Situated at the convergence of the Caribbean Sea, the North Atlantic Ocean, and the Gulf of Mexico, Cuba stands out as a prominent island nation that attracts travelers globally. Renowned for its sugar-white beaches, internationally acclaimed cigars, 1950s classic Cadillacs, and rich cultural heritage, Cuba is adorned with breathtaking beauty that includes pristine coastlines, stunning mountains, and a diverse ecosystem.
The largest island in the Caribbean, Cuba was first discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1492, and has significantly evolved since that time. Generally more affordable than other Caribbean destinations, Cuba boasts a lively music scene present in nearly every street, particularly at Casa de La Musica, with every Cuban town featuring these vibrant venues where both locals and visitors gather to dance the night away.
Let us now explore some of the most popular neighborhoods to aid in your accommodation choices during your visit to Cuba.
Havana
The capital city of Cuba, Havana encapsulates what most travelers envision when planning a visit to this remarkable island. The city was a significant tourist destination prior to the Communist movement, however, since the resurgence of tourism in the 1990s, Havana has transformed into a true delight for visitors. A typical day in Havana features strolling through the historic streets of Old Havana, appreciating captivating natural attractions, enjoying refreshing cocktails, and dancing to the melodies that permeate the atmosphere. Old Havana, recognized as the cultural heart of the city, is characterized by its cobbled streets, grand mansions, historic homes converted into museums, and beautifully decorated churches. While participating in a Havana Classic Car Tour may be the most stylish way to explore the area, one can also conveniently walk to discover an array of restaurants, cafés, notable landmarks, and waterfronts. Malecón, a historical promenade along the oceanfront, serves as the social hub for both locals and tourists. While in the vicinity, do not miss the “El Cañonazo de Las Nueve” ceremony at La Cabana fortress, a daily ritual signifying the closing of the city gates.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: El Floridita, Camera Obscura, Morro Castle, Museum of the Revolution, El Capitolio, Castillo de la Real Fuerza, Gran Teatro de La Habana, and Palacio de Los Capitanes Generales.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Melia Cohiba – Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Havana, Melia Cohiba offers exemplary service with a view of the sea. Guests have access to numerous well-furnished rooms and suites that include amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with cable, minibars, and private bathrooms equipped with hot tubs. The hotel also features a spa and wellness center, an outdoor swimming pool, multiple dining venues, a fully equipped business center, and a fitness center. A complimentary breakfast is provided daily.
- NH Capri La Habana – Situated in downtown Havana, this remarkable property offers a rooftop outdoor pool with breathtaking views, a fitness center, several restaurants and bars, and a Turkish bath. Guestrooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, seating areas, and ensuite bathrooms. A wonderful complimentary breakfast is provided daily.
- Hotel Nacional de Cuba – Providing an on-site bar and restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, a fitness center, and a swimming pool, Hotel Nacional de Cuba is among the finest accommodations in Havana. The property includes elegantly designed, spacious rooms with comfortable beds, cable TVs, free Wi-Fi, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. A superb complimentary breakfast is available every day.
Trinidad
While Havana is the capital and most recognized city in Cuba, spending a few days in Trinidad allows you to engage with the country’s colonial heritage intimately. Recognized as the most well-preserved colonial town in Cuba, Trinidad’s historic center has earned the designation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. Similar to other towns of its kind, the streets of Trinidad are lined with vibrantly colored homes and cobblestone pathways. Plaza Mayor, the central square of Trinidad, hosts numerous historic buildings, including the Museo de Arquitectura Colonial and Galeria de Arte. The striking yellow and green bell tower of Museo Nacional de Lucha Contra Bandidos is particularly noteworthy. Another popular destination near Trinidad is Playa Ancón, a quaint fishing hamlet boasting some of the finest beaches and lively weekend festivities. Approximately an hour’s drive from the town, numerous stunning waterfalls can be found, with Salto del Caburni being one of the most recognized at a height of 75 meters.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Museo Romántico, National Museum of the Struggle Against Bandits, Colonial Architecture Museum, Museo Historico, Palacio Cantero, and Convento de San Francisco de Asís.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Dona Antonia And Friends Rooms – A charming bed and breakfast in Trinidad, offering well-appointed rooms with amenities like air-conditioning, a wardrobe, seating area, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Guests may unwind in the shared lounge or explore the nearby cycling routes.
- Cubata And Friends Rooms – Featuring a terrace with views of the picturesque neighborhood, Cubata And Friends Rooms offers spacious, well-decorated accommodations with kitchenettes, wardrobes, air-conditioning, comfortable beds, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries.
- Pepe and Friends rooms – Boasting a manicured garden, a communal lounge, and dining facilities, Pepe and Friends Rooms provide spacious, minimalist accommodations with air-conditioning, a wardrobe, work desk, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries.
Varadero
As one of the most significant resort towns in the Caribbean, Varadero represents a key part of Cuba’s tourism sector. This narrow, unbroken stretch of golden sand extends over 20 kilometers, showcasing at least 60 all-inclusive beach resorts and various seaside entertainment options, including restaurants, shops, and water activities. Alongside its crown jewel, Varadero Beach, the town houses several fascinating cave systems, historical attractions, and provides access to a chain of untouched cays. Parque Josone, a scenic lake established in the 1940s for a park owner and his wife, serves as a wonderful family destination where visitors can enjoy meticulously maintained gardens, paddle across the lake, and observe local wildlife from the bridge. On the eastern end of Varadero lies Reserva Ecológica Varahicaco, a protected area brimming with walking trails and an ancient burial cave.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Parque Josone, Cueva de Ambrosio, Cueva de Musulmans, Delfinario, Cayo Piedra Underwater Park, Varahicacos Ecological Reserve, and Cueva de Saturno.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Royalton Hicacos Adults Only – All Inclusive – Located directly on the beach, this exquisite oceanfront adult-only, all-inclusive resort features a spectacular outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant and bar, a fully-equipped fitness center, a full-service spa, a swim-up bar, and several lounge areas. The luxurious accommodations come with extra-large double beds, minibars, TVs with satellite channels, and ensuite bathrooms.
- IBEROSTAR Varadero – Home to an outdoor pool, a revitalizing spa, a children’s playground, a top-notch fitness center, and dining and drinking options, IBEROSTAR Varadero is an all-inclusive resort located a short distance from the beach. Rooms are equipped with cable TVs, coffee machines, and ensuite bathrooms.
- Roc Arenas Doradas – Rooms and suites at Roc Arenas Doradas include cable TVs, safety deposit boxes, and private terraces. Guests may enjoy the year-round outdoor pool or work out at the fitness center. Families can make use of a dedicated children’s playground while they enjoy refreshments at the bar. Golfing and snorkeling are popular here, with all-inclusive tariffs covering all meals.
Baracoa
As the first capital of Cuba and the oldest Spanish settlement on the island, Baracoa is often regarded as one of Cuba’s best-kept secrets. Nourished by 29 rivers and adorned with swaying palms, coffee bushes, and chocolate trees, Baracoa’s lush green landscape is truly remarkable. The world’s smallest bird, frog, and bat inhabit this tranquil coastal community. The local houses are typically modestly constructed, emanating the ambiance of a quaint village. Those who venture to the eastern part of Baracoa will discover that this place is anything but trivial. The main squares, Parque Independencia and Parque Marti (the busier one), serve as the central gathering points. Christopher Columbus watches over the area from Playa Boca de Miel, Baracoa’s main beach. Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its biodiversity, is a prime location for trekking. During your visit, do not overlook a trip to El Yunque National Park and its majestic mountains.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Museo Municipal, Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion, Cruz de la Parra, and Museo Arqueologico la Cueva Del Paraiso.
Hotel Recommendations:
- BR& Casa Jose – Featuring a scenic garden and a well-stocked bar, BR& Casa Joe offers well-appointed accommodations with amenities such as TVs, tea/coffee makers, minibars, kitchenettes, and private bathrooms. Each room comes with a balcony boasting splendid views of the sea, with complimentary continental breakfast available daily (with selected room packages).
- Hostal Casa la Fortaleza – This bed and breakfast serves as a central refuge in Baracoa, offering well-furnished rooms with wardrobes, dining areas, and ensuite bathrooms. The property features a shared lounge for relaxation and a 24-hour front desk to assist with inquiries. Airport transfers can be arranged upon request.
- Casa Mari – Located within a short walking distance from the beach, Casa Mari provides well-equipped apartments with soundproofing, flat-screen TVs, barbecue facilities, seating areas, kitchenettes, outdoor dining spaces, and ensuite bathrooms. An optional continental or American breakfast is available each day.
Santa Clara
Santa Clara, the capital of Villa Clara province in Cuba, is positioned nearly in the center of the island nation. As the fifth most populous city in Cuba, Santa Clara has historically been recognized by various names since its establishment in 1689 by a group of 175 individuals. While Havana may be synonymous with mainstream Cuban tourism, Santa Clara is arguably the most revolutionary city in Cuba. This town has an undeniable fascination with Che Guevara, an Argentine physician turned guerrilla leader who famously stormed the city during the Cuban Revolution of 1958. Overflowing with innovation and artistic talent, Santa Clara is the host of Cuba’s only official drag show and is home to Ciudad Metal, the foremost rock festival on the island.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Monumento a la Toma del Tren Blindado, Statue of Che Guevara, Catedral de Santa Clara de Asís, Museo de Artes Decorativas, Leoncio Vidal Park, and Loma Del Capiro.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Los Caneyes – Offering a manicured garden, a fully-stocked bar, and a multicultural restaurant, Los Caneyes provides fully-equipped villas featuring comfortable double beds, air-conditioning, safety deposit boxes, and private bathrooms. Guests can unwind in the splendid garden areas or explore the surroundings.
- Hostal Cary Y Lazaro – Located within a traditional Cuban residence, Hostal Cary Y Lazaro showcases beautifully decorated rooms with modern amenities, including air-conditioning, wardrobes, patios, and private bathrooms. Each room features a terrace, and a superb continental breakfast is available daily.
- Hostal Francisco – Every room at Hostal Francisco includes a delightful patio, wardrobe, and private bathroom. Accommodations feature tiled floors, refrigerators, dining areas, and views of the gardens or city. The nearby Theater La Caridad is just a kilometer from the property.
Santiago de Cuba
As the second-largest city in Cuba and the capital of the province bearing its name, Santiago de Cuba is undeniably crucial to the island’s identity, with Havana being the foremost. Still, Santiago de Cuba stands out for its rich cultural legacy. The birthplace of José María Heredia, a prominent figure recognized as the initiator of Latin American romanticism, Santiago de Cuba’s cultural landscape is alive with internationally celebrated musicians, traditional dances, and grand carnivals. Bacardi, the famous global liquor brand, originated in Cuba in 1862, and a museum dedicated to Facundo Bacardi Masso and his family’s extensive art collection can be visited. Positioned against the dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Maestra mountains (the largest on the island), alongside the expansive Caribbean Sea, Santiago de Cuba is often described as the “Hero City of Cuba.” This city is the cradle of son and bolero rhythms and has nurtured many of the most distinguished Cuban musicians throughout history. If you find yourself overwhelmed by the drinking, dancing, and celebration, a visit to Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca, an impressive 17th-century fortress overlooking the bay that exhibits a pirate museum while offering stunning ocean views, is highly recommended.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Baconao, Turquino National Park, Basílica Santuario Nacional de Nuestra Señora de la Caridad del Cobre, Museo Emilio Bacardí Moreau, Casa de Diego Velazquez, and Parque zoológico de Santiago de Cuba.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Villa Azul: Yusmila – Located a short drive from Antonio Maceo International Airport, this inviting property offers well-furnished rooms with air-conditioning, electric blankets, kitchenware, dining areas, and private bathrooms. The supportive staff at the 24-hour front desk can provide insights into local attractions and excursions.
- Villa Greta – Guest accommodations at Villa Greta are equipped with flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, seating areas, kitchenettes, outdoor dining spaces, and patios overlooking either the city or the surrounding gardens. Both Las Guasimas Battlefield and Antonio Maceo International Airport are easily accessible.
- Melia Santiago de Cuba – This luxurious hotel features an outdoor pool, a modern fitness center, a communal lounge, and an inviting restaurant and bar. Melia Santiago de Cuba offers opulently designed rooms and suites featuring top-tier amenities such as safety deposit boxes, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and ensuite bathrooms. An exceptional complimentary breakfast is served each day.
Viñales
Although on the tourism map for quite some time, Viñales retains a calm, relaxed atmosphere infused with traditional Cuban charm and the essence of a Cuban cigar. Primarily an agricultural region, Viñales produces coffee, fruits and vegetables, and tobacco through time-honored farming techniques. Fishing also plays an essential role in the local economy. Viñales Valley, designated a UNESCO Site since 1978, is celebrated for its extraordinary landscapes as well as indigenous crafts, music, and architecture. One of the best ways to discover the region’s lush greenery and agricultural treasures is through horseback riding across tobacco plantations and verdant valleys. Cuevas de Santo Tomas is Cuba’s largest cave system and the second largest in the Americas, accessible via foot or by a short boat ride that journeys through its distinctive features, revealing stalagmites, stalactites, bats, unique rock formations, and a replica of a prehistoric indigenous mural.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Indian Cave, Museo Municipal, Jardin Botanico de Vinales, Centro Cultural Polo Montañez, Mural of Prehistory, and Museo Municipal Adela Azcuy.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Casa Yolanda y Pedro – Guestrooms at Casa Yolanda y Pedro are appointed with comfortable double beds, air-conditioning, wardrobes, and private bathrooms stocked with towels. The friendly staff can assist with airport transfer arrangements, and on-site free parking is available for guests with vehicles. A continental breakfast is available daily for a nominal cost.
- Casa Los Complacientes – Nestled within the traditional Cuban neighborhood of Viñales, Casa Los Complacientes offers cozy rooms furnished with comfortable beds, linens, air-conditioning, and private showers. Each room is equipped with a wardrobe, with airport transfers available through hotel staff. A continental breakfast is offered each morning at an additional cost.
- La Ermita – Surrounded by lush greenery, La Ermita features well-furnished accommodations with safety deposit boxes, minibars, telephones, and private bathrooms. All rooms include TVs and work desks. Guests can utilize the on-site free parking and dine at the hotel’s restaurant.
Playa Larga
Situated at the head of the renowned Bay of Pigs (Bahía de Cochinos), Playa Larga forms part of the Peninsula National Park and is encircled by the expansive Zapata Peninsula, the largest wilderness area in Cuba. Far removed from the urban sprawls of Havana and Trinidad, Playa Larga presents itself as a quintessential beach town with unparalleled beauty. The coastline, adorned with vibrant greenery and turquoise waters, serves as a haven for ecotourism enthusiasts exploring the myriad flora and fauna, mangroves, and fascinating cave systems in the region. Once you exhaust the activities available in town, including scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, and exploring submerged caves, consider arranging a guided tour of Zapata National Park to immerse yourself in the untamed Cuban wilderness. Alternatively, you could venture to the beach to witness the enchanting crab migrations that occur every evening, and later make your way to Casa Tiki for an exquisite seafood dining experience.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Punta Perdiz (snorkeling or diving), Zapata Peninsula and National Park, Cueva de los Peces (open-sea diving), Hatiguanico River (fly fishing), Las Salinas de Brito, and Crocodile Breeding Centre.
Hotel Recommendations:
- SB Gran Hostal Playa Larga – Just a minute’s walk from the beach, SB Gran Hostal Playa Larga is among the most sought-after accommodations in the area. All guestrooms include comfortable double beds, air-conditioning, private entrances, outdoor dining spaces, and private bathrooms. Selected rooms offer views of either the river or the sea, with optional breakfast available daily.
- Casa Tiki – Offering spacious, air-conditioned rooms with exceptional features such as safety deposit boxes, private entrances, seating areas, minibars, and ensuite bathrooms, Casa Tiki presents stunning views of the nearby waters. Guests are welcome to enjoy the beautifully maintained gardens surrounding the property and indulge in delicious meals at the on-site restaurant. Hiking and fishing opportunities are also available nearby.
- La Casita del Puerto – Positioned next to a charming lake, La Casita del Puerto offers well-appointed accommodations with air-conditioning, private entrances, seating areas, and private bathrooms. Guests can request airport transfers at the property, and optional continental breakfast is provided daily.
