Melodies, enchantment, and mojitos: the 17 top experiences in Cuba

Grab a sun hat, some breezy attire, and a collection of José Martí’s poems – prepare to discover the vibrant and sophisticated charm of Cuba.

Recent relaxation of private enterprise restrictions has sparked a wave of creativity, while the impacts of globalization have yet to dull the local allure.

Although isolated, the country is alive with innovative ideas – from a lively, student-populated café to an avant-garde art space where live music, art shows, DJ performances, and creative cuisine come together in electrifying ways.

Explore these top activities that capture the spirit of the country and embody the essence of Cuba.

Retreat to the beach

With their unspoiled beauty and diverse landscapes, Cuba’s beaches are renowned for good reason. If you explore enough, you’re bound to discover your personal paradise.

The expansive, tourist-friendly shores of Varadero are lined with large resorts, while the wild, secluded beaches of the Península de Guanahacabibes serve as nesting grounds for sea turtles.

On the lesser-known black-sand shores of the Isla de la Juventud, pirates once roamed, while the nudist beaches of Cayo Largo del Sur are where package tourists relax with mojitos, free of self-consciousness.

Experience a night in a casa particular

By opting for a private homestay, you’ll delve into the subtleties of daily Cuban life. Picture rocking chairs on the porch, a rum bottle on the dresser, family heirlooms in the living room, the sound of horses trotting by outside, and lively breakfast conversations often concluding with the phrase “no es fácil” (it’s not easy).

Casas particulares in cities like Havana and Viñales can be quite luxurious, while others are charmingly modest. All provide an authentic glimpse of Cuba that no hotel can match.

Enjoy birdwatching

Besides crocodiles, Cuba's wildlife may not stand out much—except for its rich bird population. Around 350 bird species call this unique and ecologically diverse archipelago home, with about two dozen being endemic.

Be sure to look for the vibrant tocororo (Cuban trogan), the zunzuncito (bee hummingbird), the critically endangered ivory-billed woodpecker, and the world’s largest flamingo-nesting area. The Gran Parque Natural Montemar is one of the top spots for birdwatching.

Experience Cuba’s vibrant festivals

Despite facing war, austerity, rationing, and hardships, Cubans have held on to their infectious spirit. Even during the bleak days of the Special Period (following the fall of Cuba’s ally, the USSR), the spirited festivals continued—a true testament to the nation’s ability to set aside politics and embrace life.

The most exciting events feature fireworks in Remedios, folklórico dancing in Santiago de Cuba, films in Gibara, and a diverse array of music genres in Havana. Come ready to celebrate.

Explore the underwater wonders of the Caribbean Sea

There may be differing opinions, but it’s worth stating: Cuba offers the best diving in the Caribbean. Why? Exceptional water clarity, untouched reefs, and tranquil Caribbean waters teeming with vibrant fish.

Diving accessibility ranges from the easily accessible swim-out walls at Bahía de Cochinos (Bay of Pigs) to the remote underwater paradise of the Jardines de la Reina archipelago.

For returning guests, Punta Francés on Isla de la Juventud—famous for underwater photography—stands out. The waters near Guardalavaca Beach in Holguín boast rich coral reefs, caves, and sunken ships among their hidden treasures.

Appreciate Cuba’s diverse architecture in Old Havana and beyond

Cuban architecture is often striking but varies widely; it showcases a distinctive cubanidad (“Cuban-ness”) that is always evident.

Many of the older structures in the country were funded by the sugar wealth accumulated through the harsh forced labor of enslaved Afro-Cubans. These buildings serve as poignant reminders of Cuba’s complex culture and challenging history.

Contemporary architecture in Cuba showcases a blend of influences, ranging from French classicism to elements of art deco and art nouveau. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage cities of Havana, Trinidad, Cienfuegos, and Camagüey to discover the intricate details.

Immerse yourself in Cuba’s vibrant live-music culture

If you've spent over a day in Cuba without experiencing live music, you're likely in the wrong spots.

Welcome to one of the most musically rich countries in the world, where melodic guitars take precedence over background music, and singing is regarded as a natural form of expression.

Traditional genres are just one facet of a much broader musical landscape – Cuba has been expanding its musical horizons for decades. From Benny Moré to X-Alfonso, cities like Havana and Santiago de Cuba have produced artists who continue to captivate audiences globally.

Experience the vibrant rhythms of folklórico music

Few experiences rival the mesmerizing rhythm of Santería drums calling forth the spirits of the orishas (deities). While many Afro-Cuban religious ceremonies are reserved for initiates, the vibrant drumming and dances of Cuba’s folklórico troupes are accessible to everyone.

Established in the 1960s to preserve Cuba’s African heritage, folklórico groups receive significant government support, and their lively, colorful performances in Santiago de Cuba remain authentic and rooted in tradition.

Explore Cuba’s revolutionary past

A remarkable tale of survival from a shipwrecked yacht and an epic David-vs-Goliath battle, Cuba’s revolution feels like it belongs in a movie script. Yet, it unfolded right here – visit the revolutionary landmarks to witness this history firsthand.

For over 60 years, little has changed at the landing site of the Granma yacht and Fidel Castro’s wartime headquarters at the summit of Comandancia de la Plata. To learn about the guerrillas’ arms and stories, check out the Museo de la Revolución in Havana or Cuartel Moncada in Santiago de Cuba.

Discover the hidden treasures of Matanzas

Historically overlooked by travelers heading to nearby Varadero’s all-inclusive resorts, the city of Matanzas is finally starting to gain recognition.

Amid its bridges and rivers, this once-flourishing cultural hub is reviving its former glory with renewed classical-music venues, a restored theater, and a modern art street adorned with thought-provoking sculptures.

While Varadero boasts stunning beaches, the immense historical legacy of Matanzas offers deeper insights into authentic Cuban life than countless stays at resorts.

Travel back in time in Trinidad

The city of Trinidad seems to have paused in 1850, never quite awakening since. This unusual fate is a blessing for today's visitors, allowing them to wander through a flawlessly preserved mid-19th-century sugar town as if they were time travelers.

Though it’s widely known now, the enchanting streets still captivate with their magnificent colonial accommodations, accessible countryside, and vibrant live music. However, this is also a lively working town, filled with the quirks and joys of 21st-century Cuba.

Wander through the winding streets of Camagüey

Losing your way is a clever suggestion for anyone visiting the city of tinajones (clay pots), churches, and former pirates: Camagüey.

True to its unique character, Camagüey features a street layout that strays from typical Spanish colonial cities in Latin America. Its winding paths resemble a Moroccan medina, concealing Catholic churches, triangular plazas, and an expanding collection of stylish boutique hotels within restored colonial structures.

Conquer Pico Turquino

The ascent of Pico Turquino, the highest peak in Cuba, combines endurance challenge, nature exploration, and an intriguing history lesson.

Guides are essential, whether you opt for a demanding one-day round trip or a rigorous two- to three-day 17km (10.5-mile) hike through the steep cloud forests of the Sierra Maestra to reach the 1974m (6476ft) summit, where a bronze bust of Cuban national hero José Martí awaits you. History enthusiasts can also visit Fidel's wartime jungle HQ, La Plata, along the way.

Discover the emerging wave of Cuban culture at Fábrica de Arte Cubano

Welcome to the “new” Cuba, which is not a casino, golf course, or all-inclusive resort catering to foreign tourists' desires.

Instead, it’s a vibrant, independent art “factory” where visitors can meander through various rooms, enjoying innovative music, stunning artwork, and engaging discussions with a diverse crowd.

Conceived by Cuban musician X-Alfonso, Havana’s Fábrica de Arte Cubano stands as Cuba’s premier genuine art collective, a hub of creativity that continuously inspires and excites. Every city deserves a place like this.

Explore Valle de Viñales by bike

With far less traffic on the roads than in 1940s Britain, Cuba is a cyclist's paradise, and the scenic Valle de Viñales is the perfect spot to experience it.

This valley boasts all the elements of a tropical Tour de France: towering mogotes (limestone formations), lush green tobacco fields, leisurely oxen, and breathtaking viewpoints around every corner.

The landscape is mostly flat, so your biggest choice (assuming you find a good bike) will be deciding where to pause for a mojito at sunset.

Savor the evolving culinary landscape of Cuba

Since the introduction of new privatization laws in 2011, Cuba has experienced a culinary renaissance like never before.

Once known for little more than rice and beans, the country has rediscovered its culinary flair, with a surge of new restaurants innovating with spices, fusion dishes, and a renewed appreciation for its traditional cuisine.

Havana boasts a rich array of dining options, yet regional specialties abound, from fresh crabs in Caibarién to delectable chocolate in Baracoa.

Experience the vibrant spirit of Santa Clara

Leave your assumptions about Cuba behind at the city limits. Santa Clara defies expectations: it’s progressive, creative, inclusive, full of rock ’n’ roll enthusiasm, and eager to explore new artistic horizons.

As a university town, Santa Clara pulses with youthful energy unlike anywhere else in Cuba. Enjoy LGBTIQ+ performances at Club Mejunje, engage with artistic students at Casa de la Ciudad, or stroll through Parque Vidal in the evening as the city orchestra fills the air with music.