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50 Best Things to Do in Cuba + MAP with Attractions

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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!

Ascen Aynat

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Must-see attractions in Cuba

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18 Stunning Places to Visit in Cuba

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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!

Things to Do in Havana

Best Beaches

Museums to Visit

Where to Go Shopping

Foods to Try

Best Restaurants in Havana

Nightlife in Havana

What Americans Should Know

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Best Hotels in Havana

Public Transportation

Neighborhoods to Explore

Places to Visit

One Week in Cuba

48 Hours in Havana

Day Trips from Havana

Top Things to Do in Cuba

The Top 17 Things to Do in Cuba

Cuba is a charming Caribbean island nation trapped in time. It’s a place where the most beautiful cars of the 1950s and 1960s fill the streets, good Wi-Fi is hard to find, and major western brands are all but absent. 

The Cuban capital, Havana, is the center of Cuban cultural life. It’s home to museums, art galleries, and an opulent theater housing the Cuban National Ballet. Havana also is home to countless hole-in-the-wall restaurants, a handful of top-notch jazz clubs, a growing number of galleries and boutiques, and more mojitos than you can drink. 

But there’s far more to Cuba than Havana. Pristine beaches, architectural gems, diving, snorkeling, and off-the-grid cultural experiences are waiting just outside the city and beyond.

Unwind at the Beach in Varadero

Varadero is a beach town 80 miles east of Havana, with a beach that's known for its white-sand beaches and all-inclusive resorts. This is a dreamy place to bask in the sun or read a book under an umbrella. It’s also a popular scuba diving and deep-sea fishing destination. Expect to spend at least $80 each way to hire a car and driver to get to the beach. The drive takes about two hours. Viazul bus rides between Havana and Varadero are around $3 each way and take around three hours .

Ride Around Havana in a Classic Car

TripSavvy / Anna Haines

Nothing is more synonymous with Havana than a well-maintained classic car from the 1950s, and there’s no better way to see Havana than from one of those vintage cars. Tours typically pass by the Havana Capitol, Barrio Chino, the Hotel Nacional de Cuba, and the  Plaza de la Revolución, a public square that has hosted many political rallies and popes over the years. Classic car tours of Havana can also be booked online through sites like Airbnb and Get Your Guide or ahead of time directly with drivers or through Airbnb hosts.

Immerse Yourself in Cuban Art

Fábrica de Arte Cubano is a multimedia art experience that’s redefining Havana’s nightlife landscape. Fábrica de Arte Cubano is part dance club, part art gallery and part live performance venue. The exhibits start outside the entrance to this venue, a repurposed oil factory. Inside Fábrica de Arte Cubano, you’ll find many bars, a restaurant, and a casual snack spot to take a break in between exploring exhibits from local artists and taking in thumping multimedia performances by local musicians and dancers.

Sip a Daiquiri at Hemingway's Former Haunt

El Floridita is where the daiquiri was born and a favorite hangout of author Ernest Hemingway. It was his preferred place to drink a Cuban daiquiri, and nowadays patrons can drink daiquiris alongside a life-size bronze sculpture of Hemingway, perched at his favorite spot along the bar.

Explore the Hotel Nacional de Cuba

Hotel Nacional de Cuba is a glamorous Art Deco highrise that was a favorite of Al Capone and mid-century Hollywood. (Want a peek into the mobster's room? Look for the window with a green curtain.) Have lunch, and a mojito on the hotel’s expansive patio then make your way towards the edge of the property nearest the water. It’s here you’ll find Hotel Nacional’s most interesting spot: a Cold War-era bunker that’s open to visitors.

Shop for Old Books in Havana

At the open-air ruins of the former Casa de Jústiz y Santa Ana, you’ll find a reader’s paradise. This outdoor market features secondhand books as well as postcards, vintage posters, and notebooks. The well-worn books here have served generations of Cubans, and this street market is a well-worn piece of the fabric of Havana. Except for holidays and rainy days, you’ll find this market east of Plaza de Armas—its former home–just off of El Malecon.

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth at a Giant Ice Cream Parlor

Coppelia was meant to be a cathedral to ice cream, yet was designed to resemble a spaceship or UFO. It occupies an entire city block in the La Rambla section of Vedado and can hold up to 1,000 guests at a time. It doesn’t have the selection that was envisioned at its 1966 opening, but the few flavors it does carry are worth waiting in line for.

Go Dancing in Vinales

There are few places in the world where you can dance outside in the shadows of a historic church. Vinales is one of them. Listen for the music after dark near the town’s main church and follow the sound to a night of dancing you’ll never forget.

Listen to Live Jazz

Cuba is a place known for its jazz music and one of the best places in the world for catching a live jazz show. For an intimate jazz club experience in Havana, try La Zorra y el Cuervo. For more of a supper club experience, head to the Jazz Club in the Galerias de Paseo shopping center.

Experience Cuban Cabaret at El Tropicana

The Tropicana club opened its doors in 1939 and nowadays brings together 200 performers for a Las Vegas-style Cuban dance extravaganza in an outdoor garden. This is a show geared squarely toward tourists but still a unique night out.

Learn to Roll a Real Cuban Cigar

Cuba is almost synonymous with cigars. It’s the home of the legendary Cohiba and Montecristo brands, and there’s no better place to learn how to roll a cigar. Airbnb Experiences offers many cigar-rolling classes across the country.

Mix Up a Bespoke Fragrance

Habana 1791 is a perfumery dedicated to the scents of colonial Cuba. It carries a dozen fragrances that can be blended into bespoke perfumes and colognes. Customers can package their scents in the handcrafted bottles of their choice.

Take a Salsa Class

Are you looking to learn something new on vacation? Take a salsa class in Havana. Book ahead through Airbnb experiences and expect to spend a couple of hours dancing into the evening on an expansive patio dance space in a classic Havana neighborhood.

Explore a Spanish Settlement

Trinidad is a UNESCO World Heritage site and former pirate haven that, at one point, produced one-third of Cuba’s sugar. Trinidad is a place to wander among grand mansions built with sugar money, while nearby Mountains and beaches offer ample opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and ecotourism. Trinidad is about a four-hour drive from Havana.

Sip Guava Rum in Vinales

Guava rum isn’t something you’ll find on most bar menus or duty-free shops, but it’s a drink that’s worth seeking out. Book a tobacco plantation tour or a horseback ride and it’ll most likely include a stop to sample this Pinar del Rio specialty. And no, it isn’t available at the duty-free shop in the Havana airport. To book, go through a local tour company, Airbnb Experiences, or through your accommodation.

Shop for Cuban Art

If Cuban art is on your shopping list, head to Almacenes San José. This art market inside a sizeable two-story warehouse features works from dozens of Cuban artists. You'll find lots of paintings, ceramics, handmade jewelry, and more. (As an added perk, you won’t have to battle a blazing hot sun while you shop.)

Learn About the Cuban Revolution at the Museo de la Revolución

This museum is housed in an opulent former presidential palace and features exhibits focused on the Cuban revolution and recent Cuban history. The building itself boasts an interior designed by Tiffany & Co. and other landmarks, like the Salón de Los Espejos, a room designed to emulate Versailles' Hall of Mirrors.

48 Hours in Havana: The Ultimate Itinerary

The 5 Best Day Trips from Havana

Cuba Guide: Planning Your Trip

Nightlife in Havana: Where to Find the City's Best Bars, Clubs & More

Cubas Capital City of Havana

Top Travel Destinations and Attractions in Cuba

One Perfect Week in Cuba

What Americans Traveling to Cuba Need to Know

8 Museums to Visit in Cuba

Top Cuba Tour Operators for Americans

5 Neighborhoods to Explore in Havana

Gay and Lesbian Friendly Destinations in the Caribbean

The History Behind the World's Most Iconic Hotel Bars

Where to Go Shopping in Havana

The 27 Best Things To Do in Miami

50 Things to Do in Las Vegas This Summer

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The 11 best things to do in Cuba

From blissful beaches to underground clubs (literally) check out our guide to the finest stuff to see and do in Cuba

Photograph: Shutterstock/Sean Pavone

Trying to keep a list of the best stuff to see and do in Cuba down to just 11 options is a pretty darn impossible task – but here at Time Out we’re nothing if not ambitious. This island remains something of a mystery to plenty of even the most seasoned travelers: despite being just 90 miles from the US , Cuba’s classic cars, pastoral living and natural beauty is still somewhat unexplored by foreign nationals.

A trip to Cuba is very much like stepping into an alternative present; this island’s defiant independence has fashioned it into one of the world’s most distinctive destinations. Stubbornly characterful in the face of global commercialism, in Cuba you’ll find lip-smackingly marvelous restaurants, drop-dead gorgeous architecture, unspoiled beaches and much more. Here are our essential highlights.

RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best restaurants in Cuba 🛏 The best Airbnbs in Havana

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

The best things to do in Cuba

1.  playa las tumbas.

What it is: A remote beach on the westernmost point of the island where you’ll rarely find anything other than palm trees, pure white sand, and crystal clear water. It sits at the very end of Peninsula de Guanahacabibes National Park, four to five hours from Havana. Nobody said having your own beach would be easy. Why go: Granted, there are more convenient, better-equipped beaches in Cuba. And many are beautiful. But none give you the feeling of having a slice of paradise to yourself like Las Tumbas. The drive might be long, but it’s an excellent way to see parts of the island most people don’t. So taking an overnight here is as much about the journey as the destination.

2.  Valle de Vinales

What it is: The Valle de Vinales tobacco plantation is a working plantation where they grow Cuba’s two most famous agricultural exports: Coffee and tobacco. It sits in the Unesco World Heritage Site of the Vinales Valley, where you can stroll the fields smoking a freshly-rolled cigar and sipping on Cuban coffee. Why go: It’s the freshest cigar you’ll ever smoke, and while not a big name like Paratagas or Romeo y Julieta, for the casual Cuban visitor the experience here is far better than at a cigar factory. It’s a popular stop on many tours, but even though it’s often crowded it’s still a fun place for pictures and an afternoon pick-me-up.

3.  Hemingway Museum

What it is : Finca la Vigia is Ernest Hemingway’s former home about ten miles outside Havana. It’s a sprawling estate on a hill with a swimming pool, Hemingway artifacts, and the Pilar, the author’s famous boat. The impressive home is also where he wrote The Old Man and the Sea and For Whom the Bell Tolls.

Why go: Is it touristy? Of course, it is, but it’s also among the best-preserved grand homes in the country, and there’s usually a Cuban band playing near the entrance with a full rum bar, of course. You’ll also hear clever anecdotes about Hemingway’s time here, like when he used to spy on Ava Gardner skinny dipping in the pool.

4.  Topes de Collantes National Park

What it is: A mountainous National Park about 25 minutes from Trinidad on the southern coast of the island. The park sits in the Sierra Escambray Mountains with short trails leading to underground caves, waterfalls, and hidden swimming holes.

Why go: Most American tourists don’t make it this far out into natural Cuba, and it’s the sort of tropical mountain scenery that is definitively Caribbean. It’s the perfect escape from the towns and cities, where you can hike a couple of miles and jump into a pristine pool under a waterfall.

5.  Drink a mojito somewhere in Havana

What it is: The quintessential Cuban drink that’s become ubiquitous in American bars made of rum, muddled mint, sugar and club soda. Hemingway made the ones at La Bodeguita del Medio famous, but sipping on one at the Hotel Nacional is the essence of 1950s celebrity. Or hit La Chanchullero , which many say makes the best in the city. Why go: It’s just one of those bucket list eating/drinking experiences everyone has, like getting a cheesesteak in Philly or wings in Buffalo.  And almost anywhere you go in Havana will make one better than any American cocktail bar because they use real sugar and not syrup.

6.  Finca Agroecologica El Paraiso

What it is: Finca Agroecologica El Paraiso is a small restaurant set atop a hill overlooking a vast agricultural valley with towering green mountains not far into the distance. Many of the U.S. government-approved tours take you here, so while you might not be alone you’ll definitely enjoy your lunch.

Why go: The food is literally farm-to-table, and in a country where great meals are few and far between this is an absolute must-visit. The setting is magnificent as most tables sit on a patio with stunning views of the countryside.

7.  Stroll the streets of Trinidad

What it is: A colorful colonial city of about 73,000 set near the Escambray Mountains. Trinidad is the best city in Cuba to see Spanish colonial architecture lining cobblestone streets, where the buildings are painted bright colors giving the feel of mountain villages one might find in Colombia or Ecuador. Why go: It might be the most photographed place in Cuba outside Havana, but that hasn’t ruined the small-town feel one bit. The people here are still unbelievably friendly, and while now they might ask you for a couple of dollars if you want to take their picture, they’ll still happily chat with you about anything you want to know about the town.

8.  Disco Ayala

What it is: This full-on dance club is 100 feet underground, where you’ll dance among stalactites, stalagmites, and giant video screens. It’s about a ten-minute walk up the hill from Trinidad, and admission includes a free drink. Why go: Even if you’re not big into dancing or nightlife it’s such a uniquely-surreal experience to go clubbing in a cave, Disco Ayala is worth a visit. And who knows, perhaps you’ll meet some fun-loving locals to give you an even better story.

9.  Tour Havana in a classic car

What it is: A trip through Habana Vieja and along the water in a bright pink convertible Cadillac or another of Cuba’s trademark classic cars. You won’t get much in the way of information over the roar of the engine and the wind in your hair. But education isn’t really the point.

Why go: It’s another ultra-touristy thing to do that’s absolutely worth the cliché. The photographs you’ll get from riding in a bright car through the classic architecture are uniquely Cuban. And when else will you get to ride around in a ’57 Chevy with the top down on a sunny day?

10.  Hit a live cabaret show

What it is: A complete time warp back to the nightclub variety shows of the 1950s, complete with elaborate carnival costumes, over-the-top singers, and full-production dance numbers. Why go: They say life on this island hasn’t changed much since the mid-twentieth century, and these old-style shows are the best example. The biggest show is at the famous Tropicana Club . Cabaret Le Parisien at the Hotel Nacional is a little more Moulin Rouge, but still a sight you’ll never see in America.  

Want to find the best food and drink in Cuba?

The 21 best restaurants in cuba.

There’s been an explosion of paladares (home-run restaurants) building up a buzz around “nouveau Cuban” cuisine. Havana leads the charge, offering everything from fine dining in palatial old apartments to hipster tapas bars.

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Havana

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Karen Hastings traveled extensively around Cuba and loved soaking up Havana's history and culture.

History and Havana go hand in hand. The name Havana conjures images of Spanish conquistadors, revolutionary heroes, and the literati and glitterati who once basked on these sun-splashed shores. Today, the fascinating history of Cuba's capital awaits you at every twist and turn, in the cobbled streets of Old Havana ; in the beautiful Cuban Baroque buildings; in the historic forts, museums, legendary restaurants, and lively public squares.

A fiesta for the senses, Havana is a city made to stroll, with plenty of cultural attractions and unique things to do. Listen to live rumba music on a street corner, feast at restaurants where Hemingway once dined, or inhale the salt-soaked air along the famous Malecón.

But perhaps the best part of a visit to Havana is the people. Friendly and outgoing, the locals are proud of their culture-rich Caribbean city and happy to share its historic treasures and many hidden gems. Learn about the highlights and best places to visit with our list of top attractions in Havana, Cuba.

See also: Where to Stay in Havana

1. Old Havana (Habana Vieja)

2. the malecón, 3. plaza vieja, 4. plaza de la revolución (josé martí memorial), 5. el capitolio (national capitol building), 6. museo de la revolución, 7. playas del este, 8. museo nacional de bellas artes, 9. fusterlandia, 10. paseo del prado, 11. fortaleza de san carlos de la cabana, 12. gran teatro de la habana, 13. cojimar, 14. finca la vigia, san francisco de paula, cuba, 15. miramar, 16. museo napoleonico, 17. castillo de los tres reyes del morro, 18. national botanical garden of cuba, where to stay in havana for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in havana, more places to visit near havana.

Old Havana, Cuba, a UNESCO World Heritage site, oozes the charm of days gone by. Elegant neoclassical and Baroque buildings border cobbled squares and narrow streets, and many have been carefully restored to their former beauty.

If you're wondering what to do in Old Havana, start your sightseeing tour by heading to one of the popular public squares: Plaza Vieja and Plaza de Armas . The latter is where the splendid Palacio de los Capitanes stands, home to the Museo de la Ciudad (City Museum) and a delightful leafy courtyard.

Other highlights of Old Havana include the magnificent Catedral de San Cristobal , a celebration of the Cuban Baroque style, and the stout Castillo de la Real Fuerza , an impressive military fortress.

To tap into the lively vibe of Havana, take a walk along Calle Obispo . By day, you can browse the shops and art galleries and admire the colorful Cuban Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture. By night, live music lures you into buzzing restaurants and entertainment venues. Here, you'll also find the famous El Floridita restaurant, a must-do on most tourists' sightseeing lists.

After soaking up all the history of this captivating quarter, check out the 35-meter tower of the camera obscura. When open, it offers a breathtaking overview of these well-aged jewels.

Finally, if you're looking for places to eat in Havana, the former Hemingway hangout, La Bodeguita del Medio , serves up succulent seafood and ice-cold drinks.

Strolling along the Malecón (El Malecon) at sunset is a wonderful way to soak up the feel of this evocative city and see some sights along the way.

Havana's famous seafront boulevard runs about seven kilometers from Habana Vieja (Old Havana) to the Vedado and Plaza area. Overlooking the boulevard is a colorful collection of well-preserved 20th-century buildings in a mix of architectural styles, from Art Deco to Neo Moorish. In the golden glow of the setting sun, they make a beautiful picture .

The Malecón is also a great place to meet the locals. Anglers come here to cast their lines, and families and young couples saunter along the seafront enjoying the fresh air and ocean breezes.

Those seeking to rest their weary feet should stop by the historic Hotel Nacional de Cuba , a World Heritage Site and a National Monument with a long list of glamorous former guests, including Frank Sinatra, Marlene Dietrich, and Marlon Brando.

It's easy to see why Plaza Vieja is one of the most popular places to visit in Havana. Set in the heart of Old Havana, this landmark square is lined by colorful buildings depicting a variety of architectural styles. Whether you're a fan of classic, Baroque, or Art Nouveau, you'll find something to love in this historic square, which dates to 1559.

Tourists love visiting this bustling plaza because it is packed with fun things to do. Enjoy a meal al fresco, grab a coffee in a café, enjoy the view from the Camera Obscura , or ogle the impressive stained-glass windows. Families and couples alike could spend hours here, and they do. Be sure to arrive hungry!

Once known as Plaza Nueva, which means New Square, Plaza Vieja (Old Square) has been recently revamped, becoming one of the most visited places in the city.

The Plaza de la Revolución (Revolution Square), formerly the Plaza Civica before the Revolution, is worth a brief stop due to its historical significance. During a 1998 visit to Cuba, Pope John Paul II celebrated mass in this famous square, and more than a million people have gathered here for Castro's speeches.

Overlooking the square is the José Martí Memorial with a 109-meter gray tower and white marble statue of the Cuban national hero. You can browse the small museum here or take the lift up the tower for panoramic city views.

Government buildings surround the square, including the Ministry of the Interior building adorned with the iconic image of Che Guevara.

Address: Paseo y Calle 39, Havana, Cuba

Travelers to Havana who have visited Washington, D.C. may do a double take when they see beautiful El Capitolio, inaugurated in 1929. Rising from the city skyline, this grand building is reminiscent of the American Capitol building, but it was the Panthéon in Paris, which reputedly inspired its distinctive cupola.

The structure displays a blend of neoclassical and Art Nouveau styles and was the seat of government until 1959, after the Cuban Revolution.

For a small fee, you can take a guided tour of the recently restored building, with headsets provided in the language of your choice. Highlights include the grand hallways, beautiful inlaid marble floors, and massive dome.

Atop the dome is a replica of the bronze sculpture Mercury, originally created by the 16th-century Florentine sculptor Giambologna. Below the dome is a replica of a 24-carat diamond. This reputedly marks the point from where all highway distances between Havana and other destinations in Cuba are measured.

El Capitolio remains a striking landmark for those wandering around Havana; its huge dome is visible from almost anywhere in the city.

Address: Paseo de Marti, (Prado) Havana, Cuba

Housed in a former presidential palace, the Museo de la Revolución (Museum of the Revolution) is worth seeing even if only from the outside. The old presidential palace was designed by the Belgian architect Paul Belau and was built in the early part of the 20th century in a sumptuous version of neoclassical architecture.

Those who do venture inside are treated to a multitude of displays on Cuba's struggle for independence, colored with a revolutionary spin. Of note are the life-size wax figures of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos.

Behind the museum is an interesting display of the yacht Granma. It was this boat that brought Fidel Castro and his gang to Cuba from Mexico. Also on display is a plane shot down during the ill-fated Bay of Pigs invasion.

Address: Calle Refugio 1, Havana, Cuba

A short drive from Havana's city center, Playas del Este is a long stretch of palm-fringed beach that runs for miles. This is a great alternative for travelers who are unable to visit the more remote beach resorts in other parts of Cuba.

Along Playas del Este sightseers will find hotels, restaurants, and all the regular tourist facilities. The beach is divided up into sections, with one of the best stretches at Santa Maria del Mar , a popular tourist spot. Another beautiful section and a locals' favorite is Guanabo , although this area offers fewer tourist services.

Spread across two buildings, Havana's Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Museum of Fine Arts) is a must-see for art lovers.

The restored Palacio del Centro Asturiano, designed in the 1920s by Manuel Bustos, houses Art from European Masters and a collection of more than 600 works of Ancient Art, from the Egyptian to Roman ages.

Dating from 1959, the Rationalist-style Palacio de Bellas Artes building is dedicated to Cuban Art from the 17th century to the present day. Here, you can admire an impressive collection of paintings, prints, and sculptures. One of the highlights is the unique marble sculpture "Form, Space and Light" at the museum entrance.

The museum is open Thursday through Saturday from 9am to 5pm and on Sundays from 10am to 2pm.

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

Calling all art lovers! If you're looking for some inspiration, this whimsical wonderland is one of the must-see places to visit in Cuba . Decorating a small village on the outskirts of Havana, Fusterlandia is a complex of three-dimensional neighborhood art and a rhapsody of color and creativity.

Local painter and sculptor José Fuster created this kaleidoscopic display of mosaics, sculptures, and paintings throughout the neighborhood to represent his life and art. Affectionately known as the "Picasso of the Caribbean," Fuster even decorated neighbors' homes and bus shelters.

Stroll through the streets to see the vibrant creations popping out of houses and public areas, then visit Fuster's home studio, and see where he creates this multi-hued feast for the eyes.

Considered by many to be the most beautiful street in Havana, the tree-lined Paseo del Prado bordering Old Havana deserves a leisurely stroll.

The terrazzo, marble benches, bronze lions, and iron lampposts impart the feel of a grand boulevard from a bygone era, and indeed the street was once home to some of Havana's wealthiest families.

Elegant old cinemas, mansions, and hotels from the 19th and 20th century line the street, many of which have been carefully restored. Highlights include the Hotel Sevilla , with its Moorish styling; the home of Dr Carlos Finlay, the man who discovered that mosquitoes spread yellow fever; and Havana's most famous wedding chapel, the Palacio de los Matrimonios .

The Paseo del Prado is a popular meeting place and people-watching spot at any time of day.

About a 15-minute walk from El Morro in the Parque Historico Militar , the huge Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana, also called the Castillo de San Carlos de la Cabana, sits atop La Cabana hill.

At the time of its construction in the 1770s, it was the largest fort the Spanish had ever built, as well as the most costly. Following the British occupation, the Spanish set about building this imposing fort, which dominates the entrance to the Bay of Havana.

La Cabana, as it is usually referred to, was used as a military prison during the Batista regime and later became the headquarters for Che Guevara following the Revolution.

Today, the fort houses a few museums. The most impressive is the Museo de Comandancia del Che , with the office of Che Guevara preserved as it was during his time here. Some of his personal items are also on display.

During the day, the fort offers splendid views over the city and the sea. And if you're looking for things to do in Havana at night, come here for the Ceremonia del Cañonazo, when actors clad in 19th-century costumes perform a cannon-firing ceremony at 9pm each evening.

Address: 4MW2+R5R, La Habana, Cuba

You might not expect to find one of the world's largest opera houses in the middle of the Caribbean, but the magnificent Gran Teatro de La Habana is just that.

Designed by Belgian architect, Paul Belau, the theater faces Parque Central and was built as part of a larger complex in 1915. Art aficionados will be pleasantly surprised by the beautiful Baroque façade, which features four stunning sculptures created by the master, Giuseppe Moretti.

Over the years, the Gran Teatro de La Habana has hosted a wide variety of performances by some of the most famous celebrities in the world. Today, the theater is home to Cuba's National Ballet and Opera.

Try to catch a performance while you're here to truly appreciate its grandeur and excellent acoustics. Guided tours are also available.

Address: Prado e/ San jose y San Rafael, Havana, Cuba

Hemingway fans should visit the small fishing village of Cojimar, about 20 minutes east of Havana by taxi. During the 1950s, Hemingway visited Cojimar often and made it the setting for his novel, The Old Man and the Sea. He also kept his boat the "Pilar" here, and could often be seen socializing with locals in the streets.

These days, tourists come here to visit the square named in his honor and see the statue of the famous scribe. Perhaps inspired by Hemingway's legacy, many artists from Havana and other parts of Cuba are drawn here.

About 16 kilometers east of Havana in the town of San Francisco de Paula, Finca La Vigia was the part-time residence of Ernest Hemingway for 20 years. He lived here between 1939 and 1959, despite all the turmoil in Cuba during that period.

Upon Hemingway's death, Finca La Vigia was turned into a museum, the Museo Hemingway . The house remains as Hemingway left it, with more than 8,000 books on display, as well as artwork, hunting trophies, the author's typewriter, and other personal belongings.

Visitors are not allowed inside, but it's possible to peek in through the windows, unless the house is closed up during rainy weather. You can also wander through the garden to see Hemingway's fishing boat, "Pilar," which he had kept in Cojimar. The garden is also home to a pet cemetery, the final resting place for some of his beloved cats.

The museum is open from 10am to 5pm Monday through Friday and from 10am to 4pm on Saturdays. It is closed on Sundays. Admission is 125 CUP per person.

Address: 3P93+3WX, Finca Vigía Km. 12 ½, J Sosa, La Habana, Cuba

Lying to the west of Havana's historic city center, Miramar has traditionally been an upscale area. Today, it maintains this reputation with the addition of upper-end hotels and restaurants.

You can cruise the wide, tree-lined avenues here and admire the stately homes, some of which have become embassies and government offices after the original owners fled during the Revolution.

The main street in Miramar is Avenida 5 , with its Miami-style Art Deco mansions and grand homes. The Avenues are numbered; Avenida Primera (First Avenue) is closest to the ocean.

Another worthwhile tourist attraction in Miramar, other than the general ambiance of grandeur, is the Maqueta de La Habana with a scale model of the city.

Address: 5ta Ave y calle 112, Havana, Cuba

Near the impressive Universidad de La Habana (University of Havana), the Museo Napoleonico in Havana displays the private collection of Julio Lobo, who was a collector of all things Napoleon.

Lobo hired people to find and purchase Napoleonic mementos and memorabilia for his personal collection. When Lobo left Cuba in 1959, his collection was purchased by the Cuban government and is now housed in a beautiful building styled on a Florentine palace.

On display are personal items belonging to Napoleon, including one of his teeth and a lock of his hair. The Museo Napoleonico also contains Napoleon's death mask, a library of related topics, weaponry, and two portraits of the famous French military leader by Andrea Appiani and Antoine Gros.

In total, the collection contains more than 7,000 pieces. It is one of the finest collections of Napoleon artifacts outside of Europe.

Address: San Miguel 1159, Havana, Cuba

Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro , also known as El Morro, stands proudly at the entrance of the Bay of Havana in the Parque Historico Militar .

El Morro was built in the late 16th century and early 17th century to guard against the constant threat of pirate attacks. It was designed by Italian engineer, Giovanni Battista Antonelli and looks much the same as it did in the 17th century.

One of the main changes to the fort is the lighthouse. It was rebuilt several times and then finally replaced in the middle of the 19th century with a new lighthouse constructed of solid stone. Today, its original lamp still shines, and the fort is open to tourists. You can enjoy beautiful views over the ocean and the city of Havana from its upper reaches.

Address: 5J2V+34X, La Habana, Cuba

About 10 kilometers south of Havana, the Jardin Botanico Nacional encompasses 1,500 acres of botanical wonders from around the globe. The garden lies near Parque Lenin , a popular recreational area, and is divided into geographical zones.

You can hop aboard a train to enjoy an effortless two-hour tour through the gardens. Highlights of the park are the Jardin Japones (Japanese Garden) with a pond, waterfalls, and gazebos, and the Pabellones de Exposicion with cactuses and tropical plants. For a look at local flora, check out the Caribbean section, which contains about 3,500 species native to Cuba.

Address: Carretera del Rocio Km 3, Calabazar, Arroyo Naranjo, Havana, Cuba

Exploring Havana is one of the top things to do in Cuba. To truly soak up the history and culture of Havana, the best place to stay is in or close to Old Havana, with its historic buildings and cobbled plazas. Areas of Central Havana and the eastern end of the waterfront promenade called the Malecón are within walking distance to Old Havana, and also make a convenient base. Most of these hotels include breakfast but keep in mind that Havana hotels tend to be pricey, and a five-star hotel here would generally be rated much lower elsewhere. Here are some highly rated hotels in these convenient areas:

Luxury Hotels:

• Overlooking the Malecon and the ocean, a short taxi ride from Old Havana, the iconic Art Deco Hotel Nacional de Cuba is the grande dame of Havana hotels. Former guests include Hemingway, Winston Churchill, and Rita Hayworth.
• In a fantastic location right in the center of Havana, close to El Capitolio, the Museum of the Revolution, and Old Havana, the Iberostar Parque Central occupies a Spanish colonial-style building and an adjoining modern tower. You can enjoy beautiful views over the city from the rooftop pool.
• Also with a rooftop pool, Hotel Saratoga sits across the street from El Capitolio and is only a short walk from Old Havana highlights.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Steps from the Museum of Fine Arts, the historic Hotel Telegrafo overlooking Parque Central was a former press haunt. Its renovated guest rooms are large and comfortable, with high ceilings and huge windows.
• In the heart of Old Havana, the Baroque and Art Nouveau-style Hotel Raquel has an impressive stained-glass dome in the lobby and a beautiful rooftop garden.

Budget Hotels:

• Elegant colonial-style architecture and a convenient location opposite Parque Central are the best features of the historic Hotel Inglaterra , Cuba's oldest hotel.
• On a pedestrian-only street, a stone's throw from Plaza Vieja in Old Havana, Hotel Los Frailes has a great location and a quirky monastic theme.

Head to the Coast: Besides the rich history of Havana and Old Havana , the island of Cuba has more than 5,700 kilometers of picturesque coastline. Craving some beach time? Varadero , about a two-hour drive away, flaunts one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean , 20-kilometer-long Varadero Beach.

Cuban Culture: Drive south from here for about four hours to soak up the colonial history of World Heritage-listed Trinidad . From here, you can also take day trips to waterfalls; more beautiful beaches; and the lush Valle de Los Ingenios, another World Heritage site. On Cuba's southeastern side, Santiago de Cuba , is the country's second-largest city, with a rich Afro-Caribbean heritage.

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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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Home » Travel Guides » The Caribbean » Cuba » 15 Best Things to Do in Cuba

15 Best Things to Do in Cuba

The so-called Pearl of the Antilles and the largest island in the entire Caribbean Sea, Cuba can seem a world apart from the refined paradisaical holidaying spots that surround it.

For one, its history is still very much alive.

Revolutions and communism are still fresh on the mind, and the museums showcase weapons that helped overthrow the government only decades ago.

The hills are still marked by the footprints of men like Che Guevara and Castro, while sugar plantations belie the colonial boom and dark tales of slave driving.

Then there’s historic Old Havana, bursting with age-stained Baroque builds and glorious palazzos, the sounds of lively jazz and cabaret after dark.

Meanwhile, Cadillacs unchanged from the 50s whizz by down pot-holed roads, and the locals erupt in ad hoc fiestas of dance, song and barbeque.

Check out this selection of the best things to do in Cuba :

1. Stroll the Havana Malecon

The Malecon of Havana is the Pearl of the Antilles writ small.

It’s a place where leather-faced locals puff cigars the size of plantains, where Cadillacs bounce and bump over the uneven roads, where gloved boxers spar with the tropical airs and street entertainers coalesce with lovers amidst the salty sea breezes that roll in from Florida and the Key West straits to the north.

A whopping 7 kilometers from beginning to end, this bustling promenade is a veritable symbol of the city.

It’s gained historical status and oozes with Baroque and Art Deco styles, is painted in hues of Cuban pink and yellow, and throbs with Spanish chatter and energy.

It’s simply not to be missed!

2. Wander the streets of Old Havana

Ah, La Habana Vieja: a little enclave of Spain in the Caribbean.

This UNESCO-attested district that occupies the heart of the capital of Cuba is unquestionably one of the most authentic and earthy places in the Americas.

The architecture is striking, with rows of peeling baroque townhouses and Andalusian-style arcades fringing the roadways.

The facades ae stained by age (and pollution), and hide tequila cantinas and soukous rumba bars below their hatches.

The squares, from central Plaza de Armas to Plaza de la Catedral, are adorned with gorgeous historical churches and neo-classical palaces.

And then there are the fortifications, dominated by a trio of Fortaleza that tower over the urban canals with bulwarks and cannon holes courtesy of the 17th and 18th centuries.

3. Wonder at the works in the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes

Another of the great and unmissable institutions to make its home in the midst of the historic streets of La Habana Vieja, the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes is loaded to the brim with masterworks that chronicle the various artistic periods of the island and its people.

Visitors can come and see the psychological portraiture of Federico Beltrán Masses, the politically infused paintings of Guillermo Collazo, and modern sculpture works by the likes of Rita Longa.

Another branch of the institution nearby offers a host of worldly art, from ancient Greek vases to canvasses by El Greco and other Spanish masters.

4. Keep company with a national hero at the Che Guevara Mausoleum

Smack bang in the heart of the island, between the streets of pretty Santa Clara (the site of one of the most pivotal battles in the Cuban Revolution incidentally), the great marble mausoleum to unquestionably the country’s most iconic son stands tall and proud.

The final resting place of Che Guevara and 29 of his fellow revolutionaries is marked with a great bronze statue of the man, and also includes a fascinating selection of exhibits that showcase his gun, binoculars, water bottle, countless photos and various architectural artworks intended to mirror the character of the radical himself.

5. See raw 20th century history at the Museum of the Revolution

Housed in the gorgeous neo-classical Presidential Palace in the heart of historic Havana, the Museum of the Revolution is a definite must for any history loving traveler making their way to the Pearl of the Antilles.

The collections include raw and fascinating first-hand artifacts from the political upheavals of the 50s, like the guns used by Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos, and even the very boat that brought Castro to Cuban shores during the Granma expedition in 1956. There are also exhibits dedicated to chronicling the country’s communist rebuilding in the 60s and 70s, along with sections that detail the independence wars against Spain.

6. Wonder at the bulwarks of mighty Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca

Far away from the city streets of Havana and the capital’s own UNESCO-attested fortresses, this mighty citadel crowns the rugged cliffs on the island’s south-eastern edge.

Just a stone’s throw from the tactical and historical port town of Santiago de Cuba, the castle was raised by the revered Italian engineer Giovanni Battista Antonelli in the first half of the 17th century.

Today, the complex of turrets and palisades, cannon batteries and artillery platforms is not only a World Heritage Site, but is also considered one of the finest remnants of the great power struggles that engulfed Cuba and the Americas throughout the colonial age.

(You can just imagine the pirate ships sailing away in fear!)

7. Hike the wilds of the Sierra Maestra

The mighty Sierra Maestra are the great anchor of the Cuban arc.

Set in the deep southern reaches of the country, they cascade dramatically to the Caribbean Sea, rising in steep bulwarks and rocky promontories from Cape Cruz to the estuaries of the Guantanamo River.

However, beautiful as they are, these hills rose to fame primarily for the totemic revolutionaries who trod their ridges in the 50s: Che, Fidel Castro et al! Today, visitors can come and take anything from single to multi-day hikes into the peaks, spying out the old secret headquarters of the rebels or simply wondering at the verdant cloud forests and tropical birds of Parque Nacional Turquino.

There are plenty of trekking guides in the nearby city of Bayamo.

8. Join the Fiesta de la Cubania in Bayamo

Those pining for a bona fide Cuban fiesta should be sure to make a beeline for the aged town of Bayamo in the far-flung reaches of Oriente.

Here, between the sun-splashed streets and the gorgeous historic and colonial facades (the town actually pre-dates Havana, with a foundation around 1513!), the Fiesta de la Cubani erupts each week.

Visitors can expect Cuban dancers and Caribbean tunes played on wobbly honkytonks, taste fiery island dishes and chat to the mountain folk of the south.

Bayamo is also known for its accomplished chess players – so think twice before you settle down for a game with the locals!

9. Kick-back in Varadero

When the revolutionary history and the tooting traffic lines of Buicks and Cadillacs get just a little too much, it’s time to remember that Cuba is still a Caribbean paradise.

And for that, there’s perhaps nowhere better than the narrow spit of sand, dunes and uber-luxurious hotel resorts that is Varadero.

Jutting out of the north coast just east of Matanzas, along the edge of the Hicacos Peninsula, this patchwork of banyan trees and palms, ivory-white sand and lapping Carib swells is a top choice for kicking-back and relaxing.

Expect cocktails on the beach and oodles of tourist markets touting those ubiquitous reggae trinkets.

10. Enjoy cabaret at the Tropicana Club

Under the sparkling Caribbean stars, between the streets of Marianao on the western side of Havana, the nightly cabaret shows of the Tropicana Club have been going on since the 1930s.

Now a mainstay of the capital’s nightlife, the joint might not be cheap (entry is around $60!) but it’s known right across the planet for its bombastic dance shows and music nights, complete with showgirls clad in plumes of peacock feathers and shiny sequins.

Tropicana is also known for its onetime reputation as a hangout of the Floridian La Cosa Nostr.

11. See the haunting graves in the Colon Cemetery

One of the more off-the-beaten-track things to see in the capital of Havana, the Colon Cemetery is a work of art in itself.

Packed to bursting with elaborate Gothic tombs and grand sculptures, it’s right up there with Paris’ Père Lachaise and Buenos Aires’ La Recoleta.

The site is located just to the west of the historic heart of the city, demarked by one elaborate frontal gate designed by Calixto Arellano de Loira y Cardoso.

At the heart of the cemetery stands the main chapel, painted in gleaming ivory hues and topped with gorgeous terracotta domes, while the graves span out in sections on all sides.

The famous interred include the filmmaker Beatriz Azurduy Palacios, the poet José Lima and José Miguel Gómez, Cuba’s onetime president.

12. Wallow in the Spanish vibes of Trinidad

The lethargic little town of Trinidad is one of the veritable jewels of Cuba’s south coast.

Founded way back in 1514, it’s retained an authentic Spanish charm like few other towns in the Caribbean.

The roadways are lined with tiny pueblo cottages, each painted a different ice-cream hue and half-baked in their adobe shells under the sun.

The central plaza is shrouded by the Baroque tops of the Iglesia y Convento – a church that looks plucked from the hill towns of Andalusia (or, at least it would if it weren’t for the tropical jungles and peaks of the Sierra del Escambray in the distance). Simply wandering the cobbles, flitting between the old homes and palm-dotted Plaza Mayor, is an experience in itself!

13. Tour the Valle de los Ingenios

Once you’re done gawping at the glorious colonial edifices of pretty Trinidad, then be sure to make a beeline for the UNESCO-attested reaches of the Valle de los Ingenios (the Valley of Sugar Mills). Actually a trio of three valleys, the region was once the industrial powerhouse of the nation.

An estimated 30,000 slaves would have tilled the lands, harvesting the sugarcane each season in the countless mill houses and plantations that peppered the fields.

Today, travelers can ride the Baldwin Locomotive steam train through the area, climb leaning slave towers for panoramic views, and unravel the dark history of slave ownership at the Manaca Iznaga Estate.

14. Have a morning swim on Cayo Coco

Okay, so it doesn’t have to be a morning swim, but when the beating sun rises and casts its pearly light across the turquoise bays and lagoons here, the sight is simply to die for! Yes, Caya Coco is touristic to the T, but there’s a reason for that.

Think cotton-white sands and warm shallows, the occasional school of multi-coloured fish whizzing underfoot.

Think all the fabled beauties of the Jardines del Rey, and the pink-hued outlines of the local flamingos for company in the water.

Think sprawling luxury resorts with beachside infinity pools and manicured gardens of palm and fig and orchid.

15 Best Things to Do in Cuba:

• Stroll the Havana Malecon
• Wander the streets of Old Havana
• Wonder at the works in the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
• Keep company with a national hero at the Che Guevara Mausoleum
• See raw 20th century history at the Museum of the Revolution
• Wonder at the bulwarks of mighty Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca
• Hike the wilds of the Sierra Maestra
• Join the Fiesta de la Cubania in Bayamo
• Kick-back in Varadero
• Enjoy cabaret at the Tropicana Club
• See the haunting graves in the Colon Cemetery
• Wallow in the Spanish vibes of Trinidad
• Tour the Valle de los Ingenios
• Have a morning swim on Cayo Coco

50 Top Things To Do In Cuba: Time-Warped Tropical Magnificence!

Posted on Last updated: December 15, 2023

Categories Cuba , North America

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

With the opening up of Cuba to the world recently, tourism is booming here, and there’s been no more excellent time to explore its magical towns, pristine beaches, verdant countryside, charismatic people, or unfamiliar customs.

A country that refuses to be categorized – or to go along with the rest of the world – this bastion of socialism in the Caribbean is full of historical heritage. In this place, literally, anything can and does happen and has much more to offer beyond the perfect beaches of Varadero and Cayo Coco.

Revolutionary fever still runs strong here, and you can see the effects of a half-century of embargoes and socialism almost everywhere you look – though it’s up to you to draw your own conclusions about what you see. Perfect for a weekend getaway, a week, or a month – Cuba sucks you in and offers plenty of diverse attractions. Plus getting your Cuba travel visa has never been easier…

Here is my take on the 50 Top Things to Do in Cuba in one month, I’m sure you will discover plenty more yourself. Still, hopefully, this helps to inspire you to visit more than Havana, to truly explore this unexpected country, and to find all the best Cuba tourist attractions for yourself.

And if this still isn’t enough for you, you can use to Passporter App to create a useful itinerary with all the tips on what to see in Havana and Cuba.

Passporter enables you to better prepare your trip by uniting all the important information and documentation in one place: you can combine places of interest on an actionable map, upload important documentation (like plane tickets or hotel reservations…), share your itinerary with others… among many further functions, all in one single

Or if you are a little nervous, we also put together a list of the best Cuba tour companies to make life a little easier. You might also want to watch these extraordinary movies set in Cuba before your visit too.

50 Top Things To Do In Cuba: Time-Wrapped Tropical Magnificence 🇨🇺

Page Contents

1. Go Scuba Diving In Cuba And Discover Some Of The Most Pristine Reefs In The Caribbean

2. take some time out and get to know the real people of cuba, 3. wander the crumbling streets of vedado, once the trendiest neighborhood in bourgeoisie cuba, 4. indulge in one of cubas most sought-after exports, cigars, 5. get closer to locals – and save some money – by staying in casa particulares, 6. wander the streets of santiago de cuba and see a cuban town largely without tourism, 7. climb la gran piedra and visit cafetal la isabelica, one of the old coffee plantations in the new world, 8. enjoy restaurant van van in old havana with its unique food, style and music, 9. take a ride in the famed american classic cars with one of the old car tours in havana, 10. explore the tranquil countryside of the viñales valley either on foot, or by horseback, 11. get snap-happy in havana’s old town, a colorful kaleidoscope of renovated gems and crumbling facades, 12. stretch your pesos further at any of the state-run peso restaurants, 13. visit the santa ifigenia cemetery, the final resting place of jose marti and fidel castro, 14. appreciate the new out-cropping of modern street art alongside the older propagandist pieces, 15. visit hotel melia santiago for happy hour drinks and some of the best sky-high views in cuba, 16. see where it all began at the infamous moncada barracks museum, 17. sample the unique coffee flavours of cuba, 18. visit the glorious churches of cuba and learn about the countries mixed past with religion, 19. embark on the hot and sweaty adventure to conquer the famous el yunque in cuba, 20. stay at the infamous hotel nacional, or at least drop by for a mojito and the view, 21. tempt your taste-buds with the new gastronomy of cuba in trendy paladores, 22. wander through the unesco listed alejandro de humboldt national park, 23. enjoy long, leisurely breakfasts in the casa particulares, 24. catch a game of baseball for mere pesos and experience one of cubas favourite past-times, 25. pay your respects to ernesto che guervara at the che guevara mausoleum in santa clara, 26. keep an eye out for dates of big cuban festivals or ask around for the next celebration, 27. make your way to the eastern tip of cuba and explore the afro-vibes of long isolated baracoa, 28. taste the chocolate creations of baracoa all started by che guevara himself, 29. take a moment to relax and indulge yourself in many of the country’s breath-taking hotels, 30. enjoy a stroll on the lively malecon of havana, 31. hit up the beaches for fresh piña coladas, warm sand, and turquoise water, 32. see the socialist rock art (a hideous crime against nature) at the viñales mural de la prehistoria, 33. wander the street of cienfuegos – the closest thing to paris you will find in cuba, 34. live out your pirate of the caribbean fantasies in the old forts of cuba, 35. see for yourself the unique underground geology of cuba in its many caves and cenotes, 36. take time out to relax and read up on havana’s and cuba’s chaotic past, 37. take time to make friends with the local livestock, 38. stroll the cobblestone streets of colonial trinidad, 39. sample all of the cocktails in cuba and decide for yourself which is the best, 40. visit a tobacco farm or factory and see firsthand the cuban process, 41. learn about the islands complicated history with sugar in the valley of the sugar mills, 42. keep an eye out for the hop-on hop-off bus deals around cuba, 43. get lost in the disorienting, twisting streets of camagüey, 44. experience life as a local by joining a queue at the often empty grocery stores, 45. see first-hand the bay of pigs – the tranquil backwaters of cuba famed around the world as the location for one of americas biggest foreign policy blunders, 46. seek out all of the adorable street dogs, 47. indulge in a stay in cuba’s most luxury hotel – and the first 5* hotel built in havana since the revolution: the gran hotel manzana kempinski la habana, 48. enjoy cocktails at havana’s azucar lounge on the picturesque plaza vieja, 49. try the lobster in cuba – you won’t find it cheaper anywhere else, 50. become a sunset aficionado and seek out the best spot every night.

While the jury is still out on the exact location for the best scuba diving in Cuba, no matter where you get in the water, you can guarantee you are going to love it! Cuba dive trips are relatively straightforward to organize and have prices set by the state – Normally around $30 – $40 per submersion. Pristine waters, elegant corals and colorful fish await! Equipment quality is generally very high, and the guides professional!

Top contenders for the best scuba diving in Cuba are Jardines de la Reina, Playa Larga, Maria La Gorda, Santa Lucia, Cayo Coco , and the Bay of Pigs. For some different dives, look out for cenote/cavern diving or consider the USS Merrimac wreck near Santiago de Cuba!

You can even easily hire gear here, so that’s one thing less on your Cuba packing list! 

Alternatively, for non-divers, there is also the option of snorkeling in Cuba. For the best snorkeling in Cuba, I would highly recommend any of the beaches in the Bay of Pigs between Playa Larga and Playa Giron! However, if you are on a quick  all-inclusive Cuba trip to Varadero , there is also more scuba diving and snorkeling there.

While I would recommend against starting discussions on politics (top of the list of what not to do in Cuba..like in many places in the world!) – you can and should try to practice your Spanish here and take any chance you get to talk to the friendly and open Cuban people.

A window into real life here, people will quickly tell you about all the oddities and ongoings in the town, festivals, their favorite places, and what they think are the main problems in Cuba at the moment. No conversation will ever be the same, and your experience in Cuba will be all the richer for it (as well as being a great way to meet the people to people USA visitation requirement)!

Just watch out for overly friendly Cuban men on the street – who will always have something to sell you given a chance!

Explore off the beaten track in Havana in Vedado – a large, mostly residential district famed for its grand buildings built during the Cuban sugar rush in the 1920s and 30’s where an influx of American money made this neighborhood the most desirable in all of Havana.

Many of the best hotels of this era were also built here, such as the Hotel Nacional , the Capri , and the Havana Libre – all famed for their opulence, gambling, and corruption and all fronted by the famed Malecon Cuba!

Today, however, the money is long gone, and you can wander through streets of stunning mansions and unique architecture literally crumbling around you. Most of the Cuban diaspora who fled during the Revolution lived in Vedado, and today some of their houses now house embassies and a variety of state institutions!

Famed throughout the world for their quality, Cuban Cigars, and specifically, Cohiba cigars, are just something you have to try in Cuba—whether you’re a smoker or not!

Touts on the street will whisper ‘Cohiba cigars, Cohiba cigars’ as you walk past, but rest assured, these are not the real deal, and the only way to ensure Cuban cigars for sale are the real deal is buying from state-run cigar shops or hotels.

Cohiba Cigars can be found pretty easily, including a very high-end Cohiba Cigars Lounge within the  Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana – but you should also try many of the other lesser-known Cuban cigar brands to get an idea of the different tastes and flavors.

Best enjoyed with a view and a drink at sunset, in my opinion!

Since the fall of the Soviet Union and Socialism across the rest of the world in the ’90s, Cuba has been forced to allow small amounts of capitalism into its tiny nation, and there is no greater example than the proliferation of the casa particulares (private rooms in local houses) – found everywhere except resort towns.

Casa particulares are not only the most authentic and cheapest places to stay in Cuba (being the equivalent of bed and breakfast in Cuba even serving breakfast and dinner), but by being allowed into local homes, you can truly see how locals live – at a fraction of the price of hotels in Cuba.

The best place to find a list of casas particulares in Cuba is through Airbnb , which has over a thousand apartments and rooms for rent in Havana alone!

However, if you are going to use Airbnb to book casa particulares in Cuba (which I recommend as you can minimize the amount of cash you then need to take with you), be sure to book before you enter Cuba as Airbnb bookings cannot be made from within Cuba.

While Santiago de Cuba lacks the glamour and charm of Havana, you can still find a unique beauty here within the chaos. Closer to Haiti than Havana, the Afro-Caribbean culture shines through here, and it was also the starting point for the Cuban Revolution – something it’s inhabitants are fiercely proud of.

The music and culture scene is truly alive here which more than makes up for the lack of historical authenticity – and while the hustlers in Santiago de Cuba are probably the worst in the country there is plenty of gorgeous casa particular in Santiago de Cuba on Airbnb in which to escape them and truly interact with the locals of Cuba’s second-largest city!

A visit to La Gran Piedra – Cuba’s biggest rock – is a must for anyone who wants sweeping, panoramic views of the Cuban coastline from up high.

A half-day trip from Santiago de Cuba, do not miss the nearby (but well hidden) Cafetal la Isabelica – a glorious, old coffee plantation and manor which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Listed  Archaeological Landscape of the First Coffee Plantations in the South-East of Cuba! And the coffee still brewed here is not bad either!

A hidden gem in the heart of Old Havana with fantastic food, eclectic style, excellent service, and live music most nights. Consistently rated as one of the best restaurants in all of Cuba,  Restaurant Van Van  eschews the giant menus traditionally found in Cuba for only six main items (changing often) and really knows how to do them well!

My favorite was the Ropa Vieja – a traditional Cuban dish not to be missed, and the cocktails here are not bad either. Great value for money, be sure not to miss this one!

Old car tours in Havana are all the rage – and for good reason! Due to the embargo, Cuba’s socialist nature, and strict import regulations in Cuba, American classic cars are found in a ridiculous abundance all over the country, and you will undoubtedly end up in a beat-up old car at some point either as a transfer or taxi.

However, the best American classic cars are all reserved for the old car tours in Havana where pink and red convertibles ply the street making for iconic photos and making you feel like you have stepped into a time machine. It is no wonder that now my Cuba photo catalog are amongst my Shutterstock top earners.

While a trip in the most well-kept American classic cars is not cheap – It’s a once in a lifetime experience and one of the most iconic Cuba tourist attractions!

Located in the province of Pinar del Rio, the Viñales valley is filled with verdant farmland surrounded by jagged mountains and dramatic rocky outcrops reminiscent of Halong Bay in Vietnam.

Famed for its old-school farming techniques and the quality of the tobacco produced here (as well as its cultural landscape of farms and villages which have earned UNESCO status), Viñales is a not-to-be-missed location with small restaurants, bars, hiking, horse riding, caves and more. Due to it’s proximity to Havana, it seems like almost every house is a casa particular in Viñales, so you are truly spoilt for choice.

Again – you can see the best casa particular in Viñales in advance by checking on Airbnb.

The centerpiece of any trip to Cuba (and potentially the only destination if you opt for a short Miami to Cuba 3 day vacation!) – The Old Town of Havana has it all!

Founded in 1519 as a ship-building center for the Caribbean, it quickly became fabulously wealthy, and this shows through the eclectic mix of Baroque and neoclassical buildings and monuments today protected by UNESCO. While hoards of tourists descend here on cruises to Cuba or short Cuba vacations, it still has not lost its charm, and local life still dominates many streets here. Take your camera, get lost, explore quieter streets, and let the unique vibes of this city fill you.

There really is nothing at all like Havana anywhere else in Latin America or the world!

And if you’re wondering where to stay in Havana, I can categorically say the old town is the best place! And here you will find everything from a quaint casa particular in Old Havana to 5-star luxury hotels in Cuba.

One of the immediate benefits of socialism and the dual currencies of Cuba (the national CUP and tourist CUC) is many state-run restaurants provide food at insanely low prices designed for local consumption – but there is nothing stopping tourists from going there.

Look out for prices listed in CUP, and you have found the key to cheap vacations to Cuba! One of my favorites is Coppelia – a national ice-cream chain where you can get desserts for 8 cents (USD!) … The key to this is changing CUC to CUP at the local bank – they have no problem doing this – and then looking out for busy places with plenty of locals.

You can be sure you’re on to a winner here and can eat for a 10th of the price of tourist restaurants, or less!

The Santa Ifigenia Cemetery in Santiago de Cuba is a must-visit for anyone interested in Cuban history and the revolution.

Here you can find Jose Marti, one of Cuba’s national heroes for his role in the fight for independence from Spain, and the recently deceased Fidel Castro, a more controversial character, to say the least! The rest of the Santa Ifigenia Cemetery is stunningly beautiful in its own right with white marble tombs and plenty of interesting corners to explore. You can find many of the Baracadi family (of Rum fame) buried here.

 The Santa Ifigenia Cemetery is about a 10-minute walk from the Viazul Bus station in Santiago de Cuba, so even if you are just transferring through, it’s worth a quick visit!

In Latin America street art is all the rage, and Cuba is no exception with plenty of Cuba street art to be discovered by those who look and have a keen eye.

Don’t, however, expect to see anything similar to the controversial street art that made the likes of Buenos Aires or Medellin famous. Political censorship is rife in Cuba, and freedom of speech is not exactly upheld. Instead, you are more likely to see street art praising the revolution and its leaders, which remind citizens the struggle is not over yet—despite more than 60 years having passed.

When will the revolution end? I’m not sure anyone quite knows at this point…

One of the tallest observation areas in all of Cuba – The 5-star Hotel Melia Santiago offers unparalleled views by both night and day. Weirdly, however, given its luxury status and location, the drinks here are incredibly affordable—and some of the best we had on our whole trip!

Ranging from 3-4 USD per drink (and 2 for one happy hour daily from 5 till 7), you can add a little bit of elegance to your trip while still keeping to a budget. Alternatively, the hotel itself is internationally managed and has great amenities (including three swimming pools), so it could be worth staying and relaxing a bit. Especially if you can get a room with a view…

The Moncada Barracks is literally where the revolution all began in Santiago de Cuba. An ill-fated and ill-planned attack orchestrated by Fidel Castro of Batista’s barracks to get weapons. It, of course, failed horribly, resulting in would-be revolutionaries being shot or jailed – Fidel was spared by international outrage and simply jailed, where he was later granted amnesty, fled to Mexico and plotted his grand revenge.

The rest is history as they say, and today the Moncada Barracks is one of the biggest of Cubas tourist attractions and houses an exciting museum – although all in Spanish. Oh, and in case you’re wondering about those bullet holes on the outside?

Fake – and put in after the revolution!  The originals were, of course, repaired!

Coffee has a long and proud history in Cuba going back to the 18th century, where French farmers, fleeing the revolution in nearby Haiti, brought their knowledge and plantations to the Western Mountains of Cuba – today recognized by UNESCO in the archaeological landscape of the first coffee plantations world heritage site.

Coffee production proliferated but peaked a century later as Costa Rica , Colombia and Brazil produced vastly more and at lower prices. In addition, Cuba became far more focussed on its sugar empire to the detriment of almost every other crop.

The revolution and the nationalization of Cuba’s coffee industry, however, dealt a death blow, and what was once an important export is relatively insignificant and somewhat hard to find outside of Cuba. Still—this is a nation of coffee lovers, and you can see their expresso shots in every town for a few cents, often mixed with sugar.

Finding a decent coffee with milk, however, is another issue entirely. Cuba coffee is a love it or hate it proposition, but one that has to be tried at least once!

Castro Fidel declared religion and Catholicism inherently incompatible with his revolution, and up until 2015, no practicing members of any denomination were able to join the Communist party.

The visit of the Pope in that year prompted Raul Castro to change his mind, and he even attended the mass. Luckily, however, unlike in the Soviet Union, no churches or cathedrals were destroyed in the revolution, and you can still appreciate their magnificent beauty across Cuba – typically occupying pride of place in the central city plaza.

Most have erratic opening hours or may even house other institutions, but if you persevere and can manage to get in, it is generally well worth your time!

El Yunque Cuba, the famed table-top mountain that dominates the skyline in Baracoa – climbing this mountain is on most tourists bucket-list and is highly rewarding.

Eight kilometers round-trip, it’s not so much the distance, but the temperature which will test you, but the incredible flora and birds along the way, plus the vista at the top make it all worth it!

Tours are best organized directly with Cubatur on the Baracoa main square (and cost 16 CUC including a guide and transfers) and better yet – including a stop at a fresh swimming hole on the way back, which you will be very, very grateful for. El Yunque Cuba was one of my favorite excursions in Cuba, and I can promise you it is well worth the effort to conquer it for yourself!

One of the most famous hotels in the world, the Nacional Hotel in Havana , is a must-visit – if only for it’s past history as a den of gambling, vice, and decadence. Or it’s role as host to the 1946 mob summit famously depicted later in The Godfather II.

Today, the Nacional Hotel still retains the air of elegance, and its spot on the Malecon makes it the perfect location for a sunset mojito in Havana. In its 80+ years of existence, the Hotel Nacional has had more important guests than any other hotel in Cuba, including Winston Churchill, Frank Sinatra, Ernest Hemingway, and Jimmy Carter. Not to be missed!

Long gone are the days of the government monopoly on food. With the opening and expansion of private restaurants across the island, something of a gastronomic renaissance is sweeping Cuba – and especially Havana – as Cubans rediscover food beyond just mere sustenance.

Goodbye ham sandwiches, black beans, and hot dogs. Hello exotic ingredients with a Cuban flare such as baby wild boar rib chops, lobster carpaccio salad, and pineapple sorbet.

Thins are undoubtedly taking off, but don’t expect a fabulous food scene akin to Copenhagen , Sydney , or Singapore just yet.  It should also be noted that not all of these new eateries are a raging success. Quality varies considerably, so it pays to ask other travelers you meet or do research beforehand to find the best spots. Some standouts for me were Chachahca , El Dandy , and El Biky (all in Havana) to get you started!

Feel free to let me know your best places to eat in Cuba on your return.

While access to the Alejandro de Humboldt National Park may be limited to only the peripheral ‘transition’ zone, a visit is still well worth your time to discover why UNESCO decided to inscribe it as a natural world heritage site.

The complex geology at the Alejandro de Humboldt National Park, along with its varied topography, has created a unique ecosystem unmatched in terms of biodiversity in the Caribbean and is actually one of the most biologically diverse locations on earth.

The underlying rocks here are actually toxic to plant species, so a unique evolutionary process has allowed species to survive the hostile conditions present within the Alejandro de Humboldt National Park. There are three short walks available with the longest talking only 2 hours, and all must be done with a guide while there are also options to see manatees in the Bahia de Taco in season.

Breakfast or brunch in Cuba is not really a going out event like it is in much of the west. Still, luckily the casa particulares in Cuba are always able to whip you up an incredible breakfast to start your day – often with a stunning view to match.

These breakfasts consist of fresh fruit, bread, eggs, cheese, ham, coffee + juice, and while it might get repetitive after a while, it’s better than the alternative, which is nothing because honestly outside Havana nowhere serves a proper breakfast and even in Havana it is rare.

I bet, however, the first Cuban business which goes all-in with a brunch concept is going to be very, very popular! But hey – as I said, the food is fresh, and the experience is one of a kind.

Seeing a baseball game is something iconic you just have to do in Cuba – without a doubt, it is the national sport, and its a game everyone here is crazily passionate about. While baseball games in Cuba are dirt cheap due to state subsidies and of a very professional level, they are notoriously tricky to find – trying to find schedules and locations for games (which are done last minute or frequently revised) is the hardest part!

I recommend asking your casa owner in Cuba for information or checking out this Cuba Baseball website in advance.

Trust me; however – it’s worth the effort, and you will see a completely different side of Cuba after going to a baseball game. Oh, and in case you are wondering about the photo, its the post-apocalyptic looking Estadio Manuel Fuentes Borges stadium in Baracoa (which I think should be one of the biggest Cuba tourist attractions in its own right!).

Literally, right on the beach, but whether it actually hosts games still is anyone’s guess!

Che Guevara – the doctor cum revolutionary guerrilla who made it to the top of the FBI’s most-wanted list. A controversial figure who means many things to different people, but above all, a lover of Latin America.

Murdered by the CIA after trying to incite another revolution in Bolivia, his remains were lost for many decades before finally being returned to Cuba in 1997 where his remains along with twenty-nine of his fellow combatants killed in the same Bolivia campaign were laid to rest in the Che Guevara Mausoleum in Santa Clara.

The site was chosen to commemorate the decisive Battle of Santa Clara lead by Che and also at the memorial is a museum dedicated to Che’s life and an eternal flame lit by Fidel Castro himself. Number one on any list of Santa Clara Cuba things to do – though it’s proximity to the bus station also means it’s possible to just have a quick few hour whip around and continue on…

Despite 60 years of socialism and crippling embargo’s Cubans still like to party like it’s 1959 and no more apparent is this than in the bumper-list of Cuba festivals that take place every year.

From the famed Havana and Santiago de Cuba Carnivals to the 26th of July celebrations or even the prestigious Havana Ballet Festival or Film Festival, which every year attract the internal jet-set. Not only that, but there are many, many smaller Cuba festivals throughout the year, so it’s worthwhile asking around on the ground in Cuba to see what’s going on.

Of particular interest to many travelers is the world-famous Ballet Nacional de Cuba, which costs hundreds to see as they tour the world, but can be seen for a fraction of the cost when they are home in Havana. A phenomenon we also experienced in post-socialist Riga , Minsk , and Chisinau , and one that you are encouraged to take advantage of.

Either way – a little bit of preplanning goes a long way. If you can line your trip dates or destinations up with any significant Cuba festival, you will surely have a unique and unforgettable experience!

On the tip of Cuba likes addictive Baracoa – Cuba’s oldest town, which was completely isolated from the rest of the country until a road was built in the 1960s.

Today Baracoa still maintains is own distinctive charm with lush forests to explore, unique Afro-Caribbean culture and cuisine, empty beaches, and the freshest seafood in all the country. Baracoa is the best ‘undiscovered destination in Cuba’ and still handsomely rewards any traveler who goes out of their way to stay here.

Oh, and not to mention that Baracoa Cuba Hotels are some of the best deals in the country, and there is even one in a converted fortress above the town with panoramic views!

And while we are on the topic of Baracoa – don’t miss the chance to sample the delicious array of Baracoa chocolate on sale here, all grown and produced locally. Che Guevara himself was involved in the original Baracoa chocolate factory which is set up just outside of town (and has incredible deals on a wide, wide range of chocolate products), and you can also take a 4X4 tour through local cocoa farms and see the production from start to finish.

Don’t have enough time?

No worries, there are two Baracoa chocolate cafes on the main street serving a wide range of chocolate-inspired meals and drinks – all of which were delicious!

Life in Cuba can be tough – even for travelers. The constant noise, dirty streets, heat, and touts in bigger cities can take a toll, and some times you need more than just a casa to recover.

Luckily Cuba has a wide range of luxury hotels that are available for a fraction of the price of their western equivalents (and many of which are run in conjunction with European hotel partners to ensure standards). Have a look now at the deals on luxury 5 star Cuba hotels over your dates and consider pampering yourself for a few days before you head home or after you arrive….

The Havana Malecón – a 7 km long sea drive made famous in the most recent Fast and Furious film. It is also one of the city’s most romantic and iconic streets — as well as a critical thoroughfare.

While the unbearable sun keeps many people away during the day, come sunset, the Havana Malecón comes alive, and you can wander all the way from the Havana Old Town to Vedado. People watching at it’s finest you will see fishermen, families, lovers, car enthusiasts, and all manner of Cuban life on show here.

A word of warning, however, to be careful late at night, however, as some areas of the Malecón are known for prostitution and drugs, and given the severe repercussions of getting caught in Cuba with either partaking in either is top of the list for what not to do in Cuba!

Of course, no list of the best things to do in Cuba would be complete without mention of Cuba’s stunning Caribbean beaches: most covered in bone-white sand that falls into the sparkling, turquoise water.

Sounds perfect, right!?

Even if you are a total culture vulture, you should take a few days out to relax with a mojito in hand and to discover the best snorkeling in Cuba. If you are looking for the best beach hotels in Cuba, you will want to head to Varadero Cuba , while Playa Ancon is also easily accessed from nearby Trinidad if you are short of time.

Other top beaches in Cuba – all with their own unique appeal – are Playa Pilar, Playa Perla Blanca, Los Pinos, Playa Turquesa, Playa Sirena, Playa Francés, Playa Esmeralda and Playa Guardalavaca. Enjoy – and don’t forget to take coral -safe sunscreen if you are going to be getting in the water.

The Viñales Mural de la Prehistoria – commissioned by none other than Fidel himself – is a massive art project put up almost 50 years ago on a rock wall in the Viñales Valley. Controversial, even today, you will either love or hate this giant canvas/eyesore, which depicts the unique evolution of the region from early mollusks and sea organisms, through dinosaurs and into the modern human area.

Easily accessible on the Viñales Hop-On Hop-Off bus route, don’t plan on spending too long – although there is a nice walk to the top starting to the right of the painting.

Founded in 1819, the colonial town of Cienfuegos was quickly settled by immigrants of French origin who came to trade sugar cane, tobacco, and coffee, and today this city on Cuba’s Caribbean coast has a distinctly different feel.

Built-in the neoclassical style with an architectural ensemble awarded UNESCO World Heritage status for its modern ideas in hygiene and urban planning; this is one city not to be missed on a tour of Cuba. Top of the list of Cienfuegos Cuba things to do is visit the city center, take a harbor tour and explore Punta Gorda, a peninsula with lots of 1950’s homes.

You will quickly see they don’t call it the Pearl of the South for nothing! 

In the 17th century, commercial and political rivalries throughout the Caribbean region led to a rush of fort construction to protect Spain’s fledgling colonies and the all-important gold trade.

One of the most complex and imposing of all these is San Pedro de la Roca Castle near Santiago de Cuba – a massive series of fortifications, based on Italian and Renaissance design principles,  on a rocky promontory to protect the nearby port city. An intricate site which is the most complete and best-preserved example in all of the Caribbean (even better than those in Panama, Cartagena , and Campeche! ) and has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status.

Bring your Pirates of the Caribbean sound-track and live out your best Jack Sparrow fantasies – You will not be disappointed! There are also other forts in Cuba – though less extensive – in Havana and Baracoa.

Yes – Cuba literally has more beneath its surface than you might first think, and its caves are a great example of this. Due to its unique ancient geology and its extensive underwater rivers and aquifers today, Cuba is blessed with thousands of extensive caves – some so huge you can spend hours exploring and even go on motorized boat trips through. Much like the cenotes of nearby Tulum Mexico.

Most are user friendly and can be accessed for a small free – though check in advance the level of physical fitness required.

Saturno Cave in Cuba is one of the most famous in the Matazanas region and can be seen on a day trip from Varadero, but you can also find plenty around Vinales, Baracoa, and within the Bay of Pigs. All the Cuban caves are different, so take the time out to enjoy these bizarre time-worn products of nature.

Visiting a country is always about more than just seeing the sites. Your experience will be so much deeper if you take the time to understand a countries past as well as present social and political conditions.

In Cuba, this is even more true with its complex and compelling history, which has to lead to a very different society today. You will appreciate your trip so much more here if you attempt to delve into this and understand Cuba just a bit more.  If you are short on luggage space and can only take one book, I recommend Cuba: What Everyone Needs to Know  as one of the best books about Cuba.

Despite a distinct lack of exotic animals – though on the upside nothing in Cuba is poisonous – the agricultural regions and lack of cars mean livestock and people mix rather freely. There are very few places in Cuba where you cannot see an animal at work, or sneak a few pats if you’re lucky.

From the ox pulling plows in the tobacco fields of Vinales to the horses pulling carriages in town – You can even find goats offering children’s rides around the plaza on Sundays. Animal lovers, this is your chance to get your fix!

One of the biggest Cuba tourist attractions – Colonial Trinidad is utterly one-of-a-kind. Not only is it one of the oldest settlements in Cuba, but it is also a pristine example of a Spanish colonial town, you will not find anywhere else in Latin America.

Expect plenty of tourists, however, as the secret has been out on this colorful town where the clock stopped ever since it received UNESCO status and funding. Plenty of great food, art stores, rooftop bars, and churches wait to explore, Trinidad just cannot be missed.

No list of things to do in Cuba would be complete without mention of cocktails, those delicious drinks available in every casa, and restaurant utilizing Cuba’s famous rum.

The three most famous cocktails made in Cuba are the Daiquiri (made with rum, ice, lemon juice, and sugar), the Mojito (made with rum, sparkling water, sugar, lemon juice, ice, and mint) and the Cuba Libre (a blend of rum and cola) – but there are plenty of lesser-known cocktails and international cocktails to discover.

You will soon learn quality can vary a lot, so ask around to find out the best spots and then sit back and relax. You are on island time!

You might have already tried the famous Cuban Cigar (or even the Cohiba cigars), but do you know how they are made? A tour of a tobacco factory or farm will quickly show you how the best cigars in the world are made – and give you an opportunity to buy cigars at discounted prices.

The best tours take place in Vinales; but most factories are open to visitors in Cuba at certain times. Just avoid those in Havana as they are overpriced and focussed on ripping tourists off. Of course, these cigars will not be your high-end Cohiba cigars with brand labels, and you should be getting a significant discount if you plan to buy a large amount direct from the factory.

The Valley of the Sugar Mills, located near Trinidad, makes a great day trip as you can see the last remanent of the once-great Cuban Sugar Empire. At its peak, there were over 50 mills here though today you can only visit the remnants of the structures.

Eery and beautiful, this relic from the past is included in the Trinidad, and the Valley de Los Ingenios UNESCO Site as the former plantations and mill buildings represent the most precious example of the Caribbean sugar agro-industrial process of the 18th and 19th centuries, and of the slavery phenomenon on which it relied.

Tour to the Valley of the Sugar Mills can be organized in Trinidad with Cubatur, your guesthouse, or via an infrequently run and unreliable train. If you want to learn more about the incredible rise and even more spectacular fall of Cuban sugar empire you should read The Sugar King of Havana: The Rise and Fall of Julio Lobo, Cuba’s Last Tycoon before you go.

The popularity of the hop-on bus Cuba tour has soared in recent years, and these great tour options can now be found throughout the country. Opting for a hop-on bus Cuba tour is a great way to meet other travelers, see the sights of the city and avoid the high costs of organized tours or private taxis.

The Havana hop on hop off bus tour around the city or to the eastern beaches is the most popular. Still, there are also lesser-known ones including my favorite – the Vinales hop on hop off bus for only 3 CUC all around the Valley or the Cuba hop on hop off bus to Playa Ancon from Trinidad.

New routes and cities are continually being trialed, so be sure to ask your guest house on arrival of any options in your towns.

One of the oldest villages in Cuba – and the only set inland – Camagüey is a maze of irregularly connected streets, alleys, giant blocks, and serpentine roads, all designed to confuse invading pirates.

A mismatch of architectural styles including neoclassical, eclectic, Art Deco, Neo-colonial as well as some Art Nouveau Camagüey makes a great stop in the middle of the country for a few days. More if you get lost in its streets.

Cheap, with the main shopping street, multiplex cinemas, and incredible food – it’s the kind of place which sucks you in and begs you to stay longer. For the best view, visit the Gran Hotel Camagüey Cuba rooftop at sunset for a view you will never forget.

And if it is still not enough, at the nearby Playa Santa Lucia, you can combine an intense kite holiday mixed with culture, music, and traditions to experience the true atmosphere of uncontaminated Cuba! Complete with kitesurfing lessons and catamaran trips: this incredible kite camp designed to help you progress in kitesurfing and have fun regardless of your level!

You really can’t say you have been to Cuba until you have at least waited in a few lines for a product that you then find is out of stock. A ubiquitous experience in Cuba – You will wait for WiFi cards, ATMs, entrance to shops, and more.

To fit in like a local yell ‘ Ultimo’ and whoever replies is the person you will go after… yes, lines are a loose concept here, but this system does seem to work. People, however, are very courteous and will help you out if lost or confused.

A by-product of their socialist system, just be thankful you will only have to do this a few times and spare a thought for all the poor Cubans who do this day in and day out.

The Bay of Pigs famed throughout the world as one of USA’s greatest strategic blunders is today actually an increasingly popular tourist destination.

While still very propaganda heavy and with a few museums and monuments, a trip to the Bay of Pigs (and the settlements of Playa Larga and Giron) today will more likely involve lying under palm trees or experiencing the world-class diving and snorkeling here.

Playa Giron especially has a quaint charm, and with barely a tourist in sight, this is your chance to enjoy beaches by yourself and really interact with the locals.

Yes, it wouldn’t be Latin America without some adorable street dogs to pat – and luckily in Cuba, they are all generally immaculate and friendly. If you are going for a walk around a small town or on the beach, they may join you for nothing else but the company.

Even if you don’t like dogs, they will grow on you! In Havana – true to the socialist spirit – there are even many dogs sponsored by state institutions who have little tags around their neck telling you about their history, likes, and dislikes!

How cute, right! 

The answer for where to stay in Havana, the Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana , located in the historic heart of UNESCO-protected Old Havana, was only recently opened in 2017 and already is the premier hotel option in Havana and indeed all of Cuba.

This is the first luxury 5* hotel to be built in Havana since the revolution, and no expense has been spared in creating something extraordinary. The rooms are surprisingly affordable compared to their Western counterparts. If a stay at the Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana is out of your budget, you can enjoy the rooftop restaurant and bar with any purchase. The view is incredible across the entire city, but sadly the pool is only for guests.

A one-of-a-kind experience and an unforgettable stay…

The best cocktail bar in Havana set on the most beautiful square in Havana – Azucar Lounge is perfect for people watching over a square you could mistake as Italy and enjoying the fabulously decadent cocktails (which you will be sharing on Instagram, trust me!).

Giant daiquiris, perfect mojitos, and attractive daily specials such as ginger martinis – Azucar Lounge is a popular haunt with those in the know and one of the few bar-only venues in all of Cuba. But hey, when you do one thing this good, why would you even try to do anything else!

Lobster may be one of the most expensive items on menus all over the world, but in socialist Cuba, it can often be found for a fraction of the price – and in the most unexpected locations. The best place to try is in the casa’s where the general cost of a meal is 10 CUC, no matter if you opt for chicken, beef, or yes — lobster.

Just go with it and be sure to order it where ever you go. Hopefully, they don’t realize the terrible mistake they are making by selling it for so cheap too soon!

An activity in and of itself, Cuba sunsets are worth planning your day around, and due to the tropical humidity, they never, ever disappoint. Every day is different, and you can find gorgeous oranges, vivid reds, purple and blue – oh and the occasional lightning storm.

Best enjoyed with a cigar and cocktail in hand. Most towns offer a roof-top bar in their high-end hotels, but if you are not sure to ask your guesthouse for advice or simply keep an eye out when you explore the town. Half the fun is finding your own unique angle and view.

And there you have it. The Top 50 Reasons to Visit Cuba. Will you go for the endless white-sand beaches, world-class cigars, and cocktails, different society, bizarre history, natural treasures, or picturesque cities?

Whatever the reason be sure to have a copy of the Cuba Lonely Planet handy (either on your phone or in print) as you will need information on the fly – and don’t forget if you are going to use Airbnb in Cuba to book all accommodation before you go as you cannot book from within the country (and at least consider a luxury hotel stay to relax for a few nights).

Enjoy this tropical island paradise, embrace its quirks, and challenge yourself to get off-the-beaten-track.

No matter what, we promise you Cuba will not disappoint!

Best attractions in Cuba: Top 25

What to see in Cuba? This question primarily interests people who have decided to travel to the island state, located on the shores of the Caribbean Sea. Attractions of Cuba are presented for all tastes, each has its own interesting history.

What to see first of all in Cuba?

Life on the island at all times has been boiling with passion, beating the heat. To get acquainted with the sunny Cuba was fascinating and memorable, it makes sense to get acquainted in advance with the best sights of the island state.

1. Havana Grand Theatre

In the territory of the Republic, this object of cultural patrimony is one of the main ones. It was founded in 1838, but almost a century later the first model was torn down and replaced by a new, even more beautiful and larger building. The theater was given its present name in 1985, but it was built in 1915. Today this building is the home stage of the national ballet in Cuba. The auditorium can accommodate 1500 guests, so it is one of the largest theaters. This attraction of Cuba attracts tourists with its interior, it is simply magnificent.

Official website: http://www.balletcuba.cult

2. Museum of the Revolution

This place in Havana is among the must-see sites. It is not only a historical but also an architectural monument. At one time it was used as a presidential palace, so you can guess how beautiful it is. There are over 300 museums in Cuba, but this one is one of the main attractions. Designed and built 30 years before the revolution, the palace was turned into a museum after the overthrow of the Batista regime. Now in the 30 halls to the attention of visitors are presented about 9 thousand exhibits.

Looking for something to see in Cuba from the architecture? A great option is the government palace, built on the site of a former swamp that was dried up and replaced with a botanical garden. The result is an imposing building embodying the free state. One cannot help but be struck by the massive doors, as well as the huge statue. From the description you can learn that in the central hall the floor is made of marble, the highlight is a huge star, decorated with a large jewel in a platinum frame. Parliamentarians have not been sitting there since 1959, so everyone is allowed inside.

4. National Museum of Fine Arts

Within the country it is the main center of art and painting, not only nationally, but worldwide. All because its holdings are rich and amazing. Just imagine, the museum has more than 47,000 unique exhibits. Still pondering what to see in Cuba in 1 day? Must visit the Palace of Fine Arts, located in the center of Havana, namely on Trocadero Street. Built in the late 20th century, this modern building stands out very much among the grand old palaces in the area, but at the same time, it fits perfectly into the architecture of the street.

5. Havana Cathedral

The capital and at the same time the largest city of the Republic of Cuba concentrates a lot of interesting places that you want to visit all at once. One of them is the Cathedral of St. Christopher, which housed the ashes of the Spanish navigator. It is an unusual baroque building in the colonial style. At one time it was built of hewn stone slabs. Together with the surrounding square it was inscribed on the UNESCO List. Today it is one of the active Roman Catholic churches on the island.

6. Ernest Hemingway House Museum

Another of Cuba’s landmarks is a two-story house set in a large garden. It was purchased by a famous American writer, where he created a work called The Old Man and the Sea. The opening of the museum took place after his death. According to the official version, Ernest’s wife voluntarily gave the house to the local government, with all its contents. Guides in Cuba are often offered to visit “Hemingway’s places”. They include not only the mansion where the author of the most interesting works lived, but also the fishing village of Cochimar, a bar-restaurant (from there began the popularization of mojitos), and the hotel where the writer lived before buying the “House with a View”.

7. Havana Club Rum Museum

Not the least of the rankings is the museum, opened in 2000, in the old part of the capital. It was initiated by a major rum company, which is by far the best-selling rum. The building has two floors above ground and one below. On the ground floor there is a workshop, where special barrels made of solid oak were made and then used for aging the hot beverage. On the top there is a reconstructed rum production. In the museum you can take interesting photos, for example, a unique exhibit is a car used at one time to transport sugar cane. There is also a separate exhibition of models of various rum factories in the museum.

Official website: https://havana-club.com

8. Malecon Promenade

This Cuban landmark is an iconic place where the February carnivals are organized every year. Several monuments are collected there, which are among the most significant. Walking along the promenade, you can learn almost the entire history of the capital. From the reviews of experienced travelers can learn, the best Malecon look during sunset. At this time of day, the facades of buildings are beautifully lit by the sun, and the benches and parapet are full of couples in love. The peculiarity of the promenade is that it is not too high above the water, so in windy weather the promenade is flooded with water.

9. Prado Boulevard

Where to go in Cuba, being in the capital? Its main avenue deserves attention, acting as a kind of border between old and very old Havana. On its sides there are the wedding palace, a beautiful hotel, the Grand Theatre, the local Capitol. Nearby is Central Park. It is a place where it is always noisy and crowded, on the boulevard on weekends you can buy paintings by local artists. There is another Cuban landmark on the Prado, it is a monument to revolutionary hero Manuel de la Cruz.

10. Plaza de Armas

This is the oldest square in the capital; it was laid out by the Spaniards in 1519 and was used for the moustache of the military as well as for ceremonial events. Once upon a time, the colonizers couldn’t live without them. Behind the square Cubans, known for their love of freedom, created a small square with a monument to the famous fighter for the independence of the island, Manuel Cespedes. Many tours in Cuba start exactly from the Plaza de Armas, because whichever way you go from the square, you can get to a lot of attractions in a few minutes.

11. José Martí Memorial

What to visit in Cuba? A powerful monument in the form of a mausoleum with a guard of honor, dedicated to a prominent figure, deserves attention. José was an apostle of independence, a singer of freedom, and even the forefather of modernism in Cuban literature. The Havana complex is nothing short of fascinating. It is an imposing structure that includes a vertical boom 110 meters high and a sculpture of the hero himself. The highlight of the structure is the presence inside the archive of the writer’s works, an observation deck.

12. Revolution Square

This Cuban landmark is located in the northwestern part of the capital. Its name used to be Republic Square, but after the buildings on it were occupied by revolutionaries, everything changed. By the way, the José Martí memorial described above is located right there, opposite the Central Committee building (the tallest building in the capital of the state). In reviewing the square, I would also like to say that the Ministry of the Interior is located across from it. One of its walls is decorated with a portrait of Che Guevara and at night it is illuminated.

13. Che Guevara Mausoleum

There is a small town in Cuba called Santa Clara. When making a trip that way, be sure to check out the landmark, which is a 3-in-1 monument, museum, and mausoleum built in honor of the famous Cuban hero named Ernest Che Guevara. He was a famous statesman at the time of the Cuban Revolution. The awe-inspiring complex is perched atop a hill, so the 7-meter statue of the man who greatly influenced the course of the revolution is clearly visible from any vantage point.

14. La Cabaña Fortress and El Morro

The purpose of building these structures was to protect Cuba’s main city from frequent raids by enemy fleets, pirates. They were built at different times, despite the fact that they have become a bright and popular historical monuments. If you manage to get acquainted with these sights of Cuba, keep in mind that under the laws of wartime there were executed a large number of people who betrayed their homeland, freedom. For those not in the know, La Cabaña was erected to strengthen the defensive power of El Moro.

15. Fortress of San Pedro de la Roca

It is a famous historic site, a twelfth-century structure built for the defense of the city’s bay. The project was created in 1637 and construction took 42 years. Now many visitors seek a trip to this place because it is a great opportunity to see with their own eyes the ancient architecture, as well as to feel the historical spirit that pervades the entire fortress. Its current state is evaluated as excellent, so it is among the best preserved.

16. La Real Fuerza Fortress

What to see in Cuba? A great option is the oldest defensive structure in Havana, located literally a few steps from the center of the capital. Of all the port fords, this fortification is the best preserved. In ancient times it used to defend the city from attacks from the sea, but today there is a Naval Museum inside. One of the main exhibits is a 4-meter long replica of the ship Santisima-Trinidad. In the 18th century the ship was considered the largest. Literally, the name of the fortress translates as “the castle of the king’s power”.

17. Alexander Humboldt National Park

This attraction gets its name after the German scientist who was the first to visit Liberty Island, which happened in 1800. There is not much history about the place, only that it once served as a refuge for runaway slaves. As for tourism, it began to develop there in the late twentieth century, when it was decided to unite the territory and put it on the list of protected areas. The described attraction of Cuba is interesting because the local terrain is quite diverse, and the flora and fauna are incredibly rich in unique representatives.

18. Bellamar Cave

It is no exaggeration to say that it is one of the main wonders of Cuba, its treasure. The cave was discovered quite by accident. In 1850, shepherds searching for a lost sheep stumbled upon the entrance to the bowels of the earth. In former times, people were very superstitious, so even a century into the cave was taboo for most. Its detailed study began only after the fifties of the twentieth century. Before it was seen in all its glory, many tons of water and limestone had to be removed. The main decorations of the underground are represented by stalagmites, stalactites and crystals of incredible beauty.

Official website: https://www.vintagecarstours.com

19. Baconao National Park

Excellent recommendations have the original place in the described country, designed for entertainment for the whole family. It is a park area spread over 50 km between the mountains and the Caribbean Sea. Its main highlights are the Baconao Lagoon, Sculpture Meadow, Prehistoric Valley. The park covers an area of 11 hectares, on which more than 200 representatives of the Stone Age fauna can be found. These are dinosaurs, mammoths, and even ancient people. All of them are made in full size.

20. Viñales Valley

The view from above of this Cuban landmark cannot fail to be mesmerizing. It made the province of Pinar del Rio famous, making it famous all over the world. Here tourists are waiting for stunning landscapes, a variety of landscapes, large-scale water system with a large saturation of minerals, caves. Unique described area makes not quite ordinary rock formations, traces of human stops of prehistoric times, extensive plantations, which grows black tobacco. The highlight of the valley is a prehistoric mural. It is about a steep rock 120 m high, it depicts in bright colors prehistoric representatives of mankind and animals. The author of the original idea was Celi Sanchez, and it was embodied in reality by a representative of Cuban art.

Sightseeing in Cuba: what else to visit in Cuba?

Going on a trip to a new country, it is not superfluous to know what hotels there are in Cuba, what the cost of rooms. So that upon arrival at the place not to waste time looking for a place to sleep, it is wiser to take care of it in advance by booking a hotel room. For this purpose, there are numerous convenient special services.

Continuing the main theme, what else to see in Cuba?

21. The Bacunayagua Bridge

It is considered the highest on the entire island, not surprisingly, it has an observation deck, which offers a magnificent view of the island state, namely the Yumuri Valley. It stretches to a height of 110 meters, and its construction began in 1957. It is supported by 40 pillars. It took two years and the bridge is more than 300 m long and about 2 m wide. Those who have traveled on it say that while traveling at an average speed, it feels like flying.

22. Colón Cemetery

What to see in Cuba? Certainly not the burial grounds, you might think. And in vain, the Cemetery of Columbus deserves attention, because there you can see many beautiful and quite interesting tombstones, there are even complete memorials. It was opened in the 19th century, namely in the second half. On an area of nearly 60 hectares were buried famous politicians, important persons, artists and sportsmen. Tourists can enter the cemetery for free, but if you want to order a tour, you will have to pay. The Colon cemetery closes at 5 pm.

23. Cabaret Tropicana

It became very famous about 10 years after its appearance, at that time Cuba was literally under the power of the United States. At that time, gambling was legalized in the cabaret, and 2 shows were shown every night, costing up to 75 thousand dollars each. In the summertime the number of visitors each day reaches 500 people, and in winter the institution is full at all. Nowadays the cabaret performances gather a great number of spectators from different parts of the world.

Official website: https://www.cabaret-tropicana.com

24. Varadero

What to see in Cuba? Stop by the Cuban town, which is a solid beach. The coastal area there stretches for 20 kilometers, along which a line of hotels is located. We can not say that Cuba is pampered with the benefits of civilization, but, despite this, the inhabitants of our country took a fancy to this place, as a paradise. The described city is visited by about 10 thousand tourists, and at different times of the year. The local population is 27 thousand.

25. Villa Dupont

Villa Dupont. What to see in Cuba for the last time? The attention of all visitors to the island state without exception is attracted by a luxurious mansion that once belonged to an American multimillionaire.

Official site: https://www.varaderogolfclub.com

Properly organized travel is the key to a great time in an unfamiliar country.

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Cuba is an island nation in the Caribbean with a rich history and unique culture. The country’s bustling cities have magnificent ancient palaces and equally ancient churches lining the cobbled streets. And there is nothing to say about the beaches – they cannot but be on the island! We have selected the best tourist attractions in Cuba.

Best tourist attractions in Cuba: list

• Zapata Peninsula

Viñales Valley

• Old Havana (La Habana Vieja)

Modern Havana

• Jardines del Rey

Santiago de Cuba

Visiting Trinidad is like traveling in a time machine: you are returning to colonial times. For a hundred years this city was isolated from the rest of the country, so its houses and cobbled streets are perfectly preserved. As it hasn’t changed, the city is rightfully called the Open Air Museum. It is still the same as it was 2 centuries ago with its baroque churches and red-tiled roofs. Catholic churches, palaces and a cobblestone cellar create the atmosphere of a typical Spanish city.

Photo: Elena.laps (CC BY-SA)

Photo: Pedro Szekely / flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Photo: Gregory “Slobirdr” Smith / flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Best tourist attractions in Cuba: Zapata Peninsula

Among the attractions of Cuba and Varadero, a special place is occupied by the numerous natural and tourist sites located on the territory of the Península de Zapata National Park. It got its name from the characteristic shape of the peninsula which resembles a boot and sounds in Spanish like “zapata”. This part of Cuba is low populated due to the special natural status of this territory. The fact is that the nature here mostly consists of swamps, which are a unique natural and biosphere reserve. At the beginning of the 21st century, the nature of Varadero was declared by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve of international importance.

Photo: Kate Perez (CC BY-SA)

Photo: Javier Ignacio Acuña Ditzel / flickr (CC BY 2.0)

The picturesque Valle de Viñales is located in the west of the island, in the Sierra de los Organos, the westernmost part of the Guaniguanico mountain range. It is 178 km from Havana. This valley and most of the surrounding mountains are part of national park La Guira, and are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

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Photo: Pedro / flickr (CC BY 2.0)

Photo: Manuel Dohmen / Wikimedia (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Best tourist attractions in Cuba: Old Havana (La Habana Vieja)

At one time, more than 3,000 classic colonial buildings were located in the narrow streets of the historic center of Havana, but only 900 of them have survived to this day. The cultural site “Old Havana and its Fortification System” is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

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Photo: MarioYorba / pixabay (Pixabay License)

The capital of Cuba is a pretty colorful metropolis. Main attractions of Havana are architecturally significant areas of different building periods. The harbor and coastline are reminiscent of Spain, and the compact neighborhoods of the 19th century are being gradually transformed into larger areas of the 20th century. Functional tenements are emerging in once noble neighborhoods for high society, while concrete office buildings, government buildings, and 1950s hotels give the city a retro charm.

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Best tourist attractions in Cuba: Jardines del Rey

The islets and islands, which between 1513 and 1514 the Spaniards named “Jardines del Rey” (Royal Gardens) in honor of the monarch Fernando the Catholic, have stunning tropical landscapes. Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo are the islets of white sandy beaches protected by coral reefs. This part of the Jardines del Rey archipelago is perfect for water sports and entertainment. Pink flamingos can be found in the tropical greenery of the islands.

Photo: Enrico Strocchi / flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Photo: Aaron Escobar / flickr (CC BY 2.0)

Photo: Javier de la Rosa / flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)

This attractive colonial city, the third largest in Cuba, located about 550 km southeast of Havana. Destroyed in 1668 by Henry Morgan, Camaguey was rebuilt. Its narrow, winding streets that randomly scatter from the Atibonico River were designed to discourage further pirate raids. Each of the half-dozen squares has an old church. Some of them, like Nuestra Senora del Carmen and Iglesia San Juan de Dios, have been lovingly restored. The province’s grasslands do not retain moisture well, and the inhabitants made huge clay pots to collect rainwater. These pots, called tinajón, still adorn local squares and are the symbol of the city. in 2008 Camaguey entered the UNESCO list as one of the World Heritage Sites.

Photo: Arnoud Joris Maaswinkel (CC BY-SA)

Photo: Rob Oo (CC BY)

Photo: Manuel Díaz Reyes (CC BY-SA)

Best tourist attractions in Cuba: Holguín

Holguin province lies in the northeast of the island of Cuba and is one of the most famous resort destinations in the country, second only after Varadero. Holguin’s beaches are located on the Atlantic coast of the island. The administrative center of the province of Holguín is the city of the same name, the fourth largest in Cuba. This is a more expensive and quieter resort than Varadero. Only hotels of 4* and 5* categories are located here, many of which work on an all-inclusive basis and offer guests all kinds of entertainment.

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Santiago de Cuba is the second largest city on the Island of Liberty. Founded in 1514, Santiago is unlike Havana or any other Cuban city. It is located on the southeast coast and has a purely Caribbean atmosphere. The Caribbean influence is felt in the climate, culture and appearance of the city, which is often called “the most Caribbean city of Cuba.” Here you will not find masterpieces of colonial architecture, wide avenues and quiet shady streets. But, having caught the rhythm of the city, having felt the friendliness of the locals, you will definitely fall in love with Santiago.

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Best tourist attractions in Cuba: Baracoa

Baracoa, declared a National Monument, is a quiet colonial city. It is located between mountain ranges with a lot of endemic vegetation, which make it an exotic place with crystal clear rivers and cozy beaches. The city of Baracoa is the oldest in Cuba, since it was the first village founded by Diego Velazquez in 1511 under the name Our Lady of the Assumption of Baracoa (Nuestra Señora de la Asunción de Baracoa).

Baracoa on map

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Republic of Cuba Central America and the Caribbean Havana 11,047,251 inhabitants 110,860 sq km 99.65 inhabitants/sq km Cuban pesos (CUP) population evolution

Top tourist attractions in Cuba

Here is a list of top tourist attractions in Cuba . Only the topmost tourist destinations are presented here. To see other destinations, please check the images from Cuba section.

Curious if any of these place from Cuba made it our best tourist attractions in the world list? Read the aformentioned article in order to find out.

You can also view all tourist attractions in Cuba and other countries on our tourist attractions map .

Tourist attraction

Old Havana is the city-center and one of the 15 municipalities forming Havana, Cuba, it has the second highest population density in the city and contains the core of the original city of Havana. The positions of the original Havana city walls are the modern boundaries of Old Havana. Old Havana is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sierra Maestra

Mountain range

Sierra Maestra is a mountain range that runs westward across the south of the old Oriente Province from what is now Guantánamo Province to Niquero in southeast Cuba, rising abruptly from the coast. Some view it as a series of connecting ranges, which joins with others extending to the west. The Sierra Maestra is the highest system of Cuba. It is rich in minerals, especially copper, manganese, chromium, and iron. At 6,650 ft, Pico Turquino is the range's highest point.

El Capitolio

Neoclassical Structure

El Capitolio, or National Capitol Building in Havana, Cuba, was the seat of government in Cuba until after the Cuban Revolution in 1959, and is now home to the Cuban Academy of Sciences. "El Capitolio" has a size of 681 by 300ft. Its design and name recall the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., but it is only superficially similar. Completed in 1929, it was the tallest building in Havana until the 1950s and houses the world's third largest indoor statue.

Cauto River

The Cauto River or Río Cauto, located in southeast Cuba, is the longest river of Cuba.

Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca

The Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca is a fortress on the coast of the Cuban city of Santiago de Cuba. About 6 miles southwest of the city centre, it overlooks the bay.

Protected Site

Baconao Park is a large park region, located about 20 kilometers away from the city of Santiago de Cuba, with a total surface of 848.57 km².

El Templete

El Templete is a monument in Havana, Cuba, that pays homage to the place where the foundation of the town of San Cristóbal de la Habana was celebrated in 1519. The monument consists of bust of Christopher Columbus and three canvases painted by Jean Baptiste Vermay. It is a Neoclassic building, typical example of colonial architecture. Close to the Templete, there is a column which replaces a silk-cotton tree, under which the first mass and the first Council of Havana were celebrated.

Acuario Nacional de Cuba

The Acuario Nacional de Cuba in Havana, Cuba was established in 1960 to focus on "research and environmental education". Displays include those of coral and other tropical species, as well as a well-known dolphinarium and popular sea lion shows.

Turquino National Park

Turquino National Park is a National Park in Cuba. It is located in the heights of the Sierra Maestra mountain range, in the Santiago de Cuba Province, 50 km west of Guamá. The park was named for Pico Turquino, the highest point in Cuba and has a total area of 229.38 km². It was established on January 8, 1980, with the passing of bill 27/1980. Besides Pico Turquino it also contains the mountains Pico Cuba, Pico Real and Pico Suecia, and the protected area stretches to Cuba's southern coast at the beach of Marea del Portillo.

Estadio Guillermón Moncada

Sports Facility

Estadio Guillermón Moncada is a multi-use stadium in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba. It is the second most important baseball stadium of the country, with a capacity for 25 000 spectators comfortably seated. The stadium was inaugurated the February 24 of 1964. It's a project of the Architect Emilio Castro. The stadium is named after Cuban patriot Guillermón Moncada, the "Ebony Giant", one of the 29 Generals of the Wars of Independence, born in Santiago of Cuba and participates in the three wars against Spain. He dies in 1896 of tuberculosis in this city. In its environs there are also a softball stadium, an athletics track and a soccer field and a gym for weights and judo. This stadium is the field of the Santiago de Cuba baseball team.

Parque de los Mártires

Parque de los Mártires is the name of a park in Santa Clara, Cuba. It is located only a few blocks from Parque del Carmen and in front of Santa Clara railway station.

Top 10 Tourist Attractions You Have To See In Cuba

When you go to certain places, there are certain things that really need to be seen. It’s not as though you would pass through Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower. You wouldn’t simply saunter through Sydney without visiting the Opera House. And let’s face it - you’re probably going to take a whole bunch of selfies with these icons in the background. Perhaps Cuba doesn’t have all that many internationally iconic buildings and monuments, but who cares? There is certainly a heck of a lot to see and do while on the island. So what are some of the top-rated tourist attractions in the country?

1. Havana’s Old Town

While it would be a pity to not see everything else on offer, you could probably spend your entire time in Cuba happily strolling along the streets of the old town ( La Habana Vieja ). When the sun hits the brightly colored buildings they almost look lurid, and you will want to get lost in the alleyways and narrow streets. The district contains remarkable examples of colonial architecture, with certain landmark buildings looming above others, such as the Church of Angel Custodio and the Cathedral of Havana. The old town was once all that there was to Havana, a small village from which the bustling city emerged and grew.

2. The Malecón

Formally known as the Avenida de Maceo, the Malecón is technically part of the old town, and yet it’s a world unto itself. It’s simply a long esplanade that stretches along the harbor for 8 km (about 5 miles). The esplanade is a vibrant hub of Havana and many people simply come here to sit by the water and watch the world go by. While it’s entire length is a bit too long to walk for some people, it’s not as though you need to hike along the whole thing. Just take a gentle stroll, grab a cold beer from one of the many vendors and then sit down and watch the real Havana.

3. Morro Castle

Some people call it the Castillo de los Tres Reyes Magos del Morro, but it’s much easier to just call it Morro Castle. This is a mammoth fortress that was constructed in 1589 to protect the Spanish settlement of Havana from hostile forces. It’s a forbidding looking building that sits on a small hill at the mouth of the harbor, and while it now mainly observes leisure craft and cruise ships as opposed to naval fleets, it’s still a remarkable sight. It’s worthwhile to pay the entry fee that allows you to climb to the top of the battlements and imagine what it must have been like to be on guard duty all those centuries ago.

4. University of Havana

Not many visitors to the city will go to the University of Havana (Universidad de La Habana) so you’ll only have to share it with the students. The buildings are lovely, and yet you’re there for the view. The main campus sits atop a gentle hill that offers an uncrowded view of the city. Truly remarkable.

5. José Martí Memorial

The memorial is one of the highest spots in Havana and has an austere beauty. Martí was a national hero who was killed in battle during Cuba’s struggle for independence from Spain. There are numerous monuments to him across Cuba but the tower in Havana is the most impressive. The building has 5 points (so that it looks like a star from above) and climbs to a height of 109 meters. There will be an entry fee, but to climb to the top of the structure is to be rewarded with unforgettable views.

Viñales is a few hours drive from Havana and it looks like the quintessential sleepy village of your dreams. It offers a relaxed pace of life that allows you to get close to nature. The town is surrounded by lush, rolling fields filled with greenery you might be unfamiliar with. These plants are in fact tobacco crops and Viñales is where a lot of tobacco begins a journey that culminates in being rolled into a cigar. If you tire of the hustle and bustle of Havana (however unlikely that might be), Viñales is the ideal spot to get away from it all for a few days.

7. Valley of the Sugar Mills

Your jaw will drop when you go to this green valley just outside of the city of Trinidad. In addition to tobacco, sugar remains one of Cuba’s most important crops and a lot of the sugar production used to be centered around the Valley of the Sugar Mills (Valle de los Ingenios). There are some 70 disused sugar mills in the valley, which has a dark history as the sugar was harvested and produced using slave labor. There are many private tours in Cuba that will allow you to explore the valley in depth, and the most enjoyable way to see it is perhaps on the back of a horse.

8. Bay of Pigs

The beauty of Playa Girón (also known as the Bay of Pigs) gives little clue to the history of the place. It was here that a US-backed attempted invasion of Cuba was staged in 1961. The invasion of course failed, and now you can enjoy the tranquility of the spot where history almost changed for the island.

9. Varadero

Varadero is a geographic oddity. There’s so much crammed into the area and yet the town sits on a peninsula that is only 1200 meters across at its widest point. The town is home to some of the fanciest luxury resorts in Cuba, although if your budget doesn’t quite stretch so far, you can still enjoy the beach… unless it happens to be a private beach leased by one of the resorts!

10. Che Guevara Mausoleum

Che Guevara was born in Argentina and died in Bolivia, but his exploits in the Cuban Revolution made him one of the most-loved adopted sons of the country. After his remains were discovered in an unmarked grave beside a Bolivian airstrip, he was returned to his adopted homeland to be laid to rest in a purpose-built mausoleum near the town of Santa Clara. The place has a refined, classical beauty that befits Che’s respected status in Cuba’s society. It really is a must-see.

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