Overview
Cuba is a country like no other – a vibrant mix of history, colour, rhythm, and resilience. Situated in the heart of the Caribbean, this island nation is famous for its classic cars, colonial cities, salsa music, and warm, welcoming people.
Walking the streets of Havana feels like stepping back in time, with pastel-coloured buildings, retro Cadillacs cruising by, and the sound of live music pouring from every corner café.
Cuba’s rich history blends indigenous roots, African culture, and Spanish colonial influence, creating a unique identity that shines through in everything from its art and architecture to its cuisine.
Whether you’re exploring tobacco farms in Viñales, dancing the night away in Trinidad, or simply relaxing on the white sands of Varadero, Cuba offers something truly special for every type of traveller.
📍 Top Places to Visit:
- Havana – The capital city with colourful architecture, history, and live music on every corner.
- Viñales – Known for its lush tobacco farms and dramatic limestone cliffs
- Trinidad – A beautifully preserved colonial town with cobbled streets and a vibrant music scene.
- Varadero – Home to one of Cuba’s most stunning beaches and popular for all-inclusive resorts.
- Cienfuegos – Often called the “Pearl of the South”, known for its French-inspired architecture.
- Santa Clara – A city steeped in revolutionary history and home to Che Guevara’s mausoleum.
📅 Best Time to Visit:
- Dry Season (November to April) – The best time for sunny skies and beach weather.
- Wet Season (May to October) – Expect occasional downpours, but fewer tourists and lush green landscapes.
💰 Currency & Budget Tips:
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Currency: Cuban Peso (CUP); however USD or EUR are the preferred currencies.
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Bring cash – ATMs can be unreliable and foreign cards may not always work. Card payments are not accepted outside of large hotels.
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Eat at local “paladares” (family-run restaurants) for affordable, authentic meals.
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Avoid tourist traps when it comes to taxis – always agree on a price in advance.
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🧳 Good For:
- Culture and music lovers
- History buffs
- Adventure and nature seekers
- Off-the-beaten-track travellers
- Solo Travellers
🍽️ Local Dishes to Try:
- Ropa Vieja – Shredded beef slow-cooked in a tomato-based sauce, often served with rice and plantains.
- Tostones – Fried green plantains, crispy and savoury.
- Moros y Cristianos – Black beans and white rice, a Cuban staple.
- Cuban Sandwich – A toasted sandwich with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, mustard, and pickles.
- Flan – Creamy caramel dessert often served in local paladares.
- Malanga Frita – Thinly sliced or mashed taro, fried until crispy – a delicious alternative to fries with a unique nutty flavour.
✈️ How to Get There:
- Major Airport: José Martí International Airport (HAV) in Havana
- From the UK: Direct flights operate from London to Havana (around 10 hours)
🚍 Getting Around:
- Coco taxis and classic American cars are popular in cities like Havana.
- Viazul buses offer affordable travel between major towns.
- Private drivers can be arranged for more flexibility, especially when travelling between cities.
🌍 Language & Local Etiquette:
- Language: Spanish; English is limited, so basic Spanish phrases will go a long way.
- Cubans are warm and expressive – a friendly “hola” is always appreciated.
- Tipping is expected in tourist areas – around 10% in restaurants is customary.
- Internet access is limited; prepare to unplug and enjoy the experience.
My Cuba Highlights
Cuba completely stole my heart – it’s vibrant, soulful, and like nowhere else I’ve ever visited. There’s a rhythm to life here that’s hard to explain until you’re in the middle of it: colourful colonial buildings, the sound of salsa spilling onto the streets, classic cars cruising past palm-lined avenues, and locals dancing like nobody’s watching.
I travelled as part of a small group tour with G Adventures, and I’m so glad I did. I opted for the Cuba Explorer, a 9 day drip that covered off all the highlights. It made getting around easy and hassle-free, especially in a country where infrastructure can be limited and things don’t always run to schedule. Travelling with a local guide meant we could navigate the more complex logistics, like currency and transport, while also learning so much more about Cuban culture and history from someone who lives it. Plus, having a ready-made group of like-minded travellers was a great way to share the adventure.
Some of the standout places we visited included:
Havana – a city full of character and contradictions. From wandering the crumbling-yet-charming streets of Old Havana to sipping mojitos in Hemingway’s favourite bar, there’s something magical about the capital.
Viñales Valley – one of the most scenic places I’ve ever been, with lush green tobacco fields, limestone cliffs, and horseback rides through the countryside. We also visited a tobacco farm and saw how Cuban cigars are made.
Trinidad – a colonial gem with cobbled streets and colourful facades. We explored local markets, danced the night away to live music, and even had a salsa lesson.
Cienfuegos & Santa Clara – both offered a mix of revolutionary history and coastal charm, with plenty of stories to discover along the way.
One of the most memorable parts of the trip was staying in Casa Particulares—local homestays run by Cuban families. It gave a really authentic insight into everyday life and made the trip feel even more personal and meaningful.
That said, Cuba isn’t always the easiest place to travel. Power cuts, limited Wi-Fi, and food shortages are all part of the experience. But if you lower your expectations and travel with an open mind, you’ll be rewarded with some of the warmest hospitality, most unique experiences, and the kind of travel memories that really stay with you.
Cuba is not just a destination – it’s a feeling. And I’m so glad I got to experience it.
Ready to experience Cuba?
If you’re craving a unique adventure that blends history, culture, music, and unforgettable landscapes, joining a group tour is one of the best ways to dive in. It takes the stress out of planning and helps you experience the real Cuba, with the support of local guides and like-minded travellers by your side.
I personally took a 9-day group tour exploring Havana, Trinidad, Viñales, and more – it was the perfect way to see the highlights while immersing myself in Cuban life. The tour structure allowed for both organised activities and free time, and it’s a trip I’ll never forget.
I’d love to help you organise a trip of your own, or use my affiliate link to book onto the same tour that I took!
👇 Request a quote or get in touch and let’s start planning your unforgettable Cuban escape.
