Welcome to the Cuba Travel Blog

From Havana's nostalgic streets to hidden tropical paradises, this guide to Cuba unveils all you need for an unforgettable trip.

When to Visit Cuba

With cost, weather, and events in mind, plan your trip during these ideal times:

🌴 Cost-Effective Travel

The low season (May-November) offers cheaper prices but overlaps with the rainy season.

🌞 Ideal Weather

December to April is the dry season, perfect for outdoor exploration and pleasant temperatures.

🎉 Festivals & Events

  • Havana Jazz Festival: January, this festival attracts jazz musicians and fans from around the world
  • Santiago Carnival: One of the most vibrant celebrations in Cuba, typically held in late July. It features parades, music, dancing and colourful costumes.
  • Fiesta del Fuego: Early July, celebrating Caribbean culture with music, dance and parades
  • Independence Day: May 20

For a mix of great conditions and culture, visit in November, early December, or late April. For specific festivals, plan directly around those dates!   

Safety Informations

  • 🚨 General Safety: Cuba is generally considered safe for tourists. However, as with any destination, remain cautious in crowded areas and tourist spots to avoid petty crimes like pickpocketing.
  • ⚠️ Areas to Exercise Caution: Avoid isolated areas, especially at night. Stick to tourist-friendly parts of major cities.
  • 💧 Health Precautions: Drink bottled water as tap water may not be safe. Protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases like Zika and Dengue by using insect repellent and long-sleeve clothing.
  • 💱 Currency and Payments: Cuba operates under a dual currency system. Ensure you bring sufficient cash in Euros or Canadian Dollars to exchange, as US credit cards are mostly not accepted.
  • 🚕 Transportation: Use official taxis, but negotiate fares beforehand. Be cautious if renting a car as road conditions and signage can be poor.
  • ✋ Local Laws and Customs: Respect local customs and remember that photographing military or police installations is strictly prohibited.
  • 📶 Internet Access: Limited mainly to hotels and specific Wi-Fi hotspots. Purchase a local Wi-Fi card for internet access.
  • 📝 Travel Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers medical expenses, as it’s mandatory for visitors to Cuba.
  • 📞 Emergency Numbers: Keep these handy: 106 for police, 105 for fire, and 104 for medical emergencies.
  • 🗣️ Language Barrier: While English is spoken in tourist areas, knowing basic Spanish phrases can greatly enhance your experience.

Discover New Horizons

Exploring Cuba in a week allows you to immerse yourself in the island's vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning natural beauty. This itinerary focuses on Havana, Viñales, Cienfuegos, and Trinidad, offering a blend of city exploration, outdoor adventures, and historical insights.

Day 1-2: Havana
  • Day 1: Start your Cuban adventure in Havana. Explore Old Havana (Habana Vieja) on foot, visiting its four iconic plazas, the Capitolio, and the Malecón. Don't miss a tour of the Museo de la Revolución and a classic car ride.
  • Day 2: Visit the Fusterlandia neighborhood, known for its vibrant mosaic installations. In the afternoon, explore the Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabaña and enjoy the cannon ceremony at sunset. Experience Havana's nightlife with live music at a local bar or club.

Transport: Havana's José Martí International Airport is the main gateway. The city is navigable by vintage taxis, coco-taxis, and bicitaxis. Renting a classic car with a driver can be an unforgettable experience.
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Day 3: Viñales
  • Travel to Viñales, a beautiful valley in Pinar del Río known for its tobacco farms and limestone mogotes. Take a guided tour of a tobacco farm, explore the Cueva del Indio by boat, and visit the Mural de la Prehistoria.

Transport: Viñales is about a 2.5-hour drive from Havana. Viazul buses offer daily services, but a private taxi can provide more flexibility for stops and exploration.
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Day 4-5: Cienfuegos
  • Day 4: Head to Cienfuegos, known as the "Pearl of the South." Explore the city's French colonial architecture, including the Palacio de Valle and the Terry Theater. Walk along the Paseo del Prado and the Malecón of Cienfuegos.
  • Day 5: Take a day trip to the El Nicho waterfalls for a hike and swim in natural pools.

Transport: Cienfuegos is about a 6-hour drive from Viñales. While Viazul buses operate this route, considering a private taxi might be more convenient.
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Day 6-7: Trinidad
  • Day 6: Travel to Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with well-preserved colonial buildings and cobblestone streets. Visit the Museo Romántico, the Palacio Cantero, and enjoy live music at Casa de la Musica in the evening.
  • Day 7: Spend your day at Playa Ancón, enjoying the white sandy beach and clear waters. Consider a snorkeling or diving excursion.

Transport: Trinidad is about a 1.5-hour drive from Cienfuegos. Buses, private taxis, or a rental car are the best options for making the trip. Trinidad itself is compact and easily explored on foot.
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Additional Tips:
  • Currency: Cuba has two currencies: the Cuban Peso (CUP) and the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC). Ensure you understand the difference and use the correct currency for your purchases.
  • Language: Spanish is the official language. English is spoken in tourist areas, but knowing basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience.
  • Connectivity: Internet access in Cuba can be limited. Purchase a local SIM card or Wi-Fi card for access in designated Wi-Fi spots.
  • Transport: Booking transportation in advance is recommended, especially for intercity travel. Consider arranging through your accommodation or a local travel agency.

Travel Smarter

Exploring Cuba in two weeks allows for a more in-depth journey through its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning natural landscapes. This itinerary includes the bustling streets of Havana, the scenic beauty of Viñales, the historic charm of Trinidad and Cienfuegos, the relaxed atmosphere of Camagüey, the revolutionary history of Santa Clara, and the serene beaches of Varadero.

Week 1: Havana, Viñales, and Trinidad

Day 1-3: Havana
  • Activities: Explore Old Havana's historic plazas, the Malecón, and the Museum of the Revolution. Enjoy a classic car tour, visit the Hemingway Museum, and experience live Cuban music.
  • Transport: Havana is accessible by José Martí International Airport. Use local taxis and coco-taxis for city travel.
Day 4-5: Viñales
  • Activities: Visit tobacco farms, explore the Cueva del Indio and the Mural de la Prehistoria. Consider horseback riding or hiking through the valley.
  • Transport: Viñales is about a 2.5-hour drive from Havana. Buses, private taxis, or organized tours are available.
Day 6-7: Trinidad
  • Activities: Wander through Trinidad's UNESCO-listed colonial center, visit the Museo Romántico, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife at Casa de la Musica. Spend a day at Playa Ancón.
  • Transport: Trinidad is around a 7-hour drive from Viñales. Direct buses or private taxis are recommended.

Week 2: Cienfuegos, Santa Clara, Camagüey, and Varadero

Day 8: Cienfuegos
  • Activities: Explore the Palacio de Valle, walk the Paseo del Prado, and visit the Terry Theatre.
  • Transport: Cienfuegos is about a 1.5-hour drive from Trinidad. Buses and taxis offer connections.
Day 9: Santa Clara
  • Activities: Visit the Che Guevara Mausoleum and the Tren Blindado memorial. Explore the city's central park and cultural sites.
  • Transport: Santa Clara is about a 1-hour drive from Cienfuegos. Buses, private taxis, or rental cars are good options.
Day 10-11: Camagüey
  • Activities: Navigate Camagüey's winding streets, visit the galleries and theaters, and explore the local plazas and markets.
  • Transport: Camagüey is a 3-4 hour drive from Santa Clara. Bus services or private taxis are available.
Day 12-14: Varadero
  • Activities: Relax on Varadero's famous beaches, explore the Parque Josone, and consider a day trip to the Saturno Cave for swimming.
  • Transport: Varadero is about a 5-6 hour drive from Camagüey. Frequent bus services connect Camagüey with Varadero.

Additional Tips

  • Currency: Be aware of the dual currency system in Cuba, although it's moving towards unification. Carry cash, as credit card usage is limited.
  • Language: Spanish is the primary language. English is spoken in tourist areas, but learning basic Spanish phrases will be helpful.
  • Connectivity: Internet access is improving but remains limited. Purchase a Wi-Fi card for access in public Wi-Fi hotspots.
  • Safety and Health: Drink bottled water and take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Cuba is generally safe, but exercise normal safety precautions.

This two-week itinerary allows you to experience Cuba's diverse offerings, from its historical cities and cultural richness to its breathtaking natural beauty and welcoming towns, providing a comprehensive view of the island's unique charm.

Plan Your Adventure

Exploring Cuba for three weeks provides an ample opportunity to delve deep into the island's vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning natural landscapes. This itinerary will take you from the historical streets of Havana to the serene valleys of Viñales, through the colonial charm of Trinidad and Cienfuegos, into the heart of Cuba's revolutionary past in Santa Clara, the underrated beauty of Camagüey and Santiago de Cuba, and finally, to the relaxing beaches of Baracoa and Varadero.

Week 1: Havana, Viñales, and Trinidad

Day 1-3: Havana

Activities: Discover Old Havana (Habana Vieja), the Malecón, Revolution Square, and the Museum of the Revolution. Experience a classic car tour and enjoy live music and dance at a local salsa club.

Transport: José Martí International Airport serves Havana. Use taxis, coco-taxis, or buses for city transport.

Day 4-5: Viñales

Activities: Explore the Viñales Valley by horseback or foot, visiting tobacco farms, the Mural de la Prehistoria, and the Indian Cave. Enjoy a sunset view from Hotel Los Jazmines.

Transport: Direct buses (Viazul) or private taxis connect Havana to Viñales in about 2.5 hours.

Day 6-7: Trinidad

Activities: Stroll through Trinidad's UNESCO World Heritage Site center, visit the Museo Romántico, and relax on Playa Ancón. Experience traditional music at Casa de la Musica.

Transport: Buses or private taxis can take you from Viñales to Trinidad, usually via Havana, with the total journey taking around 7-8 hours.

Week 2: Cienfuegos, Santa Clara, and Camagüey

Day 8: Cienfuegos

Activities: Visit the Palacio de Valle, stroll along the Paseo del Prado, and explore the botanical garden.

Transport: Trinidad to Cienfuegos is about 1.5 hours by bus or taxi.

Day 9-10: Santa Clara

Activities: Explore the Che Guevara Mausoleum and the site of the Tren Blindado. Wander around Parque Vidal.

Transport: Cienfuegos to Santa Clara is roughly an hour by bus or taxi.

Day 11-12: Camagüey

Activities: Navigate the city's labyrinthine streets, visit the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Merced, and enjoy the local ballet or theater.

Transport: Santa Clara to Camagüey by bus takes about 4-5 hours.

Week 3: Santiago de Cuba, Baracoa, and Varadero

Day 13-15: Santiago de Cuba

Activities: Visit Castillo del Morro, Santa Ifigenia Cemetery, and the Moncada Barracks. Explore the city's vibrant music scene.

Transport: Camagüey to Santiago de Cuba is about 6 hours by bus.

Day 16-18: Baracoa

Activities: Hike to El Yunque, explore Maguana Beach, and visit the Alexander Humboldt National Park.

Transport: Santiago de Cuba to Baracoa can be reached by bus in about 4-5 hours, though flights are also an option.

Day 19-21: Varadero

Activities: Conclude your trip with a relaxing stay in Varadero. Enjoy the stunning beaches, visit the Bellamar Caves, and consider a day trip to Matanzas city.

Transport: Returning to Varadero from Baracoa typically requires flying via Havana. Baracoa to Havana flights take about 2 hours, with an additional 2-hour drive from Havana to Varadero.

Additional Tips

  • Currency: Familiarize yourself with Cuba's currency system. Bring cash to exchange, as credit card use is limited.
  • Language: Spanish is the official language. English is spoken in major tourist areas, but learning basic Spanish phrases is beneficial.
  • Connectivity: Internet access is improving but remains limited. Purchase Wi-Fi cards for access in public hotspots.
  • Safety: Cuba is generally safe for travelers. Exercise standard precautions, especially in crowded tourist spots.

This three-week itinerary offers a comprehensive Cuban adventure, from its revolutionary history and colonial towns to its magnificent natural beauty and vibrant cultural life, providing a deep and enriching travel experience.

Discover Cuba: A 12-Day Journey

Explore the hidden gems of Cuba through this thoughtfully designed itinerary. Experience rich history, vibrant culture, and mesmerizing landscapes beyond the usual tourist paths.

Day 1-2: Baracoa

Discover Cuba's oldest town, known for its natural beauty, unique cuisine, and friendly locals.

  • Hike to El Yunque for breathtaking views.
  • Visit Alejandro de Humboldt National Park.
  • Try local chocolate and cucurucho.

Day 3-4: Gibara

Charming coastal town known for its film festival and peaceful streets.

  • Explore Cavernas de Panaderos.
  • Relax at Playa Caletones.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood by the waterfront.

Day 5-6: Camagüey

A city famous for its tinajones and maze-like street layout.

  • Explore the UNESCO-listed historic center.
  • Admire Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Merced.
  • Visit local artist studios.

Day 7-8: Trinidad & Valle de los Ingenios

Immerse yourself in colonial history and Cuba's sugar industry heritage.

  • Visit Museo Romántico and enjoy live music.
  • Take a steam train through Valle de los Ingenios.
  • Explore the Manaca Iznaga tower.

Day 9-10: Playa Girón (Bay of Pigs)

Dive into history and pristine waters at this iconic destination.

  • Visit Museo de Playa Girón.
  • Snorkel at Cueva de los Peces.
  • Relax on the beaches.

Day 11-12: Viñales Valley

End your journey with stunning landscapes and tobacco farm tours.

  • Take a horseback tour of the tobacco fields.
  • Visit a traditional tobacco farm.
  • Explore Cueva del Indio by boat.

Travel Tips

  • Transportation: Rent a car or use Viazul buses for flexibility.
  • Accommodations: Stay in "casas particulares" for authentic hospitality.
  • Best Season: Visit from November to April during the dry season.
  • Food: Try local dishes like ropa vieja, lechón asado, and yuca con mojo.

Havana

Stay Duration: 3-4 days

Activities: Explore Old Havana (Habana Vieja), ride in a classic American car, visit the Malecón, and see the Revolution Square (Plaza de la Revolución).

Accommodation: Casas particulares (private homes), boutique hotels.

Specialties: Ropa vieja, mojitos, Cuban sandwiches.

Trinidad

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Wander through the cobblestone streets, visit the Museo Romántico, and enjoy live music at Casa de la Musica.

Accommodation: Colonial casas particulares, small hotels.

Specialties: Lobster, canchánchara (traditional cocktail).

Viñales Valley

Stay Duration: 2 days

Activities: Explore the tobacco farms, take a horseback riding tour, and visit the prehistoric mural.

Accommodation: Casas particulares, eco-lodges.

Specialties: Farm-to-table meals, Cuban cigars.

Santiago de Cuba

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Discover the Castillo del Morro, visit the Santa Ifigenia Cemetery, and explore the historic city center.

Accommodation: Family-run casas particulares, small hotels.

Specialties: Congrí, bacán (plantain and coconut milk tamale).

Cienfuegos

Stay Duration: 1-2 days

Activities: Visit the Palacio de Valle, stroll along the Paseo del Prado, and explore the botanical gardens.

Accommodation: Waterfront casas particulares, hotels.

Specialties: Shrimp enchiladas, flan.

Baracoa

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Hike El Yunque, visit the cacao farms, and enjoy the secluded beaches.

Accommodation: Eco-lodges, casas particulares.

Specialties: Cucurucho (coconut, honey, and fruit mix), seafood dishes.

Camagüey

Stay Duration: 2 days

Activities: Explore the labyrinthine streets of the old city, visit the Ignacio Agramonte Park, and enjoy the architectural charm of the churches.

Accommodation: Boutique hotels, casas particulares.

Specialties: Tinajón drink (refreshing lime and honey-based beverage), Camagüey-style stew.

Holguín

Stay Duration: 2 days

Activities: Climb the Loma de la Cruz for panoramic views, relax on the beaches of Guardalavaca, and explore the Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt.

Accommodation: Beach resorts, casas particulares.

Specialties: Lechón asado (roasted pork), coconut desserts.

Santa Clara

Stay Duration: 1-2 days

Activities: Visit the Che Guevara Mausoleum, explore the Tren Blindado monument, and enjoy vibrant local cafés.

Accommodation: Modern hotels, family-run casas particulares.

Specialties: Cuban coffee, Santa Clara-style baked goods.

Pinar del Río

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Visit the Viñales National Park, tour the cigar factories, and explore the stunning cave systems.

Accommodation: Casas particulares, small eco-resorts.

Specialties: Puerco asado (roast pork), fresh tropical fruits.

Bayamo

Stay Duration: 1-2 days

Activities: Visit the historic Plaza del Himno, take a scenic walk along the Bayamo River, and explore the Céspedes Birthplace Museum.

Accommodation: Family-run guesthouses, small hotels.

Specialties: Bayamo-style rice dishes, traditional roasted meats.

Matanzas

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Relax on the beaches of Varadero, visit the Bellamar Caves, and enjoy a performance at Teatro Sauto.

Accommodation: Beachfront casas particulares, luxury resorts.

Specialties: Yuca con mojo, Matanzas-style seafood dishes.

Varadero

Stay Duration: 3-4 days

Activities: Relax on the pristine beaches, visit the Varadero Ecological Park, and enjoy water sports such as snorkeling and diving.

Accommodation: Luxury beachside resorts, casas particulares.

Specialties: Fresh seafood, tropical cocktails.

Manzanillo

Stay Duration: 1-2 days

Activities: Explore the local markets, enjoy the waterfront promenade, and visit nearby beaches.

Accommodation: Cozy guesthouses, small hotels.

Specialties: Local seafood dishes, tropical drinks.

Las Tunas

Stay Duration: 1-2 days

Activities: Visit cultural museums, enjoy local music festivals, and discover artisan crafts.

Accommodation: Casas particulares, mid-range hotels.

Specialties: Roasted pork, regional stews.

Guantánamo

Stay Duration: 1-2 days

Activities: Visit the Guantánamo Bay historical sites, enjoy scenic landscapes, and explore Afro-Cuban cultural landmarks.

Accommodation: Casas particulares, small guesthouses.

Specialties: Seafood dishes, Afro-Cuban inspired stews.

Playa Girón (Bay of Pigs)

Stay Duration: 1-2 days

Activities: Visit the Bay of Pigs Museum, go snorkeling or diving to explore the coral reefs and underwater caves.

Accommodation: Casas particulares, small beach resorts.

Specialties: Traditional Cuban dishes, fresh seafood.

Scenic Travel

Explore Scenic Wonders

Discover the perfect vacation experience tailored to your budget. Whether you're traveling on a budget, mid-range, or seeking luxury, here's what to expect:

Budget Travel

  • Accommodation: €20 to €40 per night (Casas Particulares).
  • Food: €5 to €10 per meal (local eateries or street food).
  • Transportation: €3 to €10 per day (public transit or shared taxis).
  • Activities: €10 to €20 (beaches, walking tours, low-cost museums).
  • Daily Total: Approximately €40 to €80.

Mid-Range Travel

  • Accommodation: €60 to €120 per night (mid-range hotels).
  • Food: €15 to €30 per meal (mid-tier restaurants).
  • Transportation: €20 to €50 per day (car rentals, private taxis).
  • Activities: €30 to €60 (paid excursions, cultural events).
  • Daily Total: Approximately €130 to €260.

Luxury Travel

  • Accommodation: €150 to €400 or more per night (luxury resorts).
  • Food: €40 to €100 or more per meal (upscale dining).
  • Transportation: €60 to €120 per day (private transfers, luxury cars).
  • Activities: €100 to €200 or more (exclusive tours, high-end experiences).
  • Daily Total: Approximately €350 to €820 or more.

These estimates provide a general guideline. Adjust for currency rates and specific planning. Always account for unexpected expenses!