Things To Do
in Las Tunas
Las Tunas (officially Victoria de Las Tunas) is the capital city of Las Tunas Province in eastern Cuba, known for its relaxed pace, friendly people and emerging cultural scene. The city combines low-rise urban blocks, colorful facades and public sculptures with easy access to nearby beaches and rural landscapes. It has a growing arts scene, lively music venues and a strong baseball culture that gives visitors a local flavor distinct from larger Cuban cities.
Las Tunas is a good base for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path Cuban experience with authentic street life and approachable local tourism services.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of Las Tunas, where you can admire the colonial architecture and colorful buildings. Visit the Plaza de la Revolución, a central hub filled with local artists and vendors showcasing their crafts. Don't miss the chance to grab a traditional Cuban breakfast at a nearby café, featuring fresh bread and strong coffee.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Museo Provincial de Las Tunas, where you can learn about the city's history and heritage through engaging exhibits. Afterward, take a walk to the nearby Parque José Marti, where you can relax under the shade of the trees and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Stop by a local market to sample some fresh tropical fruits and snacks while mingling with friendly locals.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant to savor authentic Cuban cuisine, such as ropa vieja or lechón asado, paired with traditional music performances. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the historic streets, soaking in the ambiance as the city lights illuminate the colonial facades. End your evening with a visit to a local bar for a refreshing mojito while enjoying live music.
Kick off your beach day with a scenic drive to Playa Covarrubias, known for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. Upon arrival, find a cozy spot on the beach and soak in the sun, enjoying the sound of the waves lapping against the shore. If you're feeling adventurous, rent snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life.
In the afternoon, indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at one of the beachside eateries, where you can taste freshly caught fish and shellfish. Afterward, take part in various water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the coastline from a different perspective. Spend some time lounging in a hammock, enjoying the gentle ocean breeze while sipping on a refreshing coconut drink.
As the day winds down, witness a stunning Caribbean sunset that paints the sky in hues of orange and pink. Enjoy a beach bonfire with locals, sharing stories and laughter while roasting marshmallows. Cap off the night with a stroll along the shore, listening to the soothing sound of the waves under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-12 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $0.50-2 |
| 🧾Local bus or short taxi | $0.25-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range private room (paladar/homestay) | $25-60 per night |
| 🥤Bottle of water | $0.50-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic, low-tourist atmosphere and friendly locals
- Affordable food and accommodation compared with major Cuban cities
- Strong local culture—music, arts and baseball
- Good access to quiet beaches and rural landscapes
- Limited tourist infrastructure and fewer services than Havana or Varadero
- Restricted payment options—cash is necessary
- Fewer direct flights and longer land transfers from major airports
- Possible language barrier if you don't speak Spanish
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hi, how are you?
- "Buenos días / Buenas tardes" - Good morning / Good afternoon
- "Por favor / Gracias" - Please / Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Una cerveza, por favor" - A beer, please
- "No entiendo" - I don't understand
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Las Tunas
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic urban spot with stately buildings, daily life scenes and people gathering—great for street and architectural photography.
Low-rise blocks with painted facades, doors and balconies offer vivid portraits and detail shots of Cuban urban life.
Beaches, fishermen, small piers and sunsets provide scenic maritime images a short trip from the city.
Bustling stalls with produce, sellers and shoppers create candid opportunities for vibrant market photography.
Photographing a local baseball game captures high-energy action, passionate fans and an essential part of local culture.
Food in Las Tunas
Las Tunas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded beef stewed in a tomato and pepper sauce; a Cuban classic commonly found in local restaurants and paladares.
Must-Try!
Chicken and rice seasoned with local spices; widely available and a comforting everyday dish.
Plantains served either green and twice-fried (tostones) or sweet and caramelized (maduros); a common side dish at most places.
At coastal towns near Las Tunas, look for fish, shrimp and octopus prepared simply—grilled or fried—often sold at beach stands or small eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open-air markets sell seasonal fruit, root vegetables and eggs; great for sampling local fruit and inexpensive snacks.
Vendors near transport hubs and squares sell empanadas, fried snacks and sandwiches—perfect for a quick, cheap bite while exploring.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cubans value polite greetings: say hola or buenos días and a smile. Handshakes are common; among friends, a light kiss on the cheek may occur.
Avoid aggressive political debate with strangers; showing respect for local history and symbols is appreciated.
Dress casually but neatly in town; cover up at religious sites. Public displays of excessive wealth can attract unwanted attention.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in private or sensitive settings. Many locals are open to photos in public spaces if you ask politely.
Safety
Tipping in Las Tunas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but modest: around 10% in restaurants if service isn’t included, small amounts for porters, taxi drivers and guides; tipping in local currency (CUP) or small foreign bills is common.
Cash is king—carry enough local currency (CUP) and bring euros, Canadian dollars or small US bills for currency exchange and purchases. Credit and debit cards may have limited acceptance; many foreign-issued cards don’t work due to banking restrictions. MLC (hard-currency) cards are used in some stores—ask ahead if you plan to use cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers and occasional tropical storms; pack lightweight clothing, sun protection and plan outdoor activities for mornings or late afternoons.
Dry and more comfortable temperatures (still warm by many standards) with clearer skies—an ideal time for sightseeing and beach trips.
Runs roughly May to October with heavier rains and higher humidity; expect some travel disruptions and bring quick-drying gear and a rain jacket.
June to November is hurricane season; monitor weather forecasts, register travel plans with your embassy if concerned, and have contingency plans for transport and accommodation changes.
Las Tunas at Night
Hiking in Las Tunas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy, scenic walks along beaches and mangroves—good for birdwatching, sunrise/sunset photography and gentle exploration.
Unmarked rural lanes and farm tracks around the province provide quiet walks to observe agriculture, local villages and open landscapes—bring a map or local guide.
Short hikes around local lagoons and wetlands offer opportunities to see waterbirds and native vegetation; wear suitable footwear for muddy sections.
Airports
How to reach Las Tunas by plane.
The nearest major airport serving international and domestic flights; about 1.5–2.5 hours' drive depending on the route and transport—commonly used to reach eastern Cuba.
A larger regional airport serving domestic and some international flights; roughly 2–3 hours by road from Las Tunas and an alternative arrival point.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The population is predominantly Cuban families involved in services, agriculture and small commerce; communities tend to be close-knit with strong neighborhood ties.
As a provincial capital, Las Tunas attracts students and cultural workers, contributing to a lively local arts scene.
Like many Cuban towns, there is a significant elderly population who maintain traditional customs and community roles.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is the most popular sport—Las Tunas' team (Leñadores de Las Tunas) attracts strong local support and games are lively community events.
Boxing and amateur combat sports are popular with strong local participation and occasional events.
Dominoes is a ubiquitous social pastime played in public spaces and among friends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Las Tunas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are growing but still limited. You can rely on rice, beans, plantains, salads and egg dishes; communicate dietary needs clearly in Spanish and be prepared to adapt menus.
Vegan choices are more limited; bring snacks and staples if you have strict requirements and ask cooks to omit cheese or eggs when possible.
Wheat-based products exist but many traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free (rice, beans, grilled meats/seafood). Clarify with vendors about flours and breading.