Things To Do
in San Antonio de los Baños
San Antonio de los Baños is a small town just west of Havana known for its artistic vibe and colorful colonial streets. The town blends a relaxed rural atmosphere with a lively cultural scene, including studios, galleries, and small performances. Its leafy avenues, friendly locals, and proximity to Havana make it a convenient escape without leaving the capital region.
Surrounded by farmland and rolling hills, SAB offers easy access to nature and history while preserving a distinctly intimate Cuban charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in San Antonio de los Baños and check into your quaint local accommodation. After settling in, take a leisurely stroll around the town, soaking in the vibrant local culture and colorful architecture. Visit the bustling local market to get a sense of the everyday life of the residents.
Enjoy a traditional Cuban lunch at a nearby paladar, where you can savor authentic dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Post-lunch, head to the nearby Parque Central to relax under the shade of palm trees and watch local street performances. Engage with friendly locals to learn more about their stories and experiences.
As the sun begins to set, find a spot to appreciate the golden hour over the town. Savor dinner at a restaurant known for its lively atmosphere and Cuban cuisine. End your night by visiting a local bar to enjoy some live music and maybe even join in on dancing with the locals.
Begin your day with a visit to the local art galleries showcasing works from Cuban artists. Spend time at the Casa de la Cultura, where you can see and learn about traditional Cuban art. Participate in a workshop if available, to get hands-on experience of local crafts.
For lunch, opt for a quick bite at a local café, enjoying a refreshing drink to beat the heat. Afterward, take a historical walking tour to uncover the stories of iconic landmarks in San Antonio de los Baños. Enjoy the beautiful murals that tell the tale of Cuban history.
Dine at a rooftop restaurant where you can witness panoramic views of the town as night falls. Attend a cultural performance if available, featuring traditional Cuban music and dance. Wind down the evening by enjoying a stroll through the lively streets, basking in the cheerful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-15 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $0.75-2 |
| 🚖Short local taxi ride | $1-3 |
| 🏨Casa particular per night | $20-40 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs and crafts | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant arts scene and close-knit community
- Proximity to Havana with a quieter base for day trips
- Walkable town center and friendly locals
- Access to nearby forests, valleys, and coffee plantations
- Limited English in some parts; Portuguese/Spanish language barrier can exist
- Internet access can be spotty and slower than urban centers
- Currency and pricing can be confusing for first-time visitors
- Infrastructure in rural areas can be basic; plan ahead for supplies
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Ayúdame, por favor" - Help me, please
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers / Bless you
- "Buenas noches" - Good evening
Places to Visit in San Antonio de los Baños
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful colonial façades, locals going about daily life, and a lively street atmosphere make this plaza a classic Cuban photography moment.
Street art and wall murals along the main streets provide vibrant backdrops for portrait and architectural shots.
The façade of the historic cinema offers nostalgic charm and good lighting at dusk for architectural photography.
Early morning market scenes with produce pallets, vendors arranging stalls, and the soft light of morning.
Food in San Antonio de los Baños
San Antonio de los Baños Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded beef in a tomato-caper sauce, typically served with rice and black beans.
Must-Try!
One-pot chicken and rice with vegetables and saffron-like color; a Cuban staple found in many casa menus.
Boiled cassava with garlicky citrus mojo; a common side dish or light main for vegetarians.
Roasted pork or grilled chicken with citrusy marinades; often accompanied by plantains and salad.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A working market where locals buy produce, herbs, and occasionally prepared snacks; great for tasting fresh Cuban fruit and street bites.
Frituras, croquetas, tostones, and empanadillas appear around the plaza in the afternoons; grab a quick bite and chat with vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm “Buenos días/tarde” and a handshake; address older people as señor/señora until invited to use first names.
Always ask before photographing people or private spaces; a simple, polite request is best.
Conversations can be lively and social; take time to chat and avoid rushing service in eateries; politeness matters.
Safety
Tipping in San Antonio de los Baños
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping 5–10% in restaurants and casas particulares is appreciated; small tips for service in casual venues are common practice.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect plenty of sunny days with comfortable highs and low rainfall; ideal for outdoor explorations and photography tours around town.
Humidity is higher and afternoon showers are common; plan optional indoor cultural activities and carry a light rain layer and mosquito repellent.
San Antonio de los Baños at Night
Hiking in San Antonio de los Baños
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails through coffee plantations and subtropical woodland with viewpoints over valleys; a popular day trip from SAB.
Rugged hillside routes and rural paths offering scenic overlooks and opportunities to see rural Cuban life up close.
Airports
How to reach San Antonio de los Baños by plane.
Havana’s main international gateway; about 40–60 minutes by car to San Antonio, depending on traffic. Taxis or pre-arranged transfers are common options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Cuban families with strong community ties and an active arts scene.
A growing group of local artists, craftspeople, and students contributing to SAB’s creative environment.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The national pastime with local leagues and casual street games observed around town.
Popular team sports with local clubs and pickup games in parks and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Antonio de los Baños.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for dishes featuring beans, rice, yucca, plantains, and salads. Request oil instead of lard and confirm no meat stock in sauces.