Cuba – Where to Go? The Best Places

Traveling to Cuba is a bit of a mystery to most people, but it’s time to step out of the shadows and enjoy this beautiful country and its vibrant culture! If you really want to experience authentic rum, cigars, rumba music, and classic cars from the 1950s, don’t hesitate! From the otherworldly landscapes of Viñales to the salsa rhythms of Santiago de Cuba, here are the best places to visit in Cuba.

The Capital, Havana If you’re traveling to Cuba, a visit to its vibrant capital, Havana, must be on your itinerary. La Habana Vieja lies at the heart of this unique city—a collision of old and new—featuring architectural splendors dating back to the 16th century alongside new bars and restaurants, boutique hotels, and casas particulares.

West of Havana With its giant hills, the Viñales Valley in the province of Pinar del Río is a must-see, while the Sierra del Rosario mountain range is home to the remote and charming eco-resort of Las Terrazas. There are numerous tobacco plantations you can visit, the most famous being Alejandro Robaina’s. For fantastic diving, head west to the secluded island of María La Gorda on the Guanahacabibes Peninsula.

East of Havana There is no shortage of beach resorts in Cuba; but for a complete vacation, head to Varadero in the province of Matanzas. An endless beach, all-inclusive hotels, and water sports are just a few hours’ drive east of Havana. The Zapata Peninsula, in the south of the province, is wild and untouched, offering an abundance of wildlife and excellent diving opportunities. Other popular excursion destinations include the impressive Cuevas de Bellamar (Bellamar Caves) and the lush landscape of the Yumurí Valley.

Santa Clara, Cienfuegos, and the Surrounding Area Santa Clara is worth a stop on your trip to Cuba. This large, bustling city is probably best known for its connections to Che Guevara. Cienfuegos is a laid-back city with a distinctly French feel, also known as the “Pearl of the South,” and boasts a picturesque setting on the bay.

From Trinidad to the Province of Ciego de Ávila

The historic and atmospheric city of Trinidad, with its pastel-colored colonial architecture and village-like charm, attracts a large number of visitors. It’s also an ideal starting point for exploring the Sierra del Escambray, particularly the Topes de Collantes. Additionally, you can use it as a base for the idyllic stretch of coastline on the Ancón Peninsula and its beaches, especially Playa Ancón.

For softer white sands, head to Cayo Coco; and the quieter Cayo Guillermo, off the northern coast of Ciego de Ávila province. Settle into picturesque Morón if the luxury hotels on the cays are beyond your budget. Enjoy the surrounding countryside teeming with palm trees, sugarcane, and citrus groves.

Camagüey is one of Cuba’s oldest cities and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is brimming with architectural landmarks and atmospheric cobblestone streets, and is particularly lively during its June carnival.

A few kilometers to the north lies the seaside resort of Santa Lucía; and the wonderfully secluded and tranquil beaches of Cayo Sabinal.

From Holguín to Guantánamo The crown jewel of Holguín Province, in the northern Oriente region, is Playa Guardalavaca. Lively and picturesque, its soft, white sands are highly prized by Cubans and tourists alike. Playa Esmeralda, Pesquero, and Turquesa offer luxury and tranquility.

Baracoa Baracoa is a lively little coastal town located at the southern tip of Cuba. It is surrounded by mountains, rainforests, and some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country.

Santiago de Cuba If you’re traveling to Cuba, you could easily spend your entire vacation in the province of Santiago de Cuba, in the southeast of the island. The South Coast Highway, winding between the sparkling waters and the blue-green mountains of the Sierra Maestra, offers a superb drive. And the mountains are home to a vast trekking region—as well as various landmarks linked to the revolution.

Vibrant and bustling, Santiago offers a laid-back, distinctly Caribbean vibe. It captivates visitors with some of the best Cuban music, especially during its annual July carnival.

Isla de la Juventud It’s a three-hour ferry ride to Isla de la Juventud, off the southern coast of Artemisa province. But if you make the effort to get there, you’ll appreciate the island’s timeless charm. You can enjoy gentle beaches, walks, or bike rides, and you’ll find superb diving sites.