Top 10 Things to Do in Cuba When You Visit

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Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean. It is located only 100 miles from the southern tip of Florida. Though so close to the US, it offers a completely different world rich with its own history and culture. The country is famous for its rum, beautiful beaches, American vintage cars, and of course cigars. There is so much to do and see when visiting Cuba. When trying to figure out what to do on your visit to Cuba, it is important to mix both the city and rural experience in order to get a real feel for the country. With that in mind, check out below for the top 10 things to do in Cuba.

#10. Trinidad

If you love architecture and history, one of the best things to do in Cuba is visit Trinidad. At the center of the city is Plaza Mayor. It is the city’s main square. Surrounding the whole square are beautiful examples of neo-Baroque architecture. From there, learn about the history of Cuba and the city. You can check out the Museum of the war Against the Bandits. Afterwards, head to the Palacio Brunet Mansion which is the home to the Museo Romantico and a collection of wonderful 19th century antiques and artwork.^[1]Getting Stamped – Complete Trinidad Cuba Travel Guide 2018

A great way to finish off the day is by getting some souvenirs. Some of the best ones in Trinidad are handicraft napkin linens and tablecloths.

#9. Maria la Gorda

If you love sea life and scuba diving, one of the best things to do in Cuba is visit Maria la Gorda. In fact, it is actually one of the best scuba diving locations in the Caribbean filled with rich marine life! This small town is located on the western side of the island. You can find guided tours that leave regularly from the village.^[2]Villa María La Gorda and its International Diving Center

Because there is not a lot of other attractions in the area, it is recommended to get an inclusive package that includes diving, food, and accommodations when visiting maria la Gorda.

#8. Jardines del Rey

One of the best things to do in Cuba is visit its stunning and untouched beaches. One of the best places to do this is in Jardines del Rey. It is an archipelago located just north of the Cuban mainland and connected by bridges. The chain of islands include Cayo Romano, Cayo Paredon Grande, Cayo Guillermo, and Cayo Coco.^[3]Thomas Cook – Melia Jardines del Rey One of the great things is that even today, the islands remain mostly undeveloped and allows you to enjoy the natural beauty around you.

#7. Santiago de Cuba

Santiago de Cuba is located in the eastern part of the island along the coast. It has a long and famous colonial history. In fact, the Spanish founded the city in the 16th century. As such, for the history lover, one of the best things to do in Cuba is visit Santiago de Cuba, or the Second City of Cuba.

Here you can visit the central plaza of the city, Parque Cespedes. Surrounding the plaza are several famous Spanish colonial structures. Another great historical site is the Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca. It is a 17th century fortress that overlooks the ocean and the bay.^[4]lonely planet – Santiago de Cuba

Santiago de Cuba is also famous for being the location in 1959 where Fidel Castro feamously declared the Cuban revolution a success.

#6. Varadero

If you are looking to simply enjoy the beach, one of the best things to do in Cuba is visit Varadero. The town is a very popular beach resort town only a short driving distance from Havana. Here you will get to sit down on the sandy white sand and enjoy the beautiful warm blue waters of the Atlantic ocean.^[5]lonely planet – Varadero

However, if are looking for more to do, don’t worry! There are plenty of other things as well including Parque Josone. The park is filled with music, camel rides, vendors, bridges, wildlife, lakes, and even a botanical garden! For the more adventurous, there are the Bellamar Caves and its expansive caverns.

#5. Vinales

Cuba is famous for its national parks; however, one of the most accessible and beautiful ones on the whole island is Vinales. In fact, it was actually Castro’s favorite place in all of Cuba!

Vinales is actually a valley surrounded by mountains. Here you can see and visit tabacco farms that grown the famous tobacco for Cuban cigars.

To add a bit more adventure, there are even many caves that you can explore in the area. One of the most famou sis Cuevas del Indio, or Indian Caves. The cave is so large that you can actually take a boat ride completely inside the cave system!^[6]Tales of Backpacker – WHAT TO DO IN VIÑALES CUBA

#4. Baracoa

Havana is the capital of Cuba; however, that wasn’t always the case. In fact, Baracoa, also sometimes called the First City, was the first capital of Cuba. Diego Velazquez founded the city in the early 16th century.

Today, Baracoa still has a strong colonial feel with a lot of colonial architecture. One of the most famous examples is the Catedral de Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion.^[7]Wanderlust – Baracoa: Cuba’s best-kept secret?

Right next to Baracoa is the famous El Yunque mountain. You can hike the mountain and enjoy the lush, green rainforest, great views of the city, and the beach.

#3. Cayo Largo del Sur

One of the best things to do in Cuba is visit Cayo Largo de Sur. It is a small island just off the Cuban mainland. Here you will find uncrowded beaches and beautiful water. The most popular beach on the island is Playa Sirena.^[8]CNN – Cayo Largo del Sur: Does it have Cuba’s best beaches? Some of the most popular activities to do on the island include kayaking, surfing, snorkeling, and swimming. In addition, for animal lovers, consider visiting the Marina, here you will be able to visit the sea turtle hatchery!

#2. Cienfuegos

If you are looking for a bit of a different flavor, one of the best things to do in Cuba is visit Cienfuegos. This city is a different than others on the island, because it was actually not founded by the Spanish, but rather the French! As such it is quite unique. The city is called La Perla del Sur, or the Pearl of the South.^[9]lonely planet – Cienfuegos

It is filled with well preserved 1950s style architecture and homes. In the center of the city is Pueblo Nuevo. Here you can visit museums, eat delicious food, or even learn a bit of French or Spanish!

#1. Havana

It is impossible to visit Cuba without visiting Havana. In fact, it is one of the best things to do in Cuba. The city is cosmopolitan, retro, and sophisticated and has a great night life. However, there is also a lot to do during the day as well.

A great place to start is La Habana Vieja, or the Old Town of Havana. Here you can see beautiful mid century architecture right next to colonial buildings. Some other great things to do in the city include watching hand made Cuban cigars being rolled, trying some local rum, and mingling with locals on the Malecón seawall.^[10]Touropia – 10 Best Places to Visit in Cuba