You'll stay in Granada, a Spanish colonial-era city whose historical and architectural heritage has been richly conserved. Nicaragua's oldest Spanish city, founded in 1524, Granada was the capital during the colonial era. The lakeside town was also a key port and trade center for Spanish riches because of its boat access to the Caribbean Sea via Lake Nicaragua and the contingent San Juan River. It also became a target for pirates and buccaneers who repeatedly laid siege to the city and plundered its goods. Today Granada is a tranquil town of about 100,000 that holds onto its colonial-era spirit. The city is renowned for Spanish-style houses with adobe walls and towering wooden doors with open-air interior patios. A recent influx of investment has brought with it an array of delicious dining options, from freshwater fish plucked fresh from the lake to exquisite French and Spanish cuisine.

Photos of Granada