Cuba: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Cuba has the highest doctor-to-patient ratio in the world? With one doctor for every 150 citizens, this Caribbean island nation has more physicians per capita than any other country. This surprising fact reflects Cuba’s unique approach to society – a fascinating blend of old-world charm, revolutionary history, and resilient culture that makes it unlike any other destination in the world.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Traveling to Cuba requires some preparation, especially for American citizens. Most visitors arrive via José Martí International Airport in Havana, though some charter flights land in other cities like Varadero, Santiago de Cuba, and Holguín.

For Americans, travel to Cuba is permitted under specific categories including “Support for the Cuban People,” which requires a full-time schedule of activities that enhance contact with locals and support civil society. This isn’t difficult to fulfill if you stay in casa particulares (private homes), eat at paladares (private restaurants), and engage with local culture.

Most other nationalities can simply purchase a tourist card (visa) before departure, typically available from your airline or at the airport. This tourist card allows for a 30-day stay, extendable for another 30 days while in Cuba.

Before traveling, ensure you have travel insurance that covers Cuba (this is mandatory), enough cash for your entire trip (U.S. credit/debit cards don’t work), and download maps and essential apps as internet access is limited and expensive.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

The ideal time to visit Cuba is during the dry season from November to April when temperatures are pleasant (75-85°F/24-29°C) and rainfall is minimal. December through March offers the most comfortable weather, though it’s also peak tourist season with higher prices.

May to October marks the rainy season, with higher humidity and temperatures reaching 90°F (32°C). Hurricane season officially runs from June to November, with the highest risk between August and October. While summer visits mean fewer tourists and lower prices, be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms and muggy conditions.

For those seeking specific experiences, consider timing your visit around cultural events like the Havana Jazz Festival (January), Santiago de Cuba’s Carnival (July), or the Havana Biennial art exhibition (every other year).

Getting Around Locally

Navigating Cuba offers its own unique charm and challenges. The island has a variety of transportation options, each with its own character and quirks.

Classic Car Taxis

Those iconic 1950s American cars aren’t just for photos—many function as taxis. While more expensive than regular taxis (expect to pay 10-20 CUC for rides within Havana), they’re an experience in themselves. Negotiate the fare before getting in, as meters are rarely used.

Regular Taxis

Modern taxis are more affordable for day-to-day transportation. In Havana, a typical ride costs 5-10 CUC. State-run taxis are yellow and generally reliable, though private taxis (often unmarked cars) may offer better rates if you’re comfortable negotiating.

Viazul Buses

For intercity travel, Viazul operates comfortable air-conditioned coaches connecting major tourist destinations. Tickets sell out quickly, especially during high season, so book in advance when possible.

Colectivos

These shared taxis are a more economical option for traveling between cities. They’re typically vintage American cars that depart when full, offering a fraction of the cost of private taxis but with less comfort and convenience.

Rental Cars

While renting a car gives you freedom to explore, be aware that rental agencies are state-run with limited inventory and high prices (expect $70-100 per day). Roads can be poorly maintained with minimal signage, and gas stations are sparse in rural areas. Reserve well in advance if this is your preferred option.

Where to Stay

Casa Particulares

Staying in a casa particular (private homestay) is not just accommodation—it’s one of the best things to do in Cuba for an authentic experience. These family-run B&Bs range from simple rooms in family homes to elegant colonial mansions with multiple guest rooms. Prices typically range from $20-50 per night, including breakfast.

Casas offer invaluable cultural exchange, home-cooked meals, and local insights you won’t get at hotels. Hosts can often arrange transportation, recommend restaurants, and help navigate local customs. Look for houses with the blue anchor-shaped sign indicating they’re licensed.

Hotels

Cuba’s hotel scene ranges from basic state-run establishments to luxury international brands. Historic hotels like Hotel Nacional in Havana offer character and fascinating history, while beach resorts in Varadero provide all-inclusive convenience.

Be aware that even 4-5 star hotels in Cuba may not meet international standards you’re accustomed to. Service can be slow, amenities limited, and infrastructure dated. However, many historic hotels compensate with stunning architecture and prime locations.

Best Areas to Stay

Dining & Local Cuisine

Cuban cuisine reflects the country’s Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences. While Cuban food has a reputation for being bland, the best meals are found in paladares (private restaurants) rather than state-run establishments.

Must-Try Cuban Dishes

• Ropa Vieja – Shredded beef slow-cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce with peppers and onions. Cuba’s national dish.
• Moros y Cristianos – Black beans and rice cooked together, a staple side dish.
• Lechón Asado – Roast pork marinated in mojo (garlic, citrus, and herbs).
• Tostones – Twice-fried green plantain slices, crispy and savory.
• Yuca con Mojo – Cassava root boiled and dressed with garlic citrus sauce.

Where to Eat

Paladares offer the best food experiences in Cuba. These privately-owned restaurants range from simple family dining rooms to sophisticated establishments in restored mansions. Most casas particulares also offer home-cooked meals for an additional fee, often providing some of the most authentic and delicious food you’ll find.

Cuban Drinks

Cuba’s cocktail culture is legendary, with many classic drinks originating here. Don’t miss trying:

• Mojito – Rum, lime, sugar, mint, and soda water
• Cuba Libre – Rum and cola with lime
• Daiquiri – Rum, lime juice, and sugar (Hemingway’s favorite at El Floridita)
• Cuban Coffee – Strong espresso often sweetened with sugar

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Havana Highlights

Cuba’s captivating capital deserves at least 3-4 days of exploration. The best things to do in Havana include:

• Old Havana (Habana Vieja) – UNESCO World Heritage site with cobblestone streets, colonial plazas, and historic buildings. Don’t miss Plaza Vieja, Plaza de la Catedral, and Plaza de Armas.
• El Malecón – The famous 5-mile seafront promenade, perfect for sunset strolls and people-watching.
• Fábrica de Arte Cubano – Contemporary art space and nightclub showcasing Cuba’s vibrant creative scene.
• Classic Car Tour – Cruise the city in a vintage American convertible for iconic photos and city views.
• Museum of the Revolution – Housed in the former Presidential Palace, telling Cuba’s revolutionary history (with a distinctly pro-revolutionary perspective).

Beyond Havana

Some of the best things to do in Cuba are found outside the capital:

Unique Experiences

• Tobacco Farm Tour – Learn how Cuba’s famous cigars are made from seed to rolling.
• Salsa Lessons – Take a dance class and practice your moves at local music venues.
• Vintage Car Ride – Experience Cuba’s iconic classic cars with a ride along the Malecón.
• Casa de la Música – Found in most cities, these venues offer live music and dancing with locals.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

Must-Visit Museums

Cuba’s museums offer fascinating insights into the country’s complex history and vibrant culture:

• National Museum of Fine Arts (Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes) – Havana’s premier art museum with an outstanding collection of Cuban art spanning colonial times to present day.
• Hemingway Museum (Finca Vigía) – Ernest Hemingway’s former home on the outskirts of Havana, preserved as it was when he lived there.
• Museo del Ron (Rum Museum) – Learn about the history and production of Cuba’s famous rum at the Havana Club museum.
• Che Guevara Mausoleum – Located in Santa Clara, this monument and museum honors the revolutionary figure.

Cultural Hotspots

Beyond museums, Cuba offers numerous cultural venues worth exploring:

• Gran Teatro de La Habana – Home to the Cuban National Ballet, this stunning theater hosts performances in a magnificent building.
• Callejón de Hamel – Vibrant alley in Havana dedicated to Afro-Cuban art, with Sunday rumba performances.
• Casa de la Trova – Traditional music venues found in several Cuban cities, especially Santiago de Cuba.
• Fábrica de Arte Cubano – Havana’s contemporary art space combining gallery, performance venue, and nightclub.

Major Festivals

Timing your visit around these cultural events can enhance your Cuban experience:

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Beach Destinations

Cuba is ringed by stunning beaches, with these being among the best:

• Varadero – Cuba’s most famous beach resort area with 13 miles of white sand and clear waters.
• Cayo Coco & Cayo Guillermo – Pristine islands connected to the mainland by causeway, offering secluded beaches and excellent snorkeling.
• Playa Ancón – Beautiful beach near Trinidad, combining cultural and beach experiences.
• Playa Larga & Playa Girón – Bay of Pigs beaches with fascinating history and great diving opportunities.

Nature Experiences

Cuba’s diverse ecosystems offer plenty for nature lovers:

• Viñales Valley – UNESCO site with dramatic limestone formations, caves, and tobacco farms.
• Zapata Peninsula – Vast wetlands with excellent birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
• El Nicho – Beautiful waterfall and natural pools in the Escambray Mountains.
• Alejandro de Humboldt National Park – UNESCO site in eastern Cuba with remarkable biodiversity.

Water Activities

Cuba’s clear waters make it perfect for:

• Snorkeling & Diving – The north coast keys and María la Gorda offer pristine reefs.
• Fishing – Deep sea fishing for marlin and other game fish, especially from Marina Hemingway.
• Sailing – Charter opportunities around the northern keys.

Adventure Activities

For the more active traveler, Cuba offers:

• Hiking – Trails in the Sierra Maestra mountains, including the route to Pico Turquino, Cuba’s highest peak.
• Horseback Riding – Popular in Viñales Valley through tobacco fields and around mogotes.
• Cycling – Increasingly popular way to explore both cities and countryside.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Safety

Cuba is generally one of the safest countries in Latin America for tourists. Violent crime is rare, though petty theft can occur in crowded areas. Basic precautions include:

• Keep valuables secure and avoid flashy displays of wealth
• Be cautious with your belongings at beaches and crowded tourist areas
• Use official taxis, particularly at night
• Keep a photocopy of your passport separate from the original

The biggest safety concerns are typically related to infrastructure—uneven sidewalks, poorly lit streets at night, and old vehicles. Healthcare is excellent by regional standards, though bringing basic medications is recommended.

Cultural Etiquette

Cubans are generally warm and friendly people. Some cultural norms to be aware of:

• Greetings – Cubans typically greet with a handshake, friends with a kiss on the cheek
• Personal Space – Closer than North Americans might be used to
• Time – “Cuban time” is relaxed; punctuality isn’t always expected
• Photography – Ask before photographing people, especially government buildings or officials
• Tipping – 10% in restaurants, 1 CUC for bathroom attendants, bellhops, and other service providers

Local Customs

Understanding these aspects of Cuban life will enhance your experience:

Practical Travel Tips

Money Matters

Cuba’s currency situation can be confusing for first-time visitors:

• Cuban Peso (CUP) is the official currency used by locals and increasingly by tourists
• US dollars are subject to a 10% penalty when exchanged
• Bring euros, Canadian dollars, or British pounds for better exchange rates
• US credit/debit cards don’t work in Cuba due to the embargo
• ATMs are unreliable and often don’t accept foreign cards
• Bring all the cash you’ll need for your trip, plus extra for emergencies

Internet & Communication

Internet access in Cuba is improving but still limited:

• Wi-Fi is available in designated hotspots (parks, hotels) using prepaid ETECSA cards
• Cards cost 1-2 CUC per hour and can be purchased at ETECSA offices or hotels
• Download maps, translation apps, and travel guides before arrival
• Consider renting a portable Wi-Fi device if connectivity is essential
• Some higher-end hotels offer in-room Wi-Fi (often slow and unreliable)

Packing Essentials

Beyond standard travel items, consider bringing:

• Medications (including over-the-counter remedies)
• Sunscreen and insect repellent (expensive and hard to find in Cuba)
• Toilet paper and hand sanitizer (not always available in public restrooms)
• Snacks for long travel days (food options can be limited)
• Gifts for casa hosts (small items from your home country are appreciated)
• Portable battery pack (power outages occur)

Language

While you can get by in tourist areas with English, knowing some Spanish greatly enhances your experience:

• Learn basic greetings and phrases before your trip
• Download an offline translation app like Google Translate
• Cubans appreciate visitors who make an effort to speak Spanish
• Cuban Spanish has unique slang and pronunciation

Ready for Your Cuban Adventure?

Cuba offers a travel experience unlike any other—a fascinating blend of time-stopped charm, revolutionary history, and Caribbean beauty. From the moment you step onto its shores, you’ll be immersed in a world where vintage cars cruise past colonial buildings, where music spills from doorways onto cobblestone streets, and where warm smiles welcome you despite decades of hardship.

Whether you’re dancing salsa in Havana, horseback riding through Viñales’ tobacco fields, or simply sipping a mojito as the sun sets over the Malecón, Cuba rewards travelers who come with open minds, patience, and curiosity. The best things to do in Cuba aren’t just activities to check off a list—they’re moments of connection with a culture that has persevered and evolved in its own unique way.