Top Things to Do in Leon, Nicaragua
Things to Do in Leon
Book these experiences for a close-up look at Leon.
Top Attractions in Leon
What travellers are saying
- Nelson GOhio11 contributionsWe had a great time enjoying the beautiful views! The hike up is fairly easy and takes about +/- 30 minutes. Coming down is much quicker;)Written 30 October 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Aussie_BinturongQueensland, Australia326 contributionsI visited this place with a very good guide named Franklin. He walked around the corner to collect the tickets and then we ascended the stairs. Just to let you know, you are required to remove your shoes to walk around on the roof. The roof is hot so you may wish to have socks.Written 9 February 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Tricia HBeverly, MA32 contributionsThe Museo de Arte Fundación Ortiz-Gurdian was a definitely highlight for our visit to Léon. As with most places in Léon, there is no air conditioning, so I recommend going in the morning, It has an EXTENSIVE collection of art primarily from Central and South America. The art spans traditional-classical to modern abstract. We spent 2.5 hours wandering through it. This is a place we will visit again when we next visit Léon.Written 2 May 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Julia C1 contributionA group of 25+ of us have just thoroughly enjoyed 3 days of trekking up and down these volcanoes near Leon, thanks to our wonderful guides, Henry Rueda, Sterling and the Doc Pedro. Spectacular scenery. Can't recommend these guys more highly What thoughtful and charming guides.Written 2 February 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Tricia HBeverly, MA32 contributionsThis is a small beach town. The beach is lovely. A number of surfing outfitters. There are a number of hostels and a few nicer hotels. It is all about going to the beach. There isn't mush else to it and limited eating. But if you like the beach, which we do, it is a nice place to go and relax.Written 2 May 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Starnurse2Crowthorne, UK671 contributionsWe arrived in time to take to the roof without realising just what we were in for. It is made of corrugated iron and is very rusty and not well bolted down. HOWEVER, there was a clear set of arrows to follow and the guide was pointing out all the vantage points that were had during the revolution. When you return to terra firma, there is an interesting section at the beginning of the museum which we should have seen first. The courtyard has some good fresco style paintings of the history of the revolution. The guide spoke very good English and is a veteran of that time (1980's)Written 15 March 2020This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Megan L14 contributionsGreat setting in an old prison where you can learn about the revolution and the use of the prison from 1921-1979. You also learn about the myths and legends of whole of Nicaragua.Written 2 August 2019This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- maritimeexplorerNova Scotia, Canada3,953 contributionsPeople who know little about history and think that all ruins must be spectacular like Pompeii or the great Mayan cities should not come to Leon Viejo. Although it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site it is not in any way overwhelming, in fact the opposite. The reason its famous is because it does preserve the best ruins of a Spanish colonial city from the 16th century after it was abandoned in 1610 and then covered by layers of ash from nearby Momotombo volcano. Unlike Pompeii very little of Leon Viejo has been excavated and much of what you see is just the outlines of the buildings, not complete reconstructions.
However, if you use your imagination you can picture what life was like here almost 500 years ago. There is an excellent model of what the place looked like before it was abandoned. Chances are you might be the only people on the site which is quiet and sees very few visitors. For birders it is a great place to find some of the more spectacular Nicaraguan species like mot mots and trogons.
The views of Momotombo from atop the old citadel are also worth coming here to see as well as the monument to the Indigenous people.
So expect to be disappointed at first, but the more time you spend here the better you'll like it.Written 19 March 2020This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Allison B12 contributionsI love this ranch and the owners. They were so kind, and gave us a warm Nicaragua greeting. It is gorgeous, and I felt so at peace when here. The food was wonderful, and the staff was super friendly. You will not regret coming here!Written 28 October 2017This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Erik GarcÃa Conchal BeachPlaya Conchal, Costa Rica104 contributionsGreat spot to enjoy a great magical view. The ruins of Leon viejo are very close. While visiting the ruins you can learn about the colonial timesWritten 14 September 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Tricia HBeverly, MA32 contributionsA small museum (30 minute visit). Interesting for anyone interested in poets, Dario, or Nicaraguan history. We learned a lot about Dario we had never read anywhere else. Very interesting.Written 2 May 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- taboadarodrigoManagua, Nicaragua26 contributionsPoneloya is a beach located only 20km from the colonial city of León. You can enjoy nice views of the ocean and delicious fresh fish. You have to be careful with the waves which can be tough on high tide!Written 14 October 2018This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Aussie_BinturongQueensland, Australia326 contributionsIt's a really beautiful church to look at and it's very much embedded into Leon's history. If you go with a guide you will learn more.Written 9 February 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- LolaGo1Washington DC, DC6,056 contributionsWhat diffrentiates this church from the other churches in Leon are the 3 men hanging up in the cross at the entrance of this church. One of this men is Jesus Christ, hanging up on the cross between two sinful men. This theme of crosses is evident in other areas inside.
The color of the facades is also a distinctive feature. The middle part is painted white, the other 2 side areas are painted red.
Near this church is a small park where some locals were having a meeting during my visit.
Attractions near by: Central Market and Cathedral of LeonWritten 10 December 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - LolaGo1Washington DC, DC6,056 contributionsI took a Camapanero or a bicycle with side car to visit this church. It’s a little bit far from the Parque Central.
The church is located in front of a small park with rides and small stalls selling foods. I visited it in the morning so they were still closed.
Insides are several beautiful altars that have gold-plated sidings. There are also several statues of saints inside. I took several pictures of these areas plus its beautiful wooden ceilings.Written 12 December 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions about Leon
- The best outdoor activities in Leon according to Tripadvisor travellers are: See all outdoor activities in Leon on Tripadvisor
- The best day trips from Leon according to Tripadvisor travellers are:
- Private Daytrip In Leon And Ruins Of Leon From Managua
- Half-Day Leon City Tour
- Charming Leon Outdoor - Culture, Nature and Fun
- Cerro Negro Volcano Corinto Shore Excursion
- Cerro Negro and Asososca Lagoon
- The most popular things to do in Leon with children according to Tripadvisor travellers are:See all kid friendly things to do in Leon on Tripadvisor
Leon Attractions Information
| Attractions | 88 |
|---|---|
| Attraction Reviews | 8,266 |
| Attraction Photos | 6,607 |
| Local Time | Sunday 10:49 pm |