Authentic Cuba
Lively cities, scenic countryside and golden beaches
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Havana
Vintage American cars weave through crumbling colonial architecture, while snippets of salsa music play from smoky bars in Cuba’s iconic capital city... -
Viñales
A small but culturally-rich village in western Cuba, Viñales has quickly become a must-see for visitors wanting a taste of traditional Cuban living... -
Havana
Vintage American cars weave through crumbling colonial architecture, while snippets of salsa music play from smoky bars in Cuba’s iconic capital city... -
Varadero
Nestled on the winding Hicacos Peninsula, Varadero is the largest resort in the Caribbean, and with 20km of interrupted white sand beach, it is easy to see why... -
Havana
Vintage American cars weave through crumbling colonial architecture, while snippets of salsa music play from smoky bars in Cuba’s iconic capital city...
Spend a couple of days immersed in Havana’s unique culture, gastronomy and thriving music scene, then travel to scenic Viñales to experience rural Cuba. Return to Havana to explore the UNESCO-listed old centre, before relaxing on the pristine beaches of resort town Varadero. Finish your trip in Havana for your onward departure.
SeasonSuggested itinerary
Stroll through the musical streets of Havana
Day 1–2 in Havana
Vintage American cars weave through crumbling colonial architecture, while snippets of salsa music play from smoky bars in Cuba’s iconic capital city. Founded by the Spanish in the 16th century, Havana’s layered history and rich culture have been largely protected from modern influences for decades, thanks to the country’s self-imposed communist rule since the revolution of 1959. As a result, Cuba’s beating heart is awash with untouched customs and traditions, and its defiant art scene can be felt from the sprawling Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes and futuristic Fábrica de Arte Cubano, to the the outlandish street art which adorns the walls of Habana Vieja. Watch out for the capital’s teenagers gathering at government-sanctioned Wi-Fi hotspots around the city — even in Cuba time can’t stand still forever.
Don't miss
Visit Havana’s Revolution Square
Nowhere is more evocative of Cuba’s revolutionary spirit than this central square crowned by an imposing statue of Jose Marti and giant mural of Che Guevara.
Drink a daiquiri in Hemingway’s honour
Author Ernest Hemingway’s time in Cuba was famously spent mostly drinking in its bars. Sample an authentic mojito or daiquiri in Havana.
Explore the agricultural splendor of Viñales
Day 3–4 in Viñales
A small but culturally-rich village in western Cuba, Viñales has quickly become a must-see for visitors wanting a taste of traditional Cuban living. With charming, colonial-era houses surrounded by farmland and tobacco fields, the village acts as an entry point to the neighbouring Viñales Valley and Sierra de los Organos mountain range. It is well worth staying for a couple of days — the valley’s picturesque limestone hills, known as mogotes, are a major draw for rock climbers, and there are plenty of beautiful walks and cultural experiences to keep visitors occupied.
Don't miss
Live like a local in a Casa particulare
Forget the mega resorts, the Cuban homestay is the original AirBnB and locals have been opening their homes to visitors for decades. Casas are a great way to live like a local.
Go souvenir shopping in Havana
Day 5 in Havana
Today you can explore the Revolution Plaza, souvenir shop at the Artisan Market of San José or just stop at Floridita bar for a well deserved break.
Lounge on Varadero’s unspoilt beaches
Day 6–7 in Varadero
Nestled on the winding Hicacos Peninsula, Varadero is the largest resort in the Caribbean, and with 20km of interrupted white sand beach, it is easy to see why. With cosy streets, shops, water activities and tours to the nearby keys for dolphin watching and scuba diving, it is an ideal destination for families or travellers looking to unwind after a busy sightseeing trip around Cuba.
Return to Havana and depart
Day 8 in Havana
Head back to Havana for your onward departure.
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