Things To Do
in San Juan y Martínez
San Juan y Martínez is a tobacco-rich municipality in western Cuba, tucked into the rolling hills of Pinar del Río. The town blends colonial-era architecture with a rustic, agricultural atmosphere and friendly, hospitable residents. You’ll encounter traditional tobacco farming, small family-run eateries, and a pace of life that invites slow exploration.
It’s a place to connect with Cuban culture away from the usual tourist hubs, with authentic experiences around every corner.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Plaza de la Revolución, where you can admire the stunning architecture and the vibrant atmosphere filled with locals and tourists alike. Stroll through the surrounding streets, stopping to appreciate the murals and historical monuments that tell the story of San Juan y Martínez. Grab a freshly brewed coffee at a local café, savoring the rich flavors while soaking in the morning sun.
After lunch, dive deeper into the town's history by visiting the Museo Municipal, where you can explore artifacts and exhibitions that highlight the cultural heritage of the area. Spend some time chatting with local artisans who often showcase their crafts in the plaza, gaining insight into the traditional techniques used in their work. As the afternoon unfolds, take a leisurely walk along the streets, soaking in the sights of colonial-era buildings and vibrant street art.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a local paladar, where you can taste authentic Cuban dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. After your meal, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the local music scene, with street performers and musicians showcasing their talents. End your evening by taking a stroll through the town square, where you can mingle with locals and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
Begin your day by visiting a local market, where you can witness the hustle and bustle of daily life in San Juan y Martínez. Engage with vendors selling fresh produce, homemade goods, and local crafts, and don't hesitate to sample some tropical fruits. After exploring the market, take a guided walking tour through the town, learning about its history and culture from knowledgeable locals.
In the afternoon, participate in a cooking class at a community center, where you can learn how to prepare classic Cuban dishes like Ropa Vieja or Moros y Cristianos. This hands-on experience will not only enhance your culinary skills but also provide you with insights into the cultural significance of food in Cuban society. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and share your meal with fellow participants, fostering a sense of community.
As night falls, head to a local theater to watch a performance showcasing traditional Cuban music and dance, immersing yourself in the vibrant cultural scene. After the show, explore nearby bars and cafés where you can mingle with locals over drinks and live music. End your evening by sharing stories with new friends and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $1-3 |
| 🥪Street food snack | $2-5 |
| 🥗Lunch for two | $12-20 |
| 🧳Small souvenir | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Cuban culture away from tourist crowds
- Friendly, hospitable locals and rich tobacco heritage
- Affordable experiences and rustic charm
- Accessible countryside and scenic photography opportunities
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Rural transport options can be irregular
- Internet access may be slower or more intermittent
- Some services and facilities may be basic in comparison to bigger cities
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta esto?" - How much does this cost?
- "Hablo un poco de español." - I speak a little Spanish.
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please.
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen lugar para comer?" - Can you recommend a good place to eat?
Places to Visit in San Juan y Martínez
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic plaza with colonial architecture, colorful facades, and brewing activity around the market—great for street photography and lively portraits.
Rows of curing barns and drying leaves with morning light creating warm tones; a quintessential tobacco landscape.
Curved roads flanked by patchwork fields and gentle hills—perfect for landscape shots and wide-angle compositions.
A small bridge over the river with golden-hour glow and reflections on the water, ideal for silhouettes and moody portraits.
Food in San Juan y Martínez
San Juan y Martínez Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded beef cooked with peppers, onions, and peppers, typically served with rice and black beans.
Must-Try!
A staple pairing of rice and black beans, often served with fried plantains and grilled pork.
Roast pork, commonly prepared for family gatherings and special occasions.
Fried green plantains (tostones) paired with cassava and a bright garlic mojo sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, and everyday ingredients; great for observing daily life and picking up snacks.
Empanadas, croquetas, roasted corn, and fried plantain snacks commonly sold by vendors along main streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Shakes hands are common; address people by titles and surnames. Avoid loud discussions about politics in casual settings.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in residential settings. If accepted, respect if someone declines.
In rural areas, modest dress is appreciated; beachwear is preferred for coastal spots only and not in town centers.
Safety
Tipping in San Juan y Martínez
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service; 5-10% at restaurants is common if a service charge isn’t included. Small tips to taxi drivers or guide moments are also customary.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated, wear light clothing, use sunscreen, and carry a hat. Thunderstorms can form quickly, so plan morning activities outdoors and have indoor options for the afternoons.
Dry season with milder temperatures and less rain; pleasant for daytime exploration but evenings can be cool; bring a light jacket and comfortable walking shoes.
Warm with moderate humidity; good for outdoor photography and farm visits, though sudden showers are possible.
Transition period with variable rain and comfortable daytime temperatures; ideal for scenic drives and countryside walks.
San Juan y Martínez at Night
Hiking in San Juan y Martínez
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, relaxed hike through rolling hills and terraces used for tobacco cultivation, offering landscape photos and birdwatching.
A gentle riverside route with shade trees and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
A short, easy trail that winds through farm lanes with viewpoints over fields and distant hills.
Airports
How to reach San Juan y Martínez by plane.
Main international gateway to Havana; typical route for travelers arriving from abroad, with onward travel to western Cuba by road or domestic flight.
Smaller international and domestic airport near Varadero; convenient for travelers continuing to western Cuba, though more limited in routes than HAV.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A predominantly Cuban population with strong ties to farming and tobacco production; a mix of urbano and rural communities with deep-rooted family networks and local traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A national pastime in Cuba; many locals engage in informal pick-up games and watch professional or school teams.
A traditional sport with local gyms and competitions; support for boxing talents exists in the broader region.
Amateur leagues and casual play among youth and communities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Juan y Martínez.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes are meat-based, so look for sides of rice and beans, plantains, yuca, vegetables, and fruit. Ask for “sin carne” or “sin cerdo” and request oil-free or dairy-free options when needed.