three popular tourist destinations in cuba

17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Cuba

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Aug 30, 2023

Cuba, the Caribbean's largest island , drips with history, culture, and mystique. Live music wafts through the cobbled squares in Havana's World Heritage-listed Old Town , vintage cars still cruise the streets, and the beautiful old buildings in Cuba's colonial cities evoke the feel of a country frozen in time.

Cuba also abounds in natural beauty. This vast island has more than 5,000 kilometers of coastline, much of it rimmed by dazzling beaches. Coral reefs glimmer in the turquoise waters, and Cuba's lush countryside and sublime islands have played host to presidents; provided refuge to revolutionaries; and inspired writers from around the world, Hemingway among them.

With all this history and beauty, as well as superb diving and fishing, Cuba offers a depth and diversity few Caribbean islands can rival. Explore this captivating country with our list of the top attractions and places to visit in Cuba.

1. Old Havana (Habana Vieja)

2. varadero, 3. trinidad, 4. guardalavaca, 5. playa paraíso, cayo largo del sur, 6. cayo coco, 7. parque nacional viñales (valle de viñales), 9. the malecon, havana, 10. che guevara mausoleum, santa clara, 11. museo nacional de bellas artes, 12. castillo de san pedro del morro, santiago de cuba, 13. peninsula de zapata (ciénaga de zapata), 14. el nicho waterfalls, 15. parque historico militar, havana, 16. plaza de la revolucion (jose marti memorial), havana, 17. fusterlandia.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Habana Vieja or Old Havana is a well-preserved slice of Cuban history. Strolling around the cobbled streets and gazing up at the grand Baroque and neoclassical buildings, it's easy to imagine what life in Cuba was like 200 years ago.

Extensive renovations are now breathing new life into the historic buildings. Major attractions here include the Plaza de la Catedral , home to the Cuban Baroque Catedral de San Cristobal ; the legendary restaurant and Hemingway hangout, Bodeguita del Medio ; and the military fortress, Castillo de la Real Fuerza .

Also in the Old Town, Plaza Vieja is one of the top places to visit in Havana . This vibrant gathering spot is home to some notable buildings, including the 18th-century Casa del Conde Jaruco , with beautiful stained-glass windows on the first floor. Nearby, the camera obscura offers fantastic views from its 35-meter tower.

The best way to explore Old Havana is to simply get lost along its cobbled streets. Colorful photo ops await around every corner, from the faded pastel-painted buildings to the clothes flapping in the breeze on washing lines and the candy-pink classic cars. Take time to watch kids play soccer in a square or listen to an impromptu musical performance. Allow at least a day to explore the Old Town and more if time permits.

Author's Tip: If you're seeking a more authentic Havana experience where you can connect with the locals, consider dining at paladars, small family-owned restaurants in private homes. They also tend to be cheaper than conventional restaurants. Similarly, if you're looking for an affordable place to stay, book a casa particulare. These homestays with Cuban families are another great way to save money and soak up the local culture.

Varadero is one of Cuba's most famous beach destinations, and home to one of the best beaches in the Caribbean . It stretches along the Peninsula de Hicacos, which juts into the sea off the north coast; a drawbridge connects it to the mainland.

More than 50 beach resorts line this popular palm-fringed strip, and its magnificent white-sand beaches draw visitors from around the world.

Varadero highlights include Parque Ecológico Varahicacos (Varadero Ecological Park) , and its two caves, Cueva de Ambrosio and Cueva de Musulmanes.

For more subterranean adventures, Saturno Cave (Cueva de Saturno) offers a cool respite from the sun-blasted beach. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear cenote, marvel at the giant stalactites and stalagmites, and jump off the surrounding ledges into the teal-colored pool below.

Also in Varadero, the peaceful Parque Josone is home to lush flower gardens, a restaurant, a swimming pool, and a small lake where you can paddle about in rowboats.

Other popular things to do in Varadero, besides diving and snorkeling, are deep-sea fishing, golf, skydiving, and day trips to cultural attractions.

Exploring the town of Trinidad, Cuba, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is like stepping back in time. The beautifully restored buildings and cobblestone streets in the city center exude a quaint colonial feel. Much of the architecture dates from the 17th to the 19th centuries, when Trinidad prospered from both the sugar and slave trades.

Today, Trinidad is one of the best cities in Cuba to visit, apart from Havana. You can soak up its lively ambience in the cobblestone Plaza Mayor , the city's central square. Above the square stands the neoclassical Church of the Holy Trinity (Iglesia Parroquial de la Santisima Trinidad).

Other Trinidad highlights are the Church and Monastery of Saint Francis (Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco), with its distinctive bell tower and the Palacio Brunet , a grand home built in 1812 and still featuring original frescoes and marble floors.

East of Trinidad, on the road to Sancti Spiritus , the lush World Heritage-listed Valle de los Ingenios contains numerous relics and monuments from the 19th century, when the sugar cane plantations and mills flourished. One of the best things to do in Trinidad, Cuba is simply drive or horseback ride through the beautiful scenery of green sugar cane fields, palm trees, and mountains.

Rimmed by glittering beaches, Guardalavaca, in the Holguin province , is quieter and more remote than Varadero. Lush foliage fringes the sweeping strand of beach here, providing plenty of shady patches for those seeking respite from the tropical sun. Divers and snorkelers can explore a plethora of sea life along the coral reefs.

Day trips from Guardalavaca include jungle adventures, sailing trips, and sightseeing tours of Santiago de Cuba .

West of Guardalavaca, Bahia de Naranjo encompasses a large slice of coast and three islands, including Cayo Naranjo with the popular Dolphinarium , which offers close-up encounters with these gregarious creatures.

Chorro de Maita is another side trip option from Guardalavaca, with a native Indian burial area and a recreated Taino Indian village.

In a country known for its beautiful beaches, Playa Paraíso (Paradise Beach), on the island of Cayo Largo del Sur, is one of Cuba's best. This sublime strand of powdery white sand and baby blue sea skirts the sheltered western edge of the island and merges with the equally ravishing Playa Sirena.

The island of Cayo Largo del Sur is truly a sun seeker's destination with a typically dry, sunny climate and few tourist attractions besides some of the most beautiful beaches in Cuba and many hotels and resorts.

Note that sections of these beaches are clothing optional.

Cayo Coco is another of Cuba's idyllic beach destinations and one of its most isolated. The island starred in Hemingway's novels, Islands in the Stream and The Old Man and the Sea, along with nearby Cayo Guillermo .

As part of the Jardines del Rey , the combined archipelago of Sabana-Camaguey , Cayo Coco is connected to the mainland by a bridge, though most visitors arrive by air.

Sun-splashed beaches are the prime attraction. Playa Los Flamencos, on the Atlantic side of the island, is a standout with its five-kilometer strand of sun-bleached sand, and the quiet and undeveloped Playa Prohibida offers a peaceful nature trail. The island is also known for its excellent birding.

Connected by a causeway to Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo also boasts a bevy of beautiful beaches, such as the ravishing Playa Pilar, as well as a string of all-inclusive resorts.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site , the Parque Nacional Viñales is a beautiful, verdant valley in the Sierra de los Organos, north of Pinar del Rio. Steep limestone hills, called mogotes, slice through the valleys, creating a dramatic landscape, and the wildlife

The valley floors in the Parque Nacional Viñales are agricultural areas where tobacco, fruit, and vegetables are grown. For outdoor enthusiasts, the park offers fantastic hiking and horseback riding in the hills. You can also tour coffee plantations, explore caves, and go rock climbing or ziplining here.

Nearby, the charming town of Viñales is a great base for exploring the surrounding area. Tour companies also offer day trips here from Havana.

One of the highlights of eastern Cuba is beautiful Baracoa, the oldest city in the country. It was founded in 1511 in the province of Guantanamo, and construction began on the first church here around that time. Cut off from much of the outside world until the 1960s, when the La Farola highway was built, the city still has a remote feel.

Today, visitors come here for the charming colonial architecture and lush countryside, where waterfalls and pretty beaches provide a cool counterpoint to the steamy jungle. The flat-topped peak of El Yunque presides over all this tropical beauty, beckoning hikers to take the guided ascent to its 589-meter summit. The hillside is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where rare birds and plants thrive.

To really appreciate the spectacular scenery, take a drive down the winding La Farola highway , a 49-kilometer stretch from Baracoa over the mountains to Cajobabo .

The Museo Municipal is also worth a look. Housed in the Fuerte Matachin military fortress, it provides a glimpse of Baracoa's fascinating history, and the fort itself offers great views over the bay.

About 20 kilometers northwest of Baracoa is one of the area's best beaches: picture-perfect Playa Maguana . If you're looking for something adventurous to do in Cuba, you can rent a bicycle in Baracoa and peddle out here. Flights to Baracoa depart frequently from Havana.

Conceived in 1901 and partly built in 1902 and beyond, the Malecon is Havana's famous seafront promenade. A walk along this top Havana attraction is a stroll through the history of the city.

The promenade runs seven kilometers from the Habana Vieja quarter to the Vedado, the central business district. Along the way, you will find an assortment of well-preserved 20th-century buildings that represent a mixture of architectural styles, including Art Deco and Neo Moorish. Painted in pastel pinks and yellows, the buildings are a photographer's delight, especially in the golden glow of dusk.

People-watching is a favorite pastime here. Young lovers saunter hand-in-hand, local fishermen cast their lines, and children clamber along the sea wall.

When beach towns and resorts all start to seem the same, and you're looking for unique things to do in Cuba, Santa Clara will add some depth to your Cuban itinerary. This is the famous site of the last guerrilla battle led by Che Guevara in 1958.

Che's body was laid to rest here, and his mausoleum (Mausoleo del Che Guevara) and monument, the Memorial Comandante Ernesto "Che" Guevara, are the town's big attractions. Etched on the bronze statue of Che Guevara in Plaza de la Revolucion is his final letter to Fidel Castro, while the mausoleum lies beneath.

Adjacent to the monument, the Museo Historico de la Revolucion exhibits some of Che's personal items. Che fans should also see the poignant Monumento a la Toma del Tren Blindado, a small boxcar museum and the site of the final battle between Che Guevara and the Batista troops.

If you're an art lover, don't miss Havana's Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Museum of Fine Arts), with its vast and impressive collection of international and Cuban art.

The collection is housed in two buildings and includes works from ancient times to the present day. Clad in sumptuous Italian marble, the restored Spanish Renaissance-style Palacio del Centro Asturiano was designed in the 1920s by Manuel Bustos. It displays international art, including works by European Masters; ancient art from Greece, Rome, and Egypt; and works from Asia, the United States, and Latin America. The Spanish collection, in particular, is a highlight.

The striking marble sculpture, Form, Space and Light , greets visitors at the entrance to the second venue, which dates from 1959. This Rationalist-style Palacio de Bellas Artes building displays a thought-provoking collection focusing on Cuban Art from the 17th century to the present day, including sculptures, prints, and paintings.

Palacio de Bellas Artes

Address: Trocadero Street e/Zulueta y Monserrate, Old Havana

Palacio del Centro Asturiano

Address: San Rafael, e/Zulueta y Monserrate, Old Havana

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Castillo del Morro is one of the best-preserved Spanish fortresses of the 17th century. It stands at the entrance to the Bay of Santiago, about 10 kilometers southwest of Santiago de Cuba, the country's second-largest city.

Perched high atop a cliff, the structure was designed in 1587, but took decades to build and was finally completed at the end of the 17th century. It was originally intended to protect against pirate attacks, but also served as a prison in the late 1700s before being once again converted into a fortress.

Today, you can explore the many different levels of the fort, learn about pirates and the fort history in the small museum, and enjoy impressive views over the bay.

Other cultural highlights of Santiago de Cuba include the Diego Velazquez Museum and Cementerio de Santa Ifigenia , home to the remains of some of Cuba's most famous military figures.

Less than an hour from the city by car, Parque Baconao is a World Heritage Biosphere Reserve where you can tour coffee plantations, wander through beautiful botanical gardens, and enjoy stunning 360-degree views over the mountains and sea from the 1,234-meter summit of Gran Piedra, a large volcanic rock.

A haven for birders and nature lovers, the Peninsula de Zapata is a remote, sparsely populated area of Cuba with diverse landscapes and one of the largest wetlands in the Caribbean .

The Cienaga de Zapata, or the Zapata Swamp as it is affectionately known, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to approximately 150 different species of birds, including waterhens, parrots, and herons. Crocodiles are also common.

One part of the peninsula is a designated nature reserve, the Gran Parque Natural de Montemar , where you can see some of these creatures in their natural habitats.

At the mouth of the Bay of Pigs (Bahia de Cochinos) is Playa Giron , the famous site of the 1961 Bay of Pigs Invasion. You can explore this fascinating history at the small Museo Giron .

At the top of the Bay of Pigs, Playa Larga is home to a long beach backed by lush vegetation. Avid divers can explore the underwater wildlife at numerous dive sites here along the reef.

Boca de Guama is the peninsula's tourist center, and its main attraction is the Criadero de Cocodrilos , a crocodile farm.

If you're looking for a ravishing slice of nature in central Cuba, head to El Nicho waterfalls. About a 90-minute drive from Trinidad or Cienfuegos, in Parque El Nicho , these multi-tiered falls flow into several jade-green jungle pools — the perfect place to take a cool dip on a hot day.

Driving here along the twisty rutted roads is an adventure in itself, and the scenery is beautiful. Once you arrive and pay the entrance fee, take the 1.5-mile palm-lined trail to the park's most scenic spots. It meanders along a cool river and ascends through thick, tropical forest to the falls, where you can swim and sunbathe. Along the way, keep an eye out for the tocororo, Cuba's national bird, and the beautiful royal palm.

Walk beyond the falls, and you'll end up at a scenic lookout with breathtaking views across lush valleys.

Wondering about things to do with the family in Cuba? This is the perfect back-to-nature excursion. Best of all, the waterfalls gush year-round — even in the dry season.

The Parque Historico Militar encompasses two of Havana's famous fortresses: the Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro , also known as El Morro, and Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana .

Presiding over the entrance of the Bay of Havana, El Morro was built in the late 16th century and early 17th century to fend off pirates, and looks much the same as it did back then. The lighthouse was replaced with one of stone in the middle of the 19th century, but its original lamp still shines out to sea. You can ascend to the top of the fort to admire impressive views of the ocean and city.

A short stroll from El Morro, Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana , constructed in the 1770s, was the biggest fort the Spanish ever built, as well as the most expensive. The fort became a military prison during the Batista regime and was later used as the headquarters for Che Guevara after the Revolution.

You can explore the museums here, which trace the history of this fascinating fort, but the most popular time to visit is at night when actors dressed in 19th-century costumes perform Ceremonia del Cañonazo, a cannon-firing ceremony, at 9pm.

Due to its important place in Havana's history, the Plaza de la Revolucion deserves at least a brief stop if only to absorb the events that transpired here. Castro delivered speeches in this vast square, attracting more than a million people at times. And in 1998, during a visit to Cuba, Pope John Paul II celebrated mass here.

In the center of the Plaza de la Revolucion stands a 109-meter gray tower, a memorial to the Cuban national hero, Jose Marti, while a large, white marble statue of him lies at its base. Below the statue is the entrance to the interior of the Jose Marti Memorial , which contains a museum on Marti. Ascend the tower for incredible views over Havana.

Opposite the memorial, the famous giant portrait of Che Guevara adorns the Ministry of Interior building. This is a popular spot for capturing Instagram photos, and you can also pose next to one of the colorful classic cars parked here.

A riot of color and bucketloads of artistic inspiration is what you'll find at Fusterlandia. Mosaics, paintings, and sculptures in every color of the rainbow decorate this small neighborhood, which is actually called Jaimanitas. It's located about a 30-minute drive from Havana.

Local artist José Fuster, often called the Picasso of the Caribbean, is the artistic mastermind who transformed the neighborhood. A painter and sculptor, he created this striking display as a reflection of his life and art, even taking the time to decorate local bus shelters and his neighbors' homes.

After you click away at all the colorful art with your camera, pop by his home studio. Many Havana tours include a visit to this famous neighborhood, but you can also take the hop-on, hop-off tourist bus for a small fee. And if you really want to splash out, you can take a tour in a classic car.

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TripSavvy / Anna Haines

Old Havana (La Habana Vieja) is the heart of Cuba's capital and its cultural center. Founded in 1519 by the Spanish, Havana was originally a walled city. Most of the old walls are now gone, but the dense, 3,000-building district they once guarded contains some of Cuba's most important cultural sites.

Amid the narrow streets of Old Havana you'll find the Plaza Vieja, established in 1559, the national capital building, the Great Theater of Havana and the city's museum of fine arts, the Cathedral of Havana, the Museum of the Revolution, and the famous La Floridita bar, a onetime hangout of Ernest Hemingway and the birthplace of the daiquiri cocktail .

Check Cuba Rates and Reviews at TripAdvisor

Havana's iconic seawall is the best place to meet local residents in a relaxed environment. The Malecón runs for five miles along the Caribbean shoreline of Havana from the mouth of the harbor to the Old Havana waterfront. Lovers, fishermen, joggers, tourists, prostitutes, Santeria practitioners, and ordinary Habaneros alike can be found day and night during a stroll here.

The crashing surf and glorious sunset are worth a visit along, but prominent and interesting landmarks also include the grand Hotel Nacional de Cuba, a monument to the victims of the USS Maine explosion in 1898, and the statue of Cuban nationalist hero José Martí in the Plaza de la Dignidad.

The Museum of the Revolution

Havana's Museo de la Revolución tells the story of Cuba's successful revolt to overthrow the Fulgencio Batista dictatorship (and U.S. ally) in the 1950s. Located in Batista's former presidential palace, the museum includes a variety of artifacts from the conflict, including a Russian tank and U.S.-built fighter plane that took part.

Most prominent is the yacht Granma , which was used to transport Fidel and Raul Castro, Che Guevara, Camilo Cienfuegos, and their revolutionary comrades from Mexico to Cuba at the outset of the war. Exhibits include weapons carried by Guevara and Cienfuegos, the engine from a U.S. U2 spy plane shot down during the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, and Batista's gold telephone.

Bellamar Caves

This famous show cave in Matanzas is one of Cuba's oldest tourist attractions -- and still one of the most popular. Located close to the Varadero resort area, these limestone caves were formed more than 300,000 years ago but only discovered in 1861.

Filled with impressive stalactites, stalagmites, galleries, and an underground river, Bellamar Caves has lights and stairs for visitors but, unlike most caves, is quite warm and humid inside. The complex also includes a museum, cafe, playground, and gift shop. Tours can be arranged from hotels in Havana or Varadero.

The beautiful Spanish colonial city of Trinidad, Cuba, takes visitors back in time. Located in the mountainous central Cuba province of Sancti Spíritus, Trinidad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in 1514, the city is a well-preserved example of a Caribbean sugar town of the 19th century (the surrounding area is known as the Valley of the Sugar Mills), filled with ornate Spanish colonial mansions, plazas and churches.

Plaza Mayor is the heart of Trinidad, an excellent jumping-off point for walking tours that take in major sites such as the old San Francisco convent (now a museum) and ornate mansions that once belonged to sugar barons. The rolling hills, historic plantations and waterfalls of the Valley of the Sugar Mills can be toured by steam train or horseback.

The beaches of Varadero are world famous and home to most of the island's international resorts. Located on a narrow peninsula east of Havana, Varadero's 12 miles of beaches were once home to waterfront mansions and today boasts dozens of international hotels visited by more than one million tourists annually.

Nearby attractions and activities include jeep trips to the El Nicho waterfall, the Bellamar Caves, and the Montemar Natural Park at the tip of the Zapata Peninsula.

Santiago de Cuba

San Pedro de la Roca Castle, a 1638 Spanish fortress, is one of the historic landmarks of Cuba's second largest city, but hardly the only one worth visiting. Dating to 1515, this Caribbean port city was the scene of the famous Battle of San Juan Hill during the Spanish-American War, as well as an abortive attack on the Moncado Barracks by revolutionaries led by Fidel Castro in 1953 -- an incident viewed as the opening shot of the Cuban Revolution.

One of the cultural capitals of Cuba, the city includes museums containing the expropriated art collection of the Bacardi rum family (who fled to Puerto Rico after the revolution), a broad musical heritage, and lively Afro-Caribbean culture, including the practice of santeria. Other top attractions along this city's narrow streets include a rum museum, a multitude of parks, and the unique French-Haitian district called Tivoli.

Santiago de Cuba 's Carnival celebration is the best in Cuba, reflective of a city that is notoriously hot and loud but also vibrant and bustling. To get a respite, head to the beach or the large Baconao nature park is nearby.

Vinales Valley

This breathtakingly beautiful valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique rock formations and traditional agriculture that includes tobacco cultivation -- much of it used for prized Cuban cigars.

A depression in the Sierra de los Órganos mountains of Pinar del Rio province, the area's most distinguishing landscape features are a profusion of knolls with cliffs rising from the valley floor, known as mogotes -- the result of limestone erosion in the karst valley.

In addition to tobacco, local farmers raise taro and bananas, while the surrounding mountains are known for their many caves.

Cayo Largo del Sur

 An island paradise about 50 miles off the southern Caribbean coast of Cuba renowned for its lovely white-sand beaches, Cayo Largo is home to a few small resorts, many catering to clothing-optional travelers. Playa Paraiso has made various world's best beach lists, and nude sunbathers abound.

The island has no permanent residents and few bells and whistles other than some restaurants, shops and a turtle farm, making it ideal for a short-term Caribbean disappearing act in a remote corner of Cuba.

Santa Clara

The town of Santa Clara was the site of one of the crucial battlefields of the Cuban Revolution and remains a shrine to the memory of Che Guevara. The Battle of Santa Clara in 1958 pitted two columns of revolutionary soldiers -- one led by Che, the other by Camilo Cienfuegos -- against government troops loyal to General Fulgencio Batista, who were quickly routed.

Batista fled Cuba just 12 hours later, handing victory in the Cuban Revolution to Fidel Castro and his allies. Today, visitors can visit Che's mausoleum, see an armored train derailed by rebel soldiers, or stroll the streets of this 300-year-old city, centered on the beautiful Parque Vidal.

The surprisingly hip cultural scene includes a rock festival, drag club, and modern art museums; the popular beaches of Cayo Santa Maria, linked via a causeway, are nearby.

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Of all the wonderful places to visit in Cuba, the city of Havana tops most travelers’ lists. And while old Havana is a spectacular place, where else should you go in Cuba? Are there other good cities, or beaches, or nature spots?

I’m glad you asked! Cuba is one of the most interesting of the Caribbean islands, and there are so many cool places to visit in this island nation. Cuba is like nowhere else in the world, and there’s a surprising amount of diversity in the island.

Here you can make your way from colonial cities like Trinidad and Cienfuegos to gorgeous beaches like Playa Maria la Gorda and Playa Giron, as well as natural wonderlands like El Nicho and Viñales Valley.

I asked my travel blogging colleagues to share their favorite spots, and WOW. You are going to love them.

Also, if you’re American and thinking about visiting Cuba, YOU CAN! I did as an American in early 2020, and plenty of Americans visit on a regular basis. I wrote a complete guide on how to visit Cuba as an American and what you need to know before you go.

This post was last updated in April 2022.

Table of Contents

Map of Places to Visit in Cuba

The capital of Havana , the outdoorsy paradise of Viñales , and the colonial city of Trinidad are the top destinations in Cuba and very popular with tourists.

Varadero is a popular Cuba beach resort destination with gorgeous beaches. Playa Giron and Playa Larga are other great beach options.

If you want to visit places that many other tourists don’t, check out the fascinating town of Sancti Spiritus and the island of Cayo Levisa.

You will likely start your trip in Havana. From there, you can travel around via the Viazul bus line or take shared taxis (colectivos), or more expensive private taxis, depending on your location.

Submitted by Anne Betts of Packing Light Travel

Havana boasts a rich mixture of history, art, architecture, politics, culture, and food. One of the best ways to enjoy a pleasant introduction to these facets of Cuban life is through a food tour while feasting on churros or sipping a mojito.

In Old Havana, visit a couple of other memorable works of José Ramón Villa Soberón, including the one of Ernest Hemingway at El Floridita. The famous cocktail bar is credited with introducing the world to the frozen daiquiri in the 1930s, a favourite drink of the author. Ordering a daiquiri isn’t mandatory, but it’s desirable.

Best things to do in Havana: Take a tour of Havana landmarks in one of the vintage cars. A popular stop is Parque John Lennon  in Vedado, where tourists cozy up to a bronze statue of the famous musician relaxing on an ornate park bench. Created by José Ramón Villa Soberón, the sculpture warrants its own security guard to safeguard the replica of the circular-rimmed glasses that were a recognizable signature of Lennon’s period of political activism.

How to get to Havana: Havana is the main hub of Cuba, and all flights and travel routes lead through Havana.

Where to stay in Havana: The best place to stay in Havana is at a casa particular , or guesthouse, where hosts may or may not live on the premises. It’s an opportunity to forge meaningful connections with Cuban residents. Enjoy home-cooked meals, receive recommendations on things to do and help with transportation and bookings at casa particulars in other regions.

In Havana, the Vedado neighbourhood is a good choice. Compared to Old Havana and the city center, there’s less traffic and more green spaces that translate into cleaner air. The neighbourhood is dotted with old mansions oozing loads of character, and services such as supermarkets, money-changing centres, and Wi-Fi zones.

Visit a restaurant in Vedado, and chances are it’s an establishment serving Cuban specialties and is one frequented by locals.

Submitted by Bella from Passport & Pixels

Viñales is a pretty, colourful town in the Pinar del Rio region in the west of Cuba, surrounded by the Sierra de los Organos mountains and the lush green farmland of the Viñales Valley. Its main attractions are all outdoors — hiking, cycling, horseback riding or even rock climbing in the steep-sided limestone hills — just pick your favorite outdoor adventure!

Best things to do in Viñales: One of the most popular things to do in Viñales is to take a horseback riding tour of the valley. These usually last about 3-5 hours and are a great way to enjoy the region’s stunning scenery of rolling hills studded with palm trees.

But if horses aren’t your thing, you might prefer to do a day hike to visit the tobacco farms for which Viñales is famous. Here you can meet local farmers and learn about how they produce Cuba’s most iconic export — cigars — and even get to try one yourself.

How to get to Viñales: Viñales is about a 2.5-hour drive from Havana, and the easiest way to get there is either by bus or private taxi. The best way to do this is to first take a taxi to the central coach and taxi station, and then haggle with the drivers there. You’ll get a much better price than if you try to book through your hotel, and you might even get to ride in one of  Cuba’s gorgeous classic cars .

Another option is to join a shared taxi (colectivo) from Havana.

Where to stay in Viñales: The best place to stay while in Viñales is in one of the private homestays known as casas particulares. These give you a much more authentic (and often nicer) experience of Cuba than staying in a hotel. Just turn up and look for the signs on people’s front doors or book through Airbnb.

Submitted by Trijit Mallick from  DogTravel Buff

With bright-colored buildings, pastel houses, and cobblestone streets, Trinidad is one of the best-preserved colonial towns in Cuba. It is a small town but packed with history, beautiful architecture, scenic beauty, and delicious local cuisines.

After a few hours in Trinidad, you’ll soon see why it’s one of the best places to visit in Cuba!

Best things to do in Trinidad: Plaza Mayor is the best place to start exploring the city. It is the main square where the Church of the Holy Trinity is located. The stunning pale yellow-colored church is a great spot for photography. Make sure to visit Brunet Palace, a large yellow building consisting of two floors. You will also find some other historical buildings and restaurants in this area. Sala Class is very popular in Trinidad. You can go for a group lesson for a unique experience.

If you are a beach person, Playa Ancon is a must-visit place for you. You can rent a bike or take a public bus that takes around 30 minutes to reach Playa Ancon. Enjoy the beautiful combination of blue waters, white sand beach, and palm trees.

There is no shortage of bars and restaurants in Trinidad. Restaurante San José is a solid option for people looking to taste authentic Cuban cuisine. The canchanchara is the original signature cocktail of Cuba and it’s very popular in this region.

How to get to Trinidad: Bus service is available from all major cities (like Havana, Viñales, and Varadero) to Trinidad and is the cheapest way to get to Trinidad. If budget is less of a concern, hire a shared or private taxi (colectivo) or rent a car for a more flexible journey. It takes around four hours to reach Trinidad from Havana by road.

Where to stay in Trinidad: You can stay at casas particulares which are basically private homestays like B&B. These private B&Bs offer air-conditioning and hot water at a very reasonable price.

Submitted by Martha from May Cause Wanderlust

Cuba is teeming with culture, but it also has wonderful natural beauty and some stunning beaches — and the most spectacular beach is at Varadero, a peninsula in the north of Cuba.

Varadero beach  is 20 km of fine white sand, lapped by bright turquoise water and lined by lush green coconut trees. It really is special. By far the best thing to do here is to relax in the warmth of the Caribbean sun, letting the sound of the waves soothe you as you sip on fresh coconut milk.

Best things to do in Varadero: If you like to be active, there are things to do in Varadero like scuba diving, kayaking, fishing and golf. There’s also an ecological park with some ancient cave drawings.

You can even visit the former homes of the American millionaires and gangsters, who once made Varadero their playground, before the revolution. Al Capone’s old house is now a restaurant!

How to get to Varadero: Varadero has its own international airport, so many people fly straight in. If you’re driving from Havana, Varadero is about a 2.5-hour drive east of there, along the Via Blanca.

Where to stay in Varadero: Varadero has been one of Cuba’s major tourist resort areas since the 1990s, and there are plenty of 4-star and 5-star hotels, mainly in the middle and eastern end of the peninsula, including several Iberostar hotels. 

However, if you prefer to travel independently and/or you’re on a budget, there are plenty of lower-cost guesthouses on the western end of the peninsula.

Sancti Spiritus

Submitted by Sarah Carter from Cuba’s Best

One of Cuba’s oldest cities, Sancti Spiritus is usually bypassed in favor of the more touristy Trinidad, but this lovely city is great for visiting if you’d like some time off the tourist trail.  Although it’s not so far off the beaten track that you can’t easily get here on the Viazul Bus (which is your best option for transport). 

There are colonial buildings, lovely squares, a medieval bridge that wouldn’t look out of place in rural England, and some fabulous spots to just chill out.

Puente Yayabo, the bridge in question is worth the walk and is best viewed from the Taberna Yayabo while clutching a refreshing drink. To get there, walk down Calle Llano the most atmospheric street in Sancti Spiritus. You’ll find the center of life in Sancti Spiritus in Plaza Serafin Sánchez where people-watching is the main thing to do.  

Best things to do in Sancti Spiritus: For something unique, go to the Casa de La Guayabera. The Guayabera is a style of shirt, with a collar and pockets, worn primarily by farmers, but made popular by Fidel Castro.

Cubans claim that the shirt was invented here and so, the free museum displays a collection of the shirts previously worn by the famous people and you’ll get to see local ladies making more shirts too. Sancti Spiritus has the look and feel of Trinidad without the jiniteros. Come here for a little slice of regular Cuban life!

How to get to Sancti Spiritus: Sancti Spiritus can easily be reached on the Viazul Bus.

Where to stay in Sancti Spiritus: Stay at the Real Colonial Hostal for a great location close to the main square and super friendly staff.

Submitted by Antoine and Marielle of Offbeat Escapades

Cayo Coco is one of Cuba’s most beautiful places, as well as one of the country’s more remote islands. Featuring turquoise waters and fine sands, it’s no wonder why Cayo Coco has starred in many movies and novels such as Hemingway’s Islands in the Stream and The Old Man and the Sea .

It is also a great place to go if you’re looking for a unique destination in Cuba that feels offbeat, isolated, and laidback.

Best things to do in Cayo Coco: Given Cayo Coco’s idyllic waters and landscapes, beaches are the main attraction and best thing to do on the island. The most well-known beach in Cayo Coco is Playa Los Flamencos. This stellar beach is over 5 kilometers long, facing the Atlantic Sea, and features pristine white sand.

If you’re looking for a quieter beach, you can also check out Playa Prohibida which is more suitable for hikers or those who want a more peaceful yet adventurous nature experience. Finally, Cayo Coco is also well-known for bird-watching activities.

How to get to Cayo Coco: Cayo Coco is connected to the mainland by a bridge so to get to the island, you can either drive, or if you prefer a more convenient option, you can arrive by airplane from one of the major airport hubs in the country.

Where to Stay in Cayo Coco: Once you arrive, you can stay in one of the island’s many luxurious resorts and hotels such as Melia Cayo Coco Hotel and Memories Caribe Beach Resort. These hotels offer a relaxing atmosphere with beachfront views.

Submitted by Claire from Tales of a Backpacker

Cienfuegos itself is much like other Cuban cities, with colonial architecture and an attractive main square.  In the evening, stroll down to Punta Gorda and enjoy the views of the sunset from the Malecón, or even better, from the terrace of the Palacio de Valle restaurant for 360-degree views.

Best things to do in Cienfuegos: You can visit El Castillo, a small fortress built to defend the city from pirates, but what really makes Cienfuegos worth adding to your  Cuba itinerary  is the wealth of things to do outside the city. 

Laguna Guanaroca is a nature reserve where you can take a boat trip out to the lake to watch flamingos – a rare time to enjoy peace and tranquillity in Cuba!  There is also a  güira  orchard here, a fruit that is used to make maracas, as well as other species of birds and trees to admire. 

The beautiful waterfalls at El Nicho are another must-visit, an hour and 15-minute taxi ride away from the centre of Cienfuegos.  Here you will find a series of natural pools and waterfalls for swimming and bathing – even better if you have a bottle of Havana Club chilling in the cool water.

How to get to Cienfuegos: Cienfuegos is on the road to Trinidad from Havana, about a 90-minute drive from Trinidad.  There are buses that pass through Cienfuegos from Havana and Trinidad, or you can hire a collectivo taxi from Trinidad which can work out cheaper than the bus if you club together with other travelers.

Where to stay in Cienfuegos: Stay at one of the casas particulares in Cienfuegos, such as Casa Vista al Mar, which has a swimming pool and a seafront terrace. Be sure to eat at least one meal at Doña Nora, an excellent restaurant serving great value local specialities like  ropa vieja .

El Nicho 

Submitted by Paul Healey from Anywhere We Roam

Topes de Collantes is a nature reserve stretching across the Escambray Mountains in the center of Cuba, close to Cienfuegos. The reserve is made up of 5 smaller parks and one of the most impressive is  Parque El Nicho . Here palm trees clear intermittently to reveal canyon views and waterfalls drop into crystal clear natural swimming pools.

It’s a beautiful place to visit in Cuba to unwind in nature and enjoy scenic wild swimming.

Best things to do in El Nicho: A short hiking trail (1.5 kilometers) called El Reino de los Aguas includes the most scenic sections of El Nicho, including several waterfalls and lookout points. Surrounded by palm trees and framed by large rocks, this natural swimming spot at the base of the main waterfall is the perfect place to unwind after exploring the park.

There is a small fee to enter, however, at press time they are currently only accepting euros as payment. A tour guide is not necessary to visit the park, and you can easily stroll around on your own.

How to get to El Nicho: A popular way to get to El Nicho is to take a colectivo from Cienfuegos on the way through to Trinidad. The driver will look after your luggage in the car and wait for around two hours while you explore the park. Your host or hotel in Cienfuegos will be able to arrange transportation.

Where to stay in El Nicho: It’s best to stay in the nearby city of Cienfuegos and use it as a base for visiting El Nicho.

Playa Giron

Submitted by Raluca of Travel With A Spin

Playa Giron lies in the Bay of Pigs , around three hours away from Havana or Varadero by Viazul or a shared taxi. The region is pretty remote by Cuban standards.

But if you love white sand and clear turquoise waters with few tourists and no hotels, Playa Giron and Playa de los Cocos are perfect options for sunbathing and a quick swim.

Best things to do in Playa Giron: Besides sun and water, here one can enjoy snorkeling among fish and coral reefs. The best places to do so are Caleta Buena, Cueva dos Peces and Punta Perdiz.

While there’s a bus connecting these beaches, a popular option is to rent a bike and ride to one of them. The road is mostly flat and there aren’t many cars, making it an easy ride. Besides, the landscape is nice and you can stop wherever you want to admire it, talk to the fishermen or take some nice photos.

At Museo Girón you can learn everything about the historical conflict between Castro and the United States that led to the famous embargo. A little farther, Zapata Swamp is a tentative UNESCO World Heritage Site mostly unknown to foreigners. This incredible place boasts diverse landscapes, including a lagoon, Fidel’s crocodile farm, and underwater shipwrecks. 

How to get to Playa Giron: Playa Giron can be accessed via the Viazul bus or a shared taxi. It’s located about a three-hour drive from Havana and Varadero.

Where to stay in Playa Giron: Playa Giron is a small village and although there’s a hotel, this is a great place for a more authentic experience. Most of the locals rent their spare rooms to tourists.

A great option is Hostal Sur Caribe, close to the center of the village. The owner is knowledgeable, prepares delicious breakfasts and can help guests rent bicycles.

Submitted by Carley from Home to Havana

Located on the eastern end of Cuba, Baracoa is one of Cuba’s oldest and most historic cities. A perfect combination of history, culture, and natural beauty, this small town is a great addition to any Cuba itinerary.

In addition to having a charming historic center — one of Cuba’s most beautiful and laidback — Baracoa also has a number of beautiful white sand beaches to enjoy. Playa Maguana, just a 30-minute drive outside of Baracoa, is also a local favorite for its unspoiled beach and white sand.

Best things to do in Baracoa: If you’re a nature lover and looking to appreciate Cuba’s natural beauty beyond the beaches head to El Yunque to discover some of the  best hiking in Cuba .

El Yunque — or “the anvil” in Spanish because of its distinct flat top shape — is one of the most unique mountains in the Caribbean, and was detailed in Christopher Columbus’s journals about his arrival in Cuba. Here you’ll find lush tropical forests and waterfalls, perfect for swimming in after the three-hour hike to the mountaintop.

How to get to Baracoa: Baracoa was once only accessible by sea until the creation of a highway after the Cuban Revolution in 1959, but today Baracoa is easily accessible via a two-hour drive from nearby Santiago de Cuba. You can also find direct flights from Havana into the small airport in Baracoa. 

Where to stay in Baracoa: Stay at one of the many casas particulares for the best, most local experience at every price point.

Cayo Levisa

Submitted by Alex Tiffany of Just Go Exploring

If you’re looking for a slice of paradise, minus the other tourists, be sure to include Cayo Levisa in your Cuba itinerary .

This beautiful little cay off the coast of Pinar del Rio province in western Cuba is a picture-perfect Caribbean island, straight out of a postcard.  Most of the north shore is one long beach, with soft white sand and perfectly clear, clean turquoise water. On the south side you’ll find thick mangrove swamp teeming with birds and marine life.

The best thing about Cayo Levisa is how undeveloped it is. There is only one (small) hotel on the island, offering a few simple bungalow-style rooms. Other than that, the island is mostly natural and untouched.  

Best things to do in Cayo Levisa: You can walk the length of Cayo Levisa and see very few people. Once you get away from the hotel, you basically have the whole place to yourself. Swim in the sea, sip a coconut in the shade, or just laze the day away in a hammock.  Enjoy your own (almost) private island.

Several excellent diving spots are accessible from the north shore, with amazing visibility and loads of tropical fish and coral reefs. You can arrange diving trips from the hotel reception. Alternatively, the snorkeling is also pretty good just off the beach.

How to get to Cayo Levisa: To get to Cayo Levisa, you need to take a ferry from the village of Palma Rubia. The ferry runs twice a day, going out to the island at 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM, returning visitors to the mainland at 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM.  

Palma Rubia itself is an easy 45-minute drive from Viñales. If you don’t have your own transport, either organize a tour from Viñales or take a taxi (but be sure to arrange a return pickup as you might struggle to flag a cab in Palma Rubia – there’s not much there).

Most people visit the island as part of a day trip from Viñales.  However, if you have time, I recommend you stay here for at least a couple of nights.  Cayo Levisa is even more magical and unspoiled once the day-trippers have left.

Where to stay in Cayo Levisa: There is only one (small) hotel on the island, offering a few simple bungalow-style rooms. 

Contributed by Allison of Eternal Arrival

Matanzas is a cultural hub in Cuba, with lively streets and bustling plazas often bursting with live music. It’s a wonderful place to visit if you want to travel a little off the beaten path when  preparing for your Cuba trip .

Located just a 55-mile drive from Havana, Matanzas makes a great day trip or is a good stop along the route between Havana and the resort city of Varadero, with its stunning beaches.

Best things to do in Matanzas: Matanzas is also home to several museums, including the Junco Palace Museum (which focuses on regional history), the Museo de Artes de Matanzas, as well as the Museo Farmaceutico, a unique pharmacy museum. 

Be sure to check out the Castillo de San Severino, one of the largest fortresses in the Caribbean, which dates back to 1734. Don’t miss the Museum of the Slave Route located inside, which tells the story of the enslaved Africans who built the fortress.

Check out the areas around Plaza de la Vigia and Plaza de la Libertad to see street life in Cuba at its finest!

How to get to Matanzas: As with most travel in Cuba, arranging a private taxi is typically the most straightforward way to get between destinations, though it’s the most expensive. You can also take a taxi colectivo from Havana’s Central Park, or the Viazul bus. Depending on your transit mode, it’ll take between 1.5 and 2.5 hours between Havana and Matanzas.

Where to stay in Matanzas: As with most Cuban destinations, casa particulares are the way to go with accommodation. While I often relied on word-of-mouth referrals when choosing where to stay (Cubans network like no other!), you can also find cute accommodations on Airbnb, like this private room at  Casa Manzaneda .

Playa Larga

Submitted by Gemma from Two Scots Abroad

Playa Larga in Cuba is a historically significant area located in the Bay of Pigs, known for the failed US invasion in 1961. Today, one of the best reasons to visit the Bay of Pigs in Cuba is to explore underwater via diving or snorkeling. 

Best things to do in Playa Larga: As with most activities in Cuba, you can organize your dive the day before, and sometimes this is the only option. Aim to find a casa around the small town of Caleton or book a resort at Playa Larga or Girón, then ask your host or taxi collectivo driver to set up a session with a local dive school such as The Octopus Club. 

A driver will pick you and the other divers up from casas and resorts and drop you off at the dive center where you will be kitted out with equipment. Next, you will hop back on the bus to the dive site, a quiet beach with stretches of calm waters.

After a quick introduction and dive instructions in Spanish with hand actions to translate, it is time to walk into the water. Yes, you physically walk into this dive site, which keeps costs down as there is no need for a boat. 

Under the water, you will see lots of colorful fish and reefs, a truly magical and very affordable diving experience. 

As always, if you don’t want to dive, you can snorkel instead!

How to get to Playa Larga: To get to the Playa Larga area, you can attempt the Viazul bus, but not all drivers will stop. To secure transport, book a taxi collectivo from  Havana , Viñales or Trinidad, which will be pricier but offers a guarantee. 

Where to stay in Playa Larga: For accommodation, consider a casa particular in Caleton or Playa Larga, which you can ask your taxi to find for you or book via Airbnb before you arrive. 

Playa Maria la Gorda

Submitted by Džangir Kolar from Dr Jam Travels

Playa Maria la Gorda is a beautiful Cuban beach located in the western province of Pinar del Rio on Guanahacabibes Peninsula on the far west point of the main island.  When you get to this destination you will find yourself in a typical Caribbean paradise with palm trees, white sands, and turquoise clear water.

As this is a quintessential Cuban beach, Playa Maria la Gorda features activities like swimming, sunbathing, and partying with cheap rum drinks during the night.

Best things to do in Playa Maria la Gorda: The waters off Playa Maria la Gorda are full of marine life, so this place is perfect for snorkeling or diving. You can just swim off the coast or take a tour with the dive center. You can hire a guide and explore the area, maybe even see crocodiles or turtles nesting.

How to get to Playa Maria la Gorda: You will be arriving probably from the capital of the region Pinar del Rio in the east. With a car, it will take you around 2.5 hours. The bus will take an hour more. Coming from Viñales will take an extra half hour.

Where to stay in Playa Maria la Gorda: The only accommodation option here is Hotel Maria la Gorda.

Santa Clara

Submitted by Dan from Layer Culture

When looking for the best places to visit in Cuba you are spoiled for choice — but one city that captivates many travelers is Santa Clara. Here there are two large monuments and a special museum commemorating Che Guevara, a must-see for people interested in Cuban history. 

Best things to do in Santa Clara: Whilst exploring Santa Clara you can learn all about Che Guevara via the Mausoleum, a gigantic marble-made monument that was originally put up in 1988. The landmark, which is open year-round also has a small museum open 8:30 AM until 12:30 PM, but be aware that visitors are prohibited from carrying any personal items inside.

Other popular  things to do in Santa Clara  include hiking up Loma del Caprio and visiting Teatro la Caridad, one of the last colonial theaters that remain in Cuba. You also have Leoncio Vidal Park, which is a fantastic spot to sit and enjoy the Cuban lifestyle in the evenings. It’s not unusual to see locals dancing around here while enjoying rum cocktails.

How to get to Santa Clara: You can arrive to Santa Clara directly from Havana using the Viazul bus service which takes around 3-4 hours. 

Where to stay in Santa Clara:  By booking a stay at Hostal Vista al Mejunje you’ll feel right at home and the huge breakfast spread they put out in the mornings will leave your eyes wide open.

Submitted by Claudia Tavani from My Adventures Across The World

Lesser visited compared to many other places in Cuba,  Camaguey  can be puzzling for those who choose to visit. While it’s somewhat less touristy compared to Havana or Trinidad, Cuba’s third-largest city (located exactly at the center of the island) is actually packed with touts — locally known as jineteros — who will hardly leave a traveler alone.

That should not detract you from its beauty — in fact, the historic center of Camaguey is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This was built in a medina style to keep pirates at bay. It means getting lost in Camaguey is almost a given; but on the other hand this will allow you to discover its many corners and hidden gems.

Best things to do in Camaguey: The city is packed with beautiful churches and squares. The ones you should not miss include the Sacred Heart of Jesus Cathedral, the 1748 church of Nuestra Señora de la Merced.

Parque Ignatio Agramonte is the prettiest square in town, so make sure not to miss that either — there’s also a museum by the same name which has an interesting display of antique furniture and an exhibit of 19th and 20th century Cuban art.

How to get to Camaguey: You can get to Camagüey by Viazul bus from Havana and Santiago — it’s the line that connects the two cities and goes on to Trinidad and Cienfuegos. The trip from Havana takes about 10 hours. It’s 6.5 hours from Santiago and five hours from Trinidad.

Where to stay in Camaguey: The best place to stay in Camagüey is the Casa de Caridad, a casa particular in Oscar Primelles 310A between Bartolomé Masò and Padre Olallo. It’s a large colonial house with antique furniture and a beautiful garden at the back.

Santiago de Cuba

Submitted by Jordan from  Hamburg and Beyond

The second-largest city in Cuba after Havana, Santiago de Cuba is bursting with bright colors and charming architecture . Santiago de Cuba played an important role in the Cuban Revolution, with the revolution beginning at the Moncada Barracks in the city in 1953 and ending with Fidel Castro declaring victory on the balcony of Santiago de Cuba’s city hall in 1959.

Best things to do in Santiago de Cuba: Besides roaming the colorful streets of Santiago de Cuba, center yourself around Céspedes Park – the main square of the city.

Make sure to visit the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption. First constructed in 1514, this is considered a minor basilica by the Holy See and became a national monument in 1958.

Less than a block away from this cathedral are two great places to get drinks: the porch area of Hotel Casa Granda and Casa de La Trova. The former offers a perfect people-watching location and is beautifully designed, while the latter offers a more authentic experience with live music.

How to get to Santiago de Cuba: It’s easy to reach Santiago de Cuba via plane by flying into Antonio Maceo International Airport. As the city is on the opposite side of Cuba from Havana, driving to/from Santiago de Cuba is a bit more treacherous!  The city’s airport has connections to Havana as well as other nearby islands and Paris, France. 

Where to stay in Santiago de Cuba: Hotel Casa Granda is also the ideal place to stay due to its proximity to everything in the city and high-class amenities. 

More on Cuba and the Caribbean:

Can Americans Travel to Cuba? Yes. Here’s How.

Puerto Rico Has it All

Why Travel to Antigua and Barbuda

A Weekend in St. Croix, US Virgin Islands

Have you been to Cuba? What’s your favorite place? Share away!

4 thoughts on “18 Stunning Places to Visit in Cuba”

Kate- first off, these collaborative posts are just so fabulous (Paris streets, cenotes). It stands to reason that you are only 1 person and have time limitations. It’s just a really nice method to draw on colleagues wisdom, and at the same time, have you organize the material and proofread it so it matches your style and is up to snuff, quality wise.

Cuba has been one of my most beloved trips. It was a land so full of contradictions and magic, but one has to be open to it. I guess that is true of anywhere, but it seemed like there were more layers that needed unwrapping in Cuba.

Havana had its appeal, but the hustling wore on me and honestly, a couple days was enough for me, at least in one chunk.

A place that most people skip over, or stop by for an hour en route to Vinales (to see the orchid gardens) is Soroa. I love stopping in rural areas in the developing world. The people do not hustle tourists. Their pace of life is slow and they are friendly. I had some magical experiences there, just meeting locals on top of mountains (making jewelry with local seeds), horseback riding and befriending the guide for other hangouts, and eating dinner in a locals’ home in their stunning garden.

Vinales was special as well, although more touristy – although it’s covered in this blog post and elsewhere.

Cayo Levisa was covered, although may I suggest staying in the town of Palma Rubia and taking the boat to the island for the day, or a couple of days. It’s not much of a town. I stayed in a casa particular, where nobody spoke a word of English. I managed to get by with the daughter-in-law translating between fast Spanish (that the father in law spoke) to slow Spanish (that I could understand). They’d ask what I wanted to eat, and then we’d go outside and get it. As in, pick mangoes, kill a chicken, climb a coconut tree and pour their own rum and honey in it, have their fisherman friend from down the road bring shrimp to us. I was supposed to spend my last 2 days in Havana, but ended up staying here that extra time, once I discovered it was easy to get around with a private ride (a cab that was arranged at my casa particular).

Getting to these smaller towns was truly a rural slice of Cuba that most travelers will bypass if they stick with Havana or resort towns. Don’t make that mistake!

Aww Sherry, I’m so glad you’re enjoying the collab posts! They really help fill out some areas where I’m missing the knowledge.

Agree that a few days in Havana is more than enough. Especially Old Havana. But I loved the countryside so much. And thanks for the recommendations!

Hi Kate – this is a great list! I’ve visited most of the places you mentioned during my trip to Cuba a couple of years ago. I particularly liked Viñales and Baracoa. The latter totally blew me away as the natural surroundings seemed so removed from most of the rest of the island, somewhat wilder and more untamed than the rest of the island.

I didn’t get to any of the Cayos you mentioned but they sound amazing as well. I’ll check them out during my next visit. A place I really enjoyed was the Sierra Maestra Mountain Range, including a hike up Pico Turquino, the island’s highest peak. If you haven’t been there, I can really recommend exploring the area. The town of Bayamo is a good base for that and a nice place to visit in its own right.

Anyways, thanks for the cool article! Reinhard

Awesome! Thanks for the recommendations, Reinhard.

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Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Cuba

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on October 3, 2023

The largest of the Caribbean islands is Cuba, located less than 160 km (100 miles) from the southernmost point of Florida in the US. Although still closed off to American tourists, Cuba is open to other world travelers eager to explore the rich culture and history of the island. Known for its legendary cigars, American vintage cars, stunning beaches, not to mention a few rum distilleries, Cuba clearly has a lot to offer visitors. When selecting the best places to visit in Cuba, be sure to embrace both the rural and the city experiences. The perfect trip to Cuba will include Havana, but it will also get off the beaten track and explore the incredible scenery and culture of the entire island.

10. Jardines del Rey [SEE MAP]

Just north of the mainland, and connected via bridges, is the archipelago called Jardines del Rey. Jardines del Rey, or Gardens of the King, is a chain of islands including Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo, Cayo Paredon Grande and Cayo Romano. The islands weren’t true tourist destinations until the 1990s, when the first hotel was built. Even today, many visitors come for the fact that the chain is still largely undeveloped. Playa Pilar on Cayo Coco is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches, and it is located just steps from a number of all-inclusive resorts.

9. Maria la Gorda [SEE MAP]

On the far western tip of Cuba is the small town of Maria la Gorda. While Maria la Gorda might not have a lot of infrastructure or big tourist attractions, it still gets plenty of visitors throughout the year. That’s because Maria la Gorda is one of the top diving destinations in the Caribbean. If you’re a scuba diver, then make your way to the area for guided trips out to sea. The underwater marine life is rich, and regular trips depart from the marina. Many visitors opt for an inclusive package that combines accommodation, dining and diving in one price. Snorkeling trips are also popular, though less common than diving excursions.

8. Baracoa [SEE MAP]

While Havana might be the modern capital of Cuba, it wasn’t always the center of Cuban politics. Baracoa is sometimes known as the First City, and it was the very first capital of the island. Baracoa was founded in the early 16th century by famed explorer Diego Velazquez, and it retains much of its colonial architecture. The Catedral de Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion is just one example worth checking out. Baracoa is also a great base for visiting El Yunque, a mountain overlooking the city where visitors can hike and explore the green, lush rainforest environment just 30 minutes from the beach.

7. Cayo Largo del Sur [SEE MAP]

Cayo Largo del Sur, also known just as Cayo Largo, is a small island off the mainland of Cuba. If you are visiting Cuba in order to find gorgeous, uncrowded beaches, then it makes sense to visit the resort-like island of Cayo Largo. The largest and most popular beach on the island is Playa Sirena, the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun. Common activities on Cayo Largo include swimming, snorkeling, surfing and kayaking. The Marina is a hub for the island, and it is also where you’ll find the fascinating sea turtle hatchery, which offers regular tours to visitors.

6. Cienfuegos [SEE MAP]

Cienfuegos is a city in Cuba that is unlike others on the island. Since it was founded by the French, rather than the Spanish, it has a unique atmosphere. The city is known as La Perla del Sur, or the Pearl of the South. For those who appreciate mid-century modern architecture, the peninsula of Punta Gorda is a must see. There are still many 1950s homes, many of which have been carefully preserved. The center of Cienfuegos is Pueblo Nuevo, where you can explore the history museum, dine at an outdoor cafe or take a Spanish or French language lesson.

5. Santiago de Cuba [SEE MAP]

Located in eastern Cuba, Santiago de Cuba is a coastal city known for its colonial history. Santiago de Cuba was founded in the 16th century by the Spanish, and it is known as the Second City of Cuba. The heart of the city is the Parque Cespedes, a central plaza that is surrounded by a number of historical Spanish colonial structures. In more recent history, the plaza was where Fidel Castro famously declared the revolution a success in 1959. You can also explore the Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca, a 17th century fortress overlooking the bay.

4. Varadero [SEE MAP]

Just a short drive from Havana is Varadero, a popular beach resort town found on Hicacos Peninsula. Many miles of coastline let you enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean, and the white sandy beaches and blue warm waters really are stunning to behold. While the gorgeous beach is the reason why Varadero is among the best places to visit in Cuba, there is plenty more to do. Parque Josone is a gorgeous park filled with botanical gardens, lakes, wildlife and bridges, not to mention music, vendors and even camel rides for kids. Also worth exploring are the Bellamar Caves, an extensive cavern system that been available to visitors for more than 150 years.

3. Vinales [SEE MAP]

While Cuba has several national parks, none is so beautiful and accessible as the one located in the Viñales Valley. Viñales is known as a stunning destination, and history tells that it was Castro’s favorite place on the island. The valley is surrounded by mountains, tobacco still grows to manufacture iconic Cuban cigars and countless caves add an extra ounce of adventure for the intrepid traveler. One of the most popular caves is the Cuevas del Indio, or Indian Caves, where you can actually take a boat ride completely within the cavern system itself.

2. Trinidad [SEE MAP]

For those with a love of history or architecture, Trinidad is a great place to visit in Cuba. The heart of Trinidad is Plaza Mayor, the main square surrounded by neo-Baroque buildings. Next door to the plaza is a colonial convent that now houses the Museum of the War Against the Bandits, or the Lucha Contra Bandidos. After exploring the museum, walk uphill away from the Plaza Mayor to shop for handicraft souvenirs. Popular items for sale include hand-sewn tablecloths and napkin linens. Another of the breathtaking structures in Trinidad is the Palacio Brunet Mansion, which now serves as the Museo Romantico. Visit to admire a fantastic collection of 19th century artworks and antiques.

1. Havana [SEE MAP]

Last, but certainly not least, is the city of Havana. As the capital of Cuba and the major transport hub, virtually all visitors will spend at least some time exploring Havana. This sophisticated, retro and cosmopolitan city is known for its spectacular nightlife, but days offer just as much excitement.

Start in La Habana Vieja, or the Old Town, where crumbling colonial buildings and vibrant mid-century structures stand side by side. Don’t leave Havana without watching cigars being rolled by hand in a small factory, or tasting some local rum fresh from the distillery. Mingle with the locals along Malecón, the seawall right along the coast that offers sea views and plenty of fun.

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Reader interactions.

January 3, 2019 at 8:36 pm

Hi, nice write up! I have been to a handful of these places but have many more on my list! I’d love to go to Baracoa or Santiago de Cuba next!

Just a note that you might want to consider changing: Cuba is indeed open to American tourists. Americans can visit Cuba under one of the twelve ‘reasons’ on the visa. The visa is bought online and is easy to obtain. Likewise, plane tickets direct from the US to Cuba can be purchased with no hassle. I have travelled there multiple times since 2017 (free travel, not with a tour) with no issue.

June 9, 2017 at 7:17 pm

Thank you for the excellent information on Cuba, locations shown are perfect.

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Top Things to Do in Cuba, Caribbean

Places to visit in cuba, explore popular experiences, top attractions in cuba.

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31 places to visit in Cuba

Home > Blog > 31 places to visit in Cuba

Cuba is absolutely brimming with history, culture, and mystery – if you know where to look. Sure, everyone knows about Havana, Varadero, and even Viñales, which are all definite must-sees for anyone visiting Cuba, but there’s also so much more to the little country that sits off the south coast of the USA.

Wander along cobbled streets in little towns listening to live music, take pictures next to the vintage cars that dot every street, and go on a hike through one of the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Here are 31 of the best places to visit in Cuba …

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As the capital city, Havana is probably the obvious choice when you’re looking for the best place to visit in Cuba. But that doesn’t mean it should be avoided, just because it’s obvious. It’s sophisticated, cosmopolitan, with a great nightlife, and a square of the houses of the four richest families in Cuba – definitely not one to miss. It’s the best place in the world to watch cigars being rolled by hand in small factories or to taste local rum fresh from a distillery.

Old Town Havana

Havana and Old Town Havana are not the same thing, trust me. Old Town may be full of tourists, but it’s certainly a place of enough beauty to warrant the business. Wander through the charming little streets to discover stunning squares, churches, and buildings, all complete with that distinctive old school Havana architectural style.

This charming little town can be found on the Hicacos Peninsula, complete with miles of coastline to enjoy the views offered by the Atlantic Ocean while sunning yourself on the white sandy beaches. It’s not just the beaches that appeal; there’s also the Parque Josone, filled with botanical gardens, lakes, and wildlife, as well as various different music experiences in local bars.

Jardines Del Ray

Connected to the mainland by a series of bridges, the Jardines del Trey archipelago is a chain of islands that include Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo, Cayo Paredon Grande, and Cayo Romano. The first hotel wasn’t built here until the 1990s, but despite the fact that the chain is still relatively undeveloped, it’s still home to some of the most beautiful and popular beaches in all of Cuba.

This little town has always sat in the shadows of its more famous neighbours: Varadero and Havana, but it deserves just as much love as the bigger cities get. Most people forget about Matanzas, which means it’s pretty lacking on the tourist front, and it’s full of unique, fun things to do: wander around the charmingly relaxed town centre or take a chicken bus ride to the local beaches. There’s even a train to Havana that runs through the scenery and local villages of Cuba.

Santa Clara

Santa Clara was the final battleground of the Cuban Revolution, which you can learn all about at the local mausoleum, museum, and statue dedicated to Che. The town square even has a hotel that still shows bullet holes from the battles that took place there. The entire city is centred around the revolution, with Revolution Square and Revolution Café in the centre, but if that’s not your deal then head to El Gabernero for great food in an old colonial house.

Known as the labyrinth city of Cuba, Camagüey is very much a love it or hate it city. Completely unique, and something totally different, the city was built in a medina style to keep away attackers who would inevitably get lost. The centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s full of tiny alleys and art parlours and galleries built next to colonial buildings.

Playa Jibacoa

Just an hour away from Havana, Playa Jibacoa boasts the title of one of the best beaches in all of Cuba – and rightfully so. It’s still pretty hidden away from the tourist traps, and there are no public buses that run to the beach – you can only get there by car. Thanks to this, you’ll pretty much have the beach to yourself. Enjoy.

Caguanes National Park

Another UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this national park is perfect for eco and adventure tourism. It’s here you can find Caguanes Cay, Cienaga swamp, Guayaberas, and Piedra Cays. Plus, it’s the perfect spot to go caving, with 79 coastal caves to enjoy.

Found in the Jardines del Rey archipelago, Cayo Coco was the setting for two of Hemingway’s novels: Islands in the Stream, and The Old Man and the Sea. This is thanks to its idyllic beaches and relatively isolated location, which are both the main reasons that make it one of the best places to visit in Cuba.

Often referred to as Cuidad del Gallo, which translates to City of the Cockerel, and comes from a “cocky” colonial official in Morón. The city’s museum of archaeology and history has an excellent view of the city from its rooftop, while the 1923 railway station is a must-see destination for anyone who loves a bit of history.

Baracoa was the first capital of Cuba, founded in the early 16th century by Diego Velazquez. The city still retains a lot of its colonial architecture, and it is isolated from the rest of the country in the Guantanamo Province. It’s this isolation that’s allowed Baracoa to remain authentic and relatively untouched.

Santiago De Cuba

A coastal city that is known for its colonial history, Santiago de Cuba was founded by the Spanish during the 16th century – like much of Cuba. Head to the heart if you want to see historical Spanish architecture, but the absolute best spot in the city is the rooftop bar of Hotel Casa Granda, which overlooks the square and looks straight at a stone angel on top of the cathedral across the street. It’s also the best places to visit in Cuba if you want to experience authentic live music, driven by a ferocious Cuban beat.

Guardalavaca

Literally just a collection of picture-perfect beaches about 30 miles outside of Holguin. And what more could you ask for? Guardalavaca has more of a local atmosphere than Varadero, but it’s just as beautiful and comes with some of the richest waters and healthiest coral reefs in the country.

Known as Cuba’s “City of Squares”, Holguin is an industrial city first and foremost – but don’t let that put you off. Thanks to its history, there are numerous historical plazas such as the Parque Calixto Garcia – so named after the general who liberated the city from the Spanish in 1872. There’s also plenty of small museums, and a vibrant culture that is pretty much everything you would expect from Cuba.

Once a trading post for sugar cane, tobacco, and coffee, it’s now known as the Pearl of the South thanks to its beautiful bay – Bahia de Jagua. Founded by the French rather than the Spanish like much of the rest of the island, the city is a must-see for anyone who appreciates mid-century modern architecture.

Trinidad De Cuba

One of the most historic towns in Cuba, Trinidad’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site and is only accessible on foot or horseback. Trinidad is home to a colonial convent that now houses the Museum of the War Against the Bandits, as well as the Plaza Mayor where travellers can shop for handicraft souvenirs.

Cayo Largo Del Sur

A small island off the mainland, Cayo Largo del Sur is one of the best places in Cuba to go if you’re looking for spectacular, uncrowded beaches. The island is home to countless beaches that are perfect for kicking back and unwinding as you soak up the sun – including the biggest beach, Playa Sirena. There’s also swimming, snorkelling, surfing, kayaking – you name it, you can do it here.

Rancho Luna

Sure, Rancho Luna doesn’t have the same white sandy beaches and crystal blue seas as Varadero, or Guardalavaca, but it has something infinitely better. Rancho Luna is one of the best places to stay at Casas Particulares, where the food is infinitely better than at any big hotels and resorts, and it’s also home to some of the best diving in Cuba. Plus, the beaches are pretty much bare of people, so you’ll likely have them all to yourself.

La Isla De La Juventud

Perfect for anyone who wants to really stray from the beaten track, La Isla de la Juventud is a little slice of land south of the main island of Cuba. The only way to reach it is either by a three-hour boat ride, or by plane if you can find one, but it’s full of unspoilt beaches, rich water, and tales of pirates and sunken treasure.

Playa Giron

Otherwise known as the Bay of Pigs, Playa Giron is famous for being the landing site of US-sponsored counter-revolutionary exile militia in 1961. Here you’ll find the Museo Giron, which contains tanks, planes, and other artefacts from the conflict. It’s not all history though; if you like the ocean, check out the diving and snorkelling scene while you’re here.

Playa Paraíso

Found on the island of Cayo Largo del Sur is one of Cuba’s best beaches, hands down. Known as Paradise Beach, it’s nothing more than a stretch of powdery white sand and crystal-clear blue seas. But really, what more could you want? If it’s sunbathing and swimming opportunities that you’re after, this is the best places to visit in Cuba to enjoy just that.

Sierra Maestra

Sierra Maestra is a massive mountain zone that runs pretty much the entire length of southeast Cuba and rises vertically from the Caribbean Sea. It’s pretty much all been left untouched by tourists, thanks to their pretty difficult hiking routes. Plus, these mountains were once home to the base of Fidel Castro and his Rebel Army from 1956-1958 during the fight to topple Batista.

Bayamo is the second oldest colonial city in the country, and it once served as the headquarters of the war for independence from Spain. Thus, it’s seen as the birthplace of Cuban nationality, and each October the city hosts La Fiesta de la Cubanía, celebrating Cuban culture and tradition.

Topes de Collantes

Near Trinidad de Cuba, Topes de Collantes national park is made up of six different parks: Altiplano Topes de Collantes, El Cubano, Guanayara, Codina, El Nicho, and Cayo Las Iguanas. Thanks to this, a trip to the national park is a day full of a lot of different activities. From the picturesque El Nicho Waterfall, and the caves of El Nicho Mountains, to the medicinal mud baths, orchid gardens, bamboo groves, and cave swims, there’s literally something for everyone.

Viñales might be absolutely tiny, but don’t underestimate it. It’s here where the best tobacco is grown for some of the biggest cigar companies, and the valley is surrounded by mountains. According to local history, it was Castro’s favourite place on the island, with there are boundless opportunities for the adventurous traveller.

Maria la Gorda

One of the best place in Cua for diving, and one of the best spots in the whole Carribean, Maria la Gorda is a big hit with scuba divers and ocean explorers alike. A small town on the far western tip of Cuba, this little town’s appeal is in the rich and vibrant underwater marine life.

Las Terrazas

Las Terrazas is for anyone who wants to get fully immersed in the local nature and communities that dot the Cuban landscape. A tiny community of only 1000 people is right next to a nature reserve just an hour from Havana, which covered 5000 hectares of reforested land planted on terraced hills and has been a UNESCO biosphere reserve since 1984. It may be open to tourists, but that doesn’t change the fact that this sleepy little community has a sense of complete peace surrounding it.

Playa Jutias

Playa Jutias is in a great location, making for a perfect little day trip from Vinales if you don’t fancy basing your whole stay here. With beautiful clear water, white sandy beaches, and a very relaxed atmosphere with minimal tourists, it’s a great beach day.

Parque Nacional Viñales

Otherwise known as Valle de Viñales, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a beautiful, luxuriant valley in the Sierra de los Organos. Complete with steep limestone hills with a slice through the valleys creating a dramatic backdrop. The valley is an agricultural area where tobacco, fruit, and vegetables are all grown, and thanks to the steep hills it’s the perfect spot for hiking and horseback riding.

Peninsula de Zapata

Otherwise known as the Zapata Swamp, this little wetland (well, the biggest in the Caribbean, but who’s keeping score) is a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Peninsula de Zapata is home to about 150 different species of birds, and it’s very common to spot some crocodiles.

It’s probably impossible to tick off all these places in one big road trip. I mean, you could try, but that would be one hell of a road trip for sure. Nevertheless, there’s enough here to get you started, and keeping you coming back to Cuba again and again. Trust me, you’re going to want to.

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Cuba

Things to do in cuba, explore popular experiences, top attractions in cuba.

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50 Best Things to Do in Cuba + MAP with Attractions

Home | Travel | The Caribbean | Cuba | 50 Best Things to Do in Cuba + MAP with Attractions

When traveling abroad, get a policy from one of the  best travel insurance companies . Y ou can get a  5% discount   on Heymondo , the only insurance that pays medical bills upfront for you, HERE!

There are many things to do in Cuba , a country with a peculiar political history and some of the best beaches in the Caribbean.

The Cuban Revolution marked a turning point in the history of post-colonized Cuba. When the world began to globalize, a communist regime was established on the island, and it’s still present today despite international pressure and global blockades. However, that is exactly the reason why the Cuban tourist attractions are unique and very different from the ones you’ll find in other Caribbean islands.

The country is breathtaking, full of incredible landscapes and rich culture. Regardless of when you visit it, you will always find interesting activities in Cuba . Although you should go as soon as possible if you want to know the authentic Cuba because just two weeks after our 15-day trip to Cuba , Fidel Castro died and the island is changing very quickly since then.

To help you plan your trip, here are the 50 best places to visit in Cuba. Also, at the end of this article, you will find a map with all these tourist attractions of Cuba so you can make the most of your time. I also recommend you read our guide to  planning a trip to Cuba .

1. Havana, the most important city to visit in Cuba

Havana  is one of the most important  places to visit in Cuba  since it’s the capital of the country. It’s a city of contrasts, where greatness and decadence collide, and most people have a love/hate relationship with it.

As I explain in our guide on things to do in Havana , the capital city is divided into the neighborhoods of  Old Havana, Central Havana , and  Vedado . This is where you’ll find some of the most  famous places in Cuba , such as the Malecón de La Habana, the Museum of the Revolution, and the Christ of Havana.

But this is just the beginning of what the city has to offer. If you visit, I recommend checking out our guide to learn more about Havana.

We flew into Havana airport and booked  this transfer   to the city center. As soon as we arrived, we left our bags at our hotel and took this  free tour  to see the main  points of interest in Cuba . It’s a group tour, but if you prefer something more personal, you can take the  tour with a local guide .

Two other free tours in Havana that I recommend are the  colonial Havana tour  and the  night tour,  where you can enjoy the city’s best nightlife.

2. Visit Viñales Valley, one of the best things to do in Cuba

The  Viñales Valley  is one of the most  beautiful places to visit in Cuba . Not only is it one of the most popular natural areas in the country, but it’s a  UNESCO  World Heritage Site and National Monument.

What makes it a  must-see in Cuba  is the gorgeous natural landscape of native plants and  mogotes . These rounded mountains are no taller than 100 feet, but they’re eye-catching. Since they formed from limestone, the Caribbean rains have gradually eroded them, creating caves. Some of these caverns have underground rivers, such as the  Cueva del Indio , which I will tell you about later.

As I mentioned in our guide to the best  things to do in Viñales , you cannot miss the area’s coffee and tobacco plantations. I also recommend standing in front of the Prehistory Mural, a large painting on the rock of the mogote Pita. However, this area of ​​the island has much more to offer.

We loved this  bike tour , but be prepared to end up sore because the slopes are killer. If you want to save yourself the effort, this  electric bike tour  may be a good option.

I recommend spending 3 or 4 days in this area, although if you don’t have time, you can take this  1-day tour  from Havana to see the most important things.

3. Varadero, one of the most famous beaches in Cuba

Varadero  boasts some of the most beautiful beaches, so this is one of the top  areas to visit in Cuba . Since it’s so popular, Varadero has several luxury resorts. If you want to spend a few days in total comfort, this is the place to go.

The town has over 13 miles of pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Here, you can disconnect from it all and spend your time swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, or water skiing.

This  tourist attraction in Cuba  also has several impressive caves, such as the  Saturno Cave . Stepping inside this archaeological structure, you’ll be amazed at the rock formations. Best of all,  it has a natural pool inside where you can enjoy a dip.

So, if you’re looking for  fun things to do in Cuba , Varadero is a place you must visit. If you don’t have much time, you can book  this excursion  from Havana to see Varadero in one day.

4. Trinidad, a must-visit in Cuba

Trinidad  is one of the  best cities to visit in Cuba . It’s in the center of the island and is an area of great cultural and historical significance.

As I mentioned in our guide to the  best things to do in Trinidad, Cuba , this city still has remnants from the Spanish colonial era. It’s a lovely place, and I encourage you to get lost among its cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. Walk down  Real de Jigüe  and  Amargura streets, and you’ll feel like you’re stepping through a postcard.

I also recommend visiting  Plaza Mayor , where you can have a  canchánchara , a traditional Cuban cocktail. Another  must-visit in Cuba is Casa de la Trova , in Trinidad, where you can enjoy the nightlife and listen to authentic Cuban music.

Trinidad is also home to two interesting museums: The  Municipal Historical Museum  and the  National Museum of the Fight Against Bandits . The first has a rooftop terrace where you can get amazing views of the city, while the second has artifacts related to Cuban independence.

Another cool place to go is the  Church of the Holy Trinity,  one of the largest churches in the country.

If you want to discover everything about this beautiful city, I recommend this  free tour  to see some of the most  famous landmarks in Cuba .

5. Cienfuegos, one of the most beautiful places to visit in cuba

Cienfuegos , also known as the Pearl of the South, is one of the top  cities to visit in Cuba . It’s on the way to Trinidad from Havana, so it’s a convenient place to spend a day.

Located on the shores of the bay of Cienfuegos, this town stands out for its buildings from the colonial era. The historical urban center of Cienfuegos is also a  UNESCO  World Heritage Site.

Some other impressive places in Cienfuegos include the  José Martí Park, Ferrer Palace , the  Benjamin Duarte Provincial House of Culture , and the  Purísima Concepción Cathedral .

5. Cienfuegos, another must-visit in Cuba

Another cool activity in Cuba  is walking along the  Paseo del Prado , the largest promenade on the island. It eventually leads to the  Malecón de Cienfuegos  in Punta Gorda. As I mentioned in our guide with the  best things to do in Cienfuegos , this is where you can enjoy one of the best sunsets in the country.

6. Santa Clara and the Che Guevara mausoleum

Che Guevara is one of the most important figures in the country’s history, so visiting the Che Guevara Mausoleum is one of the most important things to do in Cuba . You can find it in Santa Clara , a central city on the island.

Santa Clara stands out for its historical monuments that reflect the independence revolution. The mausoleum also includes the ashes of Guevara’s 16 comrades who were killed during the Bolivia campaign in 1967. The monument on the mausoleum grounds, at over 20 feet tall, is also worth seeing.

In this same area, there is a museum dedicated to the life of Guevara and an “eternal flame” that Fidel Castro lit in his memory.

6. Santa Clara and the Mausoleum of Che Guevara, an important place to see in Cuba

While you’re in Santa Clara, take the time to visit some other  tourist attractions in Cuba , like the  Leoncio Vidal Park and the Armored Train Monument . The latter commemorates the end of the Batista dictatorship and the start of the Castro socialist regime.

Unfortunately, we had to cancel our excursion to Santa Clara due to an amoeba infection, which I mentioned in our article on  travel insurance for Cuba . Luckily, it was nothing serious, but it’s a good reminder that travel insurance in Cuba is a necessity.

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7. Visit Santiago de Cuba, the 2nd largest city in Cuba

Visiting Santiago de Cuba is another great thing to do in Cuba. While it’s the second-largest city in the country, it’s on the southern end of the island, while Havana is on the northern end. So, if you’re going to spend less than two weeks in Cuba, you’ll have to decide between visiting Havana (and the Northern half of the island) or Santiago (and the Southern half).

We opted for Havana, but we plan to come back so we can discover all that Santiago de Cuba has to offer. This includes beautiful colonial architecture, a rich revolutionary history, and several  famous landmarks in Cuba .

7. Visit Santiago de Cuba, another prominent city to visit in Cuba

Enramada Street  is the main artery of the city and where you can access the main tourist attractions. I recommend spending time in the old town, visiting  Parque Céspedes  and the  Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption .

Santiago de Cuba also has one of the most famous boardwalks in Cuba, where you can mingle with the locals. This city is also steeped in history, so stop by the  Moncada Barracks and Museum, Plaza Marte , and the  Santa Ifigenia Cemetery . This is where Fidel Castro’s ashes and the body of José Martí are buried.

8. Ride in a classic car, something to do in Cuba with family

One of the most typical  things to do in Cuba  is to  take a ride in a classic car . In Havana, these types of tours are all over, although they can be a bit pricey. We opted for  this tour  and explored the city in a classic 1950s automobile.

Our driver, Armando, asked us which parts of the city we’d already visited, so he could take us to new places. Along the way, he told us lots of anecdotes that we wouldn’t have heard if we didn’t do this tour. Also, he let us stop a few times so we could take photos. At the end of our tour, we asked Armando to drop us off at a different spot than the pick-up location, and he happily obliged.

If you want to explore Cuba in style, this excursion is the way to go. You can see iconic sites like the  Plaza de la Revolución, Almendares Park,  and the  Malecón promenade . Plus, riding along in a classic car makes you feel fully immersed in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

9. Have a mojito in La Bodeguita del Medio, another fun thing to do in Cuba

Another  fun thing to do in Cuba  is to  have a mojito at La Bodeguita del Medio . Although a few replicas have cropped up on the island (and around the world), the original La Bodeguita del Medio is in Old Havana.

The restaurant has long been a meeting place for writers, artists, and politicians. When you visit, you will find out that some personalities have left their sign on the walls, including Ernest Hemingway and Pablo Neruda.

9. Have a mojito in La Bodeguita del Medio, one of the best things to do in Cuba

This is also the  best place in Cuba  to drink a Cuban  mojito . Made with rum, lime, and mint, it’s the traditional cocktail of Havana, and a great way to end your day.

That said, La Bodeguita del Medio is one of the most popular  tourist attractions in Cuba ‘s capital city. So, if you want a relaxing evening, you won’t find it here! We went very early so we could avoid the crowds, which worked out quite well. Plus, there was live music, and the drinks weren’t that expensive (about 5 CUC).

10. Buena Vista Social Club, the best place to enjoy Cuban music

Buenavista Social Club  is one of the  best places to visit in Cuba  if you want to enjoy authentic Cuban music. Located in Havana, it’s one of the most popular clubs on the island and the perfect way to enjoy the nightlife.

Like all the clubs in the country, it closed its doors during the 1959 revolution and the rise of the Castro regime. Fortunately, it was able to reopen in the 1990s, and since then, it’s been a  must-see in Cuba .

Here, you can watch the Grammy-winning Buena Vista Social Club perform live, as well as the Afro-Cuban All-Stars. These are two of the best Latin bands in the world, so if you’re looking for  entertainment in Cuba , look no further.

Since this is a popular club, I suggest booking  your ticket  in advance. This entry ticket includes a three-course dinner and drinks prior to the performance.

11. Tropicana Cabaret, something fun to do in Cuba at night

The  Tropicana Cabaret in Havana is one of the most popular cabarets in the country and even won the 5 Stars Diamond for the Best Cabaret in the Americas. If you’re wondering  what to do in Cuba at night , Tropicana has all the fun, music, and color you could want.

What makes this cabaret unique is that it’s outdoors in a tropical garden. The stage is surrounded by beautiful palm trees, creating a fitting atmosphere. Tropicana dates to 1939, and world-renown artists have graced its stage over the years.

Taking in a show at the Tropicana is one of the most  exciting things to do in Cuba . While you sip a mojito, you can watch dozens of performers take the stage. It’s an incredible display of movement, dance, music, and colorful costumes.

The cabaret is very popular, so I recommend booking your  ticket in advance. Also, consider the dress code before you go. Men should wear long pants, closed-toe shoes, and a polo shirt or button-down. Women should also dress semi-formally and should only bring small bags. Otherwise, they’ll have to leave it at the entrance.

12. Topes de Collantes, one of the best hikes in Cuba

If you like hiking, one of the places you can  visit in Cuba  is the  Topes de Collantes  natural park. It’s just a few miles from Trinidad, so you can take advantage of your visit by stopping here along the way.

The park is in the Sierra del Escambray mountain range, a lush area that’s home to nearly 50% of Cuba’s native species. It’s also full of natural wonders, such as the 210-foot  Caburní Falls , the highest waterfall in the Caribbean.

12. Topes de Collantes, one of the best places to go hiking in Cuba

We loved this place, and we were even able to see and photograph several small Cuban hummingbirds hovering around the flowers next to the waterfall. Getting there was a bit difficult because of the rain, but it was more than worth it. If you visit, just bring the right footwear!

While you’re here, check out some other hiking paths, such as the  Vegas Grandes trail, that leads to another beautiful fall; or the Gruta Batata trail, which offers amazing panoramic views and leads to natural pools where you can bathe.

Topes de Collantes is also close to the  Hacienda Codina mud baths  and the  Paseo Ecologico  nature walkway.

13. Dance in the House of Music, something to do in Cuba for couples

If you’re looking for some nighttime  activities in Cuba , I recommend visiting the  House of Music . We went to the ones that are in Havana, Trinidad, and Viñales but almost all major towns have one.

Here, you can groove to live musical performances, which vary by the day. Several well-known Cuban artists and groups have performed here, such as Los Van Van orchestra and Bamboleo.

Besides the music and dancing, the House of Music is a great place in Cuba to enjoy a mojito or even a Cuban cigar.

Admission varies depending on who’s performing that night, but the tickets are usually quite cheap. The club is open from 10 pm to midnight, so if you’re looking for fun things to do in Cuba  at night, this is the best place to go.

14. Zapata Swamp, one of the best national parks in Cuba

The  Zapata Swamp  is one of the best national parks to visit in Cuba. It’s in the Matanzas province on the Zapata Peninsula, and it’s the largest wetland in the Caribbean, covering 1,680 square miles. Thanks to its aquatic bird population, the park is a  UNESCO -declared Biosphere Reserve and  Ramsar Site .

Here, you can explore lush forests filled with about a thousand different native plant species. There is also a wide variety of animals, some of which are endangered. Zapata Swamp serves as a refuge for more than 65 migratory bird species, and it’s home to Cuban crocodiles and alligators. You can go to the park’s  Crocodile Farm  to learn more about these reptiles, and it’s a fun  thing to do in Cuba for kids .

You can also explore other areas near the national park, such as  Taino Village . There, you can learn more about pre-Columbian life in Cuba by examining the sculptures and ruins. Another  interesting place to visit in Cuba  is  Playa Larga  in the Bay of Pigs, one of the most popular beaches in the country. I also suggest visiting  Laguna del Tesoro, Guamá , and the  Hatiguanico River .

You’ll need an entire day to explore this area. It’s a bit difficult to navigate on your own, so I recommend  this tour from Varadero.

15. Cueva de los Peces, the deepest natural sinkhole in Cuba

Close to Zapata Swamp is  Cueva de los Peces , another cool  attraction in Cuba . This natural sinkhole is known for its impressive depth, and it’s a natural wonder you should stop and see.

The sinkhole is 230 feet deep and sits among beautiful scenery. It’s open to the public, so you can bathe in its crystal-clear waters and see the fish swimming under the surface. I think it’s a great  activity to do in Cuba  as a couple. Plus, the Bay of Pigs is right across the road, and it’s the best place to go snorkeling in Cuba.

15. La Cueva de los Peces, the deepest natural sinkhole in Cuba

Besides the incredible amount of tropical fish you’ll see, this area is also full of sea sponges and colorful coral. I highly recommend checking out this place if you’re looking for an  adventure in Cuba . There is even a small resort where you can rent snorkeling equipment.

16. Valle del Silencio, one of the best places to see the sunset in Cuba

Watching the sunset in the  Valle del Silencio  is one of the most  romantic things to do in Cuba . Many people would agree that this is the most beautiful place in Viñales, so you don’t want to miss it.

This lush Caribbean valley is home to several tobacco and coffee plantations, and it’s one of the most scenic  sites to see in Cuba . While the most popular way to explore the valley is  by horseback , we took this  sunset hike  and loved it.

On our hike, we visited a tobacco plantation, where we learned how the farmers dry the plants for distribution. We also got incredible views of the valley as the sunset bathed the mogotes in orange. Without a doubt, it was one of the best  outdoor activities in Cuba  that we did.

17. Learn about Santeria, something interesting to do in Cuba

Before I went to Cuba, I didn’t know that the primary religion, in addition to Catholicism, is  Yoruba . Also known as  Santeria , this religion has its roots in Africa and came to Cuba during the colonial slave trade.

Santeria is more present on the island than you might think. For example, during our trip, we saw hundreds of people dressed in white from head-to-toe, signifying that they have been “sanctified”. You’ll have to take this Yoruba religion tour to know what that means! Without a doubt, this is one of the most interesting things to do in Cuba  if you want to dig into the country’s culture.

The tour is in Havana, so you’ll get to see many of  Cuba’s points of interest . This includes the  Museum of the Orishas  and the  Callejón de Hamel , which is the epicenter of Afro-Cuban culture. You’ll also visit the home of a  babalao , or Santeria priest, who will show you some Yoruba rituals.

18. Visit Cayo Levisa or Cayo Jutias, the best beaches in Cuba

If you want to enjoy some of the best beaches in Cuba, go to  Cayo Levisa  or  Cayo Jutias .

Cayo Levisa  is an island that’s about 4 miles off Cuba’s northern coast. Typically, visitors arrive from Viñales, so I recommend  this excursion  to get there. It doesn’t include the cost of the ferry, which is about 15 CUC.

Once in Cayo Levisa, you can enjoy all kinds of beachy  activities in Cuba , such as swimming and snorkeling. The gulf waters off the coast are home to a diverse array of fish and reefs.

18. Visit Cayo Levisa or Cayo Jutías, the best beaches in Cuba

If you’re looking for more affordable things to do in Cuba , head to  Cayo Jutías , which I consider one of the top beaches in the country.  This excursion leaves from Viñales and you won’t have to take a ferry to get there.

The beaches of Cayo Jutías look like paradise and are perfect for sunbathing. You can also go swimming and snorkeling here, and I also suggest trying the lobster at one of the nearby restaurants, as it’s a specialty here.

19. Hotel Nacional, one of the most iconic hotels in Cuba

The  Hotel Nacional de Cuba is a classic hotel in Havana and an iconic place to visit in Cuba.

This hotel first opened in 1930, and it’s still as elegant as ever. Its first-class services have solidified it as a benchmark within the Cuban hospitality industry.

19. Hotel Nacional de Cuba, one of the most iconic hotels in Cuba

Moreover, several high-profile celebrities and public figures have stayed at the hotel. A few examples include Marlon Brando, Ernest Hemingway, Winston Churchill, and Alexander Fleming. Once you see this  famous landmark in Cuba , you’ll get a sense of its grandiosity and glamour.

A fun fact about the hotel is that in 1946, all the bosses of the United States mafia met here. Today, there aren’t any mafia bosses at the hotel, but it’s still fully functional, and you can book a room during your visit to Cuba. If you want to stay here,  book in advance  because the rooms sell out quickly.

20. Alejandro de Humboldt National Park

Alejandro de Humboldt National Park  is one of the  best places to visit in Cuba  to reconnect with nature. It has been a  UNESCO  World Heritage Site since 2001, and its lush vegetation and wide variety of native species makes it a must-see.

Experts believe there are more than 340 plant species that are exclusively in this park, making it one of the top places in Cuba. Here, you can enjoy beautiful scenery and views, as well as pleasant walks in nature. If you’re going to be in the southern part of the island, you can’t miss this national park.

20. Alejandro de Humboldt National Park, a lovely place to see in Cuba

The most popular area to walk around is  El Copal . It’s just over one mile and offers amazing panoramic views of the park. Best of all, the path ends at an incredible waterfall that cascades over black rocks into a small natural pool where you can cool off.

Another interesting trail is  El Recreo , which is slightly longer. Along the path, you’ll see all kinds of flora and fauna, as well as a viewpoint overlooking Taco Bay.

With all the trails and pretty wildlife, this national park is one of the best  attractions in Cuba . You can even take this  day trip  from Baracoa to learn about the tropical forest and biodiversity of the place.

21. Rock climbing in Viñales, an exciting thing to do in Cuba

If you’re looking for a unique  thing to do in Cuba , I suggest  rock climbing in Mogote del Valle , Viñales. This area is the most popular place to rock climb in the country, and it attracts climbers from across the globe. Not only does Mogote del Valle have plenty of vertical walls to climb, but the tropical views are out of this world.

Even if you’ve never rock climbed before, there are different excursions and tour packages for all skill levels. Of course, if you’re a beginner, you’ll want to book a guided tour, so you stay safe while enjoying this exciting  activity in Cuba .

If you’re determined to pursue this  adventure in Cuba , keep in mind that the best time to go is from November to March since there is less rain.

22. Explore the caves of Viñales, something to do in Cuba with family

Viñales sits on an impressive karst valley, which makes it perfect for climbers. Another benefit of this terrain is that it has formed some incredible caves, and they’re one of the top sites to see in Cuba.

One of the coolest caves in the area is the  Great Cavern of Santo Tomás . It’s the largest cave system in the country and the second-largest in all of North America at 28 miles long. Unfortunately, during our trip, the site was under construction due to a landslide, so we couldn’t visit it.

However, we did see the  Cueva del Indio , one of the most  popular places to visit in Cuba ‘s Viñales area. The San Vicente River runs through it, so you must take a boat tour to explore the cave’s depths.

Another interesting cave is the Cueva de San Miguel, also known as  Palenque de los Cimarrones  for the African slaves who sought refuge in it after escaping the sugar mills. This cave isn’t as geologically interesting, but it’s historically significant and still worth visiting.

The caves of Viñales are a must-see, but they’re not at a walkable distance from each other so I suggest booking this tour to visit them.

23. See the sunrise at Los Acuaticos, a romantic thing to do in Cuba

One of my favorite memories from our trip was taking a trek at 3 am to see the sunrise at  Los Acuaticos .

This may be an  unusual thing to do in Cuba  because the trail is a little-known secret. We did the trek on our own but got lost a few times! Still, it was worth it to see the sunrise and the warm glow rising over the  mogotes.

23. See the sunrise at Los Acuáticos, a romantic thing to do in Cuba

That said, I don’t want you to get lost in the dark here, so I suggest booking  this guided hiking excursion . Not only will you get the best views, but you’ll learn more about the community of Los Acuáticos . This traditional village believes in the healing power of water and, as such, has some unique customs.

24. Take a salsa class, something you must do in Cuba

Taking a salsa class  is one of the most enjoyable  activities in Cuba . The island has a rich history of salsa dance, so you can find lots of bars and clubs offering classes.

I must admit, watching Cubans salsa dance is quite hypnotic, and it seems that the rhythm pulses through their veins. Most salsa classes provide instruction as well as some background history about Cuban and Afro-Caribbean rhythms and movements. Practicing the steps with your partner is also a  romantic thing to do in Cuba .

If you’re looking for salsa dance lessons in Havana, I recommend  this class . The one-hour class includes instruction from professional dancers, who will teach you basic salsa moves, as well as the merengue and the cha-cha-chá. Without a doubt, it’s a  fun thing to do in Cuba with your loved one.

25. Camagüey, one of the most beautiful cities to visit in Cuba

While  traveling in Cuba , be sure to visit the city of  Camagüey . A  UNESCO  World Heritage Site, Camagüey is full of culture, history, and religious significance. It’s also one of the most  beautiful places in Cuba , so if you’re visiting the center of the island, be sure to check out this city.

Besides, most of the tourist attractions in Camagüey are quite close to each other, so you can see them all in one day.

The  Ignacio Agramonte Park  is a historical spot commemorating the War of Independence with a statue of this Cuban revolutionary. You can learn more about him at the Ignacio Agramonte Birthplace Museum  in Plaza de los Trabajadores.

Plaza del Carmen  is another  point of interest in Cuba . In this beautiful square, you can see the Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the only religious building in Camagüey with two Cuban-style towers.

I also recommend visiting  Our Lady of Candelaria Cathedral , which dates to 1735; the  Teatro Principal , headquarters of the Camagüey ballet; and the  Casino Campestre Park , one of the largest natural parks in Cuba.

26. Santa Ifigenia Cemetery, a unique place to visit in Cuba

The  Santa Ifigenia Cemetery  in Santiago de Cuba is something you should see if you’re  traveling in Cuba ‘s southern region.

The cemetery is over 150 years old and the second-largest in Cuba, after the Necropolis of Christopher Columbus in Havana. The area is home to several funerary monuments, such as the hexagonal marker of José Martí, representing the six ancient provinces of Cuba. Here, you’ll also find  Fidel Castro’s tomb  and the final resting places of several prominent Cubans.

You can get a better understanding of the cemetery and the historical figures buried there by booking  this tour . Along with the cemetery, you’ll visit the  Barracks of Moncada  and the  Museum of Bacardi , two other interesting  attractions in Cuba .

27. National Capitol of Havana, another must-see in Cuba

The  National Capitol Building  in Havana is a  famous landmark in Cuba  worth visiting. It dates to 1929 and, in addition to being one of the largest buildings on the island, it’s a National Monument.

Construction on  El Capitolio  began during the dictatorship of Gerardo Machado with the help of North American financiers. As a result, the national building resembles the White House in Washington D.C., especially the neoclassical columns and grand dome.

The dome once held a large 25-carat diamond to symbolize Kilometer 0 on the Central Highway of Cuba, although it has been replaced with a replica diamond.

While you can visit the capitol building on your own, there are official one-hour guided tours that take place daily. It could be an interesting way to learn more about this prominent  place in Cuba .

During the tour, you’ll visit the  Hall of Lost Steps , with the impressive Statue of the Republic at its center. You’ll also see the former conference room of  Baire Hall , the French-style  Bolívar Hall , the neoclassical  Baraguá Room , and the  Martí Room  in the library’s anteroom.

28. Cayo Santa Maria, one of the best beaches in Cuba

Cayo Santa Maria  is one of the  best places to visit in Cuba , especially if you want to enjoy spectacular beaches with turquoise blue water.

This island is north of central Cuba and links to the mainland via the world’s longest stone seawall (30 miles). So, you can reach Cayo Santa María by car, taking in all the wonderful coastal views along the way.

28. Cayo Santa María, one of the best beaches in Cuba

Once you arrive, you can sunbathe on the white sand beach or go snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. Another  fun thing to do in Cuba  is to take a boat trip and try to spot dolphins in this Caribbean paradise.

If you head to the southern part of the island, you can take a nature walk among the lush vegetation. If you’re not sure  where to go in Cuba  to disconnect and unwind, Cayo Santa María is your best bet. To make things nice and easy, consider  this excursion  from Santa Clara with transportation.

29. Visit La Isabelica coffee plantation, another interesting thing to do in Cuba

Near Santiago de Cuba, you’ll find  La Isabelica Coffee Plantation , a  UNESCO  World Heritage Site and one of the most important  places in Cuba .

Located over 3,700 feet above sea level, this impressive  cafetal  boasts social and historical significance. It doubles as a museum dedicated to the coffee slave trade and to the economic grown that the area saw when French emigrants from Haiti arrived in that part of Cuba and raised over 600 plantations.

Besides visiting the extensive coffee drying rooms, you can access  La Isabelica Coffee Museum . This two-story mansion features period furniture and objects related to plantation work. The second floor has been restored to replicate the original home, so you can get a better idea of life back then.

About a mile away is  La Gran Piedra , another popular  tourist attraction in Cuba  that I’ll talk about next.

30. La Gran Piedra, an amazing place to visit in Cuba

In the Sierra Maestra mountain range is  La Gran Piedra , one of the most peculiar  places to visit in Cuba .

La Gran Piedra (The Great Stone) is a huge volcanic rock weighing around 60,000 tons. It is over 165 feet long, 80 feet tall, and nearly 100 feet wide. It has become one of the most popular  attractions in Cuba , despite the 459 steps you must climb to get to the top.

It’s worth it because the views from up there are magnificent. Over 4,030 feet above sea level, La Gran Piedra is even in the  Guinness World Records  book as the highest rock of its size in the world.

While you’re atop the rock with the entire Sierra Maestra underfoot, you’ll notice the big domed tower nearby. It’s a meteorological radar tower that records the climate changes in the region.

If you want to see La Gran Piedra, you should visit during your trip to La Isabelica coffee plantation. It’ll make for an unforgettable experience in Cuba .

31. Take a train ride through Valley of the Sugar Mills

One of the most  interesting   things to do in Cuba  is to take a  train ride through the Valley of the Sugar Mills , a  UNESCO  World Heritage Site.

This area was home to the sugar mills and distilleries that exported supplies to Europe. While it yielded a large profit, it was unfortunately at the hands of African slaves. Taking a journey through this region means facing the darker parts of Cuba’s history.

31. Take a train ride through Valley of the Sugar Mills, an interesting thing to do in Cuba

You can take a ride on a steam train from Trinidad to  Manaca Iznaga , one of the most lucrative plantations. Once there, you can visit the slave barracks and the watchtower that kept a close eye on the laborers.

Another sugar mill to visit is  San Isidro de los Destiladeros . It’s close by but not as crowded as other similar  sites in Cuba , so you can take your time looking around. The plantation is in good condition, as are the buildings and watchtower, from which you can get great views of the valley.

32. Ancon Beach, a calm place to go in Cuba

If you’re looking for the top places on the island to watch the sunset, consider  Ancon Beach . Not only is it one of the  best vacation places in Cuba , but the reddish hues of the sun reflecting on the calm sea is something you can’t miss.

This beach is close to Trinidad, so if you’re going to be in the area, it’s the perfect day trip. Ancon Beach boasts an expansive coastline, and it’s more secluded than other resort towns on the island.

Best of all, this beach is one of the most  beautiful places in Cuba  to go snorkeling. Along with the crystal-clear waters and fine white sand, the area has loads of colorful tropical fish. You can rent some snorkeling equipment on the beach and dive into those pristine waters.

We visited this beach several times, both by taxi and by bike, which takes 40 minutes from Trinidad. My word of advice is not to stop at La Boca, because although it may seem pretty, there is a lot of sewage. Instead, go straight to Ancon Beach, where you can relax on the clean shores.

33. Visit Baracoa, an important city in Cuba

Baracoa , also known as the First City, is a  must-see in Cuba since it was the first established city on the island.

Despite its historical importance, Baracoa isn’t the most  popular place in Cuba since it’s in the southern part of the country, in Guantanamo. Even so, it’s worth visiting, thanks to its preserved traditions, sites, and mix of jungle and seaside activities.

To start, visit  Seboruco Castle  to enjoy some beautiful panoramic views of Baracoa. Then go to  Parque Independencia  in the city center, where you’ll find lots of bars and restaurants.

I also recommend stopping by the  Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption . Inside, you can see the  Cruz de la Parra , the last of the 29 crosses that Christopher Columbus took to the New World and a beloved Christian relic.

If you get tired while walking the streets of Baracoa, you can take a stroll along the Malecón promenade, which always has a lively atmosphere. You might also enjoy one of the excursions that leave from Baracoa, such as the  Alejandro Humboldt National Park ,  Maguana Beach , or Yunque de Baracoa and the Yumirí Canyon, which I’ll mention next.

34. Yunque de Baracoa, the best place to hike in Cuba

Yunque de Baracoa  is one of the best  places to visit in Cuba  to enjoy wildlife and nature walks. Due to its historical, environmental, and cultural value, it has been declared a National Monument.

This nature reserve is one of the most well-known areas in the country and sits 1,310-1,890 feet above sea level. It gets its name from the peculiar flat surface at its peak, which looks like an anvil. If the distinct shape and impressive height of this place don’t astound you, the plentiful vegetation will.

Walking along the Yunque’s nature trails is one of the top things to do in Cuba with family , so I highly recommend it. The trail to the top takes around 4 hours, but it’s an enjoyable and scenic journey in the tropical forest. You’ll also spot different wildlife species along the way.

Once you get to the top, you’ll have gorgeous views. You’ll also see the bust of General Antonio Maceo, also known as the Bronze Titan.

If you want to discover all that the Yunque has to offer, I suggest booking this full-day excursion .

35. Yumuri Canyon and Belete waterfalls, a breathtaking place to go in Cuba

If you’re going to be in Baracoa, one of the top  Cuban points of interest  to see is the  Yumuri Canyon . It’s a protected natural area with some of the best biodiversity in the country. Plus, it’s ideal for birdwatching, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

What’s nice about the canyon is that there are different walking paths, so you can choose one that suits your level. However, I highly recommend the trail that leads to the  Belete waterfalls . It’s about 4 miles each way, but it’s worth it to see those clear emerald waters and breathtaking 65-foot falls.

35. Yumurí Canyon and Belete waterfalls, a breathtaking place to go in Cuba

The entire Yumurí Canyon is one of the most  beautiful places in Cuba , full of lush rainforest, different animal species, and natural wonders. You’ll be surrounded by lovely tropical scenery the whole time, making you feel like you’re in paradise.

If you want to make the most of your time here, I suggest  this excursion , which includes a visit to a cocoa plantation and the beautiful beach of El Manglito. You’ll also get to take a boat ride along the Yumurí canyon river.

36. Stay overnight in a casa particular, a unique experience in Cuba

One of the most authentic things to do in Cuba is staying overnight at one of the casas particulares , or  private homes . Even if it’s just for one night, it will be an unforgettable way to meet the locals and immerse yourself in the culture.

Since 2000, Cuban families have been able to obtain permits that allow them to offer a room in their home as tourist accommodations. While  traveling in Cuba , you will see signs for room rentals all over around.

Among the many perks of renting a room in a family’s home, I’d like to highlight the great prices, flexible dates, and the incredible opportunity to learn about Cuban culture first-hand.

This type of accommodation is usually quite charming, and each one is unique. Plus, the host families are super friendly and often greet you with a fresh drink or snack upon your arrival. They’re also a great source of insider information about where to go and  what to do in Cuba . You could spend hours chatting and learning about their life on the island and how it has changed over the years.

I mention more about these private rooms in our guide on  how to plan a trip to Cuba , so check that out if you’re interested in this type of accommodation!

37. Museum of the Revolution, one of the most important museums in Cuba

The  Museum of the Revolution  is the best museum in Cuba to learn more about the 1953 revolution.

It’s in Havana’s city center, inside what was the Presidential Palace. The last president of Cuba to use it was the dictator Fulgencio Batista. After the revolution, it became a popular  tourist attraction in Cuba , exhibiting photos, documents, and other objects related to this pivotal event.

The museum is clearly propaganda, with an emphasis on the economic and social achievements of the communist system. I found the  Cretins’ Corner  to be quite humorous and intriguing, as there are giant caricatures of George H.W. Bush, his son, Fulgencio Batista, and Ronald Reagan.

The revolution was a crucial event that marked a distinct before and after in the country. If you want to learn more about its historical significance in Cuba, check out this  walking tour , which includes stops at some of the most important and  famous landmarks in Cuba .

38. Learn about Cuban cigars on the Tobacco Route

Whether you smoke or not, one of the most  unique things to do in Cuba  is to learn about the culture of Cuban cigars and how they’re made.

You can journey along the  tobacco route in   Pinar del Río  province and see some of the main cultivation areas and Cuban cigar factories. While exploring the natural landscape, you’ll learn more about the country’s tobacco tradition and its economic importance.

Another option is to visit the Raúl Reyes Estate in Viñales, which is what we did. Besides being one of the most  interesting places to visit in Cuba , the owner is humble and kind, so it was a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

38. Learn about Cuban cigars on the Tobacco Route, another must-do in Cuba

During our time here, we saw the tobacco drying houses and plantations. Raúl Reyes explained the entire process and offered unique insights about his life and work in the field. We ended up purchasing a few cigars and some coffee as souvenirs.

Along with the tobacco plantations, another  cool place to go in Cuba  is a tobacco factory. The most famous one is Partagas in Havana, which is also the oldest in the country. Here, you can watch Cuban cigars being made and visit the accompanying museum.

39. Maria la Gorda, the best place to go diving in Cuba

While I’ve already mentioned some great beaches where you can go diving, there are a few other  places in Cuba  you should check out if you want to enjoy this activity.

María la Gorda  in the northwestern Pinar del Río province is the  best place in Cuba for diving . Here, you can swim over black coral reefs and among barracudas, crabs, lobsters, and other sea critters.

Be sure to check out the María la Gorda International Diving Center before you hit the water. There, you’ll find all the necessary information about the place, as well as interesting spots to dive. You can also rent diving equipment or book a boat ride.

39. Maria de la Gorda, the best place to go diving in Cuba

From Pinar del Río, you can visit the  Isle of Youth , another popular diving spot in Cuba. This area is good for both beginners and experts, and it boasts some amazing geological formations, as well as sharks.

If you’re going to be mostly in Havana, check out this  snorkeling excursion , which explores the City of Alexandria and the SS Olivette shipwrecks. Another great diving trip is  this one  in Santiago de Cuba, which explores the Almirante Oquendo battleship that sank in 1898.

40. Attend the cannon firing ceremony, an unforgettable thing to do in Cuba

The  cannon firing ceremony  is one of the oldest traditions in Havana, dating to 1774 when soldiers would fire the cannon to announce the closing of the city gates. Hearing the boom of the cannon reverberating throughout the city is a memorable  thing to do in Cuba  that you don’t want to miss.

The cannon is at the  San Carlos de la Cabaña Fortress , a  UNESCO  World Heritage Site surrounded by thick walls to keep bandits and pirates at bay. These days, the ceremony is part of Havana’s cultural tradition, and participants even wear 18th-century clothing to recreate the colonial era.

40. Attend a cannon firing ceremony, an unforgettable thing to do in Cuba

Again, if you’re visiting Havana, be sure to check out this impressive ceremony. I should warn you that the fortress is a bit out of the way from the city center, but this tour can pick you up from your hotel and take you there. You’ll also get to tour Old Havana and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

41. Have a daiquiri at El Floridita, something to do in Cuba at night

Along with the mojito, the  daiquiri  is one of Cuba’s signature cocktails, so you can’t leave Havana without trying one. Ernest Hemingway even said, “My mojito at La Bodeguita, my daiquiri at El Floridita.”

And so, it is, that you should go to  El Floridita for a daiquiri  and a fun night on the town. If you want to try the famed author’s particular drink, it’s made with 4 ounces of white rum with lemon and grapefruit juice, crushed ice, and six drops of maraschino cherry liqueur. We tried it, and it was quite good!

Even without its connection to Hemingway, this bar is a great  place to go in Cuba . The atmosphere is quite distinct, with the waiters in 1950s uniforms and live music playing most nights. Also, don’t miss the steel statue of Hemingway leaning on the bar.

Moreover, if you’re a bookworm or a big fan of Hemingway, I suggest  this guided tour  through his home,  La Vigía,  and the town of  Cojímar , which inspired his book  The Old Man and the Sea . You’ll also see his regular hotel room at Ambos Mundos Hotel  before ending the tour at El Floridita.

42. Watch the sunset at the Malecón in Havana, something to do in Cuba as a couple

The  Malecón in Havana is a broad promenade along the city coast. It extends for 5 miles and is known as one of the most famous landmarks in Cuba . Here, you’ll find locals meeting up, tourists sightseeing, and lovers watching the sunset.

There’s no doubt that this is the perfect spot for people-watching. The lively atmosphere and mix of visitors make it an  attraction in Cuba  worth seeing. Of course, what makes it so popular is the  stunning sunset views  you can get here.

While Havana’s malecón may be the most important boardwalk in the country, it’s not the only one you should visit. The coastal towns of  Cienfuegos, Baracoa,  and  Puerto Padre  also have lovely promenades. If you’re going inland, check out  Santa Clara , which has a boardwalk along the Cubanicay River and another next to Teatro La Caridad.

Whichever one you visit, you’re sure to strike up a conversation with the locals, who are super open and friendly!

43. Have an ice cream at Coppelia, the best thing to do in Cuba with kids

Coppelia  is Cuba’s national chain of ice cream parlors that became internationally popular after the film  Strawberry and Chocolate . You can find Coppelia parlors throughout the country and enjoying one of those sweet treats is a fun  thing to do in Cuba with kids .

These ice cream shops are a little different because they only serve three flavors. However, the flavors change daily, so there is always a reason to stop by!

As the most popular  place in Cuba  to get ice cream, Coppelia can be packed, especially if you go in the evening. We went to one in Havana around noon, and the line wasn’t bad at all. Yet, even if there is a line, it’s worth it because the ice cream is to die for.

Again, we went to Coppelia in Havana, but you can also visit the ice cream parlors in Matanzas, Cienfuegos, Trinidad, Santa Clara, Sancti Spíritus, Camagüey, Santiago de Cuba, and Guantánamo.

44. El Nicho waterfalls, an amazing place to go in Cuba

El Nicho  is one of the most  beautiful places to visit in Cuba , and a must-see if you’re around the Topes de Collantes park. I mentioned the Caburní Falls earlier, however, El Nicho is much more accessible and just a short drive away from Cienfuegos.

As a result, the El Nicho waterfalls tend to be one of the more crowded  attractions in Cuba . Still, I think they’re well worth seeing, with their clear blue water and lush tropical vegetation. You can bathe in the natural pools under the waterfall, too, so remember to bring your swimsuit.

While you’re there, explore the surrounding areas. There are several nearby caves as well as hiking trails. I recommend the main trail to the falls, also known as the  Kingdom of the Waters . It’s only about half a mile, so it’s the perfect  thing to do in Cuba with kids .

45. Climb Pico Turquino in Sierra Maestra, the best hike to do in Cuba

One of the most  beautiful places in Cuba  is the  Sierra Maestra National Park  in the southeast. It’s also known as the Turquino National Park because of its highest point,  Pico Turquino .

At 6,475 feet tall, Pico Turquino is also the highest mountain in the country and one of the few sites in Cuba  that has recorded snowfall, back in 1900.

Some say the name Pico Turquino is a mispronunciation of  turquesa , or turquoise, which reflects the vibrant blue hues you can see from atop the mountain. Even Che Guevara said that the peak had a mystical air to it, so it’s something you must see during your visit. Also, on the hilltop is a bust of José Martí, which marked his 100th birthday.

Getting to the top isn’t easy, but if you like hiking, this is a must-do in Cuba . Two paths lead to the top; a 7-mile trail from the Turquino Caves on the coast, and an 11-mile trail from the Bartolomé Masó neighborhood of Santo Domingo.

You can decide which path to take, but you must hike with an official park guide. There is also the option to do a 2-day route, but you’ll have to make a reservation at the San Joaquín campsite.

46. Disconnect in Cayo Blanco, the best thing to do in Cuba as a couple

Have you ever dreamed of going to a deserted island and disconnecting from everything? Well, that is something you can do in Cuba,  at  Cayo Blanco , a true island paradise.

The best way to get to Cayo Blanco is via catamaran.  This trip  leaves from Varadero and transports you to that idyllic spot in luxury. The deserted island is perfect for getting away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. You can explore the breathtaking Caribbean waters and pristine beaches in total peace.

A visit to Cayo Blanco is a great  thing to do in Cuba as a couple , too. You may choose to relax and sunbathe or you might want to enjoy some outdoor activities like snorkeling. The seabed is absolutely gorgeous and full of sea sponges, lobsters, crabs, coral reefs, and colorful tropical fish.

The catamaran excursion also includes a buffet lunch and cocktails, so it’s the best way to enjoy a romantic plan in Cuba with your partner.

47. Eat in a paladar , a popular thing to do in Cuba

Paladar  translates to ‘palate’ in English, but in Cuba,  paladares  are owner-run restaurants. Eating in a  paladar   is one of the  best things to do in Cuba  if you want to taste authentic Cuban food.

These restaurants are typically in a Cuban family’s home, and they’re one of the few private businesses permitted in the country. Eating at one is like sitting down at the family dinner table and enjoying a home-cooked meal. It’s the best way to experience the local and traditional flavors of the island.

47. Eat in a paladar, a popular thing to do in Cuba

Most paladares  in the cities are now restaurants like anywhere in the world. However, you can still find authentic paladares in smaller towns and villages throughout the country. The dishes are usually modest yet delicious and include a base of rice or beans and sometimes pork or chicken.

Grab a seat by the window or door so you can people-watch while you eat. Without a doubt, it’s a  fun thing to do in Cuba if you want to feel like a local!

48. Visit the Bay of Pigs, an incredible thing to do in Cuba

If there is something you  must see in Cuba , it’s the  Bay of Pigs . The site of the failed Bay of Pigs invasion of 1961, is today a remarkable natural beach with crystal-clear waters and idyllic beaches. Unlike other beaches in Cuba, the Bay of Pigs isn’t as touristy, which makes it even more enjoyable.

Here, you can find the Crocodile Farm, Cueva de los Peces, and Long Beach, some  tourist attractions in Cuba  that I mentioned earlier. There is also  Playa Girón , where the Bay of Pigs invasion took place. It’s a nice area for sunbathing and snorkeling, as are  Playa Coco  and  Caleta Buena .

Another interesting thing about the Bay of Pigs is that after the first springtime rains, the road is covered in crabs migrating to the water to spawn. Try to avoid going around that time so you can avoid making a mess!

49. Rent a bicycle, something to do in Cuba as a family

The best way to get around Cuba is via shared taxi, Viazul bus, or the public buses called  botellas . I go over all the transportation options in our guide to  planning a trip to Cuba .

That said, once you’re at your destination, the easiest way to get around is by  renting a bicycle . This is one of the most common  activities in Cuba , so you won’t have any trouble finding a place to rent a bike. After asking the locals which sites to check out, we traveled by bike through Havana, Trinidad, and Viñales.

Moreover, you don’t have to worry about parking when you travel by bicycle. Our  experience in Cuba  was quite positive, and we felt safe while traversing the area on bikes. Plus, we never had problems with storing them, even when we forgot to lock them up!

50. Take in some colonial and Cuban street art

One of the things that struck me the most about Cuba was the  colonial buildings and street art . The visual splendor in this country speaks of historical events and moments of greatness. All the art and architecture here is most impressive when you first arrive, but it’s still worth mentioning.

It’s also quite a sight to see spectacular palatial buildings from Cuba’s golden era, today completely in ruins due to economic and political turmoil. Despite the peeling paint, rusty balconies, and grime, the locals have worked hard to turn these ruins into art, and it’s something you  must see in Cuba .

50. Take in some colonial and Cuban street art, another must-do in Cuba

The communal effort of local artists and residents has transformed Cuba into the colorful country we know it as today. If you’re interested in seeing some of the best street art on the island, check out  Callejón de Hammel . This neighborhood is the epicenter of Afro-Cuban culture in Havana and a striking artistic  attraction in Cuba , full of murals and sculptures.

With that, you now know the 50 best things to do in Cuba . I hope this guide helps you plan your visit! Here is a map of the  tourist attractions in Cuba  that I mentioned so you can more easily find them.

I wish you safe travels and an enjoyable time in this historically-rich country. If you have any questions, leave them below, and I’ll do my best to help!

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Home » Central America » Places to Visit

14 BEST Places to Visit in Cuba (2024)

For most people, a trip to Cuba is a dream trip. This island country conjures up images of shiny, old style cars and colorful architecture, and the dream isn’t that far off. If you’re looking for old-world charm, atmosphere, and a lively vibe, then you’ll find lots of amazing places to visit in Cuba.

Cuba has a tangled history and it’s still a little difficult to get there from certain parts of the US. You may wonder what there really is to do and see there, apart from admiring the cars and buildings. If you’re unsure, you can use this list as a guide to the most amazing experiences, sights, and landmarks in Cuba. It will ensure that you don’t miss a thing.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Cuba:

These are the best places to visit in cuba, faq on the best places to visit in cuba, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in cuba.

Centro Havana

Located in the epicentre of the Cuban capital is Centro Havana. Bordered by the Cerro, Vedado and Old Havana neighbourhoods, this region of the city is where you’ll find many charming historical and cultural sights.

• Spend a night at Havana’s most famous cabaret, Tropicana nightclub.
• Visit La Casa de la Musica for the biggest and best party in Havana. Enjoy vibrant salsa music and great drinks at both of the central Havan locations.
• Enjoy a night of great jazz at La Zorra y el Cuervo, a funky and cozy subterranean club.

Finding accommodation in a country that’s desperately trying to catch up with the rest of the world can be tricky as scores of travelers share the same curiosity as you to go back in time. Before you escape your current reality and dive into the fun below, check out where to stay in Cuba and get yourself sorted with somewhere to put your feet up at the end of the day.

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#1 – Old Havana – A great place to see in Cuba if you love architecture

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• A UNESCO World Heritage site that’s a window into Cuba’s history.
• One of the most interesting places to visit in Cuba.

Why it’s so awesome: People visit Cuba to see old-world charm and architecture and that’s exactly what you’ll get in Old Havana. It’s home to cobbled streets, Baroque and Neoclassical buildings, and the perfect window into how Cuba used to be 200 years ago. If you’re visiting Cuba to experience the atmosphere of yesteryear, this is where you’ll find it.

What to do there: There are countless things to see and do in this area. Some of the most popular landmarks are the Plaza de la Catedral, where the famous Catedral de San Cristobel and Castillo de la Real Fuerza, the military fortress. You should also make a point of stopping by at the Bodeguita del Medio, where Hemingway used to spend some time. You’ll need at least a day to explore everything this area has to offer, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes in the area where you can rest when you get tired. Or, find one of the best places to stay in Havana and make one of those neoclassical buildings your base for a while.

#2 – Trinidad – Where to go in Cuba on the weekend!

• A small town which rivals Havana for beauty and atmosphere.
• Trinidad is another UNESCO World Heritage site, so be prepared to step back in time.

Why it’s so awesome: Trinidad is a relatively small town that packs a big punch. The city centre has been expertly restored so that the buildings and streets retain their charm, many of them dating between the 17th and 19th centuries. This is a town with a lively heart and vibe, and it’s located within driving distance of Havana.

What to do there: It isn’t a short trip to get from Havana to Trinidad, so you might want to leave early or stay the night in the city so you can enjoy all its charms. The best place to start exploring is in the city’s central square, Plaza Mayor. Make sure you spend some time admiring the Church of the Holy Trinity, the Museum of Colonial Architecture, and the Palacio Brunet. There are lots of other Cuba must-see buildings in the area, so just take your time and explore!

Pssst!  Haven’t packed yet? Check out our  ultimate Cuba Packing List  to know what to bring with you on your Cuban adventure!

#3 – Varadero – Cool place to see in Cuba with friends!

• Home of one of the best beaches in the Caribbean!
• You’ll want to spend a little time in this area, as there are a lot of attractions to explore.

Why it’s so awesome: You can’t visit the Caribbean and not go to the beach, and this is one of the best beaches you’ll ever see. It offers beautiful white sand and clear water and stretches along the Peninsula de Hicacos off the north coast.

What to do there: There are endless things to do in this area, which is why it’s a Cuba must-see. The beach is great for swimming and watersports, but there’s a lot more to do in the area. Spend some time at Parque Josone, home of some amazing flower gardens, a lake where you can take out a paddleboat, and a great restaurant. In the northeast is Cayo Piedra Underwater Park, where you can swim and snorkel and see some of Cuba’s unique marine life.

#4 – The Hemingway Museum

• Cuba is the former home of this famous writer and walking in his footsteps is a Cuba must do.
• This attraction is a little touristy, but the building and the history are both fascinating enough to make up for it.

Why it’s so awesome: If you look at any list of the greatest books ever written, then Hemingway’s name will probably be on it somewhere. And if you want to see where he wrote The Old Man and the Sea or For Whom the Bell Tolls, then you need to spend some time at his former home, which is now a museum.

What to do there: Hemingway’s home is one of the best-preserved in the country and going there is an experience. A Cuban band is usually playing out the front near a rum bar and the museum shares funny little anecdotes about the author’s life. This all makes it more than just your run-of-the-mill museum and cements its reputation as one of the best attractions in Cuba.

#5 – Topes de Collantes National Park – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Cuba

• The perfect place to get away from the tourist traps and the city.
• This park is located about 25 minutes from Trinidad and is a stunning and serene natural setting.

Why it’s so awesome: Even in Cuba you can get overwhelmed by being in the city, and this area is the perfect antidote. The park is on the southern coast of the island in the Escambray mountains and contains the kind of tropical mountain scenery that’s characteristic of the Caribbean.

What to do there: You won’t find many tourists in this area, which is part of its appeal. There are hiking trails cutting through the park, most of them leading to something amazing. You’ll find waterfalls, underground caves and swimming holes at the ends of the paths, so be prepared for anything!

#6 – Disco Ayala – A great place to visit in Cuba at night

• Even if you don’t like clubbing, you can’t miss out on this unique experience when you travel to Cuba.
• This club is about a ten-minute walk from Trinidad and is located in a cave.

Why it’s so awesome: How many times have you danced surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites? If you’re like most people, then the answer is never. So, you mustn’t miss out on this experience. This dance club is 100 feet underground in a cave, which is why it’s one of the most unusual things to do in Cuba.

What to do there: It’s a short ten-minute walk up a hill away from Trinidad to get to this club, so make the effort while you’re in the area. There’s an admission price, but it includes a free drink, so it’s worth it. And once you’re in, just enjoy the ambience, the music, and the company!

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#7 – El Morro

• Every night at 9pm they have a canon firing ceremony at this castle and everyone turns out to see it.
• The view from the castle is amazing and worth braving the crowds for.

Why it’s so awesome: Every night, Havana holds a historical reenactment at 9pm at El Morro. Dressed in 18th-century military clothes, soldiers fire shots from the canon out into the Caribbean. This was once done to remind the city to close its walls for the night as protection against armies and pirates. And these days, it’s one of the most popular things to experience when you’re backpacking Cuba .

What to do there: Grab your friends and head up to be a part of the experience. Both locals and tourists flock to the event, so be prepared for crowds as well as stunning views of the city. If you travel to Cuba in the summer, go a little early so you can catch the sunset before the show.

Sidenote: While in the crowds, keep in mind that since 2008, a surge in travelers to Cuba has created a market for pickpockets. Cuba is generally safe , but taking precautions by keeping your valuables safe as an added measure never hurt anyone.

#8 – Colón Cemetery

• The history and architecture of this cemetery make it one of the best in the world.
• The cemetery is actually called the Cementerio de Cristóbal Colón and it was named after Christopher Columbus.

Why it’s so awesome: First established in 1876, this cemetery was designed by architect Calixto Arellano de Loira y Cardoso. It was modeled after the Doumo in Florence and is laid out in an organized grid of bigger rows with smaller side streets. This, of course, is used to reflect the rank of the people who were buried in the different areas.

What to do there: There are over 500 beautiful chapels, family vaults, and mausoleums in this cemetery. When you explore it, you’ll see renaissance, art deco, and neoclassical architecture standing side by side. Make sure you find the 75-foot memorial who died in the city fire of 1890, the chess champion memorial shaped like a king piece, and keep your eyes open for famous names.

#9 – The Plaza de la Revolución – A fascinating educational place to visit in Cuba

• If you want to understand Cuba’s heart, then you need to spend some time in this area.
• Ignore the boring buildings, just focus on the history and the memorials.

Why it’s so awesome: At first glance, this might seem like a boring area, but in fact it’s the heart of the country. This square was renamed after the Cuban Revolution and is now surrounded by government administrative buildings. It’s where political rallies are held and the Castro brothers once addressed the people. It also contains memorials of some of Cuba’s most important people.

What to do there: There’s a lot to see in this area. In the north, the square is dominated by the Jose Mari Memorial, which stands in front of the Cuban Government’s seat. There’s also a giant mural of Che Guevara, Cuba’s revolutionary hero and the iconic image that’s been flashed across the world ever since. So, take this chance to see it for yourself in real life. If you have the time, you can also visit the National Library and the Monumento El Legado Cultural Hispánico. Taking the time to explore this area will help you see the cultural heritage that built Cuba as well as its tumultuous past.

#10 – Coppelia – Quite the quirky place in Cuba!

• The first ice cream shop in Cuba and a cultural icon.
• This shop was first established in 1966 at the orders of Fidel Castro himself.

Why it’s so awesome: This shop has seen better days but it’s one of the most enduring landmarks in Cuba. Now, there are a lot of ice cream shops in Cuba, but you should still check out the first one. It’s designed to look like a UFO, with concrete spokes jutting out from the top of the building. And the park and benches around it encompass an entire city block.

What to do there: There’s nothing special about eating ice cream, but when you eat it in a historic building it adds a little more to the experience. Plus, it’s hot in Cuba, and this location offers 5 scoops for every bowl.

#11 – Palacio de la Artesanía – A great place in Cuba if you love to shop!

• The best place to buy gifts and souvenirs in Cuba.

Why it’s so awesome: This is more than a shopping mall. It’s located inside of an 18th-century colonial palace and has a shaded central patio where you can relax and check your buys. It also has a dizzying array of goods on offer, so come prepared to spend some money.

What to do there: This is the best place to buy souvenirs and gifts for the people back home. You’ll find everything from CDs, musical instruments, crafts, and clothing at this area. Just be prepared for crowds, because everyone knows how awesome the shopping is, which is why it’s one of the most popular hotspots in Cuba.

#12 – Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes – A great place to visit in Cuba if you are alone/traveling solo

• One of the best Cuba vacation ideas if you love art.
• There’s a great collection of Cuban and international art at this museum.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want to understand a culture, then you need to experience its artwork. This museum will give you a great chance to do that. And it also contains some great pieces of international and ancient artwork. The collection is held in two buildings and the recently renovated Palacio del Centro Asturiano is truly a Spanish Renaissance masterpiece.

What to do there: The collections in these buildings are well worth seeing. The Spanish collection, in particular, is extremely popular, it’s in the Palacio del Centro Asturiano building but visit the Palacio de Bellas Artes building as well. It’s a Rationalist style building that contains stunning examples of Cuban art from the 17th century to the present day.

Be sure to check out our favorite  itinerary for Cuba  before traveling!

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#13 – The Malecon

• One of the best places to visit in Cuba for people watching and taking photographs.
• This area will allow you to experience the history of city set against the present.

Why it’s so awesome: Built-in 1902, the Malecon is a seafront promenade that runs from the Haban Vieja quarter to the central business district, the Vedado. All along the way you’ll be treated to historic buildings in a mix of architectural styles and insights into the day-to-day life of the locals.

What to do there: A walk along this promenade is a great idea when you first arrive in Havana. And make sure that you take your camera so you can capture the pinks and yellows of the Art Deco and Neo Moorish buildings. Sunset is a particularly good time to walk, as the pictures will be amazing. Other than that, just wander and people watch to get a glimpse into everyday life in Cuba.

#14 – Finca Paraiso Agroecologica, Viñales – A perfect place to visit in Cuba if you are on a budget!

• Have a great meal while you take in spectacular views of the Viñales hills.
• This is an organic, family run farm, so you’re supporting the locals while you’re eating tasty food.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want a relaxing meal, this is the ideal location. Located in the Viñales hills, it’s a family-run organic farm that focuses on fresh ingredients and an ambience that’s hard to match. The prices are great too, so be prepared to eat for a fraction of the price of other restaurants.

What to do there: The menu at this restaurant changes regularly to reflect the crops and the seasons, so see what’s on offer and make yourself at home. They also have some great cocktails that you should try while you’re taking in the views. Try the anti-stress cocktail of coconut milk, rum, herbs and anise if you really want to relax and get into the spirit of the place.

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Find out what people want to know about where to go in Cuba.

What is the prettiest place in Cuba?

The UNESCO heritage site of Old Havana is by far the prettiest place in Cuba.

Where is the most visited place in Cuba?

The tourist capital of Cuba, Havana, is the most visited place.

Is Cuba an expensive place to visit?

Cuba is not super expensive but it is not super cheap either. If you want to travel on a budget, check out our Cuba Backpacking Guide .

What are two famous places to visit in Cuba?

The top two most famous places to visit in Cuba are Old Havana and Varadero.

Cuba is one of the most popular places to visit in the world at the moment. There are some great reasons for that, including the amazing music, the architecture, the old-world charm of the cities, and the hint of mystique that still surrounds the island. Be careful and aware when you’re traveling in Cuba, but don’t let fear stop you. This is a charming and fascinating destination, and it’s well worth seeing all the best places to visit in Cuba that you’ve ever dreamed or heard of.

Aiden Freeborn

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Top Things to Do in Cuba, Caribbean - Cuba Must-See Attractions

Things to do in cuba, explore popular experiences, top attractions in cuba.

Popular Cities in Cuba

What travellers are saying

Must-see attractions in Cuba

Necrópolis Cristóbal Colón

Havana's main cemetery (a national monument), one of the largest in the Americas, is renowned for its striking religious iconography and elaborate marble…

Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca del Morro

Santiago de Cuba

A Unesco World Heritage site since 1997, the San Pedro fort sits impregnably atop a 60m-high promontory at the entrance to Santiago harbor, 10km southwest…

The Malecón, Havana's evocative 7km-long sea drive, is one of the city's most soulful and quintessentially Cuban thoroughfares, and long a favored meeting…

Capitolio Nacional

The incomparable Capitolio Nacional is Havana's most ambitious and grandiose building, constructed after the post-WWI boom ('Dance of the Millions')…

Plaza de la Catedral

Habana Vieja

Habana Vieja's most uniform square is a museum to Cuban baroque, with all the surrounding buildings, including the city's beguiling asymmetrical cathedral…

Castillo de los Tres Santos Reyes Magnos del Morro

Regla, Guanabacoa & the Forts

This wave-lashed fort with its emblematic lighthouse was erected between 1589 and 1630 to protect the entrance to Havana harbor from pirates and foreign…

Fusterlandia

Where does art go after Antoni Gaudí? For a hint, head west from central Havana to the seemingly low-key district of Jaimanitas, where artist José Fuster…

Museo Conjunto Histórico de Birán

Holguín Province

Fidel Castro Ruz was born on August 13, 1926, at the Finca Las Manacas near the village of Birán, south of Cueto. The sprawling ranch, bought by Fidel's…

Plaza Vieja

Laid out in 1559, Plaza Vieja is Havana's most architecturally eclectic square, where Cuban baroque nestles seamlessly next to Gaudí-inspired art nouveau…

Playa Sirena

Isla de la Juventud & Cayo Largo del Sur

Cayo Largo's (and, perhaps, Cuba's) finest beach is the broad westward-facing Playa Sirena, where 2km of powdery white sand is wide enough to accommodate…

Comandancia de la Plata

Granma Province

Topping a crenelated mountain ridge amid thick cloud forest, this pioneering camp was established by Fidel Castro in 1958 after a year on the run in the…

Plaza del Carmen

Around 600m west of the frenzy of República sits another sublimely beautiful square, one less visited than the central plazas. It's backed on the eastern…

Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes

Spread over two campuses, the Bellas Artes is arguably the finest art gallery in the Caribbean. The Arte Cubano building contains the most comprehensive…

Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes – Arte Cubano

The Bellas Artes' 'Colección de Arte Cubano' houses purely Cuban art. Works are displayed in chronological order, starting on the 3rd floor, and are…

Museo Nacional Camilo Cienfuegos

Sancti Spíritus Province

This excellent museum was opened in 1989 and is eerily reminiscent of the Che Guevara monument in Santa Clara. Camilo fought a crucial battle in this town…

Parque Histórico Militar Morro-Cabaña

This unmissable military park, included in the Habana Vieja Unesco World Heritage site, is arguably the most formidable defensive complex in Spain's…

Casa de Arte Jover

Camagüey is home to two of Cuba's most creative and prodigious contemporary painters, Joel Jover and his wife Ileana Sánchez. Their magnificent home in…

Playa las Tumbas

Pinar del Río Province

If they gave out Academy Awards for Cuban beaches, Las Tumbas might just win, edging out Playa Sirena on Cayo Largo del Sur (too many tourists) and Playa…

Moncada Museum

The museum inside the Cuartel Moncada is the best in town and one of the best in Cuba. Sometimes gory exhibits catalogue the details of the 1953 attack by…

Salto del Guayabo

At just over 100m in height, Guayabo (15km from the Villa Pinares del Mayarí) is considered the highest waterfall in Cuba. There's a spectacular overlook,…

Cementerio Santa Ifigenia

Nestled peacefully on the city's western extremity, the Cementerio Santa Ifigenia is second only to Havana's Necrópolis Cristóbal Colón in its importance…

Museo de la Revolución

This emblematic museum is set in the former Presidential Palace, constructed between 1913 and 1920 and used by a string of Cuban presidents, culminating…

Calle Mercaderes

Cobbled, car-free Calle Mercaderes (Merchant's Street) has been extensively restored by the Office of the City Historian and is an almost complete replica…

Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Regla

As important as it is diminutive, Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Regla, which sits close to the dock in Regla, has a long and colorful history. Inside on…

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17 Best Things to Do in Cuba: What to See and Do in the Caribbean Island

• Updated on January 2, 2024
• Things to Do

What You Will Learn (Click to Expand)

Introduction, why visit cuba.

In all its audacity and raw flamboyance, the Caribbean island of Cuba is a place worth exploring.

From its timeless colonial architecture to the serenity of its pristine white-sand beaches, the island’s distinctive charm is a blend of vibrant Latino rhythms, smiling genteel people, and the seductive aroma of the world-famous Cuban cigars.

Couple these elements with the tropical island’s storied history, and you’ve got yourself a travel destination that promises to be unforgettable. You will never run out of reasons why you should visit Cuba.

So let’s explore the 17 Best Things to Do in Cuba .

Overview of Popular Destinations in Cuba

Cuba is an exotic location that carries the perfect blend of city, history, culture, and sun-kissed beaches.

The must-visit destinations include the historic, UNESCO World Heritage-designated city of Havana , with its vintage ambiance and glamorous street art.

Witness the pristine, sandy shores and azure waters of Varadero while lounging in luxury at world-class beach resorts.

Head to the timeless colonial city of Trinidad as you take a leap back in time into a vintage, post-colonial era with cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved architecture.

Don’t forget to check out the natural wealth of the outdoor paradise in Viñales , an idyllic valley offering spectacular vistas and several eco-friendly activities.

Lastly, for an offbeat experience, visit the bustling town of Sancti Spiritus , known for its colorful buildings, and the unspoiled island of Cayo Levisa, offering serene and tranquil beaches.

Soak Up the Culture

1. wander around old havana.

The charm and beauty of Old Havana , locally known as Habana Vieja, is as timeless as the vintage cars that cruise its streets.

Strolling around the cobbled lanes and getting lost amidst the grand aura of Baroque and neoclassical edifices, you’re sure to be struck by the glimpses of life in Cuba as it was 200 years ago.

Revitalization projects have resurrected life into many historic buildings in this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Do visit the Plaza de la Catedral, where the Cuban Baroque-style Catedral de San Cristobal, and Castillo de la Real Fuerza, a historic military fortress, await to impress you.

The Plaza Vieja, another highlight, houses the 18th-century Casa del Conde Jaruco, which is known for its beautiful stained-glass windows.

Wandering around Old Havana allows you to capture colorful photo ops such as pastel-painted buildings, washing lines full of drying clothes, candy-pink classic cars, and folklore music and rhythms echoing through the streets.

It’s recommended to reserve at least one day for exploring Old Havana, but trust me, the more, the better.

2. Admire Trinidad's Architectural Beauty

The enchanting town of Trinidad , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is akin to stepping back in time to the 17th to 19th centuries.

Situated at the heart of Cuba, this quaint city boasts of vibrant, colorful colonial architecture and countless art galleries that narrate the tale of its glorious past.

The town is compact, and its center is pedestrianized, making it an ideal place to explore on foot.

As vehicles cannot enter the city center, you get the opportunity to fully cherish the cobblestone streets and the old-world charm that they embody.

• One of the prime attractions in Trinidad is the Plaza Mayor, a wonderful place to admire the city’s diverse architecture and interact with the locals.
• For an eye-catching view of the entire city, do climb the bell tower of the nearby Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco de Asis.
• The neoclassical, pastel-yellow church, Iglesia Parroquial de la Santísima Trinidad, that oversees the city square, is a beautiful sight to behold.
• Next to the church stands the Palacio Brunet, built in 1812, housing the stunning Museo Romantico that still retains and displays the Brunet family’s belongings.
• To enjoy panoramic views stretching to the lush Escambray mountains, you can get to its second floor at the cost of a few convertible pesos.
• Don’t miss a visit to Palacio Cantero, the biggest house in the city and now Museo Historico Municipal. While exploring the museum, do step out into the beautiful courtyard.

For more stunning vistas across Trinidad, you can climb the somewhat deteriorated staircase in the tower, but ensure to check their opening hours as it closes quite early.

These architectural marvels invite you into the rich history and soul of Trinidad, making it a destination that no photographer or history enthusiast should miss.

3. Ride Around Town in a Vintage Car

Riding in a vintage car through the colorful streets of Havana is one of the quintessential Cuban experiences that travelers should not miss.

Classic cars from the 1950s, painted in vibrant hues, cruising through the historic landscapes, add that unique flavor of nostalgia to the ambiance of the city.

These classic cars, mostly American models, started being used as taxis after the Cuban revolution, along with bici-taxis and motorbikes with sidecars, adding a fascinating layer to the country’s transport scene.

You can hail these “taxis particulares” for a ride, but remember to negotiate the fee beforehand.

Booking a guided tour in a vintage car enhances the experience as you can cruise leisurely through the popular routes of the city without worrying about the destination.

For a full-on immersive experience in Havana’s rich history and culture, commence your trip in a classic car tour.

The drives cover scenic routes passing by signature spots in the city like the Plaza de la Revolución and the Malecón.

Most guided tours are offered in convertible models, the ultimate way to soak in the city vibe. You can book your ride online in advance for hassle-free travel and to avoid carrying extra cash.

Exploring Cuba in a vintage car is an exciting way to capture the vibrant energy of the city and its timeless appeal, combining the thrill of the ride with an extraordinary journey through Cuba’s rich history.

Vintage cars in Havana are an iconic sight – a stark contrast to other flashy cities where old cars are unusual – underlining the uniqueness of the Cuban experience.

The chronicled past of Cuba, which rendered modern cars inaccessible to Cubans, showcased the locals’ knack for preserving and maintaining these vintage automobiles.

It’s fascinating to see how they have adapted and kept alive part of their history in such beautiful machinery. They didn’t just roll with it; they rode with it!

Hair Tools Travel Bag

Embrace the natural wonders, 4. enjoy the tranquil beaches - varadero and cayo coco.

Cuba, dubbed as the ‘Pearl of the Antilles’, is renowned for its series of picturesque beaches that stretch all along the island.

Amongst them, the beaches at Varadero and Cayo Coco have garnered international acclaim for their pristine beauty.

Best described as a sliver of paradise, Varadero is famed for its exquisite 20-kilometer stretch of white sandy beaches and turquoise blue waters.

This resort town in Matanzas is considered to have one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Not only is it popular for relaxation, but it also provides opportunities for water sports such as scuba diving and kayaking.

Luxurious all-inclusive hotels, restaurants, and beach huts offer the distinctive resort atmosphere that the Caribbean is renowned for.

Explore the lush forest areas, historical attractions, and caves that are part of the town’s landscape.

Just sitting, soaking up the sun under a beach hut on the soft white sands of Varadero, is enough to make you lose track of time as you admire the stunning sunset.

Located in the Jardines del Rey archipelago, Cayo Coco is another gem in Cuba’s crown of beautiful beaches.

The powdery white sand and clear, shallow waters of its beaches make it an ideal spot for snorkeling. Cayo Coco is a haven of tranquility and a must-visit for any beach lover traveling to Cuba.

Visit Varadero and Cayo Coco not just for their pristine beaches but also for the quintessential Caribbean resort atmosphere that they offer.

Endless swaying palm trees, azure waters, exotic cocktails, and beachside cabanas – what more can one ask for in a perfect beach vacation?

These beach getaways are loved by international travelers as well as Cubans for their stunning natural beauty and the convenience they offer.

From watersports for the adventurous to the laid-back lifestyle for the relaxed, these beaches have something for everyone.

Stick to Varadero and Cayo Coco for a more commercial experience, or head off the beaten path to Cayo Jutias near Viñales, Cayo Saetia in Holguin.

Here is my Complete List of the Best Beaches in Cuba .

5. Hike El Yunque

Uncover the captivating beauty of nature as you hike El Yunque , an iconic flat-topped mountain near Baracoa.

The trail is perfect for beginners and pros alike, with a gentle slope that elevates you 500 feet above sea level.

Licensed guides stationed at the trailhead ensure your safety and enrich your hiking experience with insights into the local flora and fauna.

The trail culminates at enchanting waterfalls and natural pool areas, making for ideal spots to cool down, so don’t forget to pack a swimsuit!

To ensure you have everything you need, here is my Complete Cuba Packing List .

6. Explore the Valle de Vinales

Escape to the tranquil expanses of the Viñales Valley , a UNESCO World Heritage Site enveloped by verdant farmland and artful limestone mogotes.

Viñales is a snapshot of Cuba at its most bucolic, with local farmers employing age-old agricultural methods, especially in their famed tobacco plantations.

Get on horseback, cycle, or lace up your hiking boots to tour the plantations, taste some of the world’s best tobacco, and learn about Cuba’s rich agricultural traditions directly from the locals.

The rocky landscapes are reminiscent of Vietnam’s Halong Bay and house fascinating cave systems waiting to be explored.

Experience the Classic Cuban Lifestyle

7. smoke a real cuban cigar.

Ignite your Cuban adventure by embracing a classic part of Cuban culture – smoking a genuine Cuban cigar .

Cuba’s fertile lands produce some of the world’s premium-quality cigars, and the tradition of cigar smoking is embedded deeply in the country’s history.

Once you head to Viñales, the tobacco-growing region of Cuba, roll your own Cuban cigar under the guidance of local farmers.

You’ll get to know first-hand the craftsmanship and dedication it takes to produce each cigar.

Famed brands like Cohiba are definitely worth trying, but exploring other lesser-known brands also adds to the experience.

Please note that these authentic Cuban cigars are best purchased from state-run cigar shops or hotels to avoid counterfeit products.

Enjoy your Cuban cigar with a backdrop of a stunning sunset or while sipping a traditional Cuban rum.

8. Drink Cuban Coffee and Rum

Embrace Cuba’s flavorful passions with a sip of their world-renowned coffee and rum.

Each sip of Cuba’s coffee elicits a strong, sweet espresso taste with a pleasingly foamy top.

Savor this delightful drink from local storefronts frequented by locals for just a few pesos. It’s a must-try experience when you visit Cuba.

When it comes to rum, Cuba excels. The country boasts an array of delicious cocktails, chiefly the Daiquiri, Mojito, and the Cuba Libre, each resonating with Cuba’s famous rum.

Havana Club rum tops the popularity chart in most bars; however, should you desire a local, economical flavor, give boxed rum a try!

Hangovers aside, the party scene on the streets with your rum-filled juice box will be one to remember.

9. Have A Meal In A Local Cuban Cafeteria

Experience the authentic taste of Cuba at a local cafeteria — a gateway to explore locals’ day-to-day dining habits.

While tourist restaurants offer a curated menu, these modest kitchens serve a humble, tasteful gastronomic journey truly reflective of Cuba’s flavorful heritage.

Cuban cafeterias are inexpensive and operate with the local currency CUP. Don’t be surprised if you receive CUP as change when paying with CUC (the currency more commonly used by tourists)!

This change doubles up as a nifty souvenir of your Cuban culinary adventure.

Get ready to ditch commonplace ham sandwiches, black beans, and hot dogs.

Make space instead for dishes made with exotic ingredients concocted with a Cuban twist, like baby wild boar rib chops, lobster carpaccio salad, and pineapple sorbet.

While quality varies across these establishments, a bit of research or asking fellow travelers will lead you to the best spots such as Chachahca, El Dandy, and El Biky, all located in Havana.

Don’t forget to dig into the renowned local lobster, shrimp or octopus in flavorful coconut sauce — it’s a palate showstopper.

Tap into Cuban Art and History

10. visit fábrica de arte cubano.

Welcome to the wonder that is Havana’s Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC).

Founded by Cuban musician X-Alfonso, this vibrant art space is a strikingly versatile combination of a fine arts gallery, concert hall, nightclub, movie theater, and cultural space — all under one roof!

A walking tour of FAC unfolds like a cultural magic box. One moment you could be swaying to a live jazz performance, and the next you might find yourself exploring an intriguing art exhibition.

With exhibits and performances rotating every three months, every visit to FAC is a fresh sensory delight.

Indulge your gastronomic cravings at FAC’s pop-up restaurant or enjoy a drink or five at their unique bars. The drinks are reasonably priced, so don’t hesitate to treat yourself while appreciating the arts.

The international popularity of FAC is undeniable. Global figures like Michelle Obama have reveled in the glory of FAC, and it was fittingly named one of the “100 Greatest Places in the World” by Time Magazine.

To avoid potential queues, it’s best to arrive early (between 8 pm and 9 pm) on open days from Thursdays through Sundays.

FAC is undoubtedly a must-visit when in Havana for an unforgettable mix of Cuban art, music, and life.

Here is my list of the Best Things to Do in Cuba .

11. Immerse Yourself in Cuban History at Museo de la Revolución

Submerge yourself in Cuba’s riveting historical timeline at the Museo de la Revolución in Havana .

This iconic museum, housed in the impressive neoclassical Presidential Palace, reveals some of Cuba’s most dramatic moments from the 15th to the 21st centuries.

A highlight of your visit will be exploring the museum’s exhibits dedicated to the country’s communist rebuilding in the 60s and 70s, alongside sections explaining the independence wars against Spain.

Your journey through the museum’s corridors will illuminate personal artifacts, documents, and real-life objects, like the yacht used in one of the attempted coups.

Learn about Cuba’s revolutionary struggles, including the 1950s Cuban Revolution, and gain insight into the local perspective on these events.

An essential tip: since most exhibits are in Spanish, it may be worthwhile hiring a tour guide or a translation app to enrich your experience and understanding.

Whether you’re a history lover or just curious, you’ll find the Museo de la Revolución absolutely fascinating, and a trip to Havana is incomplete without spending a day here.

12. Walk in Ernest Hemingway’s Shoes

Immerse yourself in the legacy left behind by Ernest Hemingway , one of America’s greatest literary figures who lived in Cuba for several decades.

Hemingway’s time in Cuba inspired him to create many of his celebrated novels, and visiting these sites offers a unique perspective into his life and work.

Start by visiting his home, Finca Vigia, nestled in San Francisco de Paula, where you can voyage into his world, from the preserved artifacts to the tower overlook.

It’s a great spot to feel the inspiration that created seven of his renowned books.

Relive Hemingway’s leisurely days by dropping into the classic Havana bars, El Floridita and La Bodeguita del Medio.

These vibrant bars with the aura of an old-world charm are adorned with memorabilia hailing Hemingway’s legacy, creating an atmosphere similar to the author’s heyday.

Cap off your Hemingway tour with a visit to the mesmerizing Cayo Guillermo, where you stumble upon the island’s most beautiful beach, Playa Pilar, named after his yacht.

Experiencing life in Havana through Hemingway’s eyes and in his footsteps is a once-in-a-lifetime narrative of a rich and compelling slice of Cuba’s history.

Indulge in Local Festivities

13. participate in cuba's ebullient festivals.

Soak up Cuba’s vibrant atmosphere at traditional festivals that take place across the country.

Regardless of its history of socialism and crippling embargos, the Cubans revel in their fiestas like no other nation.

The streets come alive with imbued spirit, music, dance, and radiant smiles that complement the picturesque backdrop of colonial architecture, azure water, and palm trees.

From the Havana and Santiago de Cuba Carnivals to the 26th of July celebrations marking Cuba’s National Revolution Day or even prestigious gatherings like the Havana Ballet Festival or Film Festival — you get to experience the real essence of Cuba in its festivities.

Of particular interest to many travelers is the world-famous Ballet Nacional de Cuba, where you can enjoy awe-inspiring ballet performances at a tiny fraction of international prices when they are home in Havana.

You can even stumble upon many smaller local festivals throughout the year.

Preplanning and aligning your trip dates around these significant festivals will transport you into a universe of unique and memorable experiences, where the excitement is turned way up, and the celebrations resonate in every corner of Cuba.

So put on your dancing shoes and let the rhythm of Cuba take over your heart and soul.

14. Catch a Live Cabaret Show

Dress up and step into the glitz and glamour of Havana’s lively cabaret scene.

It’s the perfect way to experience the authentic Cuban nightclub environment, dating back to the flamboyant 1950s variety shows.

A trip to the island is incomplete without attending one of these captivating performances.

Arguably the most famous is the Tropicana Club show. Under a canopy of Caribbean stars and amidst fragrant tropical gardens, immerse yourself in a breathtaking spectacle of sequin-studded dancers and over-the-top singers.

The bombastic dance shows and music nights create an unforgettable experience embellished with plumes of peacock feathers and shiny sequins. Tropicana, with an entry fee of around $60, isn’t cheap, but it’s worth every nickel for the extravaganza you experience.

Alternatively, you can enjoy a more Moulin Rouge-style cabaret at the Hotel Nacional’s Cabaret Le Parisien. Both options guarantee an exclusive and exhilarating taste of Cuban nightlife.

Going to these shows will offer you a piece of living Cuban history, a night of colorful costumes, and thrilling entertainment. You might just find yourself salsa dancing before the night is over!

Test Your Spirit of Adventure

15. dive and snorkel in the caribbean.

Experience the fantastic underwater world of Cuba with a day of diving or snorkeling.

The pristine turquoise Caribbean waters offer some of the best visibility, creating an underwater photographer’s paradise.

Make your way to Jardines de la Reina, an underwater reservoir considered one of the world’s best-preserved marine areas.

Here, you can dive and marvel at massive coral formations while swimming alongside sea turtles, rays, and schools of snapper.

The site is also home to the grand Goliath grouper and various sharks. Be warned — only venture to dive in such spots with a credible guide for your safety.

If you prefer snorkeling, head to the Bay of Pigs , a beloved spot for its stunning underwater caves, bright and vibrant marine life, and beautiful waters.

Playa Larga and Caleta Buena are excellent picks for this sport. Remember the rule of thumb – leave only bubbles, and don’t touch anything underwater.

Every dive and snorkel trip promises a unique encounter with Cuba’s fascinating marine life, making it an unmissable adventure.

16. Check Out Che Guevara Mausoleum

Immerse yourself in the local history by paying a visit to the Che Guevara Mausoleum in Santa Clara, a symbol of the nation’s respect for their revolutionary hero, Ernesto “Che” Guevara.

Constructed in 1997, the mausoleum is a blend of a monument and a museum. It presents an intriguing journey into some unknown aspects of the Revolutionary War.

The memorial houses the remains of Che and his comrades killed in Bolivia in 1967 and displays a collection of Guevara’s personal belongings, including his gun, binoculars, water bottle, photos, and various architectural artworks.

In this somber yet remarkable place, you’re not just traveling through time but also getting introduced to the essence of Cuba’s spirit and Guevara’s iconic role.

The Che Guevara Mausoleum stands as another impressive testament to Cuba’s unwavering character that has shaped its history and identity as a nation.

TIP: It’s advisable to arrive early to avoid long lines, and remember to dress respectfully as it’s a burial site.

17. Ride a Bull

Experience a thrilling ride in Cuba unlike any other: riding a bull!

A refreshing break from traditional horse rides, this bull-riding activity brings you closer to the country’s agricultural roots.

Watch the world turn a little slower as you find yourself amidst tranquil countryside, rolling tobacco fields, and fellow travelers equally eager to embark on this unique adventure.

Animal lovers, this might just become your most memorable moment from the trip!

Though a mix of livestock and people is common in Cuba, this exotic adventure is particularly popular in Vinales.

Opt for a tobacco tour and journey through tobacco fields either by a bull cart or horseback. Sound interesting, right?

Both kids and adults can experience this adventurous ride.

Bulls are domesticated animals, and under the watchful eyes of professionals, they make for a safe and unique mode of touring.

Riding a bull isn’t just about enjoying a fun activity — it’s an experience that slowly immerses you in the authentic, rural, slow-paced lifestyle that is classic Cuba.

Ensure you book your bull ride with a responsible agency. Though not as streamlined as other tourist offerings, the experience is still safe and enjoyable.

If nothing else, you’ll certainly be striking a pose atop a bull, which will spark some fun reactions back home!

What is the Best Time to Visit Cuba?

The best time to visit Cuba is from late November to mid-April.

During these months, Cuba enjoys relatively warm and pleasant weather while avoiding the rainy season.

This period also coincides with the peak tourist season.

Expect more crowded attractions and slightly higher prices during this time. It is essential to consider that even in these months, occasional tropical showers can occur.

However, they usually don’t last very long and can be quite refreshing.

Can I Stay Overnight in Cuba's Casas Particulares?

Yes, staying overnight in Cuba’s casas particulares is not only possible but also highly recommended.

It provides an authentic, affordable option that allows tourists to gain firsthand experience of the local way of life.

Many of these homes offer comfortable accommodations, home-cooked meals, and warm hospitality.

Guests can book through Airbnb or contact the hosts directly.

However, ensure to confirm your reservation before your arrival because sometimes casas particulares may get overbooked.

What is Cuba popular for?

Cuba is globally renowned for its vibrant culture and rich history.

Some of the island’s most iconic features include its famous Cuban cigars, rum, the captivating cha-cha, salsa and mambo dances, and intricate Latin jazz music.

Cuba’s historic architecture, particularly in Old Havana and Trinidad, attracts history and architecture enthusiasts from around the world.

Moreover, Cuba boasts natural beauty with pristine beaches, lush mountains, and impressive biodiversity.

It’s this blend of culture, history, and natural beauty that makes Cuba a unique and popular destination.

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Conclusion: Things to Do in Cuba

Cuba’s magnetic charm is nothing short of a paradise caressed with soulful music, vibrant culture, white-sand beaches, tantalizing cocktails, and fascinating history.

Every corner of this beautiful island sings a captivating tale of resilient spirit and sheer joy.

Whether you’re exploring Cuba’s countryside on a bull ride, hiking through El Yunque, or immersing yourself in the bustling nightlife of Havana, every moment of your Cuban journey will generate a memory worth cherishing.

The amalgamation of old and new, rural and urban, and the striking contrasts of Cuba will leave you speechless yet yearning for more.

This collective list of things to do in Cuba provides a peek into the boundless opportunities that this Caribbean jewel offers.

Step out of your comfort zone, embrace the Cuban pace of life, and you’re sure to fall in love with this exceptional destination.

Here’s wishing you the most magical experiences as you explore and navigate the vibrant labyrinth of life called Cuba! Adiós and safe travels!

And if I missed anything, let me know in the comments below!

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18 Best Things to Do in Cuba: Iconic Experiences and Cultural Delights

It’s time to delve into the past with these fabulous things to do in Cuba. From following in the footsteps of Hemmingway to climbing El Yunque, get ready to learn about some of the country’s best attractions with this guide.

Where do I begin with Cuba? It was high up on my list of places to travel for a very long time until I finally made the journey a few years ago.

It’s one of the most breathtaking Caribbean islands to visit (and also the largest). So, it’s no wonder that Cuba is a bucket list destination for many travellers.

Cuba’s streets are a time capsule of a bygone era, with plenty of historical landmarks to explore and old-time bars that transport you right back to the 1950s. The stunning beauty of the island and nature-filled destinations? That’s the less talked about side of the island. 

So, where do you start? Read on to discover my top picks when it comes to Cuba activities.

Need help to figure out where to stay? I recommend Havana’s El Candil Boutique Hotel for deluxe, centrally-located accommodation (the cute vintage photospot outside is an added bonus).

Top 5 Things to Do in Cuba

Spend some time exploring historic havana .

Visiting Cuba without exploring Havana ? Huge mistake. The hype around this vintage-filled capital is worth it; the country’s rich culture and history is reflected in its countless monuments and museums. 

But where do you start? Kick off by exploring the cultural sites – Havana Cathedral and Revolution Square are two of the most iconic places in the city. To be totally honest, you could easily spend a couple of hours just wandering through the streets and snapping photos of the colonial buildings and cute cars (more on those later).

You should also take the time to delve into Havana’s historical landmarks. I loved the Parque Historico Militar with its two towering fortresses, El Morro and La Cabaña. Time your visit just right (AKA at 9pm) to witness the firing of cannons  – or El Cañonazo – at La Cabaña.

Admire Trinidad’s Architectural Beauty 

Situated in the centre of Cuba, Trinidad is another town you need to visit. From the distinct, colourful colonial architecture to countless galleries and museums, the city has an abundance of character and beauty. 

One of the things I love most about Trinidad is that vehicles cannot enter the city centre. Which means, as you explore the cobblestone streets, you get the chance to appreciate the enchanting surroundings fully. 

And there’s plenty to gawp at – the Plaza Mayor is a great place to admire the city’s kaleidoscope of architecture and mingle with locals. You should also climb the bell tower of the nearby Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco de Asis for picture-perfect views of the entire city. 

Climb El Yunque

Climbing El Yunque is one of my favourite memories of visiting Cuba – and I’m sure you’ll understand why. Located just outside of Baracoa, this flat-topped mountain has a peak of 575 metres (1,886 feet) and offers climbers several picturesque views as their reward.

With a relatively gentle slope, the trail suits pros and beginners. However, I still recommend hiring a guide at the reserve’s entrance. These people will keep you safe and highlight all the local fauna and flora along your journey. 

You’ll find refreshing waterfalls and swimming holes at the trail’s end. These are ideal for cooling down after a hike, so pack a swimsuit. 

Hang Out on the Beaches in Varadero 

Fancy catching the sun? Just a couple of hours from Havana is Varadero, and this resort town is indisputably one of the best places to visit in Cuba. Mainly because it’s home to many of the country’s most idyllic beaches. 

I’ll warn you though: as a top-rated destination in Cuba, Varadero gets very busy – not ideal for people who want to escape the crowds. 

However, if you don’t mind the hustle and bustle, Varadero is perfect for unwinding under the Cuban sun. 

Take Time Out in Viñales

The Viñales Valley in Western Cuba is a delightful mix of charm and serenity. Surrounded by mountains, this valley is mostly flat except for occasional mogotes — natural limestone ‘domes’ that often contain caves.

The calming atmosphere of Vinales is ideal for connecting with nature; you can explore the region through hikes, cycling, and horseback rides. 

You’ll also find some of Cuba’s oldest plantations in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The farmers utilise traditional agricultural methods and are well-known for their tobacco production. Chatting with the locals and learning about Cuba’s unique cultivation practices is certainly a highlight for any visitor. 

Brilliant Things to See & Do in Cuba 

Trace hemingway’s footsteps in havana.

It was only a matter of time before we returned to Havana. Looking for an excuse to sip Mezcal until the wee hours? Tracing Ernest Hemingway’s footsteps is just the quest for you. 

This well-known author lived outside Havana and frequently visited La Bodeguita del Medio and El Floridita . Today, these popular bars are famous tourist attractions — not only because of their connection to Hemingway, but also for their world-class drinks. 

For an authentic Cuban mojito, I recommend visiting La Bodeguita del Medio . However, if you’re a daiquiri enthusiast like me, El Floridita is the place to go. Both cocktails are delicious, so go forth and enjoy a drink in Hemingway’s memory. Cheers!

Speed Around Town in a Vintage Car 

You’ve seen the photos – there’s no better way to explore Cuba than in a vintage car. And you can read all about the experience here . Get ready to be whisked around the capital in a colourful relic from the 50s.

While spotting classic cars is often quite rare, this is not the case in Cuba, where you’ll have a variety of vintage vehicles to choose from. This is due to some pretty complicated history, which meant that Cubans couldn’t access modern cars (or their parts) for quite a while. And it seems that they decided to just roll with it.

Look Out for Pirates at the Castillo del Morro 

Another sight you don’t want to miss is Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca (also called Castillo del Morro ). This impressive 17th-century fortification protected the coastline of Santiago de Cuba and was a place to watch for incoming enemies, particularly pirates.

Gazing at the horizon from the fortress walls is definitely a pinch-me moment (and the perfect opportunity for some incred snapshots). I highly recommend visiting the on-site museum to learn more about the region’s history and the castle’s unique military architecture. 

Immerse Yourself in Cuban History at the Museo de la Revolución

One of the (many) things I love most about travelling is discovering the history of a destination. While you can research beforehand, there’s nothing like some hands-on education. 

Visiting the Museo de la Revolución is a great way to learn about Cuba’s fascinating history (one that includes invasions, revolutions and some downright bloody battles).  

This museum has various artefacts that detail Cuba’s past from the 15th to the 21st centuries. It highlights the 1950s Cuban Revolution and provides a unique look into local interpretations of the conflict. 

Top Tip: Most exhibits are in Spanish, so I recommend hiring a museum tour guide or downloading a translation app. 

Soak Up the Rivers of Baracoa 

I’ve already touched on Baracoa, but did you know it’s also home to 29 rivers? These gorgeous waterways are overflowing with Cuban history and culture. 

One of the most famous sites is the Río Miel (River of Honey), which features in the region’s popular Miel River legend. The tale states that anyone who swims in this river will one day return to Baracoa. 

And trust me, after taking a dip in the refreshing water and admiring your surroundings, you’ll want Baracoa on your list of places to revisit. 

Party at the World-Famous Tropicana Club

Ready to let loose and party? Enter the iconic Tropicana in Havana. Filled with music, dancing, singing and themed performances, this extravagant club is the best place for an authentic taste of Cuban showbiz. 

I suggest going to Tropicana’s old-timey cabaret shows. Attending one of these performances will guarantee you a uniquely Cuban night of colourful costumes and exciting entertainment. You’ll be salsa-ing in no time.

Experience Cuban Culture at Fábrica de Arte Cubano 

No Cuban vacation is complete without an evening spent at Havana’s Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC). This artistic space houses an enchanting blend of local creative and performing arts. 

The line-up changes every three months, meaning FAC always offers fresh and exciting cultural experiences. And, with an array of films, concerts, exhibitions and miscellaneous performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

Top Tip: Tickets for FAC events and exhibitions are available at the door. However, there may be a line, so arrive slightly earlier (I suggest between 8 pm and 9 pm) to accommodate this.

Embrace Nature in Ciénaga de Zapata

With so many urban gems, you would be forgiven for forgetting about Cuba’s natural beauty. But Ciénaga de Zapata National Park is here to remind you.

Located within a sparsely populated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the park boasts a diverse ecosystem home to 70% of all Cuban wildlife species. You can spot everything from the world’s tiniest bird (Cuban Bee Hummingbird) to impressively large crocodiles.

There are various activities for visitors, including kayaking, biking, photography and hiking. I highly recommend partaking in one (or all) of these options. Trust me when I say exploring this region is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll treasure forever. 

Splash Around in the Bay of Pigs

The Bay of Pigs is well-known as the location of American troops’ 1961 failed invasion of Cuba. However, you might not know that this bay is also a dream destination for water lovers. 

With clear waters year-round, this region is an excellent spot for snorkelling and scuba diving. Just picture yourself gliding through the Caribbean Ocean as you marvel at the vibrant coral reefs and colourful sea life around you. 

I’d suggest starting your adventure at either Playa Larga or Playa Girón . These picturesque beaches are popular spots for underwater activities. They’re also near the mainland, meaning you can conveniently rent equipment.

Unique Things to See & Do in Cuba: Hidden Gems That are Off the Beaten Track

Appreciate the artistry of cristobal colon cemetery .

One of the most unique things to see in Cuba has to be the Cristobal Colon Cemetery. Okay, so you might not usually want to pop a graveyard on your holiday itinerary, but I promise this is one you won’t want to miss. 

The Havana cemetery is renowned for its breathtaking architecture, showcased in its various sculptures, monuments and mausoleums.

As you wander through this impressive site, you’ll appreciate the scenery and the tangible history around you. Cristobal Colon Cemetery is unavoidably intertwined with Cuba’s past and provides visitors with a deeper connection to the country’s legacy. 

Go to a Cave Rave in Trinidad

Spending an evening at Disco Ayala is decidedly one of the most exciting activities in Cuba. However, this is no ordinary disco. The club is inside an underground cave (yes, really).

With five dance floors, three bars, and various exciting performances like acrobatics and fire-eating, this ‘cave rave’ always exceeds expectations.

Top Tip: There’s a ten-minute uphill walk from central Trinidad to Disco Ayala. I recommend wearing sturdy shoes for the trek and changing into clubbing shoes once you arrive to avoid sore feet. 

Test Your Sense of Direction in Camagüey

The complex architectural design of Camagüey’s city centre is undoubtedly one of the most unusual things to see in Cuba. The streets are in a maze-like pattern that makes the city extremely difficult to navigate. 

However, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is as enchanting as it is confusing. The labyrinthine layout supposedly originally served to hinder intruders. While modern visitors often still get lost, each wrong turn soon becomes a right as it reveals one of Camagüey’s numerous art galleries, museums or parks.  

Sleep Under the Stars at Cayo Jutias

I recommend visiting a Cuban cay (mini island) for an exciting day trip. My top pick? Cayo Jutias and its famous Playa de las Estrellas — a beach with countless starfish. 

While the cay is already idyllic, it becomes truly magical at dusk. As the sun sets, the ocean reflects the sky and eventually becomes a stunning pink. After this breathtaking display, you can head back to the mainland. 

However, for an extra memorable experience, I’d recommend staying overnight. Cayo Jutias has no accommodation, though you can rent camping equipment on-site and sleep under the stars.  

Things to do in Cuba: Practical Tips for Your Trip

With so many cool things to do and see in Cuba, I’d suggest booking at least a week-long vacation so you can experience the country’s best attractions. Ideally, spend at least three days in Havana and then head to Trinidad and beyond.

Cuba has relatively warm and pleasant weather throughout the year. However, visiting between late November and mid-April is best to avoid the rainy season.

Where Should I Stay in Cuba? 

Casa misladys apartamento (mid-range) .

Casa Misladys Apartamento in Trinidad is a quirky place to stay that won’t break the bank. For real – the purple walls and green ceilings might give you a headache, but they’re so fun.

The helpful 24-hour front desk will meet your every need. And, with major attractions like the Plaza Mayor within walking distance, you can easily explore your surroundings.

Check Rates and Availability 

El Candil Boutique Hotel (Luxury)

El Candil Boutique Hotel offers luxury at its finest. Don’t believe me? Here you can experience idyllic views of Havana from the rooftop pool while sipping a cocktail from the on-site bar. 

The hotel’s central location also means you’re nearby some of the top attractions in the city – and the country. 

Check Rates and Availability

Things to do in Cuba: Map 

Things to do in Cuba: Read More

• Unmissable Things to do in Havana
• Taking a Vintage Car Tour in Havana
• 3 of My Favourite Caribbean Islands
• Where to Visit in the Caribbean

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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19 Unforgettable Places to Visit In Cuba in 2024

Written By: Hege Jacobsen

Updated On: March 7, 2024

Cuba is truly a unique destination. The largest of the Caribbean Islands, Cuba will charm you with its charismatic vibe influenced by four centuries of African, Caribbean, and Spanish cultures. Everywhere you look there are reminders of its past integrated with the present. To help you immerse in Cuban culture, we’re going to share the best places to visit in Cuba to experience an authentic and unforgettable vacation.

Table of Contents

Top Places To Visit In Cuba

Cuba transgresses the boundaries of time, spanning six decades simultaneously. In Old Havana take in the mid-century ambiance of the UNESCO World Heritage Site combined with its Spanish colonial architecture. Hail a classic American car, and whisk along the Malecón with hair flowing in the wind. Outside the city, there is a bounty of natural beauty to explore with thousands of miles of Caribbean coastline shielding glimmering coral reefs in tranquil turquoise waters. 

If you arrive with an open mind, you will feel the new winds of Cuba whispering between the tones of salsa, reggaeton, and mesmerizing Santeria tambores calling on the saints to descend in celebration. Here are the 18 best places to see when visiting Cuba that you’ll never forget.

1. Visit Mesmerizing Havana

Of all the unique places to visit in Cuba, the famous capital Havana should be on top of your list! Often travelers either instantly fall in love with Havana or don’t get it at all. But if you give it time and wander its cobbled streets soaking in Cuban life and the different architectural styles from the old town to the central business district you’ll be captivated. We recommend at least a day in Havana, but if you can do three days, you’ll really be able to see it all

There are so many unique things to do in Havana , which is a city filled with music, art, culture, and delicious foods as well as Cuban history, museums, landmarks, noise, and rubble. Many must-see destinations are also within  day trip distance from Havana .

The first thing I recommend is that you take a classic American car tour around the city, and take in the contrasts. This is a super way of getting an overview of greater Havana and experiencing firsthand the different ambiances of the city districts. 

The second is to do a guided walking tour of the historic Old Havana (La Habana Vieja). Learn about the rich historical details of colonial Havana, revolutionary Havana, and Che Guevera. Make sure you visit the Plaza de la Catedral, Bodeguita del Medio (where Hemingway hung out), and the Castillo de la Real Fuerza.

My third recommendation is to book a table for dinner at Paladar San Cristobal (where Obama had dinner) or the rooftop terrace at fantastic La Guarida, both in Central Havana. Ask for a chambre separé in San Cristobal if you are a group, it will be an amazing evening. At La Guarida, stroll over to the other end of the restaurant after dinner for a nightcap at the amazing rooftop bar with stunning night views of Havana. 

Vibrating in the contrast between the stunning and decaying, the new, the vintage, and the ancient, Havana’s unique atmosphere is created by decades of solitude, a proud national feeling, and a fading romantic idea about the revolution.

With its Spanish colonial architecture and the fierce Malecon boardwalk, a visit to Havana is an incredible experience if you keep your eyes and heart open. Explore the centuries-old streets, peek beyond the facade, let the city tell you its history, and take in the ambiance of Cuba’s capital. 

Where to Stay in Havana

Planning on staying in Havana? The Iberostar Grand Packard is one of Havana’s most luxurious hotels with the best sunset view in the city. Have a cocktail on the 6th-floor bar overlooking the infinity swimming pool and the Malecon.

2. Feel Authentic Cuba In Guanabo Town

If you like to experience the authenticity and uniqueness of a destination when you are traveling, then one of the best places to visit in Cuba is Guanabo.

Located just half an hour’s drive east of Havana along the coastline, Guanabo is a typical Cuban small town. It is not free of tourists, but it is a destination much less traveled than Havana or Varadero. There is a myriad of bars and small restaurants with random self-appointed DJs along the main street of Guanabo. 

Stop for a mojito in one of the roadside bars, and buy a typical Cuban lunch in the park next to La Esquina de Los Caballitos (bring cash) along with the rest of the locals. Then head for Guanabo Beach, where on the weekend each cluster of sunbeds houses a family with their subwoofer playing either reggaeton or salsa while sharing a bottle of rum with everyone!

Take a day trip to Guanabo, or opt for staying here for a night or two if you want a more authentic Cuban experience than partly polished Old Havana. You will find casa particulares for rent in Guanabo across the spectrum from simple standard to luxury, while experiencing a truer vibe of what Cuba is like, including the nightlife!

3. Basque In Turquoise Waters At Playas del Este

Playas del Este is a chain of small beaches lying like beads on a chain spread out to the east of Havana city. Lots of Cubans come to Playas del Este to enjoy the sand and sea, especially during the weekends. The closest beach to Havana is the small bay of Playa Bacuranao, while the most beautiful one according to lots of travelers, is Playa Santa Maria del Mar. 

On the latter, you can expect lots of life and hustle and bustle, especially on the weekends, from kiosks selling everything from traditional chicken with rice, rum, and ice cream while playing music at the nightclub level. 

Guanabo town is within walking distance of the eastern beach of Playa Boca Ciega, as well as Playa Guanabo. Playas del Este are the best beaches to visit on a day trip from Havana. You can take the bus from Parque Central, hail a private taxi to tend to you all day, or even book a beach trip as an organized tour online. 

4. All-Inclusive Heaven In Varadero

In 2019, Varadero Beach was voted forward as the second most beautiful beach in the world on TripAdvisor. For anyone longing for a true Caribbean holiday with crispy white sand and blue oceans, resorts, and pools, this is one of the top places to visit in Cuba. 

The sandy string of beaches follows the entire coastline of the narrow Hicacos Peninsula, stretching into the sea off Cuba’s northern coast.

The peninsula is mainly the home of numerous large pampering all-inclusive resorts filled with swimming pools, restaurants, and spas along the coastline, only steps from the white sands and the sea. There is a small town center where you find restaurants, an artisan market, a variety of shops that you can enjoy, and even a mall built in the 90s, weirdly named Plaza America.  

Varadero is perfect for a Caribbean getaway with swimming, snorkeling, boat trips, scuba diving, or simply soaking up some sunshine, and there is a golf course with spectacular proximity to the Caribbean surf. 

You can also explore nearby caves, visit the Botanical Garden, a natural reserve, or venture out deep sea fishing! 

Just know that if you stay in a Varadero resort for your entire vacation, you have not really visited Cuba, as the real Cuba is very different. So it is really great that Varadero is within tour distance to other destinations in Cuba, like Vinales, Havana , Trinidad, and Cienfuegos. Check it out. 

5. Lush Green Valle de Viñales & Cuban Cigars

Mainly famous for being home to the coveted Cuban cigars, Vinales is a small agricultural town in a lush green fertile valley located in the western part of Cuba, in Pinar del Rio province. 

You can take a day trip to Valle de Viñales from Havana, and even from Varadero (although that is a really long day) and experience the highlights of the valley. See the Mural de la Prehistoria, the stunning Cueva del Indio cave, visit a Cuban cigar farm, and have a traditional Cuban lunch – all in one day! 

If you have time to travel slower, you can also stay a night or two in a casa particular in the small but charming Vinales town center. 

There are a variety of unique restaurants and bars for you to explore offering traditional meals with local ingredients and delicious Cuban food like  ropa vieja  or  pollo con arroz morro . There is one special thing about Vinales that has put the valley on the UNESCO World Heritage site list, and that is the  mogotes . Scattered around the valley small abrupt hills are lying like green sugar tops across the valley floor; the  mogotes . 

Mogotes are isolated, steep-sided, and rugged hills composed of limestone, marble, or dolomite, with rounded shapes that tower above the flat plains around them. 

If you stay a while, you will have time to go on hikes to explore the mogotes up close, some of them have caves where you can go swimming or rock climbing inside. 

Or try rock climbing on the outside, walk the many trails around the valley, go horseback riding, and visit the nearby limestone caves. Maybe visit the pristine beaches on Cayo Jutias up north on a day trip?

6. Ruggedly Untouched Island Cayo Jutias

Cayo Jutias is a beautiful island you can reach by driving north across a causeway on the verge of Pinar del Rio province, off the northwest coast of Cuba. 

Here you find nothing but a quiet beach with a narrow strip of crispy sand separating the mangroves from the soft sea. 

You can take a taxi up to this tranquil island for the day (there are no hotels here), a couple of hours from Vinales. It is perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing getaway, with stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and simply chill. 

Most travelers immediately fall in love with the pristine rugged beauty of Cayo Jutias. Unlike other destinations in Cuba, the untouched Caribbean beaches here have not been developed like Varadero or some of the other Cuban keys. 

There is a restaurant and a couple of bars on the beach where the prices are decent for cocktails and sandwiches. Spend the day snorkeling, swimming or simply doing nothing on the beach before you return to mainland Cuba in the afternoon. 

7. Sustainable Las Terrazas in Pinar del Rio

Las Terrazas is a picturesque, serene community that focuses on sustainable development in Pinar del Rio, and allows its visitors to become one with nature. 

Located 46 miles west of Havana, this tranquil oasis is situated in the Sierra del Rosario which was appointed a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1985. In the late 1960s, Las Terrazas was created to restore an area that had been severely damaged by extensive coffee production in the 19th century. 

Millions of trees were planted, terraces for agriculture excavated, and a small town was constructed to keep nature as its focus. Now the land is protected rather than exploited; its cycles are respected and appreciated in perfect harmony with nature.

Las Terrazas is one of the destinations in Cuba that has attracted a vibrant community of talented artists. It also provides an incredible outdoor setting for nature enthusiasts from open public workshops and studios to unlimited opportunities for outdoor activities.  Spend the day in the beautiful river oasis, with layered cascades running from one level to another of crystal clear pools where you can take heavenly dips in the waterfalls. 

From the lush vegetation of the Sierra del Rosario mountain range, you will also find stunning viewpoints, and tropical mountain scenery around Las Terrazas, where you can gaze at the hazy coastline!

8. Colonial Living Museum Of Trinidad

Trinidad is often referred to as “the museum of Cuba”, a unique colonial city located on Cuba’s southern shores around four hour’s drive from Havana. 

The reason Trinidad is protected by the UNESCO World Heritage Site list is that its historical center looks almost identical today as it did at the height of Cuba’s sugar era when Trinidad was the sugar capital of the island. When Cuba was priced out of the sugar trade by other nations, the city became a forgotten backwater, a place that was not developed like other Cuban towns in the 19th and 20th Centuries. 

Trinidad today is one of the most famous places to visit in Cuba for its well-preserved colorful colonial buildings and cobblestone streets. Here historic telltales from the colonial era in the Caribbean and Cuba are found in the details. 

Visit one of the countless museums(don’t miss the Museum of Colonial Architecture aka Museo de Arquitectura Colonial) and artist’s studios in Trinidad’s historic center, walk around Plaza Mayor at nightfall, and enjoy a meal on the balcony of Los Conspiradores opposite Casa de la Musica. 

Travel the short distance to the Valle de Los Ingenios, or Valley of Sugar Mills, once home to vast sugar plantations. From Trinidad, you can also explore the Topes de Collantes national park, or simply head out to paradisiacal Playa Ancon beach just 15 minutes from Trinidad town center.

9. Cienfuegos City With The French Heritage

The special thing about Cienfuegos is that it is the only city in Cuba that was founded by the French, not the Spanish (although under the Spanish crown).  

A small town located on the southern coast of Cuba just west of Trinidad, the heritage of Cienfuegos is detectable in architecture and even city planning. You find a miniature version of the Arc de Triomphe in the main city square; Parque Jose Marti. 

Along Boulevard avenue in Cienfuegos is a variety of shops and small restaurants, and when the Boulevard closes, the Paseo del Prado wakes up. This is where the Cienfuegos nightlife is found, as the sun sets, the doors and windows open along the Prado and the music starts. 

You can also visit attractions like the amazing botanical garden, or go kayaking or horseback riding outside the city. And then head out to Camila’s restaurant out on Punta Gorda, across the Malecon, for an amazing sunset and dinner.

10. Infamous Bay of Pigs & Playa Giron

The Bahia de Cochinos, more commonly known as the Bay of Pigs, and the small village at Playa Giron beach are the destinations in Cuba that were the center of dramatic world events in 1961. 

The failed US invasion of Cuba happened here, where more than a thousand soldiers landed on the beaches, where they were defeated by Cuban forces, and ended up being prisoners of war for over a year in Cuba. 

Today Playa Giron is a sleepy little village on the edge of the deep Bay of Pigs. It is worth a visit because of the Bay of Pigs Museum, which tells the story of Cuba before the revolution, as well as the failed US invasion from a Cuban standpoint.  

There are also a variety of restaurants and bars in the area, so you can enjoy local Cuban cuisine for lunch or if you stay the night. After visiting the museum and the small market, there is not a lot more to discover here. 

If you head further north to Playa Larga you can check out some of the best diving on the island. With 17 different types of coral and great visibility, you will want to visit this place if you want to explore the underwater world.

11. Heart Of The Revolution Santa Clara City

Santa Clara is a small city located in the central part of Cuba about two hours north of Trinidad. It is home to a university, and possibly the scene of the most important incident leading up to the Cuban revolution in 1959. 

This is where Che Guevara and his men defeated Batista soldiers in December 1959 in a dramatic fight, before conquering the city, which led to president Batista fleeing the country on New Year’s Eve. Today this is one of the places to visit in Cuba with the most memorabilia, monuments, murals, and signs about the revolution all around, including in the main plaza Parque Leoncio Vidal. 

Santa Clara is also home to the last resting place of Che Guevara; he has been honored with a huge mausoleum on the verge of the Plaza de la Revolución. Santa Clara today also has a decent nightlife, lots of casa particulares, and a variety of restaurants and bars. After hiking to the top of La Loma hill to watch the sunset you can enjoy tasty Cuban dishes for dinner in this living and breathing museum of the revolution in Cuba.

From Santa Clara, there is about a one-hour drive north to Cayo Santa Maria, one of the paradisiacal Cuban keys that exist only for all-inclusive resort life.  

12. Secluded Paradise Island Cayo Santa Maria

Cayo Santa Maria is the name of a stunning island triplet, and part of the most famous places to visit in Cuba, the Cuban keys. Located off the north coast of Cuba, it lingers just where the Jardines del Rey coral reef system starts; the King’s Garden. 

To get here, you need to cross over a causeway on the northern coast of around 28 miles before you arrive at the island mangroves, hiding a secluded paradise consisting only of amazing all-inclusive resorts and luxury. 

In Cayo Santa Maria, there is no city center or local inhabitants, the whole island triplet is a resort heaven. A holiday here really is the place you go for the Caribbean paradise getaway, and only that. 

What there is an abundance of in Cayo Santa Maria, is beaches, pools and pool bars, food, mojitos, and lots of water activities. It is a perfect place to go snorkeling, take a day trip on a catamaran, scuba diving, and even deep sea fishing from Marina Gaviota.  

You can visit other parts of Cuba from Cayo Santa Maria like Santa Clara and Trinidad, but be prepared to cover some distances for other adventures. 

13. Paradisiacal Beaches And History In Cayo Coco

Cayo Coco is another stunning Cuban key located off the north coast of Cuba, the most famous one of the Jardines del Rey coral reef system, from where you can also reach tiny Cayos Guillermo, Paredon, and Cruz. You need to cross another long causeway across the Bahía de Perros (Bay of Dogs) to reach Cayo Coco and Guillermo, as the keys are connected to the main island of Cuba by a 17-mile  pedraplen . 

These beautiful islands are known for stunning beaches and crystal clear waters, the five most famous beaches on Cayo Coco being Playa Los Flamencos, Playa Prohibida, Playa Larga, Playa Colorades, and Playa la Laula. 

There are of course plenty of water sports to do on Cayo Coco, including amazing diving in the Jardines del Rey, and kite surfing. On dry land, you can also go rock climbing at the Rocarena Climbing Center, or take a jeep tour.  Cayo Coco is also an all-inclusive resort territory, the only exception is Sitio La Guira where you can rent rooms in a very special historic environment. 

Sitio La Guira is an enthralling ecological and historical area where you can explore the region’s myriad biodiversity while traveling back in time. Learn about the culture, customs, and lifestyle of its early colonists here during the 1900s.

14. Capital Of The Carnival Santiago de Cuba

Santiago de Cuba today is the second biggest city in Cuba, situated on the eastern side of the island. The distance from Santiago de Cuba over to Haiti is shorter than to the capital Havana.  

For a few decades centuries ago, Santiago was the formal capital of Cuba, and today it still holds the title capital of the carnival in Cuba. Although most destinations in Cuba have a carnival, they are not like the one in Santiago. 

The city is famous for its incredibly energetic and abundant carnivals every year in July, and Santiago also has a bit more Caribbean influence from the islands further east because of its location. 

Some unique sights in Santiago are the majestic El Morro fortress guarding the narrow entrance to Santiago bay, San Pedro de la Roca Castle a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Santa Ifigenia Cemetery, which is the last resting place of Cuban national hero Jose Marti, as well as Fidel Castro. 

Santiago is also the birthplace of the 26th of July Movement, the name of Castro’s resistance group, which was founded after a failed attack on the Moneda Barracks in Santiago in 1953. 

After this attack, Castro was sentenced to jail and spent several years incarcerated in a jail on Isla de la Juventud which is now the museum you can visit on Isla de la Juventud. Santiago de Cuba also has some famous restaurants like the Bodeguita del Medio on the main street, where they serve killer Camarones (shrimp). 

15. Biodiverse Isla de la Juventud

Isla de la Juventud, or the Isle of Youth, is the second largest island in the Cuban archipelago (there are around 4000), situated in the Caribbean Sea south of western Cuba. It is one of the destinations in Cuba that are the trickiest to visit. 

The capital city is Nueva Gerona, which is more like a village with a few casa particulares, bars and restaurants, and some museums. There is only one hotel on the island, 

Particularly famous for exceptional scuba diving sites, it is also close to the southern coral reef outside Cuba, the Jardines de la Reina. Make the journey from the main island port of Batabanó in about three hours, and you can experience amazing scuba diving off the southwestern tip of Punta Francés. 

Isla de la Juventud is also a paradise of biodiversity protecting endangered species such as crocodiles, parrots, sharks, and turtles. One spectacular sight on Isla de la Juventud is the Presidio Modelo, the iconic prison-turned-museum where Fidel Castro was imprisoned after the failed attack in Santiago de Cuba in 1953, an eerie-looking place today. 

Isla de la Juventud is not for city lovers, this is a destination for travelers who enjoy venturing off the beaten tracks, find weird stuff fascinating, and love to explore nature reserves and wildlife.  

16. Vast Mountain Range Sierra Nevada

The Sierra Nevada is a vast mountain range east of Santiago de Cuba, starting by the sea and stretching inland. The area has several national parks like Gran Parque Nacional Sierra Maestra and Parque Nacional Pico Turquino. 

Pico Turquino is also the highest point of the Sierra Maestra and the highest point in the whole of Cuba with its 1974 meters above sea level. A great destination in Cuba for avid hikers,  and nature lovers who will be rewarded with amazing views of the mountains and the sea after a trek up here. 

Visitors can also explore its many trails, breathtaking waterfalls, and panoramic mountain views. Sierra Maestra is home to a variety of unique wildlife, and more than 80 bird species, so make sure to keep an eye out for native birds and other animals! The Sierra Maestra is also famous for being Fidel Castro’s secret guerilla hideout in the 1950s. 

17. Fidel Castro’s Secret Headquarters Comandancia de la Plata

Comandancia de la Plata possibly is the most intriguing of all destinations in Cuba you can visit. This was Fidel Castro’s hidden jungle headquarters in Sierra Maestra in the 1950s, and it still looks the same today. 

Here Fidel Castro and his comrades ran their resistance campaign and guerilla warfare against Batista in the last years of the 1950s, before the Cuban revolution. Here he hid for long periods, made plans, and prepared for attacks. 

Today there is a small museum here telling some of the stories of people and incidents that happened during the 50s. You will also be able to see the secret house of Fidel Castro, where he ate and slept – and even his outside toilet. 

A fascinating destination you can reach on a day trip from Santiago de Cuba, a few hour’s drive and a short but hot and steep hike from where the road ends in the mountains. 

18. The Secluded First City Baracoa 

Situated on the eastern tip of Cuba, Baracoa is where the first Spanish colony was founded in Cuba and is known as the “Ciudad Primada”, or “First City”, the first place in Cuba to be visited by Christopher Columbus. The town lies along the Bay of Honey, and has a lush tropical rainforest climate, while surrounded by a mountain range shielding it from inland Cuba.  

Before the Cuban Revolution, you could only travel to Baracoa by boat, but in the 1960s a 120-kilometer-long road known as La Farola was built to connect Baracoa with the interior of Cuba. 

Having been protected from crowds of tourists by the remote location, Baracoa has a tranquil vibe untainted by over-tourism. Unique things to do in Baracoa today are the hike to the El Yunque mountain, and visit the city cathedral and the Parque Independencia. 

Also check out the Cueva del Paraiso which is an archeological museum with artifacts from the indigenous Taino culture, Casa de la Trova (house of troubadours), or rent a bike to explore on your own. 

You can take the four-hour-long bus ride here from Santiago de Cuba to reach this historically important destination in Cuba with amazing nature experiences as well.

19. Cayo Largo del Sur

Cayo Largo del Sur is a relatively unknown travel destination that is often overshadowed by more popular tourist spots like Havana and Varadero. However, Cayo Largo del Sur is a hidden gem that offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

The beaches here are incredible. There is more than 20 kilometers of white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The beaches are relatively uncrowded, so you can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the island without feeling overwhelmed by large crowds.

Cayo Largo del Sur also has a fascinating history that is worth exploring. The island was once a haven for pirates and smugglers, and it played a significant role in the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. Today, visitors can learn about the island’s history by visiting museums and historic sites, such as the El Torreon lighthouse and the Mural de la Prehistoria.

Overall, Cayo Largo del Sur is a unique and unspoiled place to visit in Cuba that offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and culture.

Wrap-Up 19 Amazing Destinations In Cuba

With a little luck, you now feel super motivated to go visit Cuba, and hopefully, your only problem at the moment is choosing places in Cuba to visit, and what to do! 

I feel you, after being based in Havana for over two years there are still things I have not been able to explore yet. But discovery is the first step on the way, a step you have just taken. Enjoy your Cuba travel planning, and the answer to any of your Cuba questions is only an email away. 

Plan Your Nest Trip to Cuba With These Resources

• Cuban Food: 20 Cuban Dishes You Can Try at Home
• 11 Fun Facts About Cuba You Never Knew
• Cuba Travel Guide

42 Fantastic Things to do in Havana, Cuba

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

Cuban Food: 23 Cuban Dishes You Can Try at Home

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About Hege Jacobsen

Hege Jacobsen is a Norwegian former military officer and social scientist who now is based inHavana, Cuba. She runs the travel blog The World By Hege , a one-stop-shop for Cuba and Caribbeantravel! You can also follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

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2 thoughts on “19 Unforgettable Places to Visit In Cuba in 2024”

Amazing post, and thanks for sharing such valuable information.

Thanks so much about all the information about Cuba,i just came back from it but you didn’t image anything about city of Holguin i guess you didn’t have nothing to say about it.

25 Best Things To Do in Cuba: A Local’s Ultimate Guide for Travelers [2024]

Cuba is so much more than just beaches, resorts, and vintage cars. The largest island in the Caribbean offers travelers so much more than just its stereotypes would imply , leaving the travelers that get to know it well ready to plan a return visit ASAP.

As locals, we’ve had the pleasure of exploring all the best places to visit in Cuba and having some of the most incredible travel experiences the island has to offer. Read on for our tips on the very best things to do in Cuba, whether you’re looking for an escape to the best beaches in Cuba or prefer a packed itinerary of cultural activities and events.

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Best Time To Visit Cuba

There’s never a bad time to visit a Caribbean island that feels plucked from a postcard, as Cuba does! However, the best time to visit Cuba tends to be between December and May, when the skies are clear and the oceans warm and calm.

Cuba never feels packed with travelers, but these are the travel seasons to be aware of in Cuba:

• High Season:  December – March
• Shoulder Season : April – June, October – November
• Low Season : July – September

Keep in mind that Cuba sits within the Atlantic Hurricane Belt, and tropical conditions are possible during hurricane season, which lasts from June through November. Storms are rare, but wetter weather is common during these months.

Looking for even more details and a month-to-month breakdown of weather and travel conditions in Cuba? Check out our detailed guide to the best times to visit Cuba for all this and more.

Best Things To Do in Cuba

Looking for a quick few recommendations as you plan your Cuba itinerary? These are the experiences we, as locals, genuinely think you can’t skip as you plan your trip:

• Explore Old Havana
• Visit a tobacco farm in the Viñales Valley
• Hit the beach in Varadero
• Explore historic Trinidad
• Go diving in Jardines de la Reina

Read on for even more details about all the best things to do in Cuba during your stay, ranging from the most adventurous to the most relaxing!

Cuba Travel 101

• Currency in Cuba: A Local’s Guide for Travelers
• How to Get Wifi in Cuba [Updated!]
• Is Cuba Safe? Updated Cuba Safety Guide
• Ultimate Cuba Travel Guide – A Local’s Advice for Travelers

Things To Do in Cuba

1. explore old havana.

There is no more fascinating area of Havana than its oldest neighborhood, Old Havana , home to beautiful but faded historic architecture, museums, cultural centers, fortresses, and grand plazas.

Unlike the historic centers of other cities in the Caribbean, Old Havana is unique in that people actually live here, and you’ll see real life happening around you as you walk the streets: children rushing to classes in their uniforms, fruit and vegetable markets, street vendors selling pastries.

People live, work, and study here, sometimes in buildings that are historical and interesting to visitors but are in desperate need of repair. Visit in a respectful way, and always ask before taking pictures of people.

Read More: A Local’s Guide to Exploring Old Havana, Cuba

2. Hike El Yunque

El Yunque – which means the Anvil in English – is a unique tabletop mountain outside of Baracoa , Cuba that is mentioned even in Christopher Columbus’ diaries upon his first sightings of the island.

An important part of the “skyline” of the small, historic city of Baracoa, hiking El Yunque is one of the best hikes in Cuba , and a very popular excursion.

Not a technically challenging hike except for a short steep section before reaching the tabletop, the journey will take you through lush jungles, past waterfalls and swimming holes, and through small farms where local families have made businesses out of making (delicious!) homemade meals for hikers. It’s an excellent hike, worth traveling here for.

Plan a Trip to Baracoa, Cuba

• Baracoa, Cuba: Ultimate Travel Guide
• 12 Best Things To Do in Baracoa, Cuba

3. Try (Real!) Cuban Food

Don’t come to Cuba looking for a Cuban sandwich. Guess what? José had never even heard of a Cuban sandwich before getting to the U.S. This sandwich was created in southern Florida – whether Miami or Tampa is the true city of origin is a source of hot debate.

Don’t worry, there is plenty of delicious Cuban food here you’ll love. Here are some of the best dishes to try in Cuba.

• Arroz con Frijoles (rice and beans)
• Tostones (fried plantains)
• Ropa Vieja (shredded beef)
• Yuca con Mojo (yuca with garlicky sauce)
• Congris (rice and beans, mixed)
• Seafood dishes like shrimp, lobster, and arroz imperial (rice with seafood)

Note: Smart restaurant owners in Cuba have caught on to this whole “Cuban sandwich” thing , and now you can find a fair number of restaurants selling them. 

4. Dive with Sharks in Jardines de la Reina

If you’re looking for adventure travel rather than rest and relaxation, a visit to Jardines de la Reina is for you. Jardines de la Reina is known as one of the most pristine protected areas of the Caribbean Sea, home to unique corals, beautiful tropical fish, and countless sharks , some known to grow larger than anywhere else on Earth.

Diving with sharks is one of the most popular activities here, though experienced guides can also lead you to shark-free areas if you’d like a more relaxing dive . Wherever you plan to dive, be prepared for stunning underwater scenery with canyons, caves, and unique formations wherever you look.

Read More: Jardines de la Reina: A Traveler’s Guide

5. Visit Fábrica de Arte Cubano

You can’t visit Havana without visiting Fábrica de Arte Cubano. This mixed-use arts and performance space is simultaneously a fine arts gallery, concert hall, nightclub, movie theater, and cultural space in one, with a pop-up shop, restaurant, and five unique bars thrown in for good measure.

Open from Thursdays through Sundays, this space has a rotating group of exhibits and performances – every night of the week is different. It has hosted international performers, local celebrities, and even Michelle Obama, and was named by Time Magazine as one of the 100 Greatest Places in the World .

Travel Essential

Don’t think about traveling to Cuba without a good  VPN (Virtual Private Network) . Using a VPN while connecting to the internet is an easy way to keep your personal information safe from hackers and trackers.  We’ve used  NordVPN  for years and couldn’t recommend it more – it’s a must for safety online, especially in Cuba. 

6. Hike Pico Turquino

If you’re looking for an adventurous and unexpected excursion in Cuba, consider hiking Cuba’s highest peak: Pico Turquino. In the heart of the Sierra Maestra mountain range in southeast Cuba, expect lush jungles and stunning views to reward your efforts.

The hike is moderately strenuous and doesn’t require any special gear, acclimatization, or training, so as long as you’re reasonably fit and active, it’s well within your reach.

The summit also includes an optional visit to the Comandancia de la Plata, one of Cuba’s most important revolutionary sites. This was the location of the guerrilla camp used by Fidel Castro, Che Guevara, and their band of revolutionaries, from which they launched the first attacks against the Cuban government that launched the Cuban Revolution.

Today, visitors on their way to the summit of the peak can visit the site of the evolutionary radio station, field hospital, barracks, and even Fidel’s private camp office. It’s a fascinating stop on the way up to the summit.

7. Stroll the Colonial Streets of Trinidad

As a historic city in Cuba filled with colonial architecture, Trinidad is overshadowed by Old Havana in the number of visitors but not in beauty. Trinidad is known for having the best-preserved and most extensive colonial center in the Caribbean. It’s a gem that far too few travelers in the Caribbean visit.

While specific sites in the historic center are worth seeing – particularly the Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco de Asis with its stunning mountain views from the rooftop, there is a simple and special joy in exploring the historic city streets.

Much of the old town is pedestrian-only, making it perfect for strolling, exploring, and getting lost. It’s the very best thing to do in Trinidad , though there is enough here to keep you busy for at least three or four days easily.

Plan a Trip to Trinidad, Cuba

• Ultimate Travel Guide to Trinidad, Cuba
• 8 Best Day Trips from Trinidad, Cuba
• Where to Stay in Trinidad, Cuba

8. See the Mogotes in Viñales

More than just a great day trip escape from Havana, Viñales is a top place to visit in Cuba . I’ll be honest; when I visited for the first time, I fully expected it to be overrated – I was SO wrong.

Viñales is stunning; its limestone “mountains” called mogotes soaring up from otherwise flat ground make this valley look almost otherwordly, leaving a lasting impression. Visiting just to bask in the beauty is more than enough of a reason.

However, Vinales also has so much to see and do. Horseback ride through the valleys, visit tobacco plantations, learn about the art of making cigars, and explore caves with underground lakes and rivers.

Plan a Trip to Viñales

• Ultimate Travel Guide to Viñales, Cuba
• Where to Stay in Viñales, Cuba
• 12 Best Things To Do in Viñales, Cuba
• Havana to Viñales Day Trip Guide

9. Soak Up the Sun in Varadero

Cuba’s favorite beach getaway, both for international travelers and Cubans, is Varadero .

The convenience of Varadero – just two hours east of Havana – and its bevy of restaurants, bars, rental apartments and houses, and resorts – makes it a great, easy spot to enjoy one of the world’s best stretches of white sand.

Varadero is by no means off the beaten path, so if you’re looking for a hidden gem, consider Cayo Jutias near Viñales, Cayo Saetia in Holguin , or the beaches near Playa Girón. However, if you’re looking for some rest and relaxation, clear waters, and white sand, Varadero awaits.

Plan a Trip to Varadero

• Ultimate Travel Guide to Varadero, Cuba
• 10+ Best Resorts in Varadero, Cuba
• Havana to Varadero: 5 Easy Ways to Travel

10. Visit Cuba’s Pristine Cayos

Some of Cuba’s most popular destinations aren’t actually on the Cuban mainland – they’re the tiny cays (cayos) that rim most of the island , sitting just offshore. While each cay is unique, t hey’re generally known for having Cuba’s most famous and luxurious resorts and are home to the island’s best beaches.

These are some of the most popular cays for visitors to Cuba:

• Cayo Coco: Located off Cuba’s north central shore, Cayo Coco is famous for its white sand beaches and stunning resorts.
• Cayo Guillermo : Connected to Cayo Coco by a causeway, Cayo Guillermo has more family-friendly resorts and similarly stunning beaches.
• Cayo Santa Maria: This is the new resort hotspot in Cuba. Cayo Santa Maria has stunning beaches and an increasingly impressive number of beautiful places to stay.
• Cayo Jutias : This natural, rugged cay near Viñales has stunning beaches but no accommodations. Cayo Jutias and nearby Cayo Levisa are some of the most popular day trips from Vinales.
• Cayo Largo del Sur : One of the most distant cays, Cayo Largo is known for having three of Cuba’s most beautiful beaches. This cay sits to the east of Isla de la Juventud and south of the mainland. 

A Guide to Cuba’s Cays

• Cayo Largo del Sur: Best Beaches in Cuba?
• Cayo Santa Maria: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide
• Cayo Guillermo: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide

11. Stay in a Casa Particular

Before renting on Airbnb became a popular way to travel, Cuba did it first.

Called “casas particulares,” these “private homes” have long been the best place to stay in Cuba. Just like on Airbnb, you can find everything from a spare bedroom to a sprawling mansion with a private pool for rent – often significantly cheaper than the prices of a hotel.

The best part? You’ll often get a much more local, authentic experience than you would in a hotel. You’re also supporting local Cubans , many of whom make their livelihoods with these rentals. 

Check out our guides to some of Cuba’s best casas particulares here:

• Best Casas Particulares in Old Havana
• Best Casas Particulares in Vedado, Havana
• Best Casas Particulares in Viñales
• Best Casas Particulares in Holguin

12. Ride in a Vintage American Car

Would it be a trip to Cuba without taking a ride in a vintage car? While you’ll see vintage cars everywhere you look, the most impressive convertible models are usually used for giving car tours of the country’s major cities. 

If you’re planning on  taking a ride in a vintage American car  while in Havana, I recommend making this one of the first things you do in Havana. These rides are a great introduction to the city, and will take you around to some of the city’s most impressive spots, like the Plaza de la Revolución and along the Malecón.

You can  book online ahead of time , which saves you cash you’d need to carry to Cuba, and the hassle of negotiating a price with a driver. I’d certainly recommend booking ahead of time!

What to Pack for Cuba

Check out our  Ultimate Cuba Packing List   to help you pack for your trip – we’re sharing exactly what to bring to Cuba and what we never travel without.

13. Walk in Ernest Hemingway’s Shoes

Cuba is famous for being a second home to Ernest Hemingway, and the inspiration for much of his work.  Today, visitors to Havana can take a  guided Hemingway tour , or follow in his footsteps by visiting some of his favorite spots around Cuba:

• El Floridita: This famous Old Havana bar memorializes Hemingway with a large bronze statue at the bar; he was known to down several at a time at this very corner of the bar.
• Cayo Guillermo: This beautiful cay along Cuba’s north coast inspired the writer’s posthumous novel, Islands in the Steam . On the bridge onto Cayo Guillermo , you’ll see a Hemingway statue welcoming visitors, and the island’s most beautiful beach – Playa Pilar – is named after his yacht.
• Hotel Ambos Mundos: This Old Havana hotel  was Hemingway’s home away from home before he purchased his estate outside Havana. Today visitors can check out the small museum in this Old Havana hotel dedicated to the author in room 511, where Hemingway stayed.
• Casa Vigía: Hemingway’s estate outside of Havana is a popular destination and an easy spot to visit from the city. It is kept in much of its state in which the writer left it, with countless personal items on display. 

14. Hike Waterfalls in Topes de Collantes

Cuba is filled with fantastic places to get off the beaten path and hike through the stunning interior of the country. One of the best spots to explore on foot is the stunning Topes de Collantes area in the Escambray mountains just west of Trinidad .

Home to countless waterfall hikes like El Nicho, Salto de Caburní, and Vegas Grande, this is a great place to escape for a day trip to an impressive natural spot.

Make sure to bring your bathing suit – swimming beneath the waterfalls is highly encouraged!

Travel Insurance

Cuba requires that all travelers have proof of a comprehensive travel insurance policy in order to enter the country. Check out our guide to travel insurance for Cuba for more details. We recommend these brands for Cuba travel insurance:

• Visitors Coverage : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries, though not currently available to residents of New York and Maryland in the United States.
• Insubuy : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries and states of the United States.

15. Explore Cuba’s Caves

A surprising number of destinations in Cuba are well known for having impressive caves systems, which make for unique day trips, and a great excursion to cool off on a hot day.

Among the mogotes of Viñales, you’ll find countless caves. A particularly impressive example is the Cueva del Indio, an important site for the indigenous peoples who lived in the area. While there are plenty of caves worth visiting in Vinales, this one is interesting in that you can take a speedboat inside the underground river in the cave for quite a distance.

From Varadero , you can plan an excursion to the Cueva de Saturnio or Cueva de Bellamar , both quite close to central Varadero and easily visited in a day trip. You can even swim here!

16. Take in the View from the Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca

Located in Santiago de Cuba , the island’s eastern capital and second-largest city, the historic Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca is an impressive Spanish fortress you can’t skip. It’s lauded by  UNESCO  as “the most complete, best-preserved example of Spanish-American military architecture.” 

A visit to the fortress is impressive, but the view over the ocean, bay, and surrounding beaches is another highlight that makes the visit even more scenic. 

Read More: Santiago de Cuba: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide

17. Take a Free Walking Tour

How could you get any better than free? Civitatis is an excellent tour company from Spain that offers free walking tours in cities around Cuba. Experienced, thorough guides lead these tours , so make sure to tip if you enjoy the tour!

Here are some of the most popular free tours in Cuba:

• Old Havana Free Walking Tour
• Modern Havana (Vedado) Free Walking Tour
• Viñales Free Walking Tour
• Trinidad Free Walking Tour

18. Visit the Countryside

A visit to Cuba just doesn’t feel complete if you stick to the major cities and coastal resort towns. Though these places have so much to offer, a visit to the countryside offers a whole new perspective on Cuba.

In Havana, you’ll find excursions to nearby farms for home cooking and to learn about Cuban agriculture – take advantage of these and prepare for the best Cuban food you’ll ever try. You’ll also find unique accommodations in the countryside where you’ll be immersed; we love MogoteArt if you’re looking for a countryside retreat.

One of the most accessible spots for visitors to visit in the Cuban countryside is Viñales . Though you’ll see that the town of Viñales has a fair amount of resources and business to cater to travelers visiting the national park, it’s an easily accessible countryside town well worth visiting.

19. Learn to Dance Salsa

Cuba is, of course, the best place to learn how to dance salsa. You’ll find dance schools in most cities in Cuba, and lessons are a popular activity no matter where you’re traveling.

I don’t have specific class recommendations for all cities in Cuba. However, if you’re traveling in Havana,  Civitatis has excellent salsa classes  I recommend for travelers on a quick  Havana itinerary .

If you want more than just a single class or want to learn the bachata, rumba, or countless other dance styles,  look into options for a series of classes at the much-loved  Salsabor  dance school in Havana.

20. Enjoy a Havana Sunset on the Malecón

There is nothing like a Havana sunset. The colors are spectacular, and watching the sunset seated on top of Havana’s famous Malecón sea wall is one of the best free things to do in Havana .

If you’re looking for another beautiful spot to watch the sunset in Havana, take a bus or taxi through the tunnel across the Havana harbor and to the Cristo de la Habana. Alternatively, take the Lanchita de Regla ferry across the harbor to the hill below the statue. The ferry costs just a few pesos and departs from Old Havana , at the dock across from the Russian Orthodox Church.

This Christ statue guards the Havana harbor, and its platform on the hill provides a spectacular spot overlooking Old Havana, the ocean, and the entire Malecón. This is our favorite spot to watch the sunset, so don’t tell too many others – we don’t want the secret getting out!

21. Drink Cuban Coffee

The famous Cuban coffee is strong, sweet espresso with a foamy top, a delicious treat you’ll be offered whenever visiting a Cuban home , maybe if you’re staying in a casa particular and meeting your host.

For true Cuban coffee, look for tiny local storefronts where locals sell tiny cups of this strong coffee for a few pesos. This is how Cubans drink it , and trying Cuban coffee is a must on any visit to Cuba.

Looking for the best places to drink coffee in Havana? Check out our guide to our favorite cafes in Havana and brunch spots in Havana .

22. Visit the Sierra del Rosario

The Sierra del Rosario mountain range in the province of Pinar del Rio is a unique protected biosphere, home to endemic flora and fauna in the stunning and lush tropical forest that makes for an unforgettable trip.

Within the Sierra del Rosario you’ll find Soroa, a popular destination for hiking in Cuba , and home to a beautiful orchid garden and stunning waterfall hikes.

Just an hour from Havana, it’s a popular and easy day trip escape from the city. If you’re looking to spend a bit more time here than you’d be able to on a day trip from Havana, consider stopping on the way to an overnight in Viñales .

23. Learn About the Cuban Revolution

Just stepping foot in Cuba is a lesson in the Cuban Revolution; you’ll see revolutionary imagery everywhere, from billboards and posters to major monuments. However, learning more about the Revolution in some of these places is an excellent way to get even more of the backstory.

Museo de la Revolución

The former presidential palace is now the Museum of the Revolution, where you’ll learn so much about the history of the Revolution, plus personal artifacts and more. Behind the building, you’ll see cars driven by Fidel , and a replica of the boat he used to arrive in Cuba from exile in Mexico at the start of the Revolution.

Be aware that the exhibits are all in Spanish, so consider visiting with a guide, or downloading Google Translate with its image translation feature if you can’t understand Spanish.

Plaza de la Revolución

Located in the heart of Havana, the Plaza de la Revolución is where Fidel gave many of his famous speeches in front of the monument of Cuban independence leader José Martí. You’ll see images of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos (another important revolutionary) on the buildings facing the square.

This is an obligatory stop on any ride through Havana in a vintage American car, so you’re sure to visit if you plan to ride through the city in style.

Comandancia de la Plata

If you’re headed up Pico Turquino in the Sierra Maestra mountains, make sure to stop at Comandancia de la Plata, the guerrilla camp where Fidel Castro, Che Guevara, and their band of revolutionaries camped out as they launched their first attacks.

You’ll see their field hospital, barracks, and more – it’s a fascinating stop.

The Mausoleum of Che Guevara

In the central Cuban city of Santa Clara, travelers can visit Che Guevara’s tomb, a major destination for those interested in the Revolution.

• 40 Fun Facts About Havana
• 50 Facts About Cuba (You Won’t Believe!)

24. Spot Unique Wildlife in Ciénaga de Zapata

One of the most unique natural spots in Cuba is Ciénaga de Zapata on the southern coast of Cuba. Known for being one of the country’s best areas to witness wildlife, Ciénaga de Zapata is home to over 900 species of plants and over  175 species of birds  (many of which are only found in Cuba – some are found only in this park!).

Here you’ll see the world’s smallest bird, flamingos, Cuban crocodiles, and much more – and there are some great hikes to see it all.

A trip to this part of Cuba – one of the best places to visit in Cuba ! – is perfect to combine with a trip to Playa Girón, where you can swim at off-the-beaten-path beaches and unique swimming holes similar to Mexico’s famous cenotes.

25. Dance the Night Away at the Tropicana

Havana’s Tropicana has been the stage for some of the most important and historic performances in Cuba, with everyone from Celia Cruz to Frank Sinatra, Joséphine Baker, and Nat King Cole gracing the stage.

For an unforgettable night in Havana, head to the Tropicana for a cabaret show with incredible live music, dancers with elaborate costumes, food, and drinks. It’s a great time, and you’ll feel the immense history of this cultural institution the second you step through the doors.

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Home to Havana and Explorers Away. She is a serial expat and traveler, having visited 40+ countries and counting. Carley has written for publications like Travel + Leisure, MSN, Associated Press, Weather Channel, Wealth of Geeks, and more. Find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

Cuba Bucket List: The 21 Best Things To Do In Cuba

Posted on Last updated: March 17, 2023

Cuba has become an extremely popular tourist destination in recent years. For such a small island, it offers a wide variety of activities and landscapes.

For this post I’ve teamed up with some other awesome travel bloggers to bring to you the ultimate Cuba bucket list, listing the 21 best things to do in Cuba.

If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful Caribbean island, make sure to add some of these awesome activities to your Cuba travel plan!

• 1.1 Do a vintage car tour
• 1.2 Visit Fusterlandia
• 1.3 Join the winter Carnival in Havana
• 1.4 Learn about the Cuban Revolution
• 1.5 Explore the colonial plazas of Havana
• 1.6 Visit Murealando
• 2.1 Horse riding in the valley of Viñales
• 2.2 Hiking in Viñales
• 2.3 Learn how to roll cigars in the tobacco plantations
• 3.1 Visit the Carnaval de Santiago de Cuba
• 4.1 Explore the colourful streets of Trinidad
• 4.2 Visit Playa Ancon
• 4.3 Swim in the waterfalls of the Topes de Collantes National Park
• 4.4 Climb the bell tower of the Trinidad church
• 5.1 Visit the Che Guevara Mausoleum in Santa Clara
• 6.1 Snorkel or Dive in the Bay of Pigs
• 7.1 Do a cacao tour in Baracoa
• 7.2 Hike the El Yunque in Baracoa
• 8.1 See Flamingos at Laguna Guanaroca
• 9.1 Don’t get scammed!
• 9.2 Ditch the hotels, stay in “casa particulares”

Exploring the colonials streets of Havana, Cuba

What to do in Havana, Cuba

Do a vintage car tour.

I couldn’t start my Cuba bucket list with anything else. Everybody recognises photos of Cuba by the stereotypical vintage cars and colourful houses.

In Havana you can rent a vintage car for the day, or if like me you’re hopeless at driving manual, you can do a 1-hour tour in a vintage car with a driver.

The tour will take you to all the main landmarks of Havana, driving through all the different neighbourhoods and returning to your start point.

The signs the drivers hold state the price of the tour is 50 CUC, but depending on how good your negotiation skills are, you can easily get this down. We bargained to 25 CUC and a different drop off point, which saves us a taxi fare too.

You can easily find a vintage car tour anywhere around Havana.

However to have the most choice both in terms of car colour and bargaining power I recommend searching for a car in Parque Central, near the Capitolio, as this is where most of them are parked.

| READ MORE: CUBA 10 DAY ITINERARY |

Exploring Havana in our pink vintage Chevrolet

Visit Fusterlandia

“Cuba is filled with wonderful colors & great art. Both of these come together at a unique experience called Fusterlandia .

Located in the Jaimanitas neighborhood just outside of central Havana, Fusterlandia is the creation of artist Jose Fuster, whose Casa de Fuster is completely covered in colorful ceramic tile mosaics. His work is reminiscent of Picasso & Gaudi.

Over the years, Fuster has covered not only his house with his art, but also the surrounding neighborhood. It’s a beautiful place to explore, and you can even take home a piece of Fuster’s work as a souvenir.

If you’re lucky, you may even get to meet him! Fusterlandia can be accessed from central Havana by taxi or tourist hop-on-hop-off bus.

Be sure to leave plenty of time to walk around every inch of the complex & the surrounding neighborhood, as there are new details to be found everywhere you look.”

– by Jonathan, author of Everybody Hates A Tourist

Fusterlandia, photo by Everybody Hates a Tourist

Join the winter Carnival in Havana

“Carnivals that used to be so popular in the past have nowadays been harnassed by the Cuban authorities but nevertheless, some of them manage to survive even though not as massive and epic as before.

If you travel to the Caribbean country at the beginning of January, make sure you are in Havana on January 6 for the Havana Carnival on Three Kings’ Day .

Starting from the morning, this small-scale event tours the historical center of Havana with conga music echoing between the crumbling old houses.

The celebrations are rooted back in the times when African slaves worked on the plantations but were sometimes also allowed to dance and play their music.

Tips: Follow the conga dancers on stilts and let the locals taking part in the procession show you the steps if you are not familiar with conga.”

– by Maria, author of 203challenges.com 

Maria at the winter carnival in Havana, pic by 203challenges.com

Learn about the Cuban Revolution

Everybody knows about Fidel Castro, Che Guevara and the Cuban Revolution. However, learning about it in the capital where these historically important events happened is a whole different story.

In Havana you can visit the Museo de la Revolución, which holds items and photos from the days before the revolution all the way up to the death of Che Guevara.

It is a really interesting place to visit and learn about the events of those times, sometimes from a different angle than what we are commonly showed in Western media.

One tip from me however, is to make sure you read up on the revolution before visiting the museum, since it doesn’t go into a lot of detail about the historical events, but more into the life of its protagonists.

Having a basic knowledge of the main players and the order in which historical events happened will ensure your visit to Museo de la Revolución is more interesting and enjoyable.

The Revolution Museum in Havana, Cuba

In Havana you can also visit Plaza de la Revolución, where many political rallies often take place.

The plaza is both the site of many important government buildings and cultural institutions, but also a symbolic site and memorial for the revolution.

The facades of the Ministries of Interior and Communications feature steel memorials to Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos, deceased heroes of the Cuban Revolution.

The metal sculpture in honour of Ernesto “Che” Guevara in Revolution Square in Havana, Cuba

Explore the colonial plazas of Havana

“One of the best ways to experience La Vieja Habana or Old Havana, is to stroll through four of its colonial plazas. The Plaza de la Cathedral is a magnificent colonial square with the Cathedral at its center.

It is ringed by arches typical of the 18th century Spanish architecture. Right off one of the streets is the iconic bar, La Bodeguita del Medio, where Hemingway drank mojitos into the night.

The mojitos are rumored to have been invented here. Down another street is the paladar or private enterprise restaurant, Doña Eufemia.

Go there for authentic and delicious Cuban food. Next head to Plaza de Armas to visit some of Havana’s best museums and wander through the extensive flea markets in the shade of flowering tropical trees.

Hunt for books, posters, colonial coins or revolutionary chic merchandise. An impromptu dance is likely to break out almost anywhere in this lively square.

Plaza Vieja merits special attention. It is interspersed with intriguing works of modern art. In the center stands a graceful fountain.

Surrounding the square are lively restaurants each with dedicated musicians playing the Cuban classics as well as modern, catchy tunes.

Cap off the day at the music venues and historic bars on the periphery of Plaza de San Francisco.

This is one of the original colonial plazas of Havana. With its cobblestone streets, brooding church – now a museum – and contemporary art galleries, you’ll want to linger.

Havana grows on you. It seduces slowly but surely. There is so much to this wonderful place but these four plazas are a good start.”

– by Talek, author of Travels with Talek

Catedral de la Habana, photo by Travels with Talek

Visit Murealando

“Havana is a city with character that reaches far beyond classic cars and crumbling architecture. Because of Cuba ’s political situation, this island has a strong community bond.

The neighbourhoods of Havana are a great place to witness how people can come together to completely transform their environment and their lives. Muraleando is one such project that saw the coming together of an entire neighbourhood.

An abandoned water tower, which had become a massive pile of trash, was cleaned up by members of the community and turned into an art space.

Found objects became works of art along the streets and in the tower. As its name suggests, Muraleando also boasts many murals.

Residents of the neighbourhood were invited to contribute and visitors can wander the streets checking out all the different art.”

– by Jennifer, author of The Rainbow Route

| READ MORE: HOW TO SPEND 3 AWESOME DAYS IN HAVANA |

One of the murals at Murealando, photo by Jennifer of The Rainbow Route

Best things to do in Viñales, Cuba

Horse riding in the valley of viñales.

The valley of Viñales is a popular destination for anyone wanting to get out of the towns and exploring the nature Cuba has to offer.

The valley of Viñales is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the home to tobacco plantations of Cuba’s famous cigars. The valley is huge and it’s unlikely you’ll be able to see it all on foot, however on horse you stand better chances.

We were there at the end of the rainy season so large parts of the trails were covered in mud and water, it got pretty messy adventuring there on horse (for a newbie like me anyway) if we’d been on foot I doubt my clothes would ever have come clean of the mud!

Me attempting to horse ride for the second time in my life in the valley of Viñales

Horse riding tours cost 5 CUC per hour, and usually last between 3-5 hours. We wanted to get the most out of it and see as much as possible so we did the full 5 hours.

In a morning we covered a lot of the valley, doing stops at the tobacco farms, at the Mural de la Prehistoria, a lake with a coffee shop, and got the opportunity to hear from local farmers about the fruit and products the grow.

The horses are trained so even if you’re not very good at it or have never been horse riding before (as was my case) it’s an easy and fun experience.

Horse riding in the valley of Vinales, Cuba.

Hiking in Viñales

“The Viñales Valley has some of the best hiking trails in Cuba , and some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country.

With its unique karstic outcrops, called ‘mogotes’, and the surrounding tobacco and sugar cane plantations, it is easy to see why it is the second most visited area in Cuba .

View over the valley of Vinales, photo by Teresa of Brogan Abroad

You can hike independently, get a local guide or join a tour group.

Even though you can easily follow the hiking trails, I hired a local guide – someone who knew the area well and could tell me a little bit about the community, the fauna and flora, as well as lots of little stories about the caves that can be found inside the ‘mogotes’. 

We also stopped at a sugar cane plantation to chat to some of the farmers, who invited us to try some of their sugar cane syrup, served inside a pomelo-like fruit. It was absolutely delicious!”

– by Teresa, author of Brogan Abroad

Tobacco Farm in Vinales, photo by Teresa of Brogan Abroad

Learn how to roll cigars in the tobacco plantations

Viñales is home to the vast majority of the tobacco plantations in Cuba. This is where the magic happens and the famous Cuban cigars are born.

The local farmers have to sell 90% of the tobacco leaves they produce to the government and they get to keep a 10% for personal use and selling to tourists.

On a tour of the valley of Viñales they will usually take you to visit also a tobacco farm, where a local farmer will talk you through the cultivation process.

They also showed us how cigars are rolled and offered us a cigar to smoke. Here I bought a pack of 10 cigars for 30 CUC, these are cheaper than the ones sold in the official shops in Havana as they are not allowed to brand them.

If you have any friends or family that smoke, this is the perfect present to take home to them!

| READ MORE: HOW TO SPEND 2 DAYS IN VINALES |

One of the tobacco farmers shows how they roll cigars

What to do in Santiago de Cuba

Visit the carnaval de santiago de cuba.

“One of the most unique things to do in Cuba is to attend the biggest Carnaval in the Caribbean that takes place in Santiago de Cuba in mid-July .

The dates for the Carnival vary every year, so it’s important to do your research ahead of time to line up your travel dates accordingly.

Carnaval de Santiago de Cuba dates back to the end of 17th century when it used to be connected to the end of the harvest season or the beginning of the pre-Lenten season.

Today, the Carnaval represents a time for Cubans to gather with family and friends. The Carnaval is an explosion of colour and sound, featuring dozens of floats, dancers, performers and conga lines.

If you are planning to attend the Carnaval, make sure you book your bus tickets and accommodation in advance. It’s a popular event not only with tourists but also with locals, so tickets for the busses sell out early.

Tickets to the Carnaval can be purchased on the day.”

– by Max & Oksana, authors of Drink Tea & Travel

Carnaval in Santiago de Cuba, photo by Drink Tea & Travel

Best things to do in Trinidad, Cuba

Explore the colourful streets of trinidad.

“Cuba is an amazing place with a ton of things to do. Our personal favorite place in Cuba is Trinidad.   Trinidad  is Cuba ‘s best-preserved colonial town and the old part of town is a UNESCO heritage site as of 1988.

When in Trinidad, head up to the very top of the tower inside the Historical Museum. It’s free to enter and here you’ll have the best views of the city.

The town is full of gorgeous bright colored buildings and cobblestone streets. It’s a great place to get lost with your camera.

There are tons of things to do around the area and beaches that you could easily spend a few nights here, we suggest 3 nights. You can easily catch a bus from Havana here or drive yourself, we rented a car and drove ourselves around.”  

– by Hannah and Adam, authors of Getting Stamped

The colourful houses of Trinidad, photo by Getting Stamped

The streets of Trinidad, Cuba

Visit Playa Ancon

“What could be lovelier than the pastel coloured Colonial buildings and sunsets over Plaza Mayor in Trinidad? A postcard perfect beach close to the town!

Hire bikes, hop on the bus or hitch a ride to Playa Ancon where you can sip cocktails from coconuts, laze on the white sand beach or swim in the turquoise waters.

Warning: the sun is hot so lather on the factor 50 and wear a hat, especially if you decide to take the cycling option.”

– by Gemma, author of Two Scots Abroad

Playa Ancon, photo by Gemma of Two Scots Abroad

Chilling at the beach at Playa Ancon, Cuba.

Swim in the waterfalls of the Topes de Collantes National Park

Close to Trinidad, Cuba , is the beautiful Topes de Collantes National Park.

After my first experience horse riding in Viñales I was basically a pro, so we decided to do a horse riding tour also from Trinidad of the Topes de Collantes National Park.

After a few hours of horse riding in this beautiful nature reserve we reached a small waterfall with crystal clear water where we could swim. After being in the sun for so long, it was just what we needed!

Swimming in the waterfall in the Topes the Collantes National Park in Trinidad, Cuba

Climb the bell tower of the Trinidad church

If you didn’t get enough of the beaches, waterfalls and colourful streets of Trinidad you can adventure up the local church bell tower for incredible views over the town and surrounding landscapes.

The Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco is house to the Museum of the Fight against Bandits, the counter-revolution forces that were hiding in the mountains nearby and were fighting Fidel Castro’s government.

Entry costs 1 CUC and will give you access to both the museum and the church bell tower. From here you can get stunning 360° views all over Trinidad and the surrounding countryside.

| READ MORE: TRINIDAD, CUBA, IN 3 DAYS |

View over the rooftops of Trinidad from the church bell tower.

View over the rooftops of Trinidad from the church bell tower

Overlooking Trinidad from the top of the church bell tower

What to do in Santa Clara, Cuba

Visit the che guevara mausoleum in santa clara.

“The Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara mausoleum in Santa Clara is a must visit for any Che fans or visitors interested in Cuban history.  Che Guevara is an icon of modern Cuba and is portrayed on the 3 (local) peso note and coin.

His mausoleum includes a museum dedicated to his life displaying artefacts from his youth and his campaigns through South and Central America. There are good collections of photographs from throughout his life. 

The burial room is filled with memorials to those that fought and died alongside Che. Entrance is free and it is best to go early before the tours arrive.

The statue of Ernesto “Che” Guevara at his mausoleum, photo by Rohan of TalesOfABookpacker.com

The exterior of the museum and mausoleum is also impressive. Marked by a huge statue of Che himself along with quotes and images from his campaign.

To continue your experience head to Cafe Museo Revolucion in Santa Clara town,  an adorable little cafe in the owner’s front room.

The cafe is filled with original items from the Cuban revolution including original photos and bank notes signed when Che Guevara was president of the national bank.”

– by Rohan, author of Travels Of A Bookpacker

The outside of the Che Guevara mausoleum, photo by Rohan of TalesOfABookpacker.com

Best things to do in the Bay of Pigs, Cuba

Snorkel or dive in the bay of pigs.

“The historic site of the failed US invasion of Cuba has supremely clear water, a great variety of marine life and some of the cheapest diving available anywhere.

The diving in the Bay of Pigs is shore-based, you literally walk in from the shore. Make your base in Playa Giron and book your diving with your Casa Particular when you arrive.

There is no need to book ahead. The dive bus will collect you in the morning from your Casa, you’ll get fitted for your dive gear, pay your fees and load back up.

Shore based driving at the Bay of Pigs, Cuban style. Pic by Sarah of ASocialNomad.com

A single dive will cost 25 CUC (US$25), two dives cost 50 CUC.  If you’re a beginner and want a trial, you just pay an extra 10 CUC on top of the dive fees.  Snorkellers pay 3 CUC.

After you’ve tested the water, The nearby Coco Beach has shade, fresh coconut (and rum) vendors and of course the obligatory Classic American Car too. 

Snorkelling or Diving the Bay of Pigs won’t break the bank and is a superb way to experience the waters and history of Cuba.”

– by Sarah, author of ASocialNomad

Snorkel and Dive the Bay of Pigs Cuba, pic by Sarah by ASocialNomad.com

The colourful colonial houses of Havana, Cuba

What to do in Baracoa, Cuba

Do a cacao tour in baracoa.

“Little-known unless you’re a chocoholic like me, Baracoa is the oldest city in Cuba and the furthest you can get from Havana.

Its main exports are coconuts and cacao, and on the (government-run) Yumuri Tour in Baracoa, we got our fill of both. 

Although we found biking around the city to be rewarding as well, the $20USD tour took us to places we couldn’t have traveled to alone.

We visited a cacao plantation and sampled sweets made by the farmer, boated down the Yumuri River, and were the only ones on the most beautiful beach I’ve ever been to.

Cuban cacao in Baracoa, photo by Dame Cacao

On top of all that, our guide was immensely informative and helpful. When we were hungry, she was sure to take us to her friends’ places instead of the insufferable government restaurants.

If you’re already sold on the idea, just remember to check the weather for potential rain, and book your spot the day before.

It’s an 8-hour tour, so bring sneakers, sunscreen, and a swimsuit, and prepare for a memorable peek beyond Baracoa.”

– by Max, author of Dame Cacao

The beach in Baracoa, photo by Dame Cacao

Hike the El Yunque in Baracoa

“Not many people who visit Cuba  make it down to Baracoa: this small city in the province of Guantanamo is rather isolated, at around 5 hours drive from Santiago.

It is a real pity, as the whole area has a lot to offer in terms of nature, beaches, culture and even cuisine. One of the most fun things to do there is hiking the mighty El Yunque.

Everyone who goes to Baracoa does it – it is considered a rite of passage. El Yunque has the shape of a mountain whose top has been chopped off. It is visible from Baracoa, in the distance. 

Photo by My Adventures Across The World

The hike is quite challenging as the vegetation is very thick, the temperatures quite hot (this area is 100% Caribe) and the regular rain and humidity make the terrain very muddy and slippery.

Park regulations require a guide for the entire trail, as it is easy to get lost. The first part of the hike is along a small dirt road.

After about 45 minutes it is necessary to cross the river (either on foot or on a traditional boat). As there are houses scattered around, it is not uncommon to spot locals washing clothes in the river.

Once the river has been crossed, the path dives in the thick forest and goes all the way to the top. On the way back, it is possible to stop at some beautiful waterfalls and swim in the incredibly clear and refreshing river. 

Hiking boots are a must, and if available also use a walking stick. Carry lots of water as there are no shops along the way.”

– by Claudia, author of My Adventures Across The World

Best things to do in Cienfuegos, Cuba

See flamingos at laguna guanaroca.

“Laguna Guanaroca was a peaceful paradise, a world away from the hustle and bustle of Cuba’s towns. Close to Cienfuegos , you can take a guided tour of the lake, which is a protected natural area. 

You begin by walking through an orchard of güira trees (whose fruit is used to make maracas), and can spot various species of plants and birds, before taking a small rowing boat around the lake.  

Out on the lake was beautifully quiet, the only sounds came from birdsong and the soft strokes of our guide’s paddles as he rowed through the water. 

When we came closer to the flock of flamingos, we got out of the boats into the ankle-deep water, so we could get closer without disturbing the birds. 

They honked to each other, their long necks and spindly legs oddly graceful as they searched for food in the mud.

You can arrange tours here from Cienfuegos or take a bus or taxi to the entrance and join the next available tour. The entrance to the lake costs 10 CUC and includes the boat trip.”

– by Claire, author of Tales of a Backpacker

Flamingos in Laguna Guanaroca, photo by Tales of a Backpacker

Laguna Guanaroca, photo by Tales of a Backpacker

Other top tips to have an awesome time in Cuba

Don’t get scammed.

Unfortunately this happens everywhere, not just in Cuba. Wherever there is a large influx of tourism, there will be people trying to make the most of it. However one thing I want to emphasise is that Cuba is a very safe country.

The penalties for crime are very harsh, which means the criminality rate is very low. I was travelling only with one other girls, and while some locals often pestered us to buy their inflated services we never felt unsafe.

The most common tourist scams are when someone tells you how lucky you are to be in “ insert generic Cuban town name ” on “ insert specific date ” since the annual cigar or salsa festival is on today and they can take you there.

 You follow, pay an entry fee to this festival location, get sold overpriced food and drink, and poor quality cigars.

The best way to avoid these, is to simply walk ahead when someone tries to invite you somewhere in the streets. If you want more advice on how to not get scammed check out my  popular Cuban tourist scams and how to avoid them guide.

Enjoying a tasty Cuban lunch after a long day of horse riding in the valley of Viñales

Ditch the hotels, stay in “casa particulares”

Hotels in Cuba are over priced for the value you get. There are also not that many of them, especially in the smaller towns, so they aren’t as well located as the houses of local people.

Instead, stay in a “ casa particulares “, a local’s home, for a real Cuban experience. When the island opened up to tourism people were allowed to rent their spare rooms, helping many people make an extra income.

Every “casa particulares” has to be registered with the government and is perfectly safe. Hosts are also really welcoming and will go the extra mile to make you feel at home, with tasty breakfasts and useful advice on their town.

We also found it very easy to book tours or taxis since our hosts always offered to do it for us and at a cheaper price than what we would have found in the streets.

We booked all our “casa particulares” on AirBnb (get 35 EUR off your next booking here )!

Starting the day well with breakfast on the rooftop of our casa particulares in Trinidad

Final thoughts on my Cuba bucket list

Have you been to Cuba before? Is this Cuba bucket list missing other awesome activities? Let me know in the comments below!

This beautiful Caribbean island has much to offer, I tried capturing as much as possible of it in this list of 20+ best things to do in Cuba to help you have an awesome time there.

My final tip is to simply have a blast, Cuba is great fun and a great destination for any type of traveller!

Enjoyed reading about the best things to do in Cuba? Pin it!

Wednesday 15th of May 2019

Hi! How did you travel from city to city? I was thinking of renting a car but hear that isn't the best choice. Any advice? Additionally, I may have read over this... how long was your trip! Love all that you've done but will only be going for around 5 days!

Monday 27th of May 2019

Hi Kelly! We got group taxis to travel between cities. We arranged these with our AirBnb hosts and it always worked out cheaper than a private taxi, even if they didn't end up filling it with other tourists. We didn't rent a car as neither me or my friend drive. We were there for 10 days but didn't do everything in this bucket list post, this is a collaboration and includes advice from other travel bloggers. Have a great time in Cuba, safe travels! :)

Monday 8th of April 2019

I really enjoyed reading your blog. I'm currently planning my own trip to Cuba and got very exited by your tips. Do you have recommendations for casa particulares that you stayed in? The ones you liked and the ones you didn't like. I look forward to hearing from you!

Wednesday 29th of May 2019

Hi Charlie, thanks for the comment, glad you liked my blog! I loved all the casa particulares I stayed at (there should be links to all of them in my Cuba itinerary) maybe the one in Havana was the least homely, like with less contact with the host, but the house itself was great. I would recommend them all :)

Faith Coates

Saturday 10th of February 2018

I adore Cuba the food not so much...lol...but love the country and the people.

Haha I get that! I loved the food but I'm also easy to please haha. The country and the people were definitely the highlight!

I went to Cuba years ago but I only did Havana and Varadero which is a pity seeing your pictures now. I really hope I get a chance to visit Cuba again and seeing all the spots you have been to.

I didn't make it to Varadero on this trip unfortunately! Maybe I'll go back one day too haha

Oh wow reading this makes me even more me excited to visit Cuba in the next few months! I hadn’t thought about renting a vintage car but that sounds amaaazing so il have to check it out.

That's amazing, I'm sure you'll have a blast in Cuba! Hope you'll find this useful when you plan your trip! And for sure, you can't not to a vintage car tour! (I personally preferred the tour over renting one since I'm awful at driving lol)

25 Bucket List Things to Do in Cuba

Cuba, a Caribbean paradise is characterized by its world-renowned cigars, lively street music scene, vintage Cadillacs, and crumbling mansions. Despite popular belief (that it is difficult to navigate around), the country has been gradually finding its place among some of the most popular tourist destinations for visitors from all around the world.

Recognized as a part of Central America, the communist nation offers plenty of experiences for the wanderlust soul. Whether you prefer exploring the capital city of Havana on a classic vintage car or go horseback riding in Viñales, the country has something for everyone.

Let us now explore the main cities of interest and discover the best things to do in Cuba.

Don’t leave home without:   Lonely Planet Cuba (Travel Guide).

Best Things to do in Cuba: By Region

Table of Contents

The capital and the largest city in Cuba, Havana is best described as a city trapped in a time gone by and is one of the best places to visit in Cuba. A typical day in Havana is filled with local traditions, culture, music, and numerous attractions.

One of the best ways to explore this vibrant yet ethnic Cuban city is to book a Havana Classic Car tour and wander around the streets of the city in vintage style. If you’re lucky (and know how to drive such a masterpiece), you may even get a chance to drive one of these.

Aside from the obvious (sun, sand, and sea), there are a few other absolutely amazing things that you cannot miss, such as:

1. Hanging out at Malécon

Whether you are traveling alone or with friends, this is the place to socialize, grab a beer and a quick bite, and to watch as the sun sets over the historic stone that separates Havana from the sprawling ocean that flows on the other side.

2. Visit El Floridita

This is Hemingway’s favorite spot, and you’ll want to order the signature daiquiri – they are known to be delicious and are highly recommended. Or, you can also order an oversized house mojito – it may very well be the best mojito you will ever have in your life!

3. Attend the “el cañonazo de las nueve” ceremony

This ceremony takes place at the La Cabana Fortress at 9:00 PM on the clock every night. Watch as the traditionally dressed soldiers shoot cannons to indicate that it’s time for the city gates to be closed. Inside the fortress, there are several museums and exhibitions, and your entrance ticket includes a free drink (Yes! Everything about Havana includes a drink).

4. Explore Old Havana

This is best done on foot. The place is touristy, and everybody speaks English here, but walking through the alleys of Old Havana and Central Havana is an excellent way of experiencing the historic town.

5. Get a 360° view of Old Havana through the Camera Obscura

Located on the top floor of Edificio Gómez Vila, this is something you do not want to miss in Havana. Invented by Leonardo da Vinci, the Camera Obscura is the only one of its kind in Latin America (there are only 74 in the world).

Viñales Area

Just a couple of hours drive from Havana is the beautiful yet somewhat-hidden town of Viñales – not too many tourists populate this town and it has a unique Cuban vibe, so it’s definitely one of the best places to go in Cuba.

Viñales is a small sleepy town with only a few streets and under 30,000 inhabitants. It is definitely not a party town, but this quaint Cuban haven has a lot to offer to its visitors.

6. Hike or bike around the Vinales National Park

You could book a tour but it’s not necessarily required. Spend several hours amidst nature and explore hidden limestone caves.

7. Take a horseback riding tour in Viñales Valley.

The town is the heart and soul of Cuba’s tobacco fame – yes, this is where all those famous Cuban cigars come from. Start early morning to avoid the crowds later in the day. Try a Cuban cigar yourself that you may be offered to smoke during your tour of the tobacco farms. Read about our experience horseback riding in Viñales .

8. Visit the Gran Caverna de Santo Tomas

This is one of the biggest caves in the Americas. The best and the only way to explore them is with a tour. You could book one in advance or just turn up at the cave entrance and pay there.

9. Zipline the Loma de Fortin Canopy

Somewhat different than most other things to do in the town, the 40-minute zipline adventure takes you over treetops and gives you a picturesque view of this little Cuban town.

10. Go rock climbing

The town is rich in limestone mountains which are not too high so are perfect for rock climbing. You can book a tour or hire climbing gear in town to DIY.

Don’t leave home without your   Lonely Planet Cuba (Travel Guide).

Trinidad Area

Trinidad is best known as Cuba’s colonial gem is an intriguing mixture of 1850’s architecture and 1950’s vintage cars. One of the earliest towns to be founded by Spanish explorers, Trinidad is characterized by brightly hued colonial structures, cobbled streets, summoning mountains, and gorgeous beaches.

Trinidad offers some fantastic things to do in Cuba.

Related article: The Only Guide You’ll Ever Need for Trinidad, Cuba

11. Walk around Plaza Mayor

The heart of Trinidad and home to several historic structures such as Museo de Arquitectura Colonial, Museo Romantico, and Galeria de arte. The attractive yellow and green bell tower of Museo Nacional de Lucha Contra Bandidos is a sight to behold.

12. Rent a bike for the Day

Cycle from Trinidad to the nearby fishing village and weekend party central of Playa Ancón. One of the best beach towns in Cuba, the one-hour bike ride will bring you through several local towns and farmlands.

13. Party at Casa de La Musica

Every Cuban town has one but the one here is regarded as the most special. Watch as hundreds of locals and tourists dance their heart out and when it’s time, bring your salsa on and join them.

14. Hike or go horseback riding to Javira Waterfall.

Swim in the turquoise swimming hole at the bottom of the cascade of water and traverse through the swimmable cave system that goes well beyond the waterfall.

15. Take a classic steam train ride to visit the Valley of Sugar Mills

Admire the view from Hacienda Iznaga watchtower, enjoy an authentic Cuban meal at the plantation, and explore the secret ruins of saccharine revolution.

It’s the perfect place to learn about the influence of sugar on the island and the people that were responsible for growing and harvesting it.

Playa Larga Area

Situated somewhere in between Havana and Trinidad is the town of Playa Larga, surrounded by Zapata Peninsula and its indisputable beauty. If you are in the mood for some beach time topped with amazing wilderness and mouth-watering seafood, this is where you need to be.

16. Go Diving of Snorkeling

Ripe with underwater flora and fauna, diving and snorkeling at Punta Perdiz and Cenote Mar is an absolute must. Crystal clear waters, exotic fish, and endless corals dominate the seaside of Playa Larga.

17. Book a guided tour of Zapata National Park

Get lost in the ultimate Cuban wilderness. Be awestruck by the rich species of animals, birds, and plants that inhabit the biosphere reserve. Look out for the pink flamingos – they are the park’s star attraction (and at times hard to spot).

18. Watch the crab invasion

This is an event that takes place on the beach every evening and you won’t want to miss it. When finished marveling at the sheer number of them, move on and enjoy a scrumptious crab and seafood dinner. Casa Tiki, in particular, comes highly recommended not only for its quality and price of food but also for its ambiance.

19. Spend the evening with locals

Just across the road from Casa Tiki is where, every evening, streets come alive with live music. An outdoor bar serves delightful mojitos.

20. Take a day trip to Playa Giron

While not technically in Playa Larga, it is very close. Located on the eastern bank of the Bay of Pigs (Bahia de Cochinos), Playa Giron was one of the two significant sites to have played a role in the Bay of Pigs invasion of April 1961. Visit the Bay of Pigs Museum to learn about Cuba’s invasion history.

Varadero Area

Regarded as one of the largest beach resorts, not just in Cuba but in the Caribbean, Varadero is the most popular tourist town in the entire country and offers some of the best things to do in Cuba.

A narrow stretch of land along the Hicacos Peninsula, this Cuban beach town flaunts a 20-kilometer coastline dotted with at least 50 all-inclusive beach resorts.

21. Go Caving at Cueva Saturno

Visit the hauntingly beautiful Cueva Saturno, the main attraction of a complex cave system. Take a dip in the refreshing swimming hole inside the caves, admire the impressive stalactites, and snorkel amidst the stalagmites that rise from underneath the water’s depths.

22. Paddle around the quaint lake at Parque Josone

This park was constructed in the 1940s for a factory owner and his wife. Rejuvenate yourself amidst the ornate gardens and walk across the tiny bridge that looms over a small lake with ducks floating around peacefully.

23. Visit the bat caves of Cueva de Ambrosio and Cueva de Musulmans

Both of these caves can be found at Parque Ecológico Varahicacos. Hike through the narrow trails (not suitable for children) and learn about the rock painting and pictographs from available guides.

24. Spend A Day on the Beaches of Varadero

Soak up the sun on Varadero’s pristine white sand beaches. The water in the part of Cuba is paired with one of the longest sandbars we have ever seen. This means the water is bright turquoise, shallow and the perfect place to float for the day. 

25. Visit Cayo Piedra Underwater Park

Here you’ll be fascinated by a variety of sunken military vessels and shipwrecks. Among the wreckage are a number of vessels, a deliberately sunk aircraft, a missile-launching boat, and a few yachts. Dive with schools of multi-hued fish and spot turtles and crustaceans.

More on Cuba:

• 29 Cuba Photos Reveal Vibrant Diversity
• Horseback Riding & Tobacco Farms in Viñales Cuba
• How to Travel by Viazul Bus in Cuba
• Hiking in Cuba – Top 5 Places to Hike
• The Perfect Cuba Itinerary: Two Weeks in Cuba
•   Cuba Drone Rules – Can I Bring a Drone to Cuba?
• Can Americans Travel to Cuba – Complete Guide

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Can Americans Travel to Cuba?

By Tony Perrottet

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Even in 2024, the question “can Americans travel to Cuba?” is still frequently asked among US travelers. Few destinations create such simultaneous longing and confusion as this crocodile-shaped island only 95 miles south of Key West . It has held a mythic status since the early 20th century for its vibrant mix of Latin and Caribbean cultures, its hundreds of miles of pristine beaches , its African-influenced music, and its vintage charm; today, Chevrolets and Buicks from the ’50s rattle down Spanish colonial streets in Old Havana that have hardly changed since Ernest Hemingway was knocking back mojitos there.

Yet Cuba has long been a metaphorical forbidden fruit due to political rifts. A web of travel restrictions imposed in the 1960s made it difficult for Americans to make the journey, an idea that still lingers today. And while the limits on tourism were largely lifted in 2016, many still find the prospect daunting.

For some insider knowledge, I spoke to Johnny Considine, founder of the travel agency Cuba Private Travel , a Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist , and a long-term resident of Havana. We discussed the steps American travelers need to take when visiting Cuba, as well as the best times to go, what to see, and more.

Tony Perrottet

The writer of this article, Tony Perrottet, is a travel journalist and the author of six books, among them Cuba Libre!: Che, Fidel, and the Improbable Revolution That Changed World History . He has visited Cuba about twenty times.

Commercial flights run daily from Miami to Havana, a must-visit city “for its vibrant energy, beautiful harbor, Spanish colonial city center, and Art Deco relics,” says Considine.

Can Americans travel to Cuba in 2024?

Yes, travelers with US passports can travel to Cuba. Considine says that it’s perfectly legal for US individuals to visit Cuba for one of twelve specific purposes defined by the United States Treasury Department, and to travel on one of the many daily commercial flights to Havana, which mostly depart from Miami . All you need to do is tick one motive from an online list that pops up when you purchase your air ticket, of which “support of the Cuban people” is the most appropriate catch-all. (Others like “family visits” and “religious activities” technically have limited application.)

The other important US government condition is that US travelers must spend their dollars supporting private businesses in Cuba, not companies that are government-owned or operated. This has become increasingly easy, Considine says, as the private sector has expanded through the travel industry in recent years, with casas particulares (family-run homes), Airbnbs, and paladares (private restaurants) proliferating. These are the types of enterprises that savvy travelers are more likely to enjoy anyway; they offer better food , more intimate and stylish experiences, and direct encounters with everyday Cubans. You can book directly, of course, but a travel specialist can help identify appropriate businesses—Considine’s company can tailor a trip that is “one-hundred-percent private.”

Why has it been historically difficult for Americans to visit Cuba?

Hungry for foreign exchange, the Cuban government has always welcomed foreign tourists whether they are from the United States, Germany , Australia , or Argentina . The roadblock for Americans has been the US government, which effectively banned US tourists from legally visiting under the trade embargo put in place after the 1961 Bay of Pigs invasion and the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962. (If you’d like to learn more, my book Cuba Libre! recounts the parting of ways between the US and Cuba after Fidel Castro’s 1959 revolution, and the ways relations soured as Cuba drifted into the Soviet sphere during the Cold War.)

These restrictions—first imposed in 1963 as part of the bluntly-named Trading with the Enemy Act—were loosened 53 years later by the Obama-Biden administration, allowing direct flights and travel from the US in 2016. To the disappointment of many Cubans, President Trump’s inflammatory rhetoric during his administration made many Americans believe that it had again become illegal to travel to the island, causing a drastic drop in US tourist numbers. However, Considine stresses that Trump only paused group and cruise ship travel , leaving intact the key allowances for individual trips that were put in place during the Obama years.

What kind of visas do Americans need to travel to Cuba?

The only document you need is a valid US passport . Cuban entry permits—in other words, a visa—can be purchased at the airport before boarding the flight for $85 ($50 plus $35 service fee; you can pay with cash, a debit card, or a credit card). They can also be obtained online through private services, although often with hefty extra charges. Airline staff will also ask you to use your phone and scan the barcode for a passenger locator form, necessary to go through Cuban customs.

Viñales is the place to go in Cuba for nature—the small town is lush and surrounded by limestone formations.

When is the best time to visit the most popular destinations in Cuba?

The traditional high season in Cuba has always been winter, December to February , when days are cool and clear, rather like southern Florida. But sun-lovers should consider November and the period from March to May , when it is warm enough for swimming. If you’re traveling to Cuba any time between June and October , be warned: The summer heat is oppressive and hurricanes can hit.

If I am visiting Cuba for the first time, what destinations should I visit and why?

“My holy trinity is: Havana , Trinidad, and Viñales,” Considine says. Havana is a must-see for its vibrant energy, beautiful harbor, Spanish colonial city center, and Art Deco relics. There’s also Trinidad is a perfectly-preserved colonial town at the foot of the rugged Escambray Mountains where, Considine says, “farmers live very simply, raising livestock and cooking with carbon—a way of life that may be gone in five years.” It is also by the south coast, which has diving spots worth checking out.

By Jessica Puckett

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Meanwhile, Viñales is a nature trip. This small town is surrounded by spectacular rounded limestone formations known as mogotes in the heart of Cuba’s verdant tobacco country. “You can do anything there: horse-riding, e-biking, yoga, hiking, and climbing,” Considine says. It’s located only a two-hour drive from the capital’s airport; US travelers can rent a car with dollars, but in practice I suggest booking a transfer to Viñales—and a place to overnight, if you’d like—through a travel specialist like Considine for a smooth trip.

What else should Americans know before visiting Cuba?

“There has never been a better time to go to Cuba than right now,” Considine says. New laws passed in 2021 permit Cuban entrepreneurs to directly import foreign goods from Italian pasta to French soap, Chilean wine to Mexican designer furniture, which has transformed the country. Grocery stores have opened in peoples’ garages, do-it-yourself restaurants offer fine cuisine, and many small family-run casas and Airbnbs have expanded into boutique hotels, many of which are quite sumptuous. For travelers, this has also expanded opportunities to meet Cubans and learn about their lives; all over the island, people are warm, open. and eager to chat.

It’s also important to note that US credit and debit cards are still not valid in Cuba. Bring cash—more than you think you will need, so you don’t run out. These days, US dollars are accepted in most places in Cuba.

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What You Need To Be Aware Of As A Tourist Visiting Cuba

B eaches with white sand as fine as sugar, vintage American cars cruising down streets lined by colorful aging buildings, and the chance to puff on a fine cigar while watching people dance the salsa in the warm night air: It's not hard to understand the picture-postcard allure of Cuba. It's a country in the throes of rapid change as it emerges back onto the world stage after decades of stagnation following the 1959 revolution. So now is a wonderful time to pack your dancing shoes and visit the Caribbean's largest island.

However, Cuba isn't an uncomplicated tropical paradise and there are several things you need to be aware of before you visit as a tourist. Like, as an American, is it even legal for you to visit Cuba as a tourist? What's with the money situation? And can you access the internet or are you going back to the Stone Age (also known as the early 1990s)?

Can Americans Visit Cuba?

Cuba is just 103 miles from the tip of Florida making it the ideal winter getaway for sun-seeking Americans. However, the U.S. imposed restrictions on travel to Cuba in 1963 and while the level of restrictions has varied over the years, as of July 2023, Americans can't visit Cuba purely for tourism purposes.

That said, there are 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba, and the one that most Americans visiting the island use is the "support for the Cuban people" category. You'll need a passport with six months validity at the time of entry and two blank pages. You also need a Cuban Tourist Card, which you can usually get from your airline for as little as $50.

Speaking of airlines, you can fly direct to Cuba from several U.S. cities, including Miami, Tampa, New York City , and Houston. Most direct flights from the U.S. land in the Cuban capital of Havana, though there are several nonstop flights from Miami to other destinations in the country, including Santiago de Cuba and the popular beach resort of Varadero.

Cuban Currency

There's good news and, let's say, tricky news when it comes to paying for things in Cuba. The good news is that there is now one currency used by residents and visitors alike in the country: the Cuban peso (CUP). The Cuban convertible peso (CUC), which used to be the currency used by tourists, was eliminated in 2021.

The only official place you can exchange currency in Cuba is at Cadeca exchange houses. You cannot get CUP outside of Cuba, nor should you take the currency home with you. Spend or exchange anything you have left over before you go to the airport (after security, you should pay in foreign currency).

What about credit cards? U.S. credit and debit cards won't work in Cuba. Credit cards from major financial institutions like Visa and Mastercard from other countries should be accepted by certain businesses and ATMs. However, cash is king in the country and it's always a good idea to keep some with you for tips to service workers.

The Internet In Cuba

Cuba is the perfect place to go on a digital detox. We're going to be honest: Getting online isn't as easy as in the U.S. and internet speeds can be sluggish. However, if you need to connect to the internet, you can. The most common way to access the internet in Cuba is via hotspots in places like public parks and on the Malécon in Havana. (They are also perfect for people-watching, so embrace the experience!) Many hotels and some other businesses also have Wi-Fi.

To access the internet in most places you're going to need a NAUTA card, which you can purchase from ETECSA offices around Cuba. Be prepared to stand in line to buy the card and take your passport along with you. Our advice? Be patient and make the most of your offline moments to fully immerse yourself in the Cuban experience. And plan to latergram your posts on Insta.

Sleeping And Eating

When it comes to accommodation in Cuba, you'll find a range of options. From all-inclusive beach resorts to cozy casas particulares, you'll find somewhere to suit your preferences and budget. Our pick for independent travelers is a casa particular, a privately owned guesthouse which offers a fantastic opportunity to experience Cuban hospitality firsthand. Many places offer breakfast and an evening meal, so you can taste home-cooked Cuban food. It's also an excellent way to support the Cuban people (this is likely the stated purpose of your visit, after all) as the money you pay goes directly to the guesthouse owners. In contrast, the Cuban government holds at least a 51% share in all hotels in Cuba. Hotel star ratings are often on the generous side, so be discerning.

As far as food goes in Cuba, your best bet is to go to a paladar, a privately run restaurant that serves excellent versions of classic Cuban dishes like roast pork, shredded beef, and suckling pig (the cuisine is pretty meat-forward). A note on cultural sensitivity: Many products that are widely available in the U.S. might not be in Cuba and even basic products often disappear from Cuban shops at short notice. Savor what's put on your plate and enjoy the often simple but tasty food.

How To Support And Respect The Cuban People

Staying in casas particulares and eating at paladares are just two ways that you can support the Cuban people on your trip. Consider taking a salsa class run by a local, buying locally made handicrafts, and whiling away the steamy nights sipping rum and listening to musicians put on a fabulous show. By patronizing local businesses, not only are you financially supporting the Cuban people, but you're also going to have an authentic Cuban experience.

We touched on the unavailability of some food items earlier, but shortages extend to many consumer products in Cuba. Bring everything you think you'll need for your trip, including medications. You may also want to bring a roll of toilet paper (glamorous, we know), as public bathrooms often don't have it. Power cuts are common; while they might be frustrating, remember that you're only there for a short time and, for Cubans, power cuts are infuriating, so keep your complaints to yourself. This goes for everything, really; if you're not prepared for some minor inconveniences, don't visit Cuba. If you want to take a memorable trip to a country steeped in history with a vibrant culture, stunning urban architecture, and beautiful natural landscapes, it'll all be worth it.

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