10 Best Places to Visit in Cuba

To help you get started, we’ve curated a list of top destinations to visit in Cuba. You can’t start a trip to Cuba without this list.

• Best for: Art and culture

Cuba’s charismatic capital, Havana, is a blend of history, culture, and vibrant energy. The city’s heart, Old Havana, a Unesco World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of cobblestone streets, baroque churches, and colorful colonial-era buildings. Landmarks like El Capitolio and the Hotel Nacional tell stories of Havana’s grand past, while a ride in a classic 1950s American car offers a nostalgic tour through its historic avenues. History buffs can explore the Museum of the Revolution or visit Hemingway’s favorite haunts, El Floridita and La Bodeguita del Medio. By night, Havana pulses with life — salsa beats fill the air at the Buena Vista Social Club, and locals and visitors alike gather along the Malecón to enjoy sea breezes and live music. Whether you're exploring its architectural gems, sipping a mojito, or dancing the night away, the city doesn’t disappoint.

Good to know: Havana has a bad reputation for drinking water. Stick to bottled water, cocktails, beer and Cuba Libres with little to no ice.

• Best for: Art and craft

A living museum of colonial history, boasting cobblestone streets, pastel-hued mansions, and lively squares, Trinidad didn’t receive a Unesco-World-Heritage status for nothing. The city preserves its Spanish colonial charm, with highlights like Plaza Mayor, the Palacio Cantero, and the Church of the Holy Trinity. Just beyond the city, the Valle de los Ingenios reveals the remnants of Cuba’s once-thriving sugar industry, where visitors can climb the Manaca Iznaga Tower for breathtaking views. Recognized also as a World Craft City, Trinidad’s artisanal markets brim with handcrafted ceramics, lace, and vibrant paintings. By night, Trinidad’s rhythms come alive at Casa de la Música, where salsa and Afro-Cuban beats invite visitors to dance under the stars to create an unforgettable Cuban memory. The city’s charm extends beyond its historic sites, arts and culture. Playa Ancón, one of Cuba’s best beaches, lies just a short drive away, offering turquoise waters and soft white sand.

Good to know: An hour-drive away from Trinidad is a short and rewarding hiking trail to Vegas Grande Waterfall. If you have time, keep the trail in your itinerary.

• Best for: Nature exploration and tobacco farms

Viñales is a stunning testimony of rural Cuba’s charm, history, and natural beauty. Surrounded by dramatic limestone mogotes, the valley is famous for its lush tobacco fields and traditional farming methods that have remained unchanged for centuries. Visitors can tour local farms, learn about the art of cigar-making, and even try hand-rolled cigars. Horseback riding or hiking through the valley offers breathtaking scenery, leading to hidden caves like Cueva del Indio, where an underground river awaits exploration. The Mural de la Prehistoria, painted on a limestone cliff, adds a cultural touch to the landscape. For an authentic experience, book guided tours with local farmers, visit Viñales’ vibrant markets, and enjoy traditional Cuban cuisine in rustic farm-to-table restaurants. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, Viñales offers an unforgettable glimpse into Cuba’s countryside, easily making it one of the 3 places to visit in Cuba.

Good to know: There are not many high-end hotels in Viñales. So, if you are looking for a luxury accommodation, you might want to book rooms in advance. For those on a budget, there are plenty of casa particulares or private home stays available, but they aren’t as great as the ones in Havana and Trinidad.

• Best for: A beach resort experience

Varadero Beach, Cuba’s premier beach resort destination, is a paradise of pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters stretching over 20 kilometers. Known for its luxury resorts, vibrant nightlife, and family-friendly shallow shorelines, Varadero offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Water sports enthusiasts can snorkel or dive in vibrant coral reefs, take a catamaran cruise, or enjoy thrilling activities like parasailing and jet skiing. Those who are tired of beaches can take a day off at Mansion Xanadu, the former estate of American millionaire Dupont, now a museum and restaurant with a rooftop bar that opens to stunning ocean views. Josone Park, a lush oasis in the heart of Varadero, is ideal for leisurely boat rides and dining. Families can explore the Varahicacos Ecological Reserve, home to ancient caves and indigenous rock art. As the sun sets, Varadero’s nightlife comes alive, with beachfront bars, live music, and salsa clubs. The beach resort really checks all boxes for luxury, adventure, or relaxation.

Good to know: Take a guided trip back to ancient history at Cueva de Ambrosio, a fascinating cave featuring ancient rock paintings that offer a glimpse into Cuba’s past.

• Best for: History and culture

Santiago de Cuba, the country’s second-largest city, is a dynamic blend of rich history, Afro-Caribbean culture, and revolutionary spirit. Known as the cradle of the Cuban Revolution, it played a pivotal role in the country’s fight for independence. Take a step back in time with a visit to the Moncada Barracks, where Fidel Castro’s uprising began, and pay respects at Santa Ifigenia Cemetery, the final resting place of national heroes like José Martí and Fidel Castro. The city’s colonial charm is on display in its Unesco-listed Old Town, home to Castillo del Morro, a 17th-century fortress overlooking the Caribbean. Santiago’s Afro-Cuban influences come alive in its music scene—experience Cuban music such as boleros, canción and danzon at Casa de la Trova or witness captivating performances by Ballet Folklórico de Oriente.

Good to know: If you visit in July, don’t miss Cuba’s most famous carnival, an explosion of parades, music, and dance.

• Best for: Water activities

Known as the ‘Pearl of the South,’ Cienfuegos beckons travelers with its enchanting blend of French-inspired architecture, scenic waterfront, and cultural richness. Explore its Unesco-listed historic center, where neoclassical buildings such as the iconic Palacio de Valle and the charming Parque José Martí stand as relics of its colonial past. Delve into the beauty of Jagua Bay, ideal for sailing or catching breathtaking sunsets; and soak up the vibrant atmosphere along the Malecón. Take some time to soak in the lively cultural atmosphere of the central square of Cienfuegos, José Martí Park. Then venture on a trip to the exclusive neighborhood of Punta Gorda, known for its luxurious mansions, scenic waterfront promenade, and architectural masterpiece, the Palacio de Valle. There is a good reason why Cienfuegos often gets mentioned as one of the popular places to visit in Cuba.

Good to know: While the rest of Cuba doesn’t have many shopping districts, the Cienfuegos Boulevard has decent stores to stock up on some snacks, toiletries and daily essentials.

• Best for: Beach holiday

If you're seeking interesting places in Cuba to visit, look no further than Cayo Coco. Nestled off the northern coast of Cuba, this idyllic island offers a paradise for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. Expect powdery white sands stretching for miles, fringed by swaying palm trees and crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life. Explore the colorful coral reefs or simply relax under the Caribbean sun. With its picture-perfect beaches and tropical charm, Cayo Coco promises an unforgettable island getaway for those seeking pure bliss and relaxation on their trip to Cuba.

Good to know: Witness the spectacle of pink flamingos in their natural habitat at Laguna de los Flamencos.

• Best for: History and nature

The Bay of Pigs serves as a gateway to Cuba's captivating history and natural wonders. Begin your journey by learning about the role of Bay of Pigs in Cuban history, particularly the failed CIA-backed invasion in 1961. Explore museums and memorials to gain insights into this significant event and its lasting impact on Cuba's revolution. The bay also boasts pristine beaches such as Playa Girón surrounded by crystalline, warm waters for unparalleled snorkeling and diving adventures. Take diving and snorkeling tours to encounter vibrant fish, coral formations, and shipwrecks. Behind the shorelines are lush forests, most of which are protected national parks. These protected areas include swamps, wetlands, and mangrove forests, and encounter unique wildlife, such as the endemic Cuban crocodile and a plethora of bird species.

Good to know: You can explore the natural wonders of Ciénaga de Zapata National Park, a Unesco Biosphere Reserve, on a hiking expedition.

• Best for: Outdoor activities

Renowned as Cuba’s oldest Spanish settlement, a trip to Baracoa offers a captivating blend of colonial charm and natural wonders. Experience the breathtaking natural landscapes of Baracoa, from pristine beaches and dense rainforests to majestic mountains and cascading waterfalls. Embark on thrilling outdoor adventures such as hiking through El Yunque National Park, exploring the Rio Tao by boat or kayak, and engaging in activities like rock climbing, caving, and zip-lining. The place is also popular for its chocolate, made from cocoa grown in the region’s fertile soil. Also explore Baracoa’s rich cultural heritage, shaped by its Afro-Caribbean roots and indigenous Taino influences, through traditional music and dance performances, artisan workshops, and the vibrant rhythms of Cuban music.

Good to know: A hidden gem in Baracoa, Pozo Azul in Punta de Maisí dazzles with its crystal-clear, blue-hued waters. Surrounded by lush greenery, it's perfect for swimming, diving, or simply unwinding in nature.

• Best for: Architecture and nature

Known as the ‘Athens of Cuba’ for its deep cultural roots, the city of Matanzas blends history, art, and natural beauty. Stroll through Plaza de la Vigía, home to architectural gems like the majestic Teatro Sauto, or explore the city’s thriving arts scene at Ediciones Vigía, famed for its handcrafted books. Dubbed the ‘City of Bridges’, Matanzas’ many crossings offer picturesque views over the San Juan and Yumurí rivers. Experience the rhythms of Afro-Cuban music and dance, from rumba to danzón, in lively cultural venues. For nature lovers, the Bay of Matanzas and its scenic Malecón provide a relaxing escape, while Playa El Rincón offers a tranquil beach retreat. Adventure seekers can explore the Zapata Peninsula, a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether soaking up the city’s vibrant culture or unwinding by the coast, Matanzas offers a captivating glimpse into Cuba’s soul.

Good to know: Explore the only promenade in Cuba! Set along the San Juan River, Paseo de Narváez was once a hub for Cuba’s sugar trade. The area has been revitalized into a vibrant arts district with outdoor galleries, sculptures, restaurants, and bars.

With so many incredible places to visit in Cuba, the challenge lies in narrowing down your choices for the ultimate Cuban adventure. You can start with the top 10 destinations mentioned above and do a little bit of self-exploration on your own. For a seasonal overview of the country’s weather, check out our guide on the best time to visit Cuba. Going through our article on how many days to spend in Cuba will also come in handy for your trip.

Useful information:
Top Things to Do in Cuba
Cuba in February