Discover Cuba's Vibrant Culture

From Havana's nostalgic streets to hidden tropical paradises - unveil all you need for an unforgettable Cuban adventure

A row of brightly colored classic American cars, including red, pink, and blue convertibles, parked in Havana, Cuba, near colonial buildings.

Cuba's Timeless Charm Awaits

Experience vibrant streets, classic cars, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage

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

January Havana Jazz Festival - attracts jazz musicians and fans from around the world
Late July Santiago Carnival - vibrant parades, music, dancing and colorful costumes
Early July Fiesta del Fuego - Caribbean culture with music, dance and parades
May 20 Independence Day

📍 Planning Tip

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

Two empty beach chairs on a summer sunny day at the beach in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Amazing beach scene vacation and summer holiday concept.

Cuba's pristine beaches offer crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sand - perfect for relaxation after exploring vibrant cities.

Safety Information

Essential travel tips and safety considerations for Cuba

🚨 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 emergency numbers handy:

Police: 106
Fire: 105
Medical: 104

🗣️ Language Barrier

While English is spoken in tourist areas, knowing basic Spanish phrases can greatly enhance your experience.

Ready for Your Cuban Adventure? By being mindful of these tips and staying informed, your trip to Cuba can be both enjoyable and safe. Have an amazing journey exploring this incredible island's vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and warm hospitality!

Join the Journey

Discover Cuba's vibrant culture, stunning landscapes and rich heritage with our expertly crafted itineraries

A row of brightly colored classic American cars, including red, pink, and blue convertibles, parked in Havana, Cuba, near colonial buildings.

Experience the vibrant spirit of Cuba through the iconic colorful streets of Havana with its classic American cars

🗓️

One Week in Cuba

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

✨ Activities:

  • • 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.

🌄

Day 3: Viñales

✨ Activities:

  • • 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.

🏰

Day 4-5: Cienfuegos

✨ Activities:

  • • 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.

🏖️

Day 6-7: Trinidad

✨ Activities:

  • • 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.

💡 Essential Travel 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.
📅

Two Weeks in Cuba

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.

1️⃣ 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.

2️⃣ 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.

💡 Essential Travel 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.
🗓️

Three Weeks in Cuba

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.

1️⃣ 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.

2️⃣ 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.

3️⃣ 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.

💡 Essential Travel 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.

Ready for Your Cuban Adventure?

From Havana's colorful streets to pristine Caribbean beaches - Cuba awaits your discovery!

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.
Discover Cuba

Your Ultimate Cuban Adventure

From vibrant Havana streets and pristine beaches to colonial Trinidad and lush valleys - explore the incredible beauty and culture of the Pearl of the Antilles

A row of brightly colored classic American cars, including red, pink, and blue convertibles, parked in Havana, Cuba, near colonial buildings.

🚗 Classic cars in Havana - symbols of Cuban culture and history. Start your Cuban journey in the vibrant capital, then explore 17 more incredible destinations across this captivating island.

Havana

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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)

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.

Budget Guide

Discover Cuba with the Perfect Budget Plan

Plan your Cuba adventure with confidence - from backpacker to luxury traveler

Budget Travel

Daily Budget
€40 - €80

Accommodation: Casas Particulares

€20 - €40 per night

Food: Local eateries, street food

€5 - €10 per meal

Transportation: Public transit, shared taxis

€3 - €10 per day

Activities: Beaches, walking tours, low-cost museums

€10 - €20 per day

Mid-Range Travel

Daily Budget
€130 - €260

Accommodation: Mid-range hotels

€60 - €120 per night

Food: Mid-tier restaurants

€15 - €30 per meal

Transportation: Car rentals, private taxis

€20 - €50 per day

Activities: Paid excursions, cultural events

€30 - €60 per day

Luxury Travel

Daily Budget
€350 - €820+

Accommodation: Luxury resorts

€150 - €400+ per night

Food: Upscale dining

€40 - €100+ per meal

Transportation: Private transfers, luxury cars

€60 - €120 per day

Activities: Exclusive tours, high-end experiences

€100 - €200+ per day

Travel image with colorful buildings along a cobblestone street in old city center of San Juan, Puerto Rico. Diminishing perspective. Vibrant colors.
Starting from
€40/day
Budget Friendly