The Best Places to Visit in Cuba
Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean, and found just south of Florida meaning you can be sure that there is a lot of beauty by the waters here. Cuba is popular around the world for being a place which is ‘frozen in time.’ Around the capital city, you’ll see cars from the 50’s, lots of colorful buildings and lively salsa-style music. Of course we can’t forget the iconic Cuban Cigar as well. The country does face some economic challenges, but people are friendly and talkative for the most part, plus the seaside and nature that the country withholds is beautiful all around.
Capital: Havana
Currency: Cuban Peso
Language: Spanish
When to visit: November to April
1) Havana
Havana is the vibrant capital of the country, and it’s basically located on the Gulf of Mexico with over 2.2 million residents. The city was founded in 1519 by the Spanish, so the influence is still of course very much noticeable. The streets of the city are undeniably cool and full of character, and although you may see some decay in the buildings and struggles amongst the city, the vibe of Havana is definitely immortal.
Things to do:
Obviously you have to go into Old Havana - it’s a UNESCO Historic Center on its own, and places like Plaza de la Catedral, Plaza Vieja, and Calle Obispo are where you can see the cities beautiful charm. You have to walk past to look at El Capitolio, which is the big icon of the city and was modeled after the US Capitol. If you want to do some walking, El Malecon is an 8km long esplanade strecthing from Old Havana to the Almendares River. You’ll notice all the historic cars around in Havana, so many people like to book a ride in one, or take a classic car tour in the city too. Revolution Square is a bit more inland and features monuments dedicated to revolutionary heroes of Cuba. You’ll of course see Havanas great nightlife after the sun sets, and there will be no shortage of live music and entertainment for you to see around the city.
How to get there:
José Martí International Airport (HAV) is well connected around the American continents, plus a bit of Europe too. It’s your gateway into Cuba.
2) Viñales / Viñales Valley
Viñales is a small town in the far west of Cuba, which serves as a gateway into the Viñales Valley, a popular nature spot in Cuba. It’s a super peaceful area of the country, and the valley itself is filled with lush green tobacco fields plus a bunch of steep sided hills. It’s a great escape from Havana as it offers a super different dynamic and you see a different side of Cuba for sure.
Things to do:
Base yourself in Viñales town, and then from there you can experience it in many different ways. A lot of people opt for Horseback Riding, and these kind of experiences take you through tobacco fields, caves and other scenic spots. The guides of these are always usually locals, so they often show you classic things like proper cigar rolling and stuff like that. There is also some great hiking options, such as the Los Acuáticos Hike, which is about a 6-7km round trip taking you to a nice viewpoint (best at sunrise). You could otherwise do the San Vicente to Ancón Hike, which is also pretty moderate. There is a lot of options though.
How to get there:
To get here from Havana, take a bus through Viazul Tourist Bus company. It does take a bit of research to find the right time and spot.
3) Trinidad
Trinidad is a beautifully preserved colonial town in central Cuba, on the southern coast. It truly is one of the best examples of Spanish colonial architecture in the Americas. Over 70,000 people live here in Trinidad and it’s one of Cuba’s oldest cities being founded in 1514. It feels like time traveling walking down the streets which are filled with a type of style straight out the 1800’s. It’s far less touristy and a great addition to a Cuba itinerary.
Things to do:
You can find the heart of the towns energy in and around Plaza Mayor, the best area home to so many colorful buildings and music. Right round the corner is Museo Romántico, a former colonial palace now turned into a museum filled with interesting exhibits for tourists. To really immerse yourself with the country’s culture, check out a live performance at Casa de la Música, have a drink here and enjoy the music. Just walk the old streets and explore all the Spanish influenced pastel architecture, and if you’re craving a swim, Playa Ancón is south of the city and a lovely long white sand beach.
How to get there:
Once again, Viazul Tourist Bus can you get you here from Havana and around Cuba.
4) Cienfuegos
Cienfuegos is a beautiful coastal city in central Cuba, often called the "Pearl of the South" for its elegant French-influenced architecture and calm lifestyle on the Bay of Cienfuegos. It isn’t far northwest of Trinidad (only about 70km), yet was founded in 1819 by the French which is a lot later than other places in Cuba. It feels a bit more refined and peaceful when compared to Havana or Trinidad, yet is beautiful nonetheless.
Things to do:
The cities main boulevard is called Paseo del Prado, and it genuinely stretches longer than the city’s length, all the way to the coastline. It’s got colorful buildings and statues on either side so walking down it is a great idea. Cienfuegos has that grid style layout so it’s easy to navigate. Out to the west of the boulevard is Parque José Martí, a beautiful square with memorials and places to relax. However, if you walk to the very south of the boulevard you’re met with Palacio de Valle, an amazing palace (now a restaurant) right next to views of the bay. You can actually take a boat ride to south of the bay, where you’ll find the town of Jagua, home to the very cool Jagua Castle which overlooks the water. I would spend a lot of time walking round, and if you have sun make the most of the beautiful views and photo opportunities.
How to get there:
Viazul Tourist Bus will be able to get you here from Havana, and Trinidad too depending on the day of the week.
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