Cuba

Cuba: general info for travelers

Cuba is a Caribbean country located in the northern Caribbean Sea. It is the largest island in the Caribbean and has a population of approximately 11 million people. Cuba is known for its beautiful beaches, tropical climate, rich culture, and eclectic mix of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences. The capital of Cuba is Havana, which is known for its picturesque old town, colorful architecture, and lively music scene. Cuba is also famous for its cigars, rum, and salsa dancing. The country has a complex political history and is currently a socialist state with a mixed economy. Overall, Cuba is a vibrant and fascinating destination that offers something for everyone.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Cuba, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Cuba: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main places to visit in Cuba and a brief description of each: 1. Havana - The capital and largest city of Cuba, Havana is a vibrant and historic city known for its colorful architecture, classic cars, and iconic landmarks like the Malecon waterfront and the Morro Castle. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in Cuban culture and history.
2. Varadero - Located on the northern coast of Cuba, Varadero is a popular beach resort town known for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy the tropical sun.
3. Trinidad - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinidad is a well-preserved colonial town that dates back to the 16th century. It's famous for its cobbled streets, pastel-colored buildings, and charming plazas.
4. Viñales - A small town in western Cuba, Viñales is known for its stunning natural beauty, including tobacco fields, limestone hills, and underground caves. It's a great place for outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and rock climbing.
5. Cienfuegos - Known as the "Pearl of the South," Cienfuegos is a picturesque city that was founded by French settlers in the 19th century. It's home to beautiful neoclassical buildings, a lively waterfront promenade, and a rich cultural scene.
6. Santiago de Cuba - The second-largest city in Cuba, Santiago de Cuba is a vibrant and historic city that's known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and revolutionary history. It's home to iconic landmarks like the Castillo del Morro and the Moncada Barracks.
These are just some of the main places to visit in Cuba, but there are many other destinations worth exploring as well.
There is more to see and do in Cuba: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Cuba: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Cuba, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Cuba's climate is generally warm and tropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season in Cuba runs from November to April, while the wet season begins in May and ends in October. The best time to visit Cuba depends on what you're looking for. If you want to avoid the heat and humidity, December to February is the best time to go, as the temperatures tend to hover around 70°F (21°C) during the day and drop to around 60°F (16°C) at night. If you're interested in outdoor activities, such as hiking or swimming, the best time to visit is during the dry season from November to April. During these months, there is a lower chance of rainfall, and the weather is generally sunny and warm, making it perfect for exploring the beaches and outdoor attractions. If you prefer a livelier atmosphere with a lot of events and festivals, you should plan your trip around July or August when Cuba's carnival takes place. Overall, the best time to visit Cuba depends on your preferences and what you’re looking to do.

Cuba: activities and what to do

Cuba is a vibrant island full of different activities and sports activities to enjoy during your holiday. Here are some of the popular ones that you can consider: 1. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Cuba has an extensive coastline and coral reef ecosystem. Some popular spots are Maria La Gorda in the western Pinar del Rio province, Cayo Coco in Ciego de Avila, Jardines de la Reina in Camaguey.
2. Sailing and Boating: Exploring the scenic coastline of Cuba with a sailboat or motor yacht is a unique experience. You can easily rent a boat or join a tour to visit remote areas or isolated islands.
3. Hiking and Trekking: There are several beautiful nature reserves and national parks in Cuba such as Topes de Collantes National Park in central Cuba, Alejandro de Humboldt National Park, La Gran Piedra Natural Park. Cuba's lush green forests, diverse wildlife, and waterfalls make for great hiking.
4. Horse Riding: Horseback riding is an activity that is readily available in Cuba. You can ride through rural areas, tobacco plantations, beaches, and mountains.
5. Cycling: Cuba's rural countryside and coastline make it an excellent place for a cycling trip. You can join a guided tour or hire a bike and explore Cuba's scenic routes.
6. Golf: Cuba offers several well-manicured golf courses at Varadero, Bell Vista, and the Havanna Golf Club.
7. Baseball: Cuba's national sport is baseball, and it's an excellent opportunity to catch a match and witness some national talent.
Overall, Cuba has a blend of water-based activities, natural wonderlands, and indigenous sports that cater to those with diverse interests.

Cuba: few words on history and culture

Cuba has a rich and complex history that has shaped its unique culture. It was colonized by Spain in the 15th century and became an important trading center for sugar, tobacco, and other goods. In the 19th century, slavery was abolished and Cuba gained independence from Spain in 1902.
Cuba's culture is a blend of African, Spanish, and Caribbean influences. The music, dance, and art of Cuba are world-renowned, with the most famous being salsa, rumba, and the colorful street art in Havana. The food in Cuba is also worth experiencing, with traditional dishes like arroz con pollo, ropa vieja, and plantains.
However, Cuba's history and culture have also been shaped by political and economic turmoil. In 1959, Fidel Castro and the Cuban Revolution took power, leading to Soviet support, a U.S. embargo, and a complex political situation that continues to this day. Despite these challenges, Cuba remains a fascinating and unique destination for travelers seeking to explore its rich history and culture.

Cuba: how to move around on holiday

There are several means of transport to reach Cuba, depending on your point of departure and your preferences. 1. By Plane: The most common way to reach Cuba is by taking a flight to Havana, the capital city. Havana has the primary international airport, Jose Marti International Airport. Other airports in the country include Varadero, Santa Clara, Holguin, and Santiago de Cuba.
2. By Cruise: Cuba has become a popular cruise destination in recent years. Cruise liners from various parts of the world, including the United States, offer trips to Cuba. The popular ports of call include Havana, Cienfuegos, and Santiago de Cuba.
3. By Car: If you are already in Cuba and are looking to explore the country, renting a car is a good option. Car rental agencies are available at most major airports and cities. However, note that the driving conditions can be challenging and roads in rural areas can be poorly maintained.
4. By Bus: Cuba's public transport system includes buses that connect most of the cities and towns. The Viazul bus service is a popular choice among the tourists. It's reliable, affordable, and operates between most of the major cities.
5. By Taxi: Taxis are a convenient option for short distances and intercity travel. You can hire a private taxi or take a shared taxi, which is also known as a colectivo in Cuba. To hire a car to visit Cuba, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Cuba: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Cuba with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some main typical foods of Cuba with their descriptions: 1. Ropa Vieja: A simple but flavorful dish made with shredded beef, peppers, onions and tomato sauce, served over rice and beans. The name of this dish translates to “old clothes” in Spanish, due to the shredded appearance of the meat.
2. Arroz con Pollo: A classic Cuban dish made with chicken and yellow rice that is combined with onions, peppers, garlic and other herbs and spices. This dish is often flavored with saffron, giving it a unique yellow color.
3. Lechon Asado: A dish made with a roasted, whole pig that is marinated in a mix of garlic, lemon and other spices. The result is a succulent and flavorful meat that is usually served with rice and beans.
4. Moros y Cristianos: A dish made with black beans and rice, flavored with garlic, onions and various spices. The name of this dish translates to “Moors and Christians” in Spanish and is a popular side dish in Cuba.
5. Tostones: These are fried plantain slices that are served as a side dish or a snack. They are made by slicing a green, unripe plantain into rounds, frying them, flattening them and then frying them a second time.
6. Yuca con Mojo: This dish is made with boiled yuca, a starchy root vegetable that's similar to a potato, which is then dressed with a tangy garlic and lemon sauce.
7. Cafe Cubano: A strong, sweet and highly caffeinated espresso shot that is enjoyed by many Cubans throughout the day. These are just a few of the many delicious Cuban dishes that you can try during your trip to Cuba.

Cuba: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

The cost of traveling in Cuba can vary greatly depending on your travel style and preferences. Generally, Cuba is not considered a very expensive tourist destination, especially compared to other Caribbean countries. However, it is important to keep in mind that the country operates with two currencies and prices for tourists can sometimes be higher.
Accommodation costs can vary from budget options such as hostels and casa particulares to luxury hotels and resorts. Food and drinks can also be relatively inexpensive, especially if you opt for local street food or visit paladares (privately-owned restaurants). Transportation costs can also be affordable, with options ranging from taxi colectivos to public buses.
Activities and excursions such as tours, entrance fees to attractions, and experiences like scuba diving or salsa lessons can vary in price. It is always a good idea to research and plan ahead to make sure you are getting the most out of your budget.
Overall, Cuba can be an affordable destination if you plan well and are willing to explore different options.

Cuba: where to find accodation

There are several options to look for accommodations in Cuba, including: 1. Government-run hotels: These are usually big hotels that offer good quality accommodation with facilities like swimming pools, restaurants, and bars. They can be found in major cities like Havana, Varadero, and Santiago de Cuba.
2. Private accommodations: These are generally private homes or apartments that are rented out to travelers. You can find these through websites such as Airbnb or Homestay or by asking locals for recommendations once you arrive in Cuba.
3. Casa Particulares: These are rooms or apartments in private homes that are rented out to travelers. They are often a more affordable and authentic option for travelers who want to experience daily life in Cuba. You can find casa particulares through websites like Airbnb or by asking locals for recommendations once you arrive in Cuba.
4. Hostels: These are budget-friendly options for travelers who want to stay in shared rooms and meet other travelers. However, hostels are less common in Cuba than in other countries.
5. Campsites: There are a few campsites around Cuba, but they are not very common. However, camping can be a good way to save money and experience the beautiful natural environment of Cuba.
It's important to note that accommodations in Cuba can be limited and it's advisable to make reservations in advance.
You can check hotel prices in Cuba here:
Booking.com

Cuba: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to statistics, Cuba received around 4.75 million tourists in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of tourists in 2020 decreased significantly.
In general, the high season for tourism in Cuba is from December to April, which coincides with the dry season and tends to be the busiest period. The low season runs from May to November, and during this period, there are fewer tourists, and prices tend to be lower. However, it's worth noting that events and festivals such as Carnival and the Havana International Film Festival can also attract crowds and increase prices.
Cuba is generally a safe country for tourists, with a low crime rate compared to other countries in the region. However, visitors should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded or tourist areas where pickpocketing and theft can occur. It is generally recommended to avoid isolated or poorly lit areas at night.
There are also a few places in Cuba that may have higher crime rates or other safety concerns. These include certain neighborhoods in Havana, such as Central Havana and certain areas of Old Havana that are known for prostitution and drug use. Visitors should also exercise caution when traveling alone in remote areas, especially without a local guide or reputable tour group.
Overall, as long as travelers use common sense and take necessary precautions, Cuba is a safe and enjoyable destination for tourists.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Cuba on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Cuba: events for tourists

Cuba is an amazing country with a rich culture and many interesting events and festivals throughout the year. Some of the most popular events for tourists are: 1. Havana Jazz Festival: Every year in December, Havana hosts one of the best jazz festivals in the world, attracting famous musicians from all over the globe.
2. International Festival of New Latin American Cinema: Also in December, this festival showcases the latest in Latin American cinema, with film screenings, workshops, and awards ceremonies.
3. Carnaval de Santiago de Cuba: This carnival takes place in July and is one of the liveliest events in Cuba, with parades, street parties, music, dance, and more.
4. Havana International Book Fair: Held annually in February, this fair is a must-visit for book lovers, featuring exhibitions, book signings, poetry readings, and cultural events.
5. International Festival of Ballet of Havana: This festival is held in October and showcases the best ballet performances from around the world, with both classical and modern ballet.
These events are just a few examples of the many cultural and entertainment options available in Cuba.

Cuba: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Cuba, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Here's a two week itinerary that covers some of the highlights of Cuba: Day 1-2: Havana - Explore the vibrant capital city of Cuba by strolling through the historic Old Havana, visiting the Plaza de la Revolution, and taking a classic car tour.
Day 3-4: Viñales - Travel to the beautiful countryside region of Viñales, famous for its tobacco farms and breathtaking landscapes. Take a horseback ride through the tobacco fields and visit a local cigar factory.
Day 5-6: Cienfuegos - Head to the southern coastal city of Cienfuegos, known for its colonial architecture and stunning bay views. Spend time exploring the city's historic center and visiting the Palacio del Valle.
Day 7-9: Trinidad - Walk the cobblestone streets of the charming colonial town of Trinidad, surrounded by mountains and Caribbean beaches. Take a salsa lesson, hike to a waterfall, and relax on the nearby Playa Ancon.
Day 10-11: Santa Clara - Visit the city of Santa Clara and its famous Che Guevara mausoleum. Learn about the history of the Cuban Revolution and see the armored train captured by Che Guevara and his men.
Day 12-13: Varadero - Enjoy some beach time in the resort town of Varadero with its white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. Snorkel, dive, or just relax on the beach.
Day 14: Havana - Return to Havana and spend your last day shopping for souvenirs, visiting museums, and trying some of Cuba's famous food and drinks.
This itinerary can be customized according to your interests and time availability. I hope this helps!

Cuba: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Cuba described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Baracoa is a small city located in the eastern region of Cuba, specifically in the province of Guantanamo. It is considered the oldest city in Cuba and was founded by the Spaniards in 1511. Baracoa's ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Baracoa
- Cayo Coco is a small island located in the Jardines del Rey archipelago on the northern coast of Cuba. It is popular for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and coral reefs, making it a perfect... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cayo Coco
- Cayo Cruz is a secluded island located on the northern coast of Cuba, in the province of Camaguey. It is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, making it a perf... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cayo Cruz
- Cayo Guillermo is a small island located on the northern coast of Cuba, in the province of Ciego de Avila. It is part of the larger Jardines del Rey archipelago and is known for its pristine beaches, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cayo Guillermo
- Cayo Jutias is a small, picturesque island off the coast of Cuba, known for its stunning beaches and crystal clear waters. It is located near the town of Viñales, and is a popular spot for snorkeling,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cayo Jutias
- Cayo Largo del Sur is a small island located in the Caribbean Sea, off the southern coast of Cuba. It belongs to the Canarreos Archipelago and is part of the municipality of Isla de la Juventud. The i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cayo Largo del Sur
- Cayo Levisa is a small island located off the north coast of Cuba, in the province of Pinar del Rio. It is known for its beautiful white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular dest... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cayo Levisa
- Cayo Santa Maria is a small island located in the northeastern part of Cuba. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning natural landscapes. The island is home to a numbe... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cayo Santa Maria
- Cienfuegos is a city located on the southern coast of Cuba, in the province of the same name. It was founded in 1819 by French settlers and has since become known as the "Pearl of the South" for its s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cienfuegos
- Guardalavaca is a resort town located on the northern coast of Cuba, known for its beautiful beaches and clear blue waters. It is situated in the province of Holguín, about 50 kilometers away from the... CONTINUE here for a trip to Guardalavaca
- Havana is the capital city of Cuba and is located on the northwestern coast of the island. It has a population of over 2 million people and is known for its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and co... CONTINUE here for a trip to Havana
- Holguin is a province located in the eastern part of Cuba, known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. The capital city of the province is also called Holguin, and it is a popu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Holguin
- Jibacoa is a small coastal resort town located on the north coast of Cuba, approximately 50 km east of Havana. It features beautiful white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters for snorkelling and divin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jibacoa
- La Habana Vieja, or Old Havana, is the historic center of Havana, Cuba. It was founded in the early 16th century by Spanish conquistadors and it contains one of the best-preserved collections of Baroq... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Habana Vieja
- Moron is a city located in the center of the island of Cuba, in the province of Ciego de Ávila. It has a population of approximately 60,000 and is known for its historic architecture, including the Te... CONTINUE here for a trip to Moron
- Playa Ancon is a picturesque beach that is located on the southern coast of Cuba, near the city of Trinidad. The beach is known for its crystal-clear blue waters and white sandy beaches with palm tree... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Ancon
- Playa Blanca is a picturesque beach located in Cayo Largo, a small island in the Caribbean archipelago of Cuba. It is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white sands, and remote loc... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Blanca
- Playa Boca de Camarioca is a beautiful, sandy beach located in the province of Matanzas, Cuba. It is a popular tourist destination known for its clear turquoise waters, peaceful atmosphere, and excell... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Boca de Camarioca
- Playa Caleta Buena is a picturesque beach located on the southern coast of Cuba, near the Bay of Pigs. The beach is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and coral reef, making it the perfect s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Caleta Buena
- Playa Caleta de San Antonio is a beautiful small beach located in the province of Holguín, Cuba. It is known for its clear blue waters and fine sandy beach. The beach is surrounded by green vegetation... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Caleta de San Antonio
- Playa Covarrubias is a beautiful beach located in the province of Las Tunas on the north coast of Cuba. It is known for its clear turquoise waters, white sandy beach, and coconut trees. Playa Covarrub... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Covarrubias
- Playa Esmeralda is a stunning beach located on the northeastern coast of Cuba, in the province of Holguin. It is known for its clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and lush tropical vegetation tha... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Esmeralda
- Playa Giron is a small village located on the southern coast of Cuba, in the province of Matanzas. It is most famous for being the site of the Bay of Pigs Invasion, a failed attempt by the United Stat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Giron
- Playa Jibacoa is a small, peaceful beach town located along Cuba's northern coastline, about halfway between Havana and Varadero. It features a beautiful beach with clear turquoise waters, surrounded ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Jibacoa
- Playa Larga is a small town located on the southern coast of the Bay of Pigs in the Matanzas province of Cuba. It is famous for its beautiful beaches with crystal-clear water and abundant marine wildl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Larga
- Playa Las Coloradas is a beautiful beach located on the northern coast of Cuba, in the province of Holguin. The beach has crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand. The area is surrounded by ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Las Coloradas
- Playa Maguana is a beautiful and secluded beach located in the eastern part of Cuba, specifically in the province of Holguin. It is known for its crystal clear waters, fine golden sand, and lush veget... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Maguana
- Playa Naranjo is a beautiful destination located on the southern coast of the Cuban province of Artemisa. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and breathtaking landscapes, makin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Naranjo
- Playa Paraiso is a beautiful beach town located on the western coast of Cuba in the province of Pinar del Rio. It is renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Paraiso
- Playa Pesquero is a popular seaside resort located on the northeast coast of Cuba, in the Holguin province. The resort features a stunning beach that spans over 1.5 miles lined with tall palm trees an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Pesquero
- Playa Pilar is a stunning beach located on the northern coast of Cayo Guillermo, an island off the coast of Cuba. It's known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and waving p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Pilar
- Playa Santa Lucia is a popular tourist destination in Cuba, located on the northern coast of the Camaguey province. The area is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Santa Lucia
- Playa Sirena is a stunning white sand beach located on the southwest coast of Cayo Largo, a small island off the southern coast of Cuba. The beach is approximately 500 meters in length and is surround... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Sirena
- Santa Clara is a city located in the central region of the island of Cuba. It is the capital of the province of Villa Clara and has a population of approximately 240,000 people. The city is know... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santa Clara
- Santiago de Cuba is the second-largest city in Cuba, located in the southeastern region of the island. With a population of over 430,000 people, it is an important cultural and economic center in the ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santiago de Cuba
- Topes de Collantes is a nature reserve located in the Escambray Mountains in Cuba, about 20 km from the city of Trinidad. It covers an area of about 12,000 hectares and is a popular destination for ec... CONTINUE here for a trip to Topes de Collantes
- Trinidad is a charming colonial town located in the central region of Cuba, on the south coast of the province of Sancti Spiritus. Founded in the early 16th century, Trinidad is known for its well-pre... CONTINUE here for a trip to Trinidad
- Varadero is a resort town located on the Hicacos Peninsula, in the Matanzas province of Cuba. It is known for its long stretches of white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and year-round sunshine. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Varadero
- Viñales is a small town located in the Pinar del Rio province of Cuba, known for its lush green landscapes, breathtaking natural scenery, and its unique tobacco farms. It is situated in the heart of t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Viñales


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