Things To Do
in Holguín
Holguín is a city in eastern Cuba known for its lush parks, nearby beaches, and colorful plazas. The city blends colonial architecture with a lively cultural scene and serves as a gateway to nature reserves and coastlines. Locals are welcoming, and day trips to pristine coves, caves, and viewpoints are easy to reach.
From the hilltop vistas of Loma de la Cruz to the turquoise shores of Guardalavaca, Holguín invites relaxed exploration with vibrant street life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying freshly brewed Cuban coffee and traditional pastries. After your meal, stroll through the picturesque streets of Holguín, taking in the colonial architecture and vibrant murals. Make your way to Parque Calixto García, the heart of the city, where you can admire the impressive statue of the Cuban revolutionary leader.
Visit the Museo de Historia Natural to learn about the region's flora and fauna, as well as its rich history. Enjoy a traditional Cuban lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring dishes like ropa vieja and congrí. After lunch, explore the bustling local markets, filled with handmade crafts and souvenirs, perfect for remembering your trip.
As the sun sets, head to the scenic Loma de la Cruz, where you can climb 458 steps for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. Enjoy a sunset cocktail at a nearby bar, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and listening to live music. Conclude your evening with a delicious dinner at a local paladar, experiencing authentic Cuban cuisine.
After breakfast, take a short drive to Playa Pesquero, known for its stunning white sands and crystal-clear waters. Spend the morning lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun while sipping a refreshing coconut drink. If you're feeling adventurous, try snorkeling to explore the vibrant underwater life just off the shore.
Indulge in a beachside lunch featuring fresh seafood and tropical fruits, while enjoying the gentle ocean breeze. Afterward, participate in water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding, experiencing the beauty of the coastline from the water. Take some time to relax on the beach, enjoying the rhythmic sound of the waves.
As the day winds down, watch the sunset over the horizon while enjoying a beach bonfire with fellow travelers. Relish a seafood dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants, where the catch of the day is the highlight of the menu. End the night with a leisurely walk along the shore, feeling the cool sand beneath your feet.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🚖Taxi (short local ride) | $2-6 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1-3 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and vibrant street life
- Easy access to beaches, caves, and nature reserves
- Strong music and cultural scene
- Generally affordable compared to many Caribbean destinations
- Occasional service delays in peak seasons
- Limited offshore connectivity outside major towns
- Infrastructure can be uneven in rural areas
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Me gustaría..." - I would like...
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Holguín
Visit one of these nice places.
A hilltop viewpoint with sweeping views of Holguín and surrounding hills.
Shaded plazas and colonial architecture; a classic street photography spot.
Colorful façades, horse-drawn carriages, and lively street scenes.
Turquoise water, white sands, and palm-lined coast for landscape photography.
Historic harbor and lighthouse offering coastal and sunset shots.
Food in Holguín
Holguín Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded beef in a tomato-onion sauce served with rice and beans.
Must-Try!
Black beans and white rice cooked together with garlic and spices.
Roast pork with a garlicky mojo, often served with yuca and plantains.
Moros y Cristianos alternative term often used in local kitchens.
Boiled cassava with a garlicky citrus sauce.
Double-fried plantain slices served as a side or snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh produce, meats, and Cuban staples; great for local snacks.
Try frituras, croquetas, tostones and empanadas from street vendors around plazas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting in Spanish (Buenos días/Buenas tardes) with a handshake; address people as Señor/Señora when appropriate.
Ask permission before taking photos of people; show respect in religious or rural areas.
Dress modestly in public spaces; swimwear is appropriate at beaches and hotel pools but not in town centers.
Be friendly and patient; politics and sensitive topics are best avoided in casual conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Holguín
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tips of 5–10% are appreciated if service is not included; small tips for hotel staff and taxi drivers are common.
Cash in CUP is widely used; foreign cards work mainly in hotels and larger establishments; carry local currency or euros/dollars to exchange; ATMs are available in city centers but can be limited.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant daytime temperatures with lower humidity; ideal for outdoor sightseeing and beach days. Evenings can be cool in the highlands.
Lush landscapes with frequent afternoon rain showers; plan flexible outdoor plans and carry a light rain jacket.
Be mindful of tropical storms and hurricanes; monitor forecasts and have contingency plans for outdoor activities and transport.
Holguín at Night
Hiking in Holguín
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested hills, caves, and coastal trails with diverse wildlife and scenic viewpoints.
Popular ascent to a hilltop overlook offering panoramic views of Holguín.
Cliffside and shoreline hikes around the historic port town of Gibara.
Airports
How to reach Holguín by plane.
Main international and domestic gateway to Holguín, located about 25–30 minutes from the city center; taxis and shuttles are readily available.
Santiago de Cuba International Airport; serves the broader eastern region and can be used for connections when traveling between eastern cities, though it is farther from Holguín.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Afro-Cuban and European heritage, with a strong sense of community and family life.
Visitors from North America, Europe, and beyond staying in hotels or guesthouses and exploring beaches and cultural sites.
Young people in universities and tourism-related jobs, contributing to a lively urban culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Cuba, with local leagues and community games widely followed.
A traditional Cuban sport with a rich history and accessible gyms for visitors who want a quick workout.
Growing interest with local clubs and pickup matches in public spaces.
Common in schools and on community courts, often played casually on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Holguín.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist by focusing on beans, rice, plantains, vegetables, and fruit; request dishes without meat or with cheese and eggs when available.