Destinations: Where to Go in Cuba

Top Destinations

Even today, the thought of going back in time seems impossible, and certainly incomparable, but it's still out of reach...isn't it? Not in Cuba. Cuba's top attractions are often relics of the past — including classic cars roaming the streets, smoky clubs filled with music and drink, and colonial architecture, and that's just for starters. Cuba's best places to visit are 'must see' locations such as Havana, but also places like Trinidad where the past is reflected in the very buildings that line the street. This vacation is a getaway with no regrets. Cuba's top destinations will have you walking down cobblestone streets bordered by Spanish ruins or going for a hike along an ancient, eroded plateau. There is one thing you won't be doing, and that's having a standard issue vacation. Cuba's top attractions will remind you that this island is one of strength, endurance, and beauty.

Adventures

You might think that Cuba is an island nation that begins and ends with its beaches, but this is actually a common misconception. Beaches are just the beginning! Cuba's adventure vacations reward the curious traveler. You'll have the opportunity to trek up tall mountains and explore underwater environments. Cuba's adventure tours will have you coming back with amazing stories from what is already guaranteed to be a unique adventure. If you want to go hiking, visit eastern Cuba and the mountains of Sierra Maestra in the Pico Turquino National Park; here, you’ll see tropical forests with low-hanging clouds along the mountainous slopes. On Cuba’s coast, you can visit beaches and islands, and take boat tours of the Caribbean waters. From one of these destinations, you might arrange a scuba diving expedition to visit colorful coral reefs and underwater caves. For even more options, keep exploring these Cuba adventure destinations.

Historic

Cuba has a long and storied history. The following destinations played an important role in the development of the country, and are home to some of the oldest and most important historical sites on the island. In Havana, you can explore Havana Vieja to see exquisite Spanish architecture and well-preserved cathedrals. Visit Trinidad for the colorful houses and cobblestone streets that were shaped by the colonial and industrial eras. Who can forget Cuba’s tumultuous history in the 20th century? Not you! You'll be learning all about Cuba's historical events at destinations like Santiago de Cuba, which witnessed the birth of the Revolution, and Santa Clara, the location of Che Guevara’s memorial. History occurs at every moment — become a part of the past and indulge your mind on a vacation exploring Cuba's historical sites.

Cities

It's a cosmopolitan getaway...back in time. If you're looking for a high-end vacation with all of the modern amenities, check out some of Anywhere's other exciting destinations. If you want a return to elegance and simplicity then a Cuban cities vacation may be just what you're seeking. It's easy to unplug and enjoy a fine rum when technology isn't everywhere you turn. Explore the shops of the Vedado Neighborhood or the charm of Central Cuba's Santa Clara. Cuban cities wear their hearts on their sleeves. You’ll see crumbling yet grand architecture, and watch classic cars rumble down cobblestone streets. While you’re in Cuba's cities of interest, you'll rediscover that live music beats even the best mixes on shuffle. Dance with the locals, who are especially fond of salsa and son. Satisfy your academic side as you explore the art galleries and museums showing off the country's considerable talent — Cuba's cities are full of colourful works...which you'll see reflected in street art as well.

Off The Beaten Path

You might think that a trip to Cuba is itself a vacation spent off the beaten track, but it's possible to go even further when you head to these unique Cuba destinations. Achieve the impossible — escape crowds of travellers and manage to have a little bit of Cuba all to yourself. If it's an authentic experience you're seeking, you'll enjoy spending time in smaller towns full of locals. Going off the beaten path will allow you to get to know the real Cuba. The tranquil beaches on Cuba’s islands will make you feel like lounging in the sunshine indefinitely. Visiting small towns gives you the chance to see Cuban culture and experience Cuban friendliness and generosity firsthand. Cuba holidays off the beaten track will also allow you to enjoy unique activities such as hiking, or learning about the roots of the island nation's oft forgotten indigenous population.

Nature

Cuba nature tours are surprisingly beautiful, because of the island nation's slow industrial development, large swaths of the country remain relatively untouched. Off the coast, you'll have the chance to experience thriving reefs and crystal-clear waters. Locations like Pinares de Mayarí are outright ecotour destinations where you can explore outdoor trails on foot or horseback. Spots such as these may be early leaders in future Cuban nature reserve efforts.

Beaches

A Cuban beach holiday is waiting for you on this lively and colourful island nation. This list of Cuba's beaches to visit will take you from Baracoa to Maria La Gorda, and more as you explore the coastline. Cuba's beaches are famous for being ‘postcard-perfect,’ with their white sands and clear turquoise waters. Catch-up on your reading as you enjoy a paperback underneath an oversized umbrella. Seeking a more active beach getaway?... Cuba's beaches are close to colourful coral reefs where you can snorkel in warm shallow water. Several of the nation's most breathtaking beaches are lined with all-inclusive resorts, which (admittedly) are not without their appeal. Cuba's beach resorts will offer you your own landscaped version of paradise. Still, you don't have to stay at a Cuban beach hotel or resort to enjoy the surf and sand — many of the beaches are public, and just as beautiful as any private parcel.

Coast

Cuba has 2,017 miles (3,735 km) of coastline — much of this is lined with powdery white-sand beaches and jade-coloured Caribbean coves. On Cuba’s coast, you’ll find broad beaches, luxurious resorts, mangrove forests, and traditional fishing towns. Many of the nation's major national parks are located on Cuba's coast, as are several important historical sites, like the Bay of Pigs and the capital city of Havana. You don't have to spend all of your time at the beach when you explore the shops found in Cuba's coastal towns. You'll also have plenty of opportunities to enjoy historical tours, colonial architecture, and observe the island's unique wildlife. Bonus? The simple pleasure of taking a walk in the briny sea air whilst listening to the crash of ocean waves — you'll see what we mean when you book your getaway to explore Cuba's coastline.

Islands

Cuba’s islands have some of the country’s most impressive and secluded beaches, as well as some of the most luxurious accommodations. These islands serve as a home base for exploring Cuba’s offshore reefs, including the rare black coral that’s found just off the coast of Cayo Levisa. Cayo Coco is one of Cuba’s most popular islands, and for good reason — the beach has soft white sand and borders a stunning section of the Atlantic Ocean. Cuba's island resorts offer you the perfect piece of paradise, because you can enjoy nature and deluxe amenities. Spend your days searching for shells, exploring mangroves, and diving; and your nights salsa dancing, sipping expertly crafted cocktails, and falling asleep to the gentle sounds of the ocean. By the time your vacation is over, Cuba's islands will have you wanting to leave the mainland behind for good.

Highlands

High in Cuba’s mountains you can hike to some of the most impressive vistas in the country. In the east, you can climb the mountains of the Sierra Maestra. From the town of Santo Domingo, you can summit Pico Turquino — the tallest mountain in Cuba. The Sierra de los Órganos mountain range dominates the landscape to the west. At the foot of these mountains is Viñales — a place where you can see rocky formations left behind by an ancient, eroded plateau. Cuba's hiking vacations reward you with an active adventure in nature, and unique stories that you'll miss out on if you spend all of your time at the beach. They'll also grant you the opportunity to get to know some of the locals outside of the usual tourist destinations. If you're hoping to observe some of the island nation's wildlife, then going further inland is a great move, because Cuba's hiking areas tend to be significantly less crowded than the country's ‘postcard-perfect' beaches. Take one of the best snapshots of your life when you grab your camera and get a unique vantage point from Cuba's highland destinations.

Nightlife

While in Cuba, you won't just want to experience the country's famous nightlife, you'll NEED to! You haven't truly been to Cuba until you've indulged in Cuban nightlife. Visit a cabaret to see colorful costumes on salsa and rumba dancers. Cocktail lounges sparkle with old school Havana charm and are filled with travellers puffing away on cigars. Not content to sit back and watch? Don't worry there's plenty of action waiting for you out on the dance floor... Make time to see live performances of trova, son, and rumba — all musical styles that are native to Cuba. Don't be surprised when the lure of the rhythm proves to be too much and you're learning a new dance courtesy of the locals. The following destinations have fun, reliable, and safe nightlife options so that you can have the best experience possible. Return home with great memories, and maybe a new music compilation to remind of those sultry Havana nights. When the sun sets Cuba's nightlife heats up.

Airport

Since Cuba is a nation still grappling with its communist history, getting from 'point A' to 'point B' isn't always as simple as it is in the average tourist destination. Though a trip to Cuba is well worth the effort, it does take a little more planning — which is why you'll find your Anywhere Travel Consultant to be a big help! The other thing that will make your trip planning easier? This list of Cuba's airport destinations. Many towns in Cuba have airports that receive domestic and international flights. The José Martí International Airport is located just outside Havana — if you’re traveling from South America, Europe or Canada, you’re most likely to land here. The following destinations have airports that range from rural landing strips to major international terminals. Familiarizing yourself with their locations and offerings will help you better prepare for your trip, and learn the geography of this island nation.

Rest & Relaxation

You'll be in the mood to indulge whilst you're in the land of daiquiris, mojitos, and cigars. Rightfully so — this is your vacation after all, and it's full of rest and relaxation. The island nation of Cuba is a ‘postcard-perfect' version of paradise. All-inclusive resorts provide everything you need to get the most out of your experience, including spa treatments and pristine pools. Cuba’s Caribbean coast is the ideal destination to simply sit back and soak up the blue water and bright sun. After a night of being lulled to sleep by the sound of ocean waves, you're ready for Cuban leisure activities such as snorkeling, scouring the beach for shells on the islands of Cayo Levisa, and birdwatching from ecotourism destinations like Pinares de Mayarí. After a day of adventure, you can always spend the next day lounging in a hammock or soaking up the sun on the beach. Better yet, why not enjoy the favorite pastime of feeling your shoulders relax when you exhale smoke from the legendary Cuban cigar you couldn't help but treat yourself to? This is Cuba's leisure travel, and it is a brand all its own.

Beach

Cuba’s beaches are some of the loveliest in all of the Caribbean. They are coveted for their white sand and waters that mix shades of turquoise and deep blue. These beaches have relatively calm water, so you won’t see many surfers, although you may find windsurfers in places like Cayo Guillermo and Playa Santa Lucía. The beaches in national parks and reserves have good diving off the coast, and some also have mangrove forests and coral reefs within swimming distance.

Cave

Some caves in Cuba served as hideouts for famous communists, like Portals Cave in the La Güira National Park that Che Guevara used as his headquarters during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Cuba’s caves also provide information about indigenous Cubans – check out the Taíno artifacts in the Paradise Caves Archeological Museum, or the underwater river in the Indian Cave in the Valley de Viñales. Cuba also has caves in remarkable locations, like the underwater caves at María La Gorda where visitors can go on exciting scuba diving expeditions.

Cultural

Much of Cuba’s distinctive culture comes from the lack of industrial development and Internet access. Friendly city dwellers often stand in their doorways, watching the world go by. If you’re learning Spanish, this is the place to practice. Cuba is the epicenter of Caribbean and Latin music, so make sure to visit live music spots wherever you go – Havana Vieja is a must-see for its local culture and nightlife.

Historic

Fidel Castro’s revolution left fascinating attractions in its wake. There are sites of military importance that have fallen out of use, like the Moncada Barracks, an attraction that now houses a museum and a school. At the El Morro Historic Park you can see a fort built by the Spanish, which has also been transformed into a museum. The Morro-Cabaña Military Park is a fort that was originally built to ward off English pirate attacks. See Cuba’s colonial history in the neighborhood of Trinidad, where historians and artists have worked to keep the buildings picturesque. Near Trinidad you can also visit the Valley de los Ingenios, the site of Cuba’s oldest sugar plantations.

Iconic

These attractions are cornerstones of the Cuban experience. See an impressive memorial to Che Guevara in Santa Clara, steps from his mausoleum and a museum dedicated to his life. Cuba’s landscape and culture inspired Ernest Hemingway so much that he lived here for over 30 years. You can visit his Havana home-turned-museum and admire his collections of books and hunting trophies. To see the past and present of Cuban culture blended together, visit the neighborhood of Old Havana, where Caribbean music spills into streets lined with grand structures left behind by the Spanish.

Island

Island attractions in Cuba include some of the country’s most secluded beaches and popular resorts. Cuba’s largest island, Isla Juventud, has a number of wildlife reserves that make excellent destinations for bird watching and boat tours. Some of Cuba’s islands are classified as cayos, and are connected to the mainland by a drive-on causeway. Cayo Guillermo and Cayo Coco also have a good selection of beaches that are popular destinations for marine activities like sport fishing, diving, snorkeling, and sailing catamarans.

Museum

National Park

Many of Cuba’s national parks have both UNESCO and federal protection, which has kept many of Cuba’s parks in excellent condition. You can climb the tallest mountain in Cuba in the Pico Turquino National Park, and see the verdant hillsides of the Sierra Maestra along the way. National parks along the coast have thriving mangrove forests, swamps, and wetlands. Visit the Laguna de las Salinas in Ciénaga Zapata National Park to see endemic birds and experience Cuba’s best fishing. In the Guanahacabibes Peninsula National Park you can visit the beach at María La Gorda, and snorkel around the reefs and Spanish shipwrecks that are near the shore.

Reef

Thanks to a lack of industrialization and limited tourism, Cuba has some of the healthiest reefs in all of the Caribbean. Off the coast of María La Gorda there are black coral reef systems, as well as numerous Spanish shipwrecks that have created artificial reefs. It’s easy to reach the reefs off the coast of the Bay of Pigs, which are especially colorful and intact. When you go diving or snorkeling around Cuba’s reefs you have the chance to see barracuda, manta ray, moray eel, and lionfish.

Reserve