Cuba

Cuba is packed with rhythm, history and life. Whether you’re dancing in Havana, hiking Viñales, or relaxing in Varadero, this island invites you to slow down and dive in.

Population10,933,663
LanguagesSpanish
Local time3:28 AM
Flagcu flag
CurrenciesCUP
Area109,884 km²
Cuba
25°C
overcast clouds
Feels like: 26°C

Best time to travel

Cuba has warm weather all year round. November to April is the most popular time to visit, with sunshine and lower humidity. Many travelers aim for December through March when the island buzzes with festivals and music. For better prices and fewer crowds, late April to early June and October can be ideal. Just keep in mind that June to November is rainy season, with more rain and higher humidity, especially in August and September.

Weather statistics for Cuba

Where to stay

Cuba is a country of contrast, with historic cities, quiet countryside, and coastal towns that seem frozen in time. Where you stay in Cuba depends on what kind of experience you're after. Whether you're in the mood for beaches, old charm, or a deep dive into local life, these are our top picks.

Havana

The capital city is the heart of Cuban culture, history and nightlife. Staying in Havana gives you access to streets full of live music, vintage cars and colorful architectural buildings.

  • Old Havana (Habana Vieja) - The most popular area for visitors, full of historic plazas, narrow streets and classic Cuban charm. Great for walking and soaking in the atmosphere.
  • Centro Habana - Grittier and more local, but full of life and close to everything. A good pick for budget travelers wanting to stay near Old Havana.
  • Vedado - Leafy and residential with wide boulevards and mid-range stays. A quieter choice still close to cultural spots and nightlife.
Havanna, Cuba
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Havanna, Cuba

Havanna, Cuba
Havanna, Cuba
Havanna, Cuba
Havanna, Cuba
Havanna, Cuba
Havanna, Cuba
Havanna, Cuba

Varadero

Varadero is Cuba’s most popular beach destination, with soft white sand and calm turquoise water. It’s ideal for travelers looking to unwind by the sea.

  • Resort Zone (Hicacos Peninsula) - Packed with beachfront all inclusive resorts, perfect if you want a stress-free beach vacation with everything in one place.
  • Downtown Varadero - More walkable and local, with guesthouses and small restaurants. Great for travelers who like a beach town feel with room to explore.
Varadero sunset
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Varadero sunset

Varadero sunset
Varadero, Cuba
Varadero, Cuba
Varadero, Cuba

Trinidad

Trinidad is a colonial gem with cobbled streets, pastel houses and live music around every corner. It’s a cultural favorite for good reason.

  • Historic Center - The heart of Trinidad, full of charm and energy. You’ll be near museums, restaurants and live music.
  • La Boca - A quiet seaside village just outside town. Peaceful, relaxed and a good break from the tourist trail.
Historic center, Trinidad
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Historic center, Trinidad

Historic center, Trinidad
Trinidad, Cuba
Trinidad, Cuba
Trinidad, Cuba

Is Cuba safe?

Cuba is generally safe for travelers. Crime is low and violent incidents are rare. Pickpocketing and petty theft can happen, but is not common. The country is known for its friendly locals and strong police presence in tourist zones. Despite occasional electrical shortages and infrastructure gaps, most visitors have a pleasant stay.

Police presence, Cuba

Police presence, Cuba

Top things to do

From tobacco farms and classic cars to world famous beaches and live music in the streets, Cuba offers a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. Here are some of the best experiences to enjoy during your trip.

Visit Viñales Valley

Viñales is where Cuba slows down. Rolling green hills, limestone cliffs and tobacco farms make it one of the most charming places on the island. Horseback riding, hiking and cycling are all popular ways to explore. Stop at a farm to learn how cigars are made the traditional way. Local families often offer food, tours and places to stay, making it easy to connect with the community.

Viñales Valley

Viñales Valley

Relax on Varadero Beach

Varadero Beach stretches for over 20 kilometers along Cuba’s northern coast. The sand is soft, the water is calm and the vibe is pure unwind mode. Whether you're staying nearby or just visiting, it’s perfect for swimming, napping or doing absolutely nothing.

Varadero beach, Cuba
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Varadero beach, Cuba

Varadero beach, Cuba
Varadero beach, Cuba

Ride in a classic vintage car in Havana

A classic convertible ride through Havana’s avenues gives you a taste of mid‑century Cuba. Drivers often let you choose stops and photo points, including the Capitol building, seaside Malecon and neighbourhoods like Vedado.

Classic Vintage Car, Havanna

Classic Vintage Car, Havanna

Nightlife

Cuba’s nightlife is rich in music, culture, and old-school charm. Whether you want to sway to live son (sohn), sip cocktails by the sea, or dance into the early hours, every region offers something memorable. Most places are cash only and the dress code is usually relaxed but clean. We at VamosCaribe suggest following the rhythm and letting your night unfold naturally. Each area has its own style, so here’s where to go depending on where you stay.

Havana

Havana has the most varied nightlife in the country. You will find everything from rooftop lounges to intimate music venues. Music flows through the streets and every night holds the chance for something special.

  • Fábrica de Arte Cubano - A creative venue in Vedado that brings together live music, visual art, and dancing. It draws a mix of artists and people looking for a lively night out.
  • Casa de la Música de Miramar - A popular spot for live salsa and timba. Many famous Cuban bands perform here and the crowd is always ready to dance.
  • El Floridita - Known for its history and connection to Hemingway, this bar is a great place to enjoy a classic daiquiri with live Cuban music in a traditional setting.

Trinidad

Trinidad’s nightlife is casual. The evenings begin slowly and build up around music in open plazas and cozy bars.

  • Casa de la Música - An open staircase near the main square becomes a music venue each night. Live bands take the stage and people gather to dance, drink, and enjoy.
  • Disco Ayala - A nightclub inside a natural cave just outside town. The space is large and cool, with music and dancing that continues late into the night.

Santiago de Cuba

Often called the birthplace of Cuban music, Santiago is known for its strong musical traditions. The nightlife here focuses on live shows and community gatherings.

  • Casa de la Trova - A popular venue where talented musicians play Cuban styles like son and trova. The energy is relaxed and the setting invites real connection.
  • Patio de los Dos Abuelos - An open space with a casual feel where local artists perform. Drinks are simple and affordable and the crowd is friendly and welcoming.

Where is Cuba?

Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean, located south of Florida and east of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. It borders the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The island has over 3735 kilometers of coastline, with a mix of sandy beaches, bays and coral reefs.

Fun facts

  • Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean.

  • Classic American cars from the 1950s still cruise the streets.

  • Cuba is the birthplace of famous cocktails like the mojito, daiquiri, and Cuba libre.

  • Cigars are still hand rolled across the island using tobacco grown in the Viñales Valley.

  • Ernest Hemingway lived in Cuba for over 20 years and wrote parts of The Old Man and the Sea there.

  • Cuba has one of the highest literacy rates in the world and offers free education at all levels.

FAQ Cuba

Cities in Cuba

Havana, Cuba
Cuba flag
Capital
overcast clouds24°C

Havana

Havana grabs you on the first stroll. Music, classic cars, and the sea in one walkable city. Old Havana by day, the Malecón and live music by night is the way to go.

Explore Havana
Varadero, Cuba
Cuba flag
overcast clouds27°C

Varadero

Varadero is Cuba’s beach paradise, a stretch of dazzling white sand and turquoise sea that has been stealing hearts for over a century.

Explore Varadero

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