Vintage cars and people on vibrant Havana street.

Reasons to Visit Cuba

Cuba is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are a few compelling reasons to visit this extraordinary country:

  1. Rich History: Cuba is steeped in history, with its colonial architecture, vintage cars, and revolutionary heritage. Explore the cobblestone streets of Havana’s Old Town, visit the historic site of the Bay of Pigs, or immerse yourself in the revolutionary spirit at the Museum of the Revolution.
  2. Beautiful Beaches: With its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Cuba is a paradise for beach lovers. From the popular resorts of Varadero to the secluded shores of Cayo Coco, you’ll find a beach to suit every taste.
  3. Vibrant Culture: Experience the lively music and dance scene in Cuba, where salsa rhythms fill the air and vibrant street performances bring the cities to life. Don’t miss the chance to visit local art galleries, indulge in delicious Cuban cuisine, and interact with the friendly locals.
  4. Unspoiled Nature: Cuba is home to stunning natural landscapes, from lush tobacco fields in Viñales to the dramatic mountains of the Sierra Maestra. Explore the breathtaking Viñales Valley, hike in the Topes de Collantes National Park, or dive into the colorful underwater world of the Jardines del Rey archipelago.
Colorful artistic portrayal of vibrant Cuban culture and landmarks.

Best Time to Visit Cuba

Weather

Cuba has about the same temperatures all over its surface. The south-eastern part of the island, where the city of Santiago de Cuba is located, only enjoys the highest temperatures a little longer. Thus, mild temperatures, which are between 24°C and 28°C, settle in the western part of the island (where Havana is located) from November to March. They give way to the highest temperatures, 30°C on average, from April to October.

The eastern part of the island benefits from mild temperatures in January and February and the thermometer shows higher temperatures from March to December.

Tropical beach paradise with palm trees and clear blue water.

Touristic Seasons

Cuba experiences two main touristic seasons:

Holidays

Cuba celebrates several holidays and festive days throughout the year. These events offer a unique opportunity to experience the country’s rich culture and traditions. Here are some of the main events:

Festive Days

Main Events

Here’s a calendar of the main events and festivals in Cuba month by month:

These are just a few examples of the many events and festivals that take place in Cuba throughout the year. Be sure to check the specific dates and locations closer to your travel dates for an up-to-date calendar of events.

Circuit Ideas in Cuba

Whether you have a weekend, a week, or a month to spare, Cuba offers a variety of circuit ideas to suit different travel durations. Here are some suggested itineraries:

Illustrated vintage map of Cuba with landmarks and ships.

1 Weekend in Cuba

1 Week in Cuba

10 Days in Cuba

adero and enjoy some relaxation by the sea.

2 Weeks in Cuba

3 Weeks in Cuba

1 Month in Cuba

Places to Visit in Cuba

Must-See

Cuba is home to numerous remarkable destinations. Here are ten must-see places to visit:

  1. Havana: Explore the captivating capital city with its vibrant neighborhoods, historic sites, and lively music scene.
  2. Viñales: Discover the picturesque tobacco fields, limestone mogotes, and underground caves in this scenic valley.
  3. Trinidad: Step back in time as you wander through the well-preserved colonial streets and enjoy the vibrant music scene.
  4. Cienfuegos: Admire the elegant French-inspired architecture and visit the stunning Palacio de Valle.
  5. Varadero: Relax on the pristine white-sand beaches and swim in the crystal-clear waters of this popular resort town.
  6. Santiago de Cuba: Immerse yourself in the Afro-Cuban culture, explore historic sites, and visit the famous Castillo del Morro.
  7. Camagüey: Get lost in the labyrinthine streets of this charming city known for its well-preserved colonial architecture.
  8. Baracoa: Visit the oldest city in Cuba, surrounded by lush mountains and pristine beaches.
  9. Topes de Collantes: Explore the stunning national park with its lush forests, hiking trails, and waterfalls.
  10. Holguin: Discover the picturesque beaches of Guardalavaca and explore the vibrant city known as the “City of Parks.”
Illustrative travel poster of Cuba's landmarks and natural beauty.

Off the Beaten Track

For those seeking unique and less-touristy experiences, here are ten off-the-beaten-track spots to visit:

  1. Gibara: A quaint coastal town known for its colonial architecture and the annual Cine Pobre Film Festival.
  2. Soroa: Explore the enchanting orchid gardens and hike to the stunning Soroa Waterfall.
  3. Las Terrazas: Discover the sustainable community nestled in the Sierra del Rosario, offering eco-tourism activities and natural beauty.
  4. Matanzas: Known as the “Athens of Cuba,” this city boasts beautiful neoclassical architecture and a thriving arts scene.
  5. Cayo Levisa: Escape to this secluded island paradise, known for its pristine beaches and excellent diving spots.
  6. Guanahacabibes Peninsula: Explore the untouched natural beauty of this biosphere reserve, home to diverse flora and fauna.
  7. Santa Clara: Visit the Che Guevara Mausoleum and Museum and learn about the iconic revolutionary’s life and legacy.
  8. Pinar del Río: Discover the unspoiled beauty of the region, with its lush landscapes, tobacco fields, and dramatic mountains.
  9. Camilo Cienfuegos National Park: Go off the beaten track and explore this remote national park, perfect for nature lovers and hikers.
  10. Remedios: Experience the authentic charm of this colonial town and its lively Parrandas festival in December.

Budget for Traveling to Cuba

Traveling to Cuba can be affordable, but it’s important to plan your budget carefully. Here’s some information about the cost of things in the country:

Colorful illustrated travel map of Cuba with icons.

Hotels

Cuba offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly casas particulares (private homestays) to luxury hotels. Prices can vary depending on the location and the level of comfort you seek. On average, a night in a casa particular can cost between $25 to $50 USD, while mid-range hotels may range from $80 to $150 USD per night. Luxury hotels can cost upwards of $200 USD per night.

Meals

Cuban cuisine is known for its flavorful dishes and generous portions. Eating at local restaurants and paladares (privately owned restaurants) can be affordable. A typical meal at a local restaurant can cost between $5 to $15 USD per person, depending on the location and type of establishment. Fine dining experiences in upscale restaurants may cost around $30 USD or more per person.

Transportation

Excursions

Taking guided tours and excursions can enhance your Cuba travel experience. The cost of tours varies depending on the duration, location, and activities included. Day tours can range from $30 to $100 USD or more per person, while multi-day tours can cost $500 USD per day or more, depending on the itinerary and level of comfort.

Money in Cuba

Currency

Cuba has been using a single currency, the Cuban Peso (CUP), since January 1, 2021, when the government ended the dual currency system that had been in place for several decades. The CUP is the only legal currency in Cuba, used for all domestic transactions, wages, and goods and services.

Exchange rate

The exchange rate for foreign currencies is determined by the state-run CADECA (Casas de Cambio) exchange houses and may fluctuate depending on economic policies and conditions. Visitors to Cuba need to exchange their foreign currency for CUP at these official exchange houses, banks, or at the airport.

Paying

In Cuba, cash is king. Credit and debit cards issued by U.S. banks are generally not accepted due to the ongoing restrictions, so it’s important to carry enough cash with you for your expenses. Foreign currencies are preferable for tourist transactions including transport, excursions, and accommodation. Convert currencies for local transactions such as street food and markets.

Bustling street market with floating currency symbols and vintage car.

ATMs

Don’t rely on your card. Most ATMs do not accept foreign cards or may have limited cash availability. It’s advisable to carry enough cash with you or plan your ATM withdrawals accordingly. Moreover, you might encounter an exchange rate tenfold less favorable than that available on the street.

Cash

It’s recommended to carry cash in Cuba, as credit cards are not widely accepted. Euros, British pounds, Canadian dollars, and Swiss francs are commonly accepted and can be easily exchanged in Cuba. U.S. dollars are subject to an additional 10% exchange fee.

Haggling

Haggling is not common in Cuba, especially in official establishments like shops and restaurants. Prices are generally fixed, and attempts to negotiate may not be well-received. However, in some informal settings such as street markets, a friendly negotiation may be possible.

Tipping

Tipping is customary in Cuba, and it’s appreciated for good service. Here are some general guidelines on how much to give:

How much to give?

Restaurants & Bars

In restaurants and bars, it’s customary to leave a tip of 10% to 15% of the total bill, depending on the level of service. Some establishments may include a service charge in the bill, so it’s important to check before leaving an additional tip.

Before Leaving to Cuba

Visas and Entrance Requirements to Travel to Cuba

To enter Cuba, most travelers need a tourist visa, also known as a tourist card. The visa allows you to stay in Cuba for up to 30 days. You can obtain a tourist visa through your travel agency, airline, or Cuban consulate. It’s important to check the specific visa requirements for your country of citizenship and ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.

Hands holding passports over travel documents and accessories.

Useful Addresses

Here are some useful addresses and contacts for embassies in Cuba:

US Embassy in Cuba

Canadian Embassy in Cuba

UK Embassy in Cuba

French Embassy in Cuba

Swiss Embassy in Cuba

Belgium Embassy in Cuba

Vaccines

Generally, no specific vaccines are required to enter Cuba. However, it’s recommended to be up to date on routine vaccinations, including measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. It’s also advisable to consider vaccines for hepatitis A and typhoid, depending on your travel plans and personal health status. Before traveling to Cuba, it’s advisable to check the vaccination requirements for your country.

Health Recommendations

Tropical beach with health travel tips and medical supplies.

Packing List

Here are some essential items to include in your packing list for Cuba:

Colorful travel suitcase packed with vacation items, beach backdrop.

Safety in Cuba

Cuba is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s important to take standard safety precautions:

Travel-themed illustration with backpack and vacation accessories.

Useful Phone Numbers

In case of emergencies, here are some useful phone numbers to keep handy:

Practical Information

Traditions (Do’s and Don’ts)

Cuba has its unique traditions and cultural norms. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Phone, Wifi, Hour, Electricity

Phone

Wifi

Outdoor cafe with people using Wi-Fi, vintage cars.

Jet Lag

Cuba is in the Eastern Standard Time (EST) zone. If you’re traveling from New York, San Francisco, London, or Paris, here’s the time difference:

Fantasy travel-themed illustration with global landmarks and clock.

Electricity

Why make it simple when you can make it complicated? There are several types of electrical outlets in Cuba.

The standard voltage is 110V, although some hotels may have 220V outlets as well. The most common plug types are the flat two-prong plugs and the round two-prong plugs. It’s advisable to bring a universal travel adapter to ensure compatibility with different outlet types. Check your chargers to see if they are compatible with 110V.

Is the water drinkable in Cuba?

This is one of the most important questions for any vacation abroad: is the water drinkable? And as always in Cuba, the answer is never quite simple: yes… but no! We explain!

The theory

In theory, tap water is safe to drink in Cuba.
Cubans drink it, but some boil it beforehand.
However, tap water is known to have a bad taste.

The practice

In practice, it is advisable to avoid drinking tap water in Cuba.
It is better to use bottled mineral water instead.
However, a little tap water will not kill you.
If you are served a cocktail with ice cubes, don’t worry.
Especially since large hotels, bars and restaurants in tourist areas often use purified water.

Mineral water in Cuba

The most common brand of mineral water in Cuba (by far) is Ciego Montero. It is available in still and sparkling versions. (Ciego Montero even offers a local version of coca cola, among other sodas). A large bottle of water will cost you between 1 and 2 CUC on average.

Transport

Cuba offers various transportation options to get around the country:

Getting around by planes

Domestic flights are available between major cities and popular tourist destinations in Cuba. Cubana de Aviación and other local airlines operate regular flights.

Getting around in the cities

Long trips across the country

Vintage vehicles and landmarks illustrated map.

Buses

Train

Accommodation in Cuba

Cuba offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences:

Camping

BnBs

Luxurious tropical resort collage with pools and beach views.

Hostels

Hotels

Luxury Hotels

Lexicon in Spanish

Before traveling to Cuba, it’s helpful to learn some basic Cuban Spanish phrases and expressions. Here are a few to get you started:

Vintage Cuban street scene with classic cars and architecture.

Cuba’s Slang

Basic Spanish phrases

Polite Formulas

Useful Expressions

Gastronomy

Cuban gastronomy offers a wide choice of tasty dishes where meat is particularly honoured.
Among the national specialties is the Picadillo, a delicious mixture of minced meat, garlic, onion and spices.

It is traditionally eaten with Moros y Cristianos, a dish of rice and black beans.
For those who want to try something new, try the crocodile meat that Cubans usually cook with spicy pineapple.

Speaking of pineapples, this fruit is a real institution in the country where it is cooked sweet, salty, spicy…

The Cuban-style stuffed pineapple is a dish that you absolutely must try.
As well as Ropa Vieja, a dish made of filamentous beef, simmered for a long time in a special broth.

For dessert, try the delicious Cuban flank, then finish your meal with a coffee that the locals like very strong and very sweet.

Lovers of full-bodied drinks will find their happiness with the local rum and tasty cocktails, including the unmissable Mojito and Cuba Libre.

Vibrant street market scene with fresh fruit and grill.
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About the author

At the helm of Remote Expeditions, Tristan adeptly combines exploration, photography, tour design, web development, and tour leadership, encapsulating the essence of a versatile travel entrepreneur. His mission is to offer a limited number of high-quality tours each year, ensuring an unparalleled travel experience steering clear of mass tourism. He aims to guide you towards the true essence of each destination, facilitating a deep connection with both nature and yourself.