Cuba has been at the top of my travel wishlist forever. Old Havana’s vintage cars and Trinidad’s salsa-filled streets have me dreaming of experiencing it firsthand. Just imagining those Caribbean beaches and the rhythm of Cuban life gets me excited!
These are the most beautiful places to visit in Cuba, and I’m thrilled to share them with you. Through countless hours researching this fascinating Caribbean island, I’ve discovered 12 spots that show exactly why Cuba deserves a spot on your travel radar!
👉 Find Your Perfect Cuban Accommodation
#1 tip to save money on your trip to Cuba
Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Cuban adventure.
- FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). I have seen flights to Havana from the U.S. for just $200 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
- Food: Track down casa particular owners who offer home-cooked meals. They’re often the best food in town and half the price of restaurants. The peso pizza stands in Centro Habana serve huge portions for under $2. For breakfast, many casas offer family-style meals that’ll fuel you through the day for a fraction of café prices.
- Transport: I recommend using shared taxis (almendrones) between cities. They’re half the price of Viazul buses and more frequent. Within Havana, the fixed-route almendrones are incredibly cheap. For Trinidad or Viñales day trips, find other travelers to split a taxi particular – it often works out cheaper than tours.
Cuba may have a reputation for being complicated to visit. However. there are plenty of ways to experience its incredible culture and history on a budget. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Cuba:
Prettiest Places in Cuba to Visit
Ready to explore Cuba’s true colors? From crumbling colonial mansions to secret tobacco valleys, here are the spots that made me forget what century it is.
1. Old Havana, Havana
- 📍 Location: Havana, Cuba
- 🏆 Best For: History lovers 🏛️, photographers 📸, culture seekers 🕺
- 📸 Top Experiences: Strolling Plaza Vieja, visiting the Cathedral of Havana, catching sunset along El Malecón
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for cooler weather and vibrant street life 🎺
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Iberostar Grand Packard – Modern luxury hotel with rooftop pool and sweeping views of El Malecón
Old Havana is the kind of place where every street corner tells a story. Cobblestone lanes wind through pastel-colored buildings, vintage cars cruise by slowly, and the sound of salsa spills out from shaded courtyards. The energy here feels timeless but alive.
Start your walk at Plaza Vieja and let the path take you past museums, open-air cafés, and architecture that blends Spanish baroque with Caribbean flair. Don’t skip the Cathedral of Havana or the Plaza de Armas, where you can browse antique books and watch locals playing dominos.
As the day winds down, join the crowd at El Malecón, Havana’s famous seaside promenade. The breeze off the water and golden hour views of the crumbling skyline make it one of the most memorable spots in the city. It’s a must-visit if you want to feel the rhythm of Cuba’s capital.
2. Varadero, Matanzas
- 📍 Location: Matanzas Province, Cuba
- 🏆 Best For: Beachgoers 🏖️, snorkelers 🤿, luxury travelers 🧳
- 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming at Playa Azul, snorkeling at Coral Beach, exploring Cueva de Saturno
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to April for sunny skies and warm water 🏝️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Meliá Internacional Varadero – Stylish beachfront resort with direct beach access and oceanfront pools
Varadero is Cuba’s most famous beach destination, and it lives up to the hype. The sand is soft and white, the water is warm and clear, and the vibe is pure relaxation. Resorts line the coastline, but there’s also a quieter side with natural caves, coral reefs, and small parks.
Cueva de Saturno is a local highlight, with a freshwater cave you can swim and snorkel in. Coral Beach offers some of the best underwater views in the region if you’re up for a short drive and guided tour.
For a break from the sand, head to Josone Park for paddle boating or a peaceful walk under the palms. If you’re into scenic views, Mansión Xanadú offers rooftop cocktails with panoramic coastline views. Varadero is easy to reach from Havana and works well for both quick getaways and longer beach stays.
3. Viñales Valley, Pinar del Río
- 📍 Location: Pinar del Río Province, Cuba
- 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌿, horseback riders 🐎, cigar enthusiasts 🚬
- 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring tobacco farms, visiting Cueva del Indio, hiking around mogotes
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to March for cooler days and clear valley views 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Horizontes Los Jazmines – Classic hillside hotel with swimming pool, terrace views over the Viñales Valley
Viñales Valley is where Cuba slows down. Massive limestone cliffs rise from lush farmland, and ox-drawn plows still turn the soil. The town is laid-back, colorful, and surrounded by one of the most scenic landscapes in the country.
One of the best things to do here is visit a traditional tobacco farm. You’ll learn how cigars are made from start to finish and even try one if you’re curious. Cueva del Indio offers an underground boat ride through ancient rock formations, and the valley’s hiking trails lead to epic viewpoints.
Most travelers get around by bike, horseback, or shared taxi. Accommodations are often in Casa Particulares, which give you a more personal look at rural life. If you want to experience Cuba’s natural beauty without the crowds, Viñales is the place to go.
4. Alejandro de Humboldt National Park, Guantánamo
- 📍 Location: Guantánamo Province, Cuba
- 🏆 Best For: Wildlife lovers 🦜, hikers 🥾, eco-travelers 🌱
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to El Toldo waterfall, spotting endemic birds, exploring dense rainforest trails
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for cooler temps and dry paths 🌿
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Casa Toa – Comfortable eco‑lodge on the Toa River near Baracoa
Alejandro de Humboldt National Park is one of the most biodiverse areas in the Caribbean. Named after the German naturalist, this UNESCO site is a paradise for nature lovers. The rainforest here feels untouched, with rare plant species and colorful birds that are found nowhere else.
Guided hikes are the best way to experience the park. The trail to El Toldo waterfall is a favorite for its scenery and natural pool. Birdwatchers will want to keep an eye out for the Cuban Trogon, the national bird, along with hummingbirds and woodpeckers.
Getting here usually involves staying in Baracoa and booking a local guide to take you into the reserve. Paths can get muddy, so proper hiking shoes are a must. If you want a deep connection with Cuba’s wild side, this park delivers more than just views.
5. Trinidad, Sancti Spíritus
- 📍 Location: Sancti Spíritus Province, Cuba
- 🏆 Best For: Architecture fans 🏛️, dancers 💃, cultural travelers 🎭
- 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing the bell tower, dancing at Casa de la Música, exploring Plaza Mayor
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: January to March for sunny afternoons and outdoor music 🎺
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Iberostar Heritage Grand Trinidad – Sophisticated colonial hotel right on the edge of the historic center
Trinidad is one of Cuba’s most beautifully preserved towns, full of cobblestone streets, pastel facades, and 18th-century buildings. It feels like stepping into a painting, especially around Plaza Mayor, where museums, gardens, and art shops line the square.
One of the best views in town comes from the top of the church tower at Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco. You’ll see tiled rooftops, surrounding hills, and the Caribbean Sea in the distance. For nightlife, head to Casa de la Música, where live salsa fills the open-air steps almost every evening.
Trinidad is also a great base for day trips. You can visit Playa Ancón for beach time or hike in the nearby Escambray Mountains for waterfalls and swimming holes. Everything in town is walkable, which makes it easy to explore at your own pace.
6. Baracoa, Guantánamo
- 📍 Location: Guantánamo Province, Cuba
- 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, foodies 🍲, off-the-path explorers 🧭
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking El Yunque, tasting bacán and local chocolate, visiting Cruz de la Parra
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: January to March for dry trails and clear mountain views 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Villa Paradiso Casa Particular – Charming guesthouse in a peaceful setting
Baracoa is Cuba’s oldest Spanish settlement and one of its most unique. Surrounded by mountains and jungle, this eastern town has a slower pace and a different flavor than the rest of the island. You’ll notice the food right away, especially dishes like bacán, made from green bananas and coconut milk.
The most famous hike in the area leads to the top of El Yunque, a flat-topped mountain that offers views over the forest and coastline. It’s steep but worth the effort if you like a challenge. For history buffs, the Cruz de la Parra is a must-see.
Baracoa is also known for its small chocolate industry. Many locals grow and process their own cacao, and you can often sample it during meals or at small shops. It’s a great destination if you want a mix of nature, culture, and fewer tourists.
7. Cienfuegos, Cienfuegos Province
- 📍 Location: Cienfuegos Province, Cuba
- 🏆 Best For: Architecture buffs 🏛️, boat lovers ⛵, peaceful city trips 🏙️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Palacio de Valle, walking Punta Gorda, visiting Teatro Tomás Terry
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for cool breezes and clear skies 🌞
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Casa Buenavista – Cozy guesthouse with oceanfront views and a short walk to downtown
Cienfuegos is often called the “Pearl of the South” for good reason. Its wide boulevards, French-inspired buildings, and calm bay make it one of Cuba’s most relaxing cities. It’s easy to explore on foot, and the historic center is clean, bright, and full of personality.
A walk along the Malecón leads you to Punta Gorda, a peninsula with views over the bay and access to Palacio de Valle. This ornate building feels part palace, part movie set, and its rooftop terrace offers one of the best sunset spots in town.
Cienfuegos also has a creative energy. The Teatro Tomás Terry is still active with local performances, and music flows from open-air cafés most evenings. It’s a low-key but rewarding place to visit, especially if you want to mix culture with calm coastal views.
8. Cayo Coco, Jardines del Rey Archipelago
- 📍 Location: Jardines del Rey, Cuba
- 🏆 Best For: Snorkelers 🤿, luxury travelers 🧳, beach bums 🏖️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Snorkeling at El Acuario, birdwatching flamingos, lounging on Playa Los Flamencos
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to April for warm, dry beach days ☀️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Meliá Jardines del Rey – Spacious all‑inclusive beachfront resort with bungalow‑style rooms
Cayo Coco is one of Cuba’s best picks for a chill beach vacation with a mix of nature and comfort. The beaches are stunning, with soft white sand and calm, clear water that’s perfect for swimming and paddleboarding.
Snorkeling is one of the top activities here. El Acuario and nearby dive spots offer close encounters with colorful coral and tropical fish. Flamingos are also common on the island, and you can spot them around the shallow lagoons if you’re up early.
Resorts are scattered along the coast, and most include meals, gear rentals, and beach service. It’s easy to arrange side trips to neighboring islands like Cayo Guillermo, or spend a quiet day reading in a hammock. Cayo Coco is ideal if you want a beach destination that feels easy, tropical, and all about slow mornings and sunset swims.
9. Jardines de la Reina, Southern Cuba
- 📍 Location: Southern Coast, Cuba
- 🏆 Best For: Divers 🐠, nature lovers 🌊, off-grid travelers 🚤
- 📸 Top Experiences: Scuba diving with sharks, kayaking mangrove channels, snorkeling pristine reefs
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April for the best diving visibility and calm seas 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: MV Avalon IV (or Avalon fleet live‑aboard) – Luxury dive live‑aboard boat
Jardines de la Reina is one of the most untouched marine reserves in the Caribbean. Located off Cuba’s southern coast, it’s known for its healthy coral reefs, crystal-clear water, and thriving underwater life. You’ll find sharks, rays, and massive schools of fish just below the surface.
This is not a place for casual beachgoers. Most visitors stay on liveaboard boats that serve as both transport and lodging. These trips typically include guided dives, snorkeling, and meals, creating a full marine adventure experience.
Kayaking through the mangroves is another way to explore the reserve. It’s peaceful, quiet, and gives you a good chance to see birds, turtles, and even small crocodiles. Jardines de la Reina is perfect for travelers who want to disconnect, dive deep, and experience Cuba’s wild ocean side without crowds or big resorts.
10. Playa Paraíso, Cayo Largo del Sur
- 📍 Location: Cayo Largo del Sur, Cuba
- 🏆 Best For: Sunbathers ☀️, swimmers 🏊, peace seekers 🌊
- 📸 Top Experiences: Lounging on soft white sand, swimming in calm waters, taking a boat to Playa Sirena
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to April for dry days and calm seas 🌴
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Memories Cayo Largo – All‑inclusive beachfront resort with pool, buffet restaurants, and easy shuttle access to Playa Paraíso and Playa Sirena
Playa Paraíso lives up to its name with clear turquoise water, soft sand, and a super laid-back vibe. This beach on Cayo Largo del Sur is a top pick for travelers who want a relaxing escape far from busy cities or crowded shorelines.
The water here is shallow and calm, making it safe for all ages and perfect for floating or snorkeling. There are thatched umbrellas along the beach for shade, and the vibe stays quiet even during high season.
If you’re up for exploring, take a short boat ride to nearby Playa Sirena for even more unspoiled coastline. Cayo Largo is accessible by domestic flight from Havana, and most visitors stay in resorts that offer beach shuttles. It’s a great spot to unwind for a few days without needing a packed itinerary.
11. Península de Zapata, Matanzas Province
- 📍 Location: Matanzas Province, Cuba
- 🏆 Best For: Wildlife watchers 🐊, eco-tourists 🌱, snorkelers 🤿
- 📸 Top Experiences: Birdwatching in Ciénaga de Zapata, snorkeling in the Bay of Pigs, visiting Museo Girón
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: January to March for dry weather and active wildlife 🐦
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Horizontes Playa Larga – Simple beachfront eco‑hotel on Playa Larga with pool, dive centre and direct access to Bay of Pigs nature trails
Península de Zapata is Cuba’s top destination for wetlands and wildlife. Located in the country’s largest swamp, the region is full of birdlife, reptiles, and rare plants. Nature lovers come here to see species like the Zapata Sparrow and Cuban Crocodile in their natural habitats.
The Bay of Pigs is the area’s most famous snorkeling and diving spot. Coral reefs stretch along the coastline, and visibility is usually excellent. Bring your own gear or join a guided tour from Playa Larga for an easy half-day trip.
History fans can stop by Museo Girón to learn about the Bay of Pigs invasion. The museum offers background on the 1961 event and displays military artifacts from the site. Península de Zapata is perfect for travelers who want a mix of outdoor adventure and meaningful local context.
12. The Malecón, Havana
- 📍 Location: Havana, Cuba
- 🏆 Best For: Sunset watchers 🌇, local culture fans 🎶, people watchers 🚶
- 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the seawall at sunset, visiting Morro Castle, listening to street musicians
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for breezy evenings and colorful skies 🌅
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Nacional de Cuba – Iconic 1930s heritage hotel perched on the Malecón with ocean views
The Malecón is Havana’s iconic waterfront strip, stretching over five miles along the coast. Locals and travelers gather here day and night to hang out, fish, talk, or catch live music drifting from nearby apartments.
The view is best during golden hour when the buildings glow and waves crash against the seawall. You’ll often see couples dancing, kids climbing over the rocks, and artists sketching the skyline. It’s a perfect place to take in the vibe of Havana without needing a schedule.
At one end, you’ll find Morro Castle, a fortress with sweeping views of the city and sea. It’s a short walk or ride from most central neighborhoods, and nearby cafés make it easy to grab a drink and enjoy the scene. If you want a taste of everyday Cuba, start here.
