Exploring Cuba. Culture. Cigars. Cars.

Leanne Liakos 

Instagram: @LLPrintshop

@LiakosPhoto

Between sea breezes, lively city streets, and lush farmlands, Cuba has something to captivate all who visit. With a population of over ten million, it is the third-most populous country in the Caribbean. The climate is tropical, with the drier season from November to April. Tourism is a main economic driver.

While many tourists stay in the seaside resorts of Varadero, Cuba offers so much more—from the vibrant art, music, and architecture of Havana to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trinidad and outdoor activities like cycling through the lush Viñales Valley or snorkeling and diving in the crystal clear waters of Cayo Coco.

Havana

Bustling and colorful Havana is the capital and largest city in Cuba. A guided historical walking tour is a great idea for learning more about the city’s monuments, squares, architecture, and rich culture. A local guide is also an excellent reference for insider tips on the best restaurants, bars, live music, and galleries, and offers stories and insight on daily life in the city. 

If you are starting in Varadero, a fun excursion is a classic car tour to Havana. Before entering the town, stop at the impressive castle and fortifications of El Morro, visit the museum, and take in incredible city views. In the city center, visit Old Havana, including Obispo Street, Plaza de la Catedral, the El Malecón seaside promenade (at sunset), and Teatro Nacional de Cuba. Head to a local eatery in the evening and try ropa vieja, a delicious slow-cooked dish with beans and rice. Later, head to a rooftop bar for the best mojito you’ve ever had.

Trinidad

Trinidad is in the province of Sancti Spíritus in central Cuba. It was the center of the sugar trade in the 18th and 19th centuries and is now a beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site. Plaza Mayor was built when the sugar cane industry thrived and is the main square in Trinidad’s old town. The plaza houses colorful buildings, historical landmarks, and lush gardens. The pale yellow walls and sweeping arches of the Church of the Holy Trinity and Convento de San Francisco de Asis, with its famous bell tower, are found here. Visitors can climb the 120 steps to the top of the bell tower for panoramic city views. At night, the plaza buzzes with live music and pop-up bars. 

Several local museums are worth experiencing, including Palacio Cantero, the former home of Justo Germán Cantero. It is wonderfully preserved, and the engaging stories, architecture, and historical artifacts make it a must on your itinerary.

Wandering through scenic cobblestone streets, you will find an array of small eateries, quaint shops, and galleries. The local bars featuring live music provide an excellent opportunity to sample a Canchánchara Cuban rum cocktail, renowned in Trinidad.

Cienfuegos

Cienfuegos city, located 250 kilometers from Havana, is the capital of Cienfuegos province. This coastal city boasts beautiful French architecture, many historical sites, fresh seafood, and great nightlife. Start at Parque José Martí and visit Teatro Tomás Terry, the Museo Provincial, and the magnificent Catedral de la Purísima Concepcion, which dates back to 1869. Make your way to Paseo del Prado, a lively boulevard with neo-classical buildings and popular nightspots. The boulevard turns into El Malecon, a seaside promenade, where you can rest your feet while enjoying the sparkling waters.

Cayo Coco

Cayo Coco, located in Cuba, has extensive sandy beaches, tall palm trees, and clear turquoise water. It is one of the longest cays in the region. Resort accommodations are available on the island, and relaxing day tours by catamaran include snorkeling stops at coral reefs where you can swim with beautifully colored tropical fish.