Begin exploring Havana, the capital city of Cuba. Visit Plaza Vieja, a beautiful Old Town square lined with colourful houses, and El Capitolio, an iconic government building that offers tours of its striking interior. Take a stroll along Malecon, a grand sea wall, in the evening as the sun sets.
Visit the beautiful rural area of Vinales, known for its tobacco fields and stunning landscapes. Take a horseback riding tour to explore the valleys and hills or visit the mesmerizing Cueva del Indio, a unique cave formed by an underground river. Take some time to sample the famous cigars and coffee found here.
Head to the beach town of Varadero, known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear water. Lounge by the beach, go snorkeling or diving, or take a boat tour of the coast. End the day by enjoying some local seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants.
Visit the charming, colorful town of Trinidad. Visit the renowned Plaza Mayor and take a tour of the Museum of the Revolution to learn about Cuba’s vibrant history. Take a walk around the cobblestone streets, lined with colorful houses and colonial architecture.
Explore some of Cuba's most beautiful beaches, including Playa Ancon. Bask in the sun, enjoy the clear blue water, and take a boat tour. In the evening, head to a local club to enjoy Cuban salsa music and dance.
Visit the city of Cienfuegos, known for its stunning colonial architecture and French influence. Take a walking tour of the town’s historic center and visit the Cienfuegos Cathedral. End the day by heading to nearby El Nicho Waterfall to swim in its crystal-clear blue water.
Explore the eastern city of Holguin, known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning landscapes. Visit the Guardalavaca Beach, take a trek to El Yunque for stunning views of the area, or spend time at the Parque de las Flores, a peaceful botanical garden.
Visit the city of Santiago de Cuba, known for its historical and cultural significance. Visit the Casa Diego Velázquez Museum, walk around the Plaza de Marte, and take in the stunning views of the city from Castillo de San Pedro del Morro. End the day by visiting a local bar to enjoy Cuban rum and live music.
Visit the scenic town of Baracoa, known for its stunning natural beauty and laid-back vibe. Take a hike to the El Yunque lookout for breathtaking views or visit Playa Maguana, a pristine and unspoiled beach. Enjoy the local chocolate and visit the famous El Castillo.
Return to Havana to spend some time exploring any places you may have missed or revisiting favorites. Take a stroll along the historic cobblestone streets, visit local artisans or visit the famous Necrópolis de Colón cemetery.
Travellers should consider renting a car or hiring a driver to get around Cuba, especially if they plan on visiting multiple cities. Buses are also available between cities, but schedules can be unreliable. The cost of renting a car starts at 50 CUC per day, while hiring a driver can cost around 150 CUC per day. Domestic flights are also available to some destinations, but they can be expensive and unreliable, with prices starting at around 100 CUC per flight.
If you have more than 10 days, consider spending more time in different cities, such as Pinar del Rio or Camaguey. If you have less time, consider cutting out certain cities or activities to make the most of your trip. Remember to exchange currency upon arrival, as Cuba does not accept many international debit or credit cards, and bring plenty of sunscreen and bug spray.
Jose Marti International Airport (HAV), located in Havana, is the main airport in Cuba. It is located about 5.6 km (15 minutes) from Havana city center. Other airports in Cuba include Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport (VRA) in Varadero, Antonio Maceo Airport (SCU) in Santiago de Cuba, and Frank País Airport (HOG) in Holguin.