaragua
Central America