It is possible that when you think of Cuba the first city that comes to your mind is Havana but the jewel of the Caribbean has much more to offer: beaches, music, gastronomy, culture and of course, Cubans. If you are thinking of planning your next vacation on this beautiful island, here are some of the most famous Cuban cities that you should visit on your customize trip to Cuba with Espiritu Travel.
You must travel to Cuba at least once in your life, it is one of those unique destinations full of history in every corner of its Cuban cities. Visiting Cuba is traveling back in time to the 60s, where bright colors decorate facades and convertibles were the car of the moment. After your private trip to Cuba you will not only have opened your mind to new experiences, but you will have grown as a person and as a traveler.
Here is a list of the most popular Cuban cities that you must visit on your trip to the Island with Espiritu Travel.
Havana
It is the capital of the country and its soul. The historic center is an architectural jewel, but it is also a historical relic, as it has witnessed great events that have marked Cuban history. Walk the colorful streets of Havana accompanied by one of our local guides who will show you every corner of the city, finish the day taking a ride in a classic during sundown.
Havana is a city with a strong personality, full of special places brimming with history. Visit the Malecon, the Old Cathedral, the imposing Plaza de la Revolución, Vedado neighborhood or try the famous mojitos of La Bodeguita del Medio. At night do not hesitate to visit one of its many nightclubs with live music, your feet will move with the rhythmic of the Cuban music!
Have a look at our customize tours like Long Weekend in Havana to discover our suggested activities in Havana. If you are a photography lover, our Havana Imagine photography tour is perfect for you!
Trinidad
Trinidad is one of the most famous cities of Cuba and it is known as “the museum city of Cuba”. The magical city of Trinidad is the perfect representation of the colonial style. With a historic center declared a World Heritage Site in 1988. During your guided tour with Espíritu Travel you will visit Plaza Mayor, the Church of the Holy Trinidad and Santa Ana, the Historical Museum of the City and Ortiz Palace, converted into an art gallery, among other tourist attractions.
From Trinidad you can visit Valle de los Ingenios, one of the sugar regions of Cuba or Tope de Collante Natural Park, that offers a thousand places to explore. Another day trip activity from Trinidad, is going to visit Sancti Spiritus a beautiful colonial city. Accompanied by Espiritu Travel expert guides you will explore these places on a horseback ride or by taking a hike.
Check out our Uncovering Cuba itinerary for more information.
Pinar del Río
Located in the north part of the island, it is the most rural area of Cuba and its town is hidden among the mountains of the Viñales Valley. It is region characterized by its green areas and its gastronomy. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit a Cuban farm and learn about the production of Cuban cigars. Do you dare to make one of yours?
You will be amazed by the Mural of Prehistory of Viñales, your local guide will explain you the meaning behind this colorful mural while you take a hike around Viñales.
Santiago de Cuba
Also known as “the center of the Cuban music”, Santiago de Cuba is the second most important city on the Island in terms of population and economic relevance. Santiago is in the eastern part of the Island and because is far away from Havana tourist do not often visit Santiago, but it is certainly worth a visit. This mystical city has an artistic vibe that can be felt in its streets, in its music and in its people.
In Santiago you can see some of the natural wonders of Cuba, such as the Baconao Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO and admire the high peaks of Sierra Maestra that rise with all their majesty to the west and where Castro’s troops hided during the Revolution. Our expert guide will teach you where they hided and how they used the environment to avoid being discovered.
From Santiago de Cuba you can also visit El Morro, a defensive fortress on the outskirts of the city, and Granma Cay, a small island populated by a community that lives mainly on fishing.
Varadero (Matanzas)
Varadero is the most famous coastal area in Cuba and it is located in Matanzas, one of the most important tourist places on the Island that host the longest beach in the World. Its beaches are bathed in the crystalline waters of the Caribbean Sea. In Varadero you can practice all kinds of water sports or take day trips to Saturn Cave, Península de Zapata, Yumurí Valley… Espiritu Travel will suggest you different activities to do in Varadero.
If you are looking for a less touristy environment we recommend that you visit the Cayos, they are 6 hours away by car from Havana but if you have more than a week to visit Cuba it is the perfect way to end the trip.
Camagüey
This city is characterized by its labyrinthine streets that aimed to disorient their attackers. The city was declared World Heritage Site in 2008, positioning this beautiful colonial city and its beaches as a popular destination to visit when traveling to Cuba. Camagüey is considered one of the 7 wonders of the Island, it has great architectural value and important museums.
Stroll through Plaza de San Juan de Dios that preserves its original layout, walk along the street of the cinema, visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of Candelaria let yourself be carried away by the people and the music that you can hear in every corner.
Check out our list of best things to do in Camagüey.
Santa Clara
Another famous Cuban city is Santa Clara, a mandatory stop, especially for those who want to better understand the history of this country and the life of one of the most crucial figures in Cuban history. Santa Clara is a key place in the history of the Cuban Revolution for hosting the Ché Guevara Mausoleum, a special place full of energy, dreams and wishes for freedom. Ché Guevara is the most beloved national hero in Cuba.
These are the most popular and famous Cuban cities that you should visit on your trip to Cuba. It is certainly difficult to choose which one to visit and which to leave for your next visit to Cuba, therefore, Espiritu Travel will design your customize trip to Cuba based on your needs and the time you have to travel, so that you can make the most of it and make your trip to Cuba an unforgettable experience. Visit Cuba with Espiritu Travel and discover for yourself the wonders of Cuban cities.
