Are you ready for a Cuban adventure? Cuba is a dream destination for many travelers, and with its colorful colonial towns, white sandy beaches, and lively salsa clubs, it’s no wonder why. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an exciting cultural experience, Cuba has something to offer everyone. To help you plan your trip, here’s a list of the top 15 best attractions and places to visit in Cuba. From the gorgeous crystal-clear waters of Varadero Beach to the vibrant art scene in Havana, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful Caribbean country.
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1) Old Havana (Habana Vieja) – Places To Visit in Cuba
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Old Havana (Habana Vieja) is a must-see for anyone visiting Cuba. Located in the heart of the Cuban capital, the district has been meticulously preserved to maintain its Spanish colonial charm. With its cobblestone streets and grand Baroque and neoclassical buildings, it’s easy to imagine what life in Cuba was like hundreds of years ago.
The major attractions of Old Havana are the Plaza de la Catedral, home to the Cuban Baroque Catedral de San Cristobal; the legendary restaurant and Hemingway hangout, Bodeguita del Medio; and the military fortress, Castillo de la Real Fuerza. Extensive renovations are now breathing new life into these historic buildings, as well as Plaza Vieja, one of the top places to visit in Havana.
Be sure to take some time to wander through the narrow alleyways and soak up the atmosphere of Old Havana, while taking in the views of the city’s architecture, vibrant art galleries, and bustling plazas. Here you can also find some of the best restaurants, bars, and cafes in Cuba.
2) Varadero
Varadero, located on the Peninsula de Hicacos in Cuba, is home to one of the Caribbean’s best beaches and most popular tourist destinations. With its white sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s no wonder why Varadero has become a destination for both tourists and locals alike. The strip of beach that makes up Varadero stretches along the coast and is dotted with more than 50 resorts and hotels.
Visitors to Varadero can spend their days relaxing on the beach, exploring the area’s beautiful natural parks and caves, or even paddling around in rowboats in Parque Josone. At Parque Ecológico Varahicacos, visitors will find Cueva de Ambrosio and Cueva de Musulmanes, two impressive limestone caves set in lush greenery. Varadero also boasts plenty of restaurants, bars, and other amenities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or a night out on the town, Varadero has something for everyone.
3) Trinidad – Places To Visit in Cuba
Trinidad, Cuba is a spectacular colonial town. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinidad transports visitors back in time with its beautifully restored buildings, cobblestone streets, and neoclassical architecture. This city was once a prosperous hub of both the sugar and slave trades, and the influence of this history can still be seen today.
If you’re looking to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Trinidad, then be sure to head to the Plaza Mayor – the city’s central square. Here, you can admire the Church of the Holy Trinity, a stunning neoclassical church and one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Other must-see attractions include the Church and Monastery of Saint Francis, the Museum of Colonial Architecture, the art gallery at Casa de Aldeman Ortiz, and the grand Palacio Brunet.
Make sure to take your time exploring this stunning city – it has plenty to offer visitors who want to experience a unique piece of Cuban history.
4) Guardalavaca
Guardalavaca
Nestled in the Holguin province, Guardalavaca is a popular destination for those seeking a quieter, more remote experience than the hustle and bustle of Varadero. Its beaches offer plenty of shade and shimmering blue waters that are ideal for snorkelers and divers looking to explore the diverse sea life along the coral reefs.
Take a day trip from Guardalavaca and explore everything the region has to offer. Go sailing or take a sightseeing tour of Santiago de Cuba, trek through the jungle, or even visit the Dolphinarium at Cayo Naranjo for an up-close encounter with these amazing creatures. If you’re looking for a cultural experience, Chorro de Maita provides an interesting look into Taino Indian culture, as well as an ancient burial ground.
With so much to do, Guardalavaca is one of the best places to visit in Cuba. Whether you’re looking to relax on its beaches or take a journey of discovery, this stunning destination is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
5) Playa Paraíso, Cayo Largo del Sur – Places To Visit in Cuba
A stretch of white-sanded beach with crystal clear waters, Playa Paraíso on the western edge of Cayo Largo del Sur is an idyllic paradise. It’s the perfect spot for soaking up the sun, cooling off with a dip in the Caribbean Sea, or enjoying some refreshing beach activities. You can rent boats and jet skis to explore the coastline or take a ride on the banana boats or flyboarding for a truly unforgettable experience.
You won’t find many people here as this beach is fairly secluded and it’s a great spot for some peaceful relaxation. The island is also home to a variety of exotic wildlife including sea turtles, so you may even spot a few of them while taking a stroll along the beach.
With its stunning scenery and tranquil atmosphere, Playa Paraíso is one of Cuba’s best beaches and is worth a visit. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family adventure, this beach has something for everyone.
6) Cayo Coco
Cayo Coco is an idyllic beach destination located in the Jardines del Rey archipelago of Sabana-Camaguey. It is one of Cuba’s most isolated islands, and it was featured in two of Ernest Hemingway’s novels, Islands in the Stream and The Old Man and the Sea. Most visitors reach Cayo Coco by air, though it is also connected to the mainland by a bridge.
This beach paradise offers plenty of activities to keep visitors busy, including swimming and sunbathing on its pristine beaches. Playa Los Flamencos on the Atlantic side of the island is a favorite spot for its five-kilometer stretch of sun-bleached sand. For those looking for some peace, the undeveloped Playa Prohibida provides a perfect nature trail to explore. Nature lovers will be delighted by Cayo Coco’s excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Connected by a causeway to Cayo Coco is the nearby island of Cayo Guillermo, which also has its own set of stunning beaches such as Playa Pilar, and several all-inclusive resorts. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, Cayo Coco has something for everyone.
7) Parque Nacional Viñales (Valle de Viñales) – Places To Visit in Cuba
Parque Nacional Viñales (Valle de Viñales) is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Sierra de los Organos mountains in northwestern Cuba. The best way to experience Parque Nacional Viñales is to explore its rugged terrain on foot or by horseback. Hikers can find trails to discover hidden waterfalls and caves while horseback riders can enjoy picturesque views of the valley. Tour companies also offer day trips here from Havana.
If you want to stay longer and make Parque Nacional Viñales your base camp, the nearby town of Viñales offers plenty of lodging options for every budget. It’s an excellent spot for meeting friendly locals and sampling some of Cuba’s famous cuisine. So be sure to add this remarkable area to your Cuba travel itinerary!
8) Baracoa
Baracoa
Baracoa is an enchanting city located in the eastern province of Guantanamo. It was founded in 1511 and is considered to be the oldest city in Cuba. The city has a remote feel, as it was cut off from much of the outside world until the 1960s when the La Farola highway was built.
Today, Baracoa is a popular tourist destination known for its colonial architecture, lush countryside, and breathtaking natural scenery. Visitors to Baracoa can explore the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of El Yunque, where rare birds and plants thrive. The peak of El Yunque stands 589 meters above sea level, and visitors can take a guided ascent to its summit for some truly stunning views.
Travelers can also drive down the winding La Farola highway, a 49-kilometer stretch from Baracoa over the mountains to Cajobabo, for more spectacular views. Another must-see destination in Baracoa is the Museo Municipal, which is housed in the Fuerte Matachin military fortress. Here visitors can get a glimpse into Baracoa’s fascinating history and enjoy breathtaking views of the bay from the fort itself.
9) The Malecon, Havana – Places To Visit in Cuba
Conceived in 1901 and partly built in 1902 and beyond, the Malecon is one of Havana’s most famous attractions. Located on the seafront promenade, it’s a great place to explore the history and culture of the city. This seven-kilometer-long promenade runs from Habana Vieja to the Vedado, the central business district. Along the way, you will find an array of stunning 20th-century buildings representing a unique blend of architectural styles including Art Deco and Neo Moorish. The buildings are painted in pastel pinks and yellows, making them perfect for photography, especially at sunset.
Walking along the Malecon is also a great way to watch the locals going about their daily lives. You’ll see young lovers strolling hand in hand, local fishermen casting their lines into the sea, and children clambering up the sea wall. It’s a great spot to get a glimpse of what life is like in Havana.
10) Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
This museum is a must-see for art lovers visiting Havana. Housed in two stunning buildings, it has a vast collection of international and Cuban art, from ancient to modern times. The Palacio del Centro Asturiano houses international artworks from Europe, Asia, the US, and Latin America. On the other hand, the Rationalist-style Palacio de Bellas Artes building features a wide range of Cuban art, with sculptures, prints, and paintings from the 17th century to the present day. Additionally, not to be missed is the marble sculpture, Form, Space, and Light, which greets visitors at the entrance.
11) Che Guevara Mausoleum, Santa Clara – Places To Visit in Cuba
The Mausoleo del Che Guevara and its adjacent Memorial Comandante Ernesto “Che” Guevara is a must-visit attraction for anyone touring Cuba. Located in Santa Clara, it was the site of the final battle between Che Guevara and Batista troops in 1958 and has become an iconic symbol of the Cuban Revolution.
At the Mausoleo, you will find a bronze statue of Che Guevara with his final letter to Fidel Castro etched into it. The mausoleum itself lies beneath the monument and houses the remains of Che Guevara.
Nearby, you can find the Museo Historico de la Revolucion which exhibits some of Che’s items. There is also a boxcar museum – Monumento a la Toma del Tren Blindado – which commemorates the final battle between Che Guevara and the Batista troops.
Finally, whether you are a fan of Che Guevara or just want to experience the unique history and culture of Cuba, this is an essential stop on your itinerary.
12) Castillo de San Pedro del Morro, Santiago de Cuba
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Castillo de San Pedro del Morro is one of the best-preserved Spanish fortresses of the 17th century. Located about 10 kilometers southwest of Santiago de Cuba, the second largest city in Cuba, the structure stands at the entrance to the Bay of Santiago.
The impressive fortress was designed in 1587, taking decades to build before it was finally completed at the end of the 17th century. The fort was originally built to protect against pirate attacks, but it also served as a prison in the late 1700s before being converted back into a fortress.
Furthermore, visitors to Castillo de San Pedro del Morro today can explore the many different levels of the fort, learn about pirates and the fort’s history in the small museum, and enjoy impressive views over the bay. It’s one of the must-see attractions in Santiago de Cuba!
Other cultural highlights of Santiago de Cuba include the Diego Velazquez Museum and Cementerio de Santa Ifigenia, home to the remains of some of Cuba’s most famous military figures.
13) Peninsula de Zapata (Ciénaga de Zapata) – Places To Visit in Cuba
A must-see for any traveler to Cuba, the Peninsula de Zapata (Ciénaga de Zapata) is a remote, sparsely populated area of Cuba with diverse landscapes and one of the largest wetlands in the Caribbean.
The Cienaga de Zapata, or the Zapata Swamp as it is affectionately known, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to approximately 150 different species of birds, including waterhens, parrots, and herons. Crocodiles are also common. One part of the peninsula is a designated nature reserve, the Gran Parque Natural de Montemar, where you can see some of these creatures in their natural habitats.
At the mouth of the Bay of Pigs (Bahia de Cochinos) is Playa Giron, the famous site of the 1961 Bay of Pigs Invasion. Here, you can explore this fascinating history at the small Museo Giron. At the top of the Bay of Pigs, Playa Larga is home to a long beach backed by lush vegetation. Avid divers can explore the underwater wildlife at numerous dive sites here along the reef.
Whether you are looking for an adventure or just a peaceful escape from your everyday life, the Peninsula de Zapata is sure to have something for you. To conclude, from birdwatching to swimming with the dolphins, snorkeling among colorful coral reefs to exploring fascinating Cuban history and culture, the Peninsula de Zapata has something for everyone!
14) El Nicho Waterfalls
This hidden gem in central Cuba is a sight to behold. Located in Parque El Nicho, the multi-tiered waterfalls are full of life, flowing down into jungle pools that beckon for a refreshing swim. A 1.5-mile palm-lined trail leads to this paradise, where you can soak up the beauty of nature. Keep an eye out for the tocororo, Cuba’s national bird, and marvel at the royal palms along the way.
For those looking for a family excursion, El Nicho Waterfalls is a great option. Children will love walking the trail to see the stunning falls and swimming in the pool beneath them. There’s also a scenic lookout with breathtaking views across lush valleys – an unforgettable experience for any traveler.
One of the best things about visiting El Nicho Waterfalls is that they gush year-round, even in the dry season. Finally, this makes them an ideal destination during any time of the year, so why not get out and explore?
15) Parque Historico Militar, Havana – Places To Visit in Cuba
Presiding over the entrance of the Bay of Havana, El Morro is one of the oldest fortresses in the world. Built-in the late 16th century and early 17th century to fend off pirates, it looks much the same as it did back then. Its original lamp still shines out to sea from its stone lighthouse, which was erected in the middle of the 19th century. From the top of the fort, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the ocean and city.
The nearby Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana is also worth a visit. Constructed in the 1770s, this was the biggest and most expensive fort ever built by the Spanish. After the Revolution, it served as Che Guevara’s headquarters, and later as a military prison during the Batista regime. To sum it up, the museums located here tell the history of this remarkable fort, while visitors can witness the Ceremonia del Cañonazo, a nightly cannon-firing ceremony, at 9 pm each night.
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Cuba is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and it’s no wonder why people are drawn to its captivating landscapes, vibrant culture, and amazing attractions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, there’s something here for everyone to explore. With its lush vegetation, sparkling coastlines, colorful architecture, and cultural heritage, Cuba offers plenty of things to do and see. Now that you know the best places to visit in Cuba, it’s time to start planning your trip! To get inspired and make sure you don’t miss anything, use Framey. It’s an incredible app that lets you explore photos from other travelers so you can get an idea of what to expect before you go. With Framey, you can also share your holiday photos with your friends!
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