Things To Do
in Cuba
Cuba is an island nation located in the Caribbean, known for its rich cultural heritage, blending indigenous, African, and Spanish influences, which is evident in its music, art, and cuisine. Its capital, Havana, showcases vibrant colonial architecture and the famous Malecón esplanade, reflecting the country's historical depth and revolutionary past.
Despite economic challenges and political complexities, Cuba is renowned for its achievements in education and healthcare, offering a unique blend of social accomplishments amidst its tropical beauty.
- "¿Qué bolá?" - What's up?
- "Asere" - Friend
- "¡Dímelo!" - Tell me!
- "Una vuelta" - A tour or a spin
- "No hay problema" - No problem
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a guided walking tour of Old Havana to experience its colonial architecture. Sample a local breakfast at a nearby café while enjoying vibrant street life.
Visit the Museo de la Revolución for insights into Cuba's rich history. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the city.
Stroll along the Malecón as the sun sets, and enjoy the coastal ambiance. Cap off the night with live music at a famous jazz club.
Travel to Viñales Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and tobacco farms. Take a guided horseback ride through the lush fields and enjoy the natural beauty.
Visit a local tobacco farm to learn about the cigar-making process. Enjoy a traditional Cuban lunch at a family-owned restaurant.
Watch the sunset view from the hills and take lots of photos. Experience lively local music and dance at a nearby venue.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene.
- Universal healthcare and education systems.
- Beautiful landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
- Strong sense of community and social cohesion.
- Rich history and traditional architecture.
- Limited political freedoms and restrictions on free speech.
- Economic hardships and shortages of goods.
- Limited access to technology and internet connectivity.
- Infrastructure challenges and maintenance issues.
- Emigration challenges and brain drain of professionals.
Best Activities in Cuba
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush landscapes, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna in this stunning national park.
Discover the vibrant underwater world and pristine coral reefs at this famous snorkeling spot.
Enjoy the picturesque countryside and unique mogotes while cycling through the scenic Viñales Valley.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cuba with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cuba
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic seafront promenade offering stunning views of the ocean and the city skyline.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its picturesque landscapes, limestone mountains, and tobacco farms.
A charming colonial town with colorful streets, cobblestone plazas, and the nearby Topes de Collantes nature reserve.
Food in Cuba
Cuba Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Cuban dish made from shredded beef cooked in a tomato-based sauce with onions, peppers, and aromatic spices. Best found at paladares (small, family-run restaurants) or local eateries in Havana and Trinidad.
Must-Try!
A delicious combination of black beans and rice cooked with aromatic herbs, spices, and sometimes pork. Widely available in restaurants throughout Cuba, especially in the popular tourist areas.
Whole roasted pig marinated in a blend of citrus juices, garlic, and herbs, ensuring a crispy skin and succulent meat. Many roadside stands and local eateries, especially in the rural regions, serve this flavorful dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cuba better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest and most diverse markets in Cuba, offering an array of fresh produce, spices, and street food. Visitors can sample local snacks such as empanadas, tamales, and tropical fruits while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
This vibrant alleyway is renowned for its Afro-Cuban roots and is a hub for street food vendors selling traditional bites like coconut fritters, plantain chips, and various grilled meats. The rhythmic live music and colorful murals enhance the cultural experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cuba, it is important to show respect for elders by addressing them with proper titles and using formal language.
Cubans are known for their hospitality and friendliness. It is customary to greet people warmly and engage in conversations, even with strangers.
Cuba has a rich musical and dance culture. It is appreciated when visitors show an interest in and respect for Cuban music and dance traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cuba with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cuba
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Cuba, especially in the tourism and service industry. It is customary to tip hotel staff, tour guides, and restaurant servers. A typical tip is around 10% of the total bill.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Cuba, as international credit and debit cards may not be widely accepted. It is advisable for travelers to carry enough cash to cover expenses. Some larger hotels and resorts may accept credit cards, but it's best to inquire in advance.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cuba.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Cuba as the weather is cooler and drier. Expect higher tourist activity and higher prices during this season.
Great time to visit Cuba with pleasant temperatures and lower humidity. The countryside is lush and green during this season.
Expect high temperatures and humidity, but this is also the time for festivals and events in Cuba. Be prepared for occasional rain showers.
Can be prone to hurricanes and heavy rainfall. Prices and tourist activity tend to decrease during this season.
Cuba at Night
Hiking in Cuba
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A nature reserve in the Sierra del Escambray mountain range, offering a variety of trails through lush forests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Located near the city of Santiago de Cuba, this hiking spot features beautiful trails with views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
A distinctive flat-topped mountain in the Sierra Maestra, known for its challenging trails and stunning panoramic views of the Cuban landscape.
Famous for its limestone mogotes and tobacco farms, offering various hiking trails through picturesque rural scenery and traditional farms.
A biodiversity hotspot with numerous trails through wetlands, mangroves, and forests, home to many species of birds and other wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cuba through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Cuba by plane.
Located in Miami, Florida, this airport is one of the busiest international gateways to Cuba.
Situated in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, this airport offers numerous flights to various Caribbean destinations, including Cuba.
Located in Cancún, Mexico, this airport serves as a major transit point for travelers heading to Cuba.
As the primary international airport in Cuba, it connects many flights from around the world.
Located in Nassau, Bahamas, this airport provides access to various Caribbean destinations, including Cuba.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population comprises individuals of mixed European and African descent, often identified as mestizos.
People of European descent, primarily originating from Spain, Italy, and other European countries, constitute a notable demographic group.
Individuals of African descent, including those who are descendants of enslaved Africans brought to the island.
A smaller demographic group, primarily consisting of individuals of Chinese descent, as well as others from Asian countries.
The indigenous population is very small and primarily consists of descendants of the original Taíno people.
The Soul of Cuba
Discover the essence of Cuba through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is the most popular sport in Cuba, with a rich history and significant cultural importance. The country has produced numerous Major League Baseball players and has a strong national team.
Boxing is another sport where Cuba excels, with a strong tradition of producing world-class professional and amateur boxers. The country has a successful boxing program, often dominating international competitions.
Volleyball, particularly indoor volleyball, is widely played in Cuba. The national teams have achieved success in international tournaments, contributing to the sport's popularity.
Basketball has a growing following in Cuba, with increasing participation at both grassroots and competitive levels. The country's teams have enjoyed some success in regional competitions.
Soccer is becoming increasingly popular in Cuba, with a rising youth participation rate. The national team competes in the Caribbean and international tournaments.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Cuban cuisine prominently features meat, many restaurants and paladares offer vegetarian options such as fried plantains, yuca con mojo, and rice and bean dishes. In urban areas and tourist destinations, it's increasingly common to find vegan-friendly eateries catering to diverse dietary preferences.
Locally, it's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly with the chefs, as traditional Cuban dishes often contain gluten. However, in popular tourist spots and upscale restaurants, there's a growing awareness of gluten-free diets, with some establishments offering modified versions of classic dishes and gluten-free alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cuba with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cuba.