15 Unforgettable Places to Visit in Cuba

Your trip to Cuba should be so much more than just tracing the well-worn tourist path. There are countless unforgettable places to visit in Cuba that most visitors never get to see. From hidden beaches and waterfalls to historic sites and energizing cities, you’ll find it all here; Cuba has much more to offer than most Caribbean island destinations.

In this (local!) guide to the best places to visit in Cuba, we’re sharing the spots that we continue to return to – the ones that are well worth inclusion on your Cuba itinerary. We’ve included everything from the best cities in Cuba to the best beaches that Cuba has to offer and narrowed them all down to help you find the perfect spots for your trip.

Places To Visit in Cuba

As the largest island in the Caribbean, you’d be surprised to learn how large Cuba is – and how much it has to offer travelers.

From soaring mountains and hidden jungle waterfalls to its well-known white-sand beaches with crystal-clear water, there are countless unforgettable places to visit in Cuba. These are our favorites, the ones we recommend to all travelers.

1. Havana

You can’t come to Cuba without visiting Havana. This is the beating heart of Cuba, filled with history, culture, art, and countless things to do and see that you just don’t want to miss.

Read More: Ultimate Travel Guide to Havana, Cuba (From A Local!)

While there are truly endless things to do in Havana, these are just some of the highlights that we recommend to all visitors:

• Check out the Fábrica de Arte Cubano, a mixed-used arts and performance space beloved by everyone from Anthony Bourdain and Questlove to Michelle Obama, and names one of Time Magazine’s World’s 100 Greatest Places.
• Explore Old Havana
• Walk the Malecón sea wall
• Visit Clandestina and grab coffee and brunch at El Cafe, just around the corner
• Learn about the Cuban Revolution at the Museo de la Revolución and Plaza de la Revolución 

Havana offers much more to its visitors than just the vintage car show on constant display in the streets that you may have in mind when visiting. If you spend a few days in Havana exploring the city, you’ll be able to do the best of the city. 

If you’re tempted to skip Havana and just fly right into Varadero (or another beach resort spot on the island) for your vacation, consider adding a day or two in Havana to your itinerary. You’ll fall in love with this fascinating city and its people. 

2. Trinidad

Trinidad is a popular “second city” for visitors to Cuba looking for more places to visit in Cuba beyond Havana – and is easily one of the best cities to visit in Cuba.

While often overshadowed by Havana, Trinidad can easily stand on its own as an unforgettable destination in Cuba. It’s a gem that far too few Caribbean travelers get to experience.

Read More: Ultimate Travel Guide to Trinidad, Cuba

While there is plenty to love about Trinidad, the city is best known for its stunning historic center. With beautiful cobblestone streets, historic churches, and impressive colonial architecture, it’s truly impressive, and well worth spending a few hours exploring, even if you’ve just been to Havana.

Trinidad is also a great base for exploring some of southern Cuba’s most impressive and memorable sites. Nearby you’ll find the stunning Escambray mountains, with the Topes de Collantes area, filled with waterfall hikes and stunning views.

To the east, the Valle de los Ingenios is the best place to learn more about Cuba’s important role as a sugar producer in the colonial days, and visitors can explore historic plantations in the lush valleys while learning about the history of the area.

You also won’t want to skip Playa Ancón, just a few minutes south of Trinidad and considered the nicest beach on Cuba’s southern coast.

3. Cayo Largo del Sur

Have you heard of this stunning beach destination in Cuba? Though Cayo Largo del Sur might not be the first destination you think of when considering where to hit the beach in Cuba, it’s one of the best places to visit in Cuba for a dreamy beach escape.

Cayo Largo del Sur is a skinny strip of an island (one of the thousands of tiny cays in Cuba) located off the southern coast of Cuba, close to Isla de la Juventud, best known for the pure white sand and crystal clear waters.

The beaches that line the southern and western edges of the island are easily among Cuba’s best – Playa Sirena on the west side of the island and Playa Blanca and Playa Larga are each better than the best.

While there isn’t much to the island other than resorts, beaches, and some of Cuba’s best spots for snorkeling, diving, and deep-sea fishing, this is the perfect destination for a relaxing beach vacation. While it may be a bit harder to reach than the beaches in Guardalavaca and Cuba’s northern cays, don’t count it out – for in-the-know travelers, it’s a true gem.

4. Jardines de la Reina

If you’re a diver, you’ve almost certainly heard of Jardines de la Reina. Known as one of the most protected areas of the Caribbean Sea, this national park to the south of Cuba is known as a haven for unique corals, beautiful tropical fish, undersea landscapes like caves and canyons, and several varieties of sharks.

Not a professional diver? Jardines de la Reina still has a lot to offer visitors of all levels of dive experience – and even those not interested in diving at all. The area is also beloved for its sport fishing – it was one of Fidel Castro’s favorite fishing spots in Cuba – though it is exclusively a catch-and-release area.

The tiny cays throughout the area are home to mangroves and tiny hidden beaches that make for a great few hours of rest and relaxation among pristine nature. If you venture to this stunning area of Cuba, you’re in for a treat.

5. Varadero

Voted year after year as one of TripAdvisor’s Best Beaches in the World, Varadero is a stunning white-sand beach just two hours east of Havana, and an easy choice for one of the best places to visit in Cuba for a beach getaway.

If you’re looking for somewhere off the beaten path, Varadero is not it; this is by far Cuba’s most popular beach destination, both with international travelers and Cubans looking for a beach escape. However, Varadero is also the most convenient place for a beach getaway in Cuba.

Plenty of apartment and house rentals, resorts, restaurants, bars, and easy transportation means there is plenty to do in Varadero whether you’re planning on staying for just one night or an entire week.

While Varadero is home to several resorts, the 16 km of white-sand beach that runs the length of this unique peninsula are easily accessible and public, meaning that even on the busiest beach day, you’ll be able to find a space for some peace and quiet if that’s what you’re looking for.

If you’re looking for more excitement, choose a spot near the restaurants and bars near the beach. Or, even get a day pass at a hotel to make the most of the activities and amenities here. Nearby activities include snorkeling and diving, or a bit further inland you can explore even explore caves with underground swimming holes. You’ll be surprised how much Varadero has to offer.

Read More: Ultimate Travel Guide to Varadero, Cuba

6. Viñales

While the stunning Valley of Viñales is a favorite day trip from Havana, don’t limit yourself to just a few hours in this incredible place to visit in Cuba. One of the most stunning natural spots in the interior of Cuba, Viñales is a must-visit destination for any traveler in Cuba.

Viñales is best known for its impressive limestone “karsts,” jutting out from the ground like sheer-faced mountains, giving the lush valleys an impressive and completely unique to anything you’ve seen.

Make sure to get a sunrise view over the valley with breakfast and Cuban coffee at Balcón del Valle; morning haze lifts over the valley to reveal the stunning view of the unique landscape.

Other than being beautiful, Viñales is also known for being home to Cuba’s best tobacco plantations, so a visit to these family-owned farms to learn about one of Cuba’s most famous exports is a must. You can explore the farms on horseback or by hiking through the valley.

In fact, Viñales is one of the best destinations for hiking in Cuba, with countless trails through the national park. Visitors can even explore caves hidden in the mountains, making an excellent break from an amazing hike.

Read More: Ultimate Travel Guide to Viñales, Cuba

7. Cayo Guillermo

Cuba’s northern central coast is rimmed with stunning white-sand cays, many of which are famous for their resorts and pristine beaches. While you’ll have your choice of fantastic beach destinations in this area of central Cuba, one of the best places to visit in Cuba in this amazing region is Cayo Guillermo.

This tiny cay is one of the most underrated Caribbean islands and was memorialized by Ernest Hemingway in his last novel, Islands in the Stream, for its stunning turquoise waters and beautiful beaches. Cayo Guillermo’s most beautiful beach, Playa Pilar, is named after the writer’s yacht.

It is easily accessible from the Jardines del Rey Airport on neighboring Cayo Coco, or from the nearby provincial capital city of Ciego de Ávila. Whether traveling by bus, shared taxi, or plane, you’ll have your choice of transport options.

Are you looking for an adults-only vacation in the area? Head to the resorts of neighboring Cayo Coco instead – you’ll find similarly beautiful beaches, but many of the resorts on this larger cay are adults-only.

8. Guardalavaca

Would it surprise you to learn that the province of Holguin is one of the most popular places to visit in Cuba? Home to the stunning beaches of Guardalavaca and other white-sand spots like Playa Pesquero and Playa Esmeraldas, this area boasts some of the best beaches in Cuba, and more stunning resorts than you can count.

Just about an hour from the province’s capital city of Holguin, Guardalavaca is the most popular beach city in the area. Whether you’re staying at one of the nearby resorts or a budget-friendly apartment or beach house rental closer to town, you’ll likely travel through this small and accessible city, which has all the amenities you’ll need for an easy trip.

While Cuba’s northern cays generally are too expensive for backpackers or budget travelers, Guardalavaca and its nearby beaches can be a bit more a budget option, without sacrificing the stunning and relaxing beach experience you’re looking for.

Along with Varadero, Guardalavaca one of the best places to visit in Cuba for a budget-friendly white sand experience – it’s much more affordable than an escape to one of Cuba’s cays.

Read More: Ultimate Guide to Holguin Province and the Beaches of Guardalavaca

9. Baracoa

Known as the “First City” of Cuba, the tiny city of Baracoa in Cuba’s far east is a stunning spot, boasting plenty to draw visitors to this relatively remote spot.

With a charming, historical town, great beaches, and lush, mountainous surroundings so beautiful Christopher Columbus wrote about them in his journals, Baracoa is an unforgettable travel destination.

Would you believe that Baracoa was only accessible to the rest of Cuba after the Cuban Revolution when a road was built to the town from Santiago de Cuba in the 1960s? Until then, the historic city was only accessible by boat, the dense jungles impenetrable.

One of the most popular activities for visitors is hiking El Yunque; this anvil-shaped table mountain is a distinctive feature of the area’s “skyline,” and makes for a great day trip to appreciate the lush jungles around the city. It’s one of the best destinations in Cuba for hiking.

The hike isn’t too challenging, though if you’re traveling in the rainy summertime, trails will be muddy. Excursions will lead you through the national park, where you’ll discover hidden waterfalls with swimming holes, and to tiny mountain “restaurants” where locals will cook the most delicious meals you’ll try in Cuba. It’s an unforgettable excursion.

Read More: Baracoa, Cuba: Ultimate Travel Guide

10. Alejandro de Humboldt National Park

Just outside of Baracoa, no trip to the area is complete without a visit to the impressive Alejandro de Humboldt National Park, considered by UNESCO as “one of the most biologically diverse tropical island sites on earth.”

The park is massive, and visitors must enter with a guide, though this is the best way to see the very best of this massive and unique area. You’ll get the chance to see animals, insects, and tons of flora and fauna endemic to Cuba, while enjoying stunning vistas wherever you look.

Excursions from Baracoa are one of the most popular ways to visit the park, though dedicated multi-day tours from other parts of Cuba are available as well. 

11. Pico Turquino

When you think of visiting a Caribbean island, you probably don’t think of climbing mountains. However, climbing Pico Turquino – the highest point in Cuba – is a great, unique addition to a Cuba itinerary.

Covered with lush jungles, trekkers will enjoy views along the way. The hike is moderately difficult, and though steep and potentially muddy at parts, is not a technically challenging climb.

Hiking Pico Turquino also provides a unique experience to learn about the history of Cuba you won’t get in many other hiking excursions. Hikers climbing Pico Turquino from the trails to the north of the mountain can stop off at the Comandancia de la Plata, one of the most important spots in Cuba’s revolutionary history.

This mountain camp of Fidel Castro, Che Guevara, and other revolutionaries was used as a base from which to launch early attacks on the Cuban government.

Visitors can see the radio station revolutionaries used to broadcast their messages across the island, Che Guevara’s field hospital (he was a trained doctor!) and barracks. Its a fascinating break from this unique hike.

Read More: Pico Turquino + the Best Hiking Destinations in Cuba

12. Santiago de Cuba

As the lively eastern capital of Cuba, Santiago de Cuba is a vibrant city with historic architecture and plenty of unique cultural events, and is home to many of Cuba’s world-famous musical traditions.

Make sure to visit the colonial fortress Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca, lauded by UNESCO as “the most complete, best-preserved example of Spanish-American military architecture.” The architecture is impressive, and the ocean views from the top of the fortress are stunning

The city is also home to many Afro-Cuban residents, many of whom practice santería. This religious tradition syncretized the Catholic religion of Spanish colonizers with African religions brought over with enslaved peoples. It is widely practiced across the island, though it’s particularly popular in Santiago.

If you’re interested in learning more about these traditions, Santiago de Cuba is the place to visit. You can see countless activities and events celebrating these traditions, including the famous Carnival of Santiago de Cuba.

Read More: Santiago de Cuba: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide

13. Ciénaga de Zapata

For those looking for a unique experience while visiting Cuba, consider adding a trip to Ciénaga de Zapata to your itinerary. Located along Cuba’s southern coast, this protected natural area is home to countless species of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to Cuba.

Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and exploring mangrove forests, as well as spotting birds, Cuban crocodiles, flamingos, and more. The area is home to a wildlife refuge and other unique protected areas.

Most visitors also take advantage of a trip to nearby southern coast beaches or head onward to Cienfuegos or Trinidad.

14. Playa Girón

If you’ve never heard of Playa Girón, maybe you’ll recognize it by its other name – Bahia de los Cochinos, or in English, Bay of Pigs. Despite its unique and dark place in Cuba’s history, this coastal town has plenty to offer travelers to earn it a spot among the best places to visit in Cuba.

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path spot with cool, hidden swimming holes, plenty of opportunities to connect with locals, and well located to reach other awesome destinations in Cuba, Playa Girón is one of the best cities in Cuba for you.

Located on Cuba’s southern coast, Playa Girón is also excellent to pair with a trip to Ciénaga de Zapata. It is home to stunningly clear water, unique beaches and swimming holes, and charming, affordable accommodations.

Make sure to check out Caleta Buena for great snorkeling among caves – though admission to the area is ticketed, lunch, beverages, and access to facilities are included. Cueva de los Peces is another great spot to visit for swimming and snorkeling, similar to the cenotes you’ll find in Mexico.

15. Cienfuegos

If you can’t get enough of the charming historic architecture you’ll find across Cuba, consider visiting Cienfuegos in central Cuba. This historic city has plenty of fine examples of stunning colonial architecture while maintaining a laid-back and relaxed vibe you won’t find in Havana and Trinidad‘s busier and more touristed destinations.

Cienfuegos is also a great destination from which to explore the nearby Escambray mountains, home to lush jungles with coffee plantations and stunning waterfall hikes like the famous El Nicho.

Easily combined with a trip to Trinidad, Ciénaga de Zapata, or Playa Girón, this lovely city is an easy choice when considering the best places to visit in Cuba.

Read More: 10 Best Things To Do in Cienfuegos