Cuba is one of the most fascinating destinations in the Caribbean, an island that seems to have been frozen in time. Its unique history, colonial architecture, music and nature make it a destination like no other. If you are thinking about visiting, this guide covers the main places to see in Cuba and three travel itineraries to help you plan according to the days you have available.
Remember that to travel to Cuba you need to obtain your Tourist eVisa + D'Viajeros before departure. You can manage it quickly and easily through Visagov.
Main Places to See in Cuba
Havana: the essential capital
Havana is the most important city in Cuba and the starting point for almost every trip to the island. Its attractions are countless, but there are some you simply cannot miss.
First on the list is Old Havana, the true historic heart of the city, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another must-see is the Morro Castle, officially known as Castillo de los Tres Reyes, one of the most iconic fortresses in the Caribbean.
The Paseo del Prado, the Museum of the Revolution and the Malecón, Cuba's most famous seafront promenade, complete the essential visit. For more details, check out our guide on what to see in Havana.
Viñales: nature and tobacco in its purest form
The Viñales Valley, in the province of Pinar del Río, is an essential stop for those who want to discover the rural side of Cuba. Its mogotes, tobacco plantations and slow pace offer a striking contrast to the bustle of Havana.
Once there, we recommend booking a tour to one of the plantations, accessible by bike, on foot or on horseback. Tours usually include demonstrations of how cigars are hand-rolled and the chance to buy them on the spot.
Do not miss the Cueva del Indio, a cave whose tour combines a walking section with a boat ride along an underground river. If it is not accessible, the Palenque de los Cimarrones is another equally interesting alternative.
Cienfuegos: the pearl of the south
Cienfuegos is a small but picturesque city that features in most Cuba travel itineraries, and for good reason. Its strategic location makes it the perfect connection point between Havana, Trinidad and the Bay of Pigs.
Any tour of Cienfuegos should start at Parque José Martí, located exactly at the geographic centre of the city, from where you can admire the historic buildings and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Continue along the Cienfuegos Malecón until you reach Punta Gorda, where the old mansions tell the economic history of the city. The best way to enjoy it is to walk at a leisurely pace.
Trinidad: the best-preserved colonial city in Cuba
Trinidad is one of the most photographed destinations in Cuba, and it is easy to see why. Its historic centre, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a collection of cobblestone streets, colourful houses and squares that seem to have stood still since the 18th century.
The visit starts at Plaza Mayor, the heart of the city, from where you can access the Municipal History Museum, whose rooftop terrace offers the best panoramic views of Trinidad. If you have time, the Valle de los Ingenios, about 13 km away, is a highly recommended excursion. Before leaving, the city's street markets are the perfect place to pick up a souvenir.
Matanzas: gateway to Varadero
Matanzas is not the most visited destination in Cuba, but its proximity to Varadero and its quiet charm make it an interesting stop. Its main attraction is Plaza de la Vigía, the city centre and the best place to sit down and enjoy the local food. If you want to try traditional Cuban cuisine, this square has some of the best bars and restaurants in the area.
Two more worthwhile visits are the Ermita de Monserrate, set on high ground with panoramic views over the city, and the Puente de la Concordia over the Yumurí river, which connects the centre with the charming Versalles neighbourhood.
Varadero: the best beaches in Cuba
Varadero is Cuba's beach destination par excellence. Its white sand and crystal-clear waters attract more than one million tourists a year and have placed it among the best beaches in the world. Beyond swimming, the peninsula offers excellent conditions for diving and snorkelling.
Along the peninsula, other equally attractive beaches stand out: Cayo Blanco, a small island just off Varadero; Playa Buey Vaca, ideal for families with young children due to its calm waters; and Playa Coral, perfect for diving thanks to its coral reef stretching over 2 km.
To complete the visit, the Varadero Municipal Museum showcases the remains of the indigenous communities that once inhabited the region, with access to the Ambrosio and Muslim caves. You can find more ideas in our guide on what to do in Varadero.
Santiago de Cuba: history, music and culture
Santiago de Cuba is the second largest city on the island and one of the most authentic. Its atmosphere, its music and the warmth of its people make it a very different experience from Havana.
The essential stops are the Balcón de Velázquez viewpoint, with free entry and spectacular views over the city; Parque Céspedes, from where you can admire iconic buildings such as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption; and the lively Calle Enramada, perfect for a stroll and mixing with the locals.
A less touristy but highly recommended visit is climbing the Padre Pico staircase up to the Tívoli neighbourhood, the highest district in the city, full of charm and offering some of the best views of Santiago.
Itineraries to Plan Your Trip to Cuba
Planning a trip to Cuba can feel overwhelming with so many possible destinations. To help you out, here are three itineraries based on the days available: 7, 10 and 15 days. In all cases, the arrival and departure point is Havana.
7-Day Cuba Itinerary
A one-week itinerary combining city, nature and beach:
- Days 1 and 2: Havana
- Day 3: Day trip to the Viñales Valley
- Days 4 and 5: Varadero
- Day 6: Trinidad
- Day 7: Return to Havana and departure flight
10-Day Cuba Itinerary
With 10 days you can add Soroa and Cienfuegos for a more complete experience:
- Days 1 and 2: Havana
- Day 3: Soroa
- Day 4: Soroa and Viñales
- Days 5 and 6: Varadero
- Day 7: Cienfuegos
- Days 8 and 9: Trinidad
- Day 10: Return to Havana and departure flight
15-Day Cuba Itinerary
The most complete option to discover the island from north to south:
- Days 1, 2 and 3: Havana
- Day 4: Soroa
- Day 5: Viñales
- Day 6: Cayo Jutías or Cayo Levisa
- Day 7: Ciénaga de Zapata
- Day 8: Playa Girón
- Day 9: Cienfuegos
- Day 10: Trinidad
- Day 11: Trinidad and Playa Ancón
- Day 12: Varadero
- Day 13: Varadero and Cayo Blanco
- Day 14: Cayo Guillermo
- Day 15: Return to Havana and departure flight
Ready to sort your visa? Get your Tourist eVisa + D'Viajeros for Cuba online through Visagov before your trip.
