Cuba is vibrant, soulful, steeped in character and a destination unlike any other. In Havana, colonial architecture meets mid-century Americana, creating a city frozen in time where classic cars cruise past pastel facades and the sound of salsa fills the air. Enjoy a Mojito or a glass of Havana rum as you wander its lively streets. Beyond the capital, explore the UNESCO-listed, beautifully preserved town of Trinidad, visit Santa Clara, the resting place of Che Guevara, and admire the elegance of Cienfuegos with its French influence. In the island’s east, Santiago de Cuba has a deeper cultural rhythm and a rich revolutionary spirit. Finish your journey at one of Cuba’s serene beach resorts, the perfect place to unwind after discovering this endlessly fascinating island.
Camaguey: Explore this UNESCO-listed city by bicycle taxi, weaving through its maze-like streets originally designed to confuse pirates. The town charms with its elegant colonial architecture, shaded plazas, and distinctive Cuban-baroque churches.
Havana: A UNESCO World Heritage city and Cuba’s captivating capital, Havana feels beautifully suspended in time. Its mix of faded colonial facades and mid-century Americana creates an irresistible atmosphere. Stroll the lively streets and soak up the rhythm of this endlessly photogenic city.
Pinar de Rio Province: This lush UNESCO Heritage region offers a glimpse into traditional rural life, with rolling plantations of tobacco, taro, and bananas. Visit a tobacco farm to learn about the entire production process, and explore the region’s thriving organic agriculture.
Trinidad: Often described as a “living museum,” this UNESCO-listed town enchants with cobbled streets, pastel houses, and Spanish colonial architecture. Don’t miss Casa de la Música, where locals and visitors gather each evening for live salsa under the stars.
Santiago de Cuba: The island’s eastern capital pulses with Afro-Cuban energy and a deep musical soul. Visit the Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca, a magnificent UNESCO-listed fortress built to defend against pirate attacks.
Cuba is a year-round destination, though the best time to visit is between November and May, when the weather is warm, dry, and ideal for exploring. The summer months from July to October bring higher temperatures, humidity, and a small chance of hurricanes, so travel during this period requires a bit more flexibility.
Currency: Cuban Peso (CUP)
Language: Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas.
What makes it special: Cuba is a truly unique place. A place where history, music, and culture converge in the most captivating way. The streets of Havana, with their colorful vintage cars and colonial façades, seem frozen in time. Live music spills from every bar, with the sounds of the Buena Vista Social Club drifting through the air as locals dance, laugh, and share stories over a Mojito or Havana rum. Beyond the capital, you’ll find lush countryside, pristine Caribbean beaches, and the infectious warmth of the Cuban people.
Social customs: Cubans are famously friendly and welcoming, often striking up conversations or inviting visitors into their homes. Music is central to daily life and a wonderful way to connect with locals. Socializing over coffee, rum, or cigars is a cherished tradition, and you’ll quickly find that Cuba’s rhythm (both musical and cultural) is impossible to resist.
