Top 10 things to do in Cuba

A holiday in Cuba has it all, beautiful weather, friendly locals, diverse culture and rich history; there is something for everyone in this incredible country. Here’s our pick of the interesting things to do in Cuba.

1. Explore Havana 

The largest city of Cuba and its capital, it was founded by the Spanish in the 16th century. Take a guided tour of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, see the incredible colonial buildings dating back 500 years and visit Havana Cathedral, Castillo de la Real Fuerza and Plaza Vieja. You can also visit the famous Malecon, a seawall that stretches along the city's coastline, and enjoy the beautiful views of the ocean and admire the many famous sculptures.

2. Take a classic car tour in Havana 

A wonderful way to explore the streets of Havana is by driving in a vintage car. A true icon for this Caribbean Island; since the Cuban revolution the classic 1950's cars are famously associated with Cuba. When Fidel Castro became President, he implemented a strict trade embargo, from 1959 to 2013, that prevented any foreign-made vehicles entering the country, which meant the locals had to rely heavily on the existing output of cars.

3. Experience Hemingway's Havana

World renowned author Ernest Hemingway lived in Cuba intermittently for thirty years of his life. Even after his death in 1961, his influence can still be seen in Cuban culture, from bookshops selling copies of his novels to locals honouring him with signature drinks at bars. Discover the places in Cuba that inspired Ernest Hemingway. Visit his home, Finca Vigía, where he wrote ‘For Whom the Bell Tolls’ or head out to the fishing village of Cojimar, which was the backdrop for ‘The Old Man and the Sea.’

4. Visit a tobacco plantation 

Cuban cigars are world renowned due to the high quality of its tobacco, you can learn more about the process of making cigars with a guided tour of a tobacco farm, such as La Casa del Veguero, located just outside of Viñales.

5. Enjoy Cuban music and dance

Cuban music is diverse and its origins can be traced back to its colonial period where the slaves brought over African rhythms, as well as indigenous people. Son Cubano is the most famous style of Cuban music which combines Spanish, African and jazz. Dance is also an important part of Cuban culture with the Salsa and Rumba originating in Cuba. No matter where you go in Cuba, you can easily find somewhere to enjoy live music and dancing. 

6. Uncover Cuba’s history

Cuba has a complex history due to its influences from various cultures and times under colonisation. In 1959, Cuba’s president Fulgencio Batista and his government were overthrown by the communist revolution led by Fidel Castro. The country became a socialist state, formed a close relationship with the Soviet Union, which inevitably led to conflicts with the USA, such as the infamous Bay of Pigs invasion. Visit the Museo de la Revolucion in Havana and learn more about the Cuban revolution and its key player, Che Guevara. Visit the ‘Plaza de la Revolución,’ one of the world’s largest city squares, measuring 72,000 square metres. Fidel Castro addressed more than a million Cubans here on many important occasions.

7. Try Cuban rum!

It wouldn’t be a trip to Cuba without sampling some local rum! You can learn more about the production and its history with a rum distillery tour at the Havana Club Museum. Make sure to try a Mojito, this refreshing cocktail was invented in Cuba, it’s a combination of white rum, sugar, lime juice, soda water and mint. Delicious!

8. Relax on the beaches of Cuba

Cuba has some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world and on our holidays we’ll get to unwind in Varadero or Playa Azul, meaning ‘blue beach’ is one of the largest resort areas in the Caribbean. Situated on the Hicacos Peninsula, sun worshippers can bask on the 20km long white sandy beaches and nature lovers can enjoy exploring nearby natural attractions such as caves and cayes.

9. Discover Rio Canimar

For nature lovers, take a relaxing boat trip on Rio Canimar, a river with crystal clear waters surrounded by lush vegetation, an array of flora and fauna, including a Cuban Spoonbill which is native to the area. It’s also a fantastic spot to take a swim.

10. Board the Hershey Electric Railway

In a tiny corner of Cuba, lies a unique town called Hershey. This model town was built in 1917 by chocolate pioneer Milton Hershey to supply his US chocolate company with sugar and many locals have since referred to it as ‘the sweetest place on earth’. Visit the town of Hershey to learn more about the sugar cane industry and take a scenic rail journey through the beautiful Cuban landscapes.

Experience a holiday in Cuba, a wonderful destination with a colourful mix of culture, history and tropical scenery. Our Cuba tours is the perfect way to see all the top highlights, plus our expert local guides will be with you to share their passion, knowledge, recommendations and assist you in any way.