View It
Visit It
Cuba
North America
Visit Cuba
Cuba, a vibrant nation steeped in history and culture, offers a unique travel experience that captivates the hearts of all who visit. From the bustling streets of Havana to the tranquil beaches of Varadero, the island is a blend of old-world charm and contemporary vitality. Havana, the capital city, is particularly enchanting with its colorful colonial buildings and classic American cars that line the streets, creating a picturesque setting that seems frozen in time. The city's rich history is palpable in its diverse architecture and numerous museums, such as the Museo de la Revolución, which offers insights into Cuba's tumultuous past.
Beyond the urban allure, Cuba's natural landscapes offer an equally compelling reason to visit. The Viñales Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its dramatic limestone outcroppings known as mogotes and its traditional tobacco farms, where visitors can learn about the art of cigar making from local farmers. For beach enthusiasts, Cuba boasts some of the Caribbean's most stunning coastlines. Varadero is famed for its 20 kilometers of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and water sports.
Cuban culture is another of the island's treasures, deeply rooted in music and dance. The sounds of salsa, rumba, and son fill the air, inviting visitors to dance in the local casas de la música or on the streets during spontaneous musical gatherings. The culinary scene, while once limited, has blossomed in recent years, with paladares (independent restaurants) offering a fusion of Spanish, African, and Caribbean flavors, showcasing the best of Cuban cuisine.
Moreover, engaging with the warm and welcoming Cuban people, who are proud of their heritage and eager to share their culture, adds an invaluable dimension to the travel experience. Whether exploring the historic sites, lounging on sun-drenched beaches, or simply enjoying a mojito at a lively bar, a trip to Cuba promises a profound and enriching adventure that resonates long after you've returned home.
Find your Next Adventure in Cuba
Explore Cuba
Iconic Landmarks
Old Havana (Habana Vieja)
- A UNESCO World Heritage site, Old Havana is renowned for its well-preserved historic architecture, vibrant street life, and landmarks like the Capitolio and the Cathedral of Havana.
El Capitolio
- Inspired by the U.S. Capitol, El Capitolio was the seat of government in Cuba until the Cuban Revolution and is notable for its imposing neoclassical architecture.
Castillo del Morro
- Guarding the entrance to Havana Bay, this grand fortress built in the late 16th century offers panoramic views and a rich history of defense against pirates and invaders.
Che Guevara Mausoleum
- Located in Santa Clara, this memorial and mausoleum houses the remains of the revolutionary Ernesto "Che" Guevara and twenty-nine of his fellow combatants killed in 1967 during the Bolivia campaign.
Varadero Beach
- Known for its crystal-clear waters and miles of white sand beaches, Varadero is one of the largest resort areas in the Caribbean and a popular destination for tourists.
Viñales Valley
- A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Viñales Valley is celebrated for its dramatic karst landscapes, traditional agriculture, particularly tobacco farming, and its preserved rural lifestyle and architecture.
Cultural Experiences
Visiting Old Havana (Habana Vieja)
- Explore the historic core of Havana, featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and iconic spots like Plaza Vieja and El Capitolio.
Watching a live performance at the Gran Teatro de La Habana
- Enjoy world-class ballet or opera in one of Havana's most opulent buildings, renowned for its stunning architecture and cultural significance.
Experiencing a traditional Cuban music night
- Dive into Cuba's rich musical heritage at a local venue, enjoying genres like son, salsa, and rumba performed by talented local musicians.
Touring a tobacco plantation in Viñales Valley
- Learn about the traditional methods of tobacco cultivation and cigar making in the picturesque landscapes of Pinar del Río.
Participating in the Festival del Caribe in Santiago de Cuba
- Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of Caribbean cultures with music, dance, and parades during this annual festival held in July.
Visiting the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
- Discover Cuba's artistic evolution from colonial times to contemporary trends through an extensive collection of Cuban and international art.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking in Viñales Valley
Explore the lush landscapes and traditional tobacco farms of this stunning UNESCO World Heritage site.
Snorkeling in Playa Coral
Dive into crystal-clear waters to discover vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life just off the coast.
Ziplining in Las Terrazas
Experience the thrill of ziplining through the treetops in a sustainable bio-reserve that offers breathtaking views.
Bird Watching in Ciénaga de Zapata
Traverse Cuba’s largest wetlands, a prime spot for spotting flamingos, the bee hummingbird, and other exotic species.
Cave Exploration in Bellamar Caves
Delve into the underground world of stalactites and stalagmites in one of Cuba’s oldest and most famous cave systems.
Mountain Biking in Topes de Collantes
Challenge yourself with a bike ride through the Escambray Mountains, featuring rugged trails and scenic waterfalls.
Off the Beaten Path
Baracoa
- Known as the city where Columbus landed, Baracoa is a hidden gem with lush landscapes and unique local cuisine.
Playa Giron
- Situated on the Bay of Pigs, Playa Giron is not only a site of historical significance but also offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Gibara
- A quaint coastal town, Gibara offers a quiet retreat with charming streets, local festivals, and a friendly atmosphere away from the usual tourist paths.
Valle de los Ingenios
- This valley, once the center of sugar production, features historic sugar mills, plantation houses, and stunning scenery.
Isla de la Juventud
- Known for its rich pirate history and excellent scuba diving spots, this island offers a unique adventure away from Cuba’s main tourist areas.
Sierra del Rosario
- A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Sierra del Rosario is perfect for eco-tourists and those interested in hiking and observing endemic wildlife.
Cuba Fun Facts
- Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean.
- The official name of Cuba is the Republic of Cuba.
- Cuba has a dual currency system: the Cuban Peso (CUP) and the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC).
- The game of dominoes is extremely popular in Cuba and is considered the national game.
- The Tropicana Club in Havana is famous for its cabaret shows, which have been running since 1939.
- Ernest Hemingway lived in Cuba for almost 20 years, and his home has been turned into a museum.
- The Cuban sandwich, though popular in Florida, originated in Cuba.
- Cuba has nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Old Havana and its fortifications.
- The island is known for its classic American cars from the 1950s, which are still in use due to import restrictions that were only recently lifted.
- Cuba has one of the highest literacy rates in the world at nearly 100%.
Featured Picture Gallery
Havana is a Beautiful City on the Ocean
Experience the Gorgeous Havana Sunsets
Havana Cuba Capitol Building, Modeled After the US Capitol