See pre-earthquake Managua in miniature at Paseo Xolotlán

The Mirador de Catarina sits on a hill in Catarina, one of the Pueblos Blancos, with a wide view over Laguna de Apoyo, Granada and Mombacho Volcano. It pairs well with Masaya Volcano on a single day trip from Managua. Shoot toward the lagoon in softer light, early or late, and bring a wide lens so the crater rim and…

The Rubén Darío National Theatre opened in 1969 and is Managua's main stage for concerts, ballet and dance, with a main hall of about 1,200 seats. Check the programme posted at the theatre or ask your host what is on that week, since the line-up changes. Arrive early to find your seat, and look at the foyer and the…

Ricardo Legorreta's Metropolitan Cathedral, completed in 1993, is a building to see from inside: its 63 domes bring daylight and ventilation into the nave, and the circular chapel of the Sangre de Cristo image is lit by candles and colour. Go in daylight to see the domes working, walk quietly and keep photos discreet…

The Mercado de Artesanías, the old market in Masaya's old town, sells paintings, woodwork, masks and other handicrafts from across the country. A small folklore museum inside shows traditional dances, instruments and clay and wood crafts, which helps you judge what you are buying. Visit on a day trip from Managua…

Mercado Oriental is Managua's giant working market, and travel guides and government advisories name it among the places where theft and robbery are common. Most visitors do their souvenir shopping elsewhere. If curiosity wins, go in daylight with someone who knows it well, leave jewelry and spare cards at the hotel…

Entry to Nicaragua includes a small tourist card fee, paid in US dollars cash on arrival, so have bills ready before you reach the immigration desk. Your passport should be valid for at least six months, and officers can ask for an onward ticket. Put the fee cash, passport and onward booking in one easy pocket, so the…

Managua taxis have no meters, so a street-hailed cab means haggling when you are most hurried, and official advisories flag unauthorised taxis as a risk. Ask your hotel or restaurant to call a registered radio taxi, or use a trusted ride app if you have one. Agree the fare before getting in, say whether it is in…

Masaya Volcano National Park, Nicaragua's first, sits on the road between Managua and Masaya and holds the Santiago crater, which keeps releasing gas and can show a red glow after dark. Locals time the visit for late afternoon to catch the sunset first and the glow after. Crater access depends on gas and safety…