Cuba, South & Central America

Tourists will be glad that this influential island is now available for exploration (opening to visitors in 1999). Travellers to Cuba require visas to enter and this tiny island's gigantic role in history means that it's definitely worth visiting.

A trip to Cuba is sure to provide a unique experience. From communist ideals, to ties to the Soviet Union, to the Cold War, to radical revolutionaries, Cuba has made quite a wake in global history. With this rich, albeit controversial, history comes a lively culture. Visitors to Cuba will enjoy dancing, music and nightlife. They'll also be transported to another time, as Cuba maintains an aesthetic and infrastructure that's reminiscent of mid-century charm.

Getting in and around Havana

Havana Airport

The Jose Marti International Airport is located just outside of Havana. Major airline carriers connect to Cuba from Mexico, South America, Canada and Europe. There are no ferries or boats to Cuba and access via cruise liners is quite limited. Flying to Cuba is the best way to get there.

Havana Transport

Once you arrive in Cuba, your options for getting around the island are quite diverse. Buses that travel from city to city are the most popular. Viazul is the most frequently used bus line. While taxis aren't very economical for long distance travel, they're a very useful option for getting around town.

Havana Car Hire

If you're just staying in Havana, or one city, hiring a car might not be worth the hassle. It can become quite costly to hire a car, and the process can be long and stressful. However, if you are wanting to travel around Cuba, renting a car is a good option, though it does come with a high cost and many idiosyncrasies to consider, like limited gas stations and tyre theft.

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Havana accommodation

Accommodation in Cuba is very affordable. Travellers can holiday very comfortably at very affordable prices with the help of casas particulares. These are private homes that also run as licensed hospitality businesses. But if you prefer a more traditional stay, there are still quite a few hotels to choose from in Cuba.

Luxury

Gran Muthu Almirante Beach Hotel. This luxurious hotel is situated on one of Cuba's best beaches and is perfect for any traveller looking for an excellent stay in Cuba.

Mystique Casa Perla is an adults-only boutique hotel offering stunning views and amazing service.

Hotel Occidental Royal Hideaway Ensenachos This hotel is luxury all inclusive resort on one of Cuba's best beaches. Hotel Saratoga Nestled among the rustic charm of Old Havana, this historic yet modern hotel is a luxurious place to stay in Cuba.

Mid-range

Iberostar Tainos is close to the beach and located in beautiful Varadero.

Memories Trinidad Del Mar is beautiful hotel located just minutes from the city of Trinidad, one of the best-preserved cities in Cuba.

Hotel Tryp Habana Libre offers beautiful views of the city of Havana. Hotel Brisas Trinidad del Mar is beautiful hotel located just minutes from the city of Trinidad, one of the best preserved cities in Cuba.

Budget

Hotel Roc Presidente. At this ten-story hotel, visitors enjoy spectacular views of the beautiful city of Havana.

Casas particulares are the best, cheapest form of accommodation in Cuba. Choose from a range of private houses and apartments.

Hotel Internacional Get a taste of the retro in this classic 1950s Cuban hotel on the beach. Hotel Presidente At this ten story high hotel, visitors enjoy spectacular views of the beautiful city of Havana. ^ Back to top

Things to do in Havana

Cuba doesn't have much of a tourism industry, which means that there aren't many tourist traps. However, that does not mean that there's nothing to do while visiting Cuba. For those travellers willing to dig deep, there are still things to see and do in Cuba.

Che Guevara Mausoleum. Che Guevara has become an icon in many cultures around the world and his involvement in the Cuban Revolution is a big part of his legacy. Tourists can see where the famous revolutionary is laid to rest.

Smoke a real Cuban cigar. While you're in Cuba, you can enjoy a real Cuban Cigar if you're a person who enjoys the occasional cigar. It's recommended that you purchase them from an officially approved shop.

Havana is the city where many ideas about Cuban culture find their source. This hopping city has a lively nightlife scene that includes salsa music and dancing as well as traditional Cuban favourites like mojitos made with real Cuban rum.

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Day trips in and around Havana

Vinales National Park is a great way to see the natural beauty of Cuba. This park is well-appointed for tourists and is the site of mountains and caves.

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