The second-oldest Nicaraguan town, Leon was the capital of Nicaragua until 1857 and is today considered its intellectual capital due to its large university-student population. Monuments like the Monument to the Martyrs of the Revolution indicate the liberal-leaning political opinions of the city, which is still a Sandinista stronghold. Other colorful murals and pro-Sandanista graffiti further illustrate this point. Mariachi bands and marimba players are a staple to the city and constantly stroll the streets.

One fun way to explore this quaint colonial city is ‘topless bus’ night tour for around $0.25 USD.

Some highlights in Leon not to miss:

The cathedral, the Basílica de la Asunción, across from the Monument to the Martyrs of the Revolution, is the largest in Central America. Inside, find the tomb of Rubén Darío, a 19th-Century Nicaraguan poet, at the foot of one of the 12 apostle’s statues.

Leon features over a dozen of some of the finest colonial churches in Nicaragua.

Visit Rubén Darío’s house, now a museum, with its collection of personal photographs, portraits and a library of books and poetry in Spanish, English and French.

The Centro Popular de la Cultura is the only place to see live folk concerts in Leon and always has rotating exhibits and events.