Things To Do
in Colón
Colón, Cuba is a quiet coastal town in Matanzas Province known for its pastel colonial facades and shaded plazas. It sits along a scenic waterfront where a relaxed pace of life invites long walks and casual conversations with locals. The town blends history with everyday Cuban culture, from sidewalk cafés to small markets and art-filled corners.
Visitors are welcomed by friendly residents, a charming historic center, and easy access to nearby natural escapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Museo de Historia de Colón, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of this coastal town. The museum's exhibits showcase artifacts from the colonial period to the revolution, providing insight into the town's development. After your visit, enjoy a Cuban breakfast at a local café, featuring fresh fruit and café con leche.
Spend your afternoon strolling along the picturesque streets of Colón, admiring the vibrant architecture and local art. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample street food, such as tasty empanadas and tamales from neighborhood vendors. You can also connect with local artists and artisans in the nearby markets, learning about their craft.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront to enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local seafood restaurant, savoring fish caught fresh that day. The atmosphere is lively as locals gather to chat and enjoy music, so take the time to soak it all in. End your night by participating in a traditional dance class, where you can learn salsa moves and celebrate Cuba's rich musical heritage.
Begin your day with a visit to the nearby beaches, such as Playa de los Cocos, where you can relax on the soft sands and enjoy the sound of the waves. Engage in some early morning activities like swimming or trying out snorkeling to explore colorful marine life. As you bask in the sun, enjoy a refreshing coconut water from a local vendor.
After some relaxation, take a guided eco-tour through the surrounding mangroves, observing the diverse birdlife and unique ecosystems that flourish in this coastal paradise. The tour offers insights into conservation efforts in the region, making for an enriching experience. Recharge with a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, sampling local snacks and fruits.
In the evening, return to Colón and treat yourself to a traditional Cuban dinner at a family-run restaurant. The ambiance is cozy and welcoming, with locals sharing stories about the region's culture and traditions. Finish your day with a leisurely walk along the beach, watching the sunset paint the sky in beautiful hues.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🛏️Lodging per night (budget hotel) | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚍Local transport (one-way) | $0.50-1 |
| 🍺Beer (local) | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace of life and warm hospitality
- Accessible day trips to nature and beaches
- Historic architecture and cultural vibes
- Compact town center easy to explore on foot
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger Cuban cities
- Occasional service delays in busy spots
- Fewer international dining options
- English widely spoken only in tourist areas
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Me gustaría una mesa para dos" - I would like a table for two
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas de crédito?" - Do you accept credit cards?
- "Perdón, no hablo español bien" - Sorry, I don't speak Spanish well
Places to Visit in Colón
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque central square framed by colonial-era church architecture, ideal for morning light and street life shots.
The waterfront promenade offers wide bay views, colorful sunsets, and reflections off the water—great for long exposure and portrait photography.
Narrow, colorful lanes with peeling pastel walls, vintage doors, and texture-rich backdrops for street photography.
Riverside scenes with fishermen and boats, ideal for candid moments and landscape photography.
Food in Colón
Colón Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded beef in a tomato-onion sauce served with rice and beans, a staple Cuban dish often found in local eateries.
Must-Try!
A classic Cuban staple where black beans are cooked with rice and seasoned with sofrito; a common accompaniment to many dishes.
Yellow rice with chicken, peas, and peppers; a comforting, widely available dish in local restaurants.
Grilled local mahi-mahi with citrus and herbs, typically served with yucca or plantains.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where you can sample seasonal fruits, vegetables, and street snacks; great for people-watching and fresh produce.
Casual stalls along main streets offering frituras (fried snacks), tostones, and sandwiches—perfect for a quick bite on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin conversations with a warm greeting such as Buenos días. Politeness and personal warmth go a long way in daily interactions.
Dress modestly in public spaces, especially in markets and religious sites; show respect when taking photos of people by asking first.
Ask permission before photographing individuals or private gatherings; avoid capturing sensitive areas without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Colón
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service in restaurants, cafés, and taxis. In casual places, small tips (1–5 CUC or equivalent) are common; in nicer restaurants, 10–15% is typical if service is not included.
Cash in Cuban pesos (CUP) or widely accepted convertible currency per local practice; credit/debit card acceptance is limited outside major tourist hubs. Carry local currency for small purchases, tips, and markets; some establishments may accept mobile wallets if supported.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot, humid days with frequent afternoon storms and potential hurricane activity later in the season. Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings.
Weather remains warm with higher humidity and occasional rain showers. This is a good time for outdoor exploration early in the day.
Pleasantly mild days and cooler evenings. A favorable time for walking tours and outdoor dining with less heat.
Warm days with moderate humidity. Great to combine city exploration with nearby nature trips before the rainy season begins.
Colón at Night
Hiking in Colón
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short coastal hike with mangrove scenery, birdlife, and sea breezes—great for easy daytime adventures.
A gentle riverside route near Colón offering tranquil scenery and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Colón by plane.
Havana's major international gateway, commonly used by travelers to reach Colón with a road transfer of several hours.
Varadero's airport serving domestic and international flights; typically a shorter drive to Colón than Havana.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time residents and retirees enjoying a slower pace of life.
Many residents have ties to nearby fishing grounds and small-scale farming.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is the most popular sport across Cuba with local leagues and community games common in towns like Colón.
Football is widely played at schools and in community fields, especially on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Colón.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted to vegetarian preferences. Look for grilled vegetables, plantains, rice and beans, salads, and cheese or egg-based options. Communicate clearly with the kitchen and consider visiting vegetarian-friendly eateries for more choices.