Cuba Holidays

The idyllic setting of Cuba is a wonderful way to spend your holiday. Whether it’s exploring the culture of Havana to dancing in Cayo Coco, you’ll love it.

Destination Highlights

Idyllic beaches
Warm and clear sea
Luxury lodgings
Vibrant music and dancing

What are the best beaches in Cuba?

Talk about picture-perfect, the beaches in Cuba have got all your Insta snaps on the brain with coconut palm trees lining soft white sand, and turquoise waters - the photoshoots make themselves. There are 430 beaches around the island - you heard us right - so you're never gonna be out of places to visit on your holidays to Cuba whether you're craving a classic beach experience or you're looking to explore some more unusual spots.

Playa Varadero - A favourite location for all-inclusive holidays to Cuba, and a perfect mix of beautiful surroundings and family fun.
Playa Los Pinos - Visit this secluded beach and you’ll be rewarded with stunning white sands. The beach is surrounded by woodlands, where wild horses roam freely.
María la Gorda - One of the best-kept snorkelling secrets, teeming with unusual fish that dart amongst the caves, coral, and even shipwrecks!
Playa Larga - The local bohemian crowd’s favourite, with plenty of cocktails and live music.
Cayo Coco Island - This island’s beaches offer everything from dolphin watching to kitesurf lessons, making it ideal for a day trip.
Playa Ancon - If you want to pack everything into your holiday to Cuba, head here. The beach is beautiful, and the nearby city of Trinidad is full of history and buzzing nightlife.
Playa Paraiso - this ones more out of the way, so it's a perfect place to lay down a towel and squeeze as much tanning time out of your day as possible without worrying too much about the noise or hustle and bustle - 10/10, no notes.

Pssst! Just a heads up, we're unable to provide transfers in Cuba at this time, therefore you'll need to make your own way to and from your hotel. We advise checking this before you book, and we apologise for the inconvenience.

Your Cuba Holidays 2024 Travel Guide

🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Things to do in Cuba for families

If you and the fam like getting out and about away from the hustle and bustle of the city centres, then you might wanna consider a trip to the Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt for a jungle trek to remember. When UNSECO have stamped their seal of preservation approval on a place, you know you're in for a treat, so sign the gang up for a guided tour through the flora and fauna, meet some animals like humming birds and parrots and even stop by a waterfall for a cool dip.

If you're looking to add a pop of vibrant colour into your Cuba holidays then make sure you head on overt to Jaimanitas outside Havana to feast your eyes on Jose Fuster's Art covered neighbourhood. What started as a art studio decoration project quickly spiralled into a labour of love that has spilled out on the streets and buildings around his own to breathe new life into the area, and with it, create one of the most unique tourist destinations to visit with the whole fam while you're on your jollies.

👩🏼‍❤️‍👨🏾 Things to do in Cuba for couples

Looking to add a dash of culture to your couples getaway? Why not head to old Havana, wander the gorge streets and get acquainted with the five plazas which are all surrounded by stunning, time-worn homes with major architectural beauty to behold. You'll never have chance to put your phone away, and we don't blame you, flood your Insta-feed with your fave finds of the day and, probably most importantly, make sure you save time to stop off for delish dining and drinking to break the exploration up.

If you're less about the wandering and more about the entertainment, then you're gonna wanna make your way to the Fabrica De Arte Cubano Fac which seamlessly blends itself into a concoction that's part bar, part art exhibit, part theatre, part restaurant... that's a whole lot of fusion going on. With everything from concerts to dance performances, DJ sets, exhibitions, delish wine and tasty tapas, there really is something for everyone here, really takes date night to a whole new level on your Cuba holidays.

🤿 Things to do in Cuba for Adventurers

You can swing on by the hideout of Fidel Castro and Che Guevara in the Gran Parque Nacional Sierra Maestra - it's kinda the best of both worlds, one part nature retreat, one part culture trip as the rebel camp turned museum is still a mainstay in the area. Stock up on history in the morning, then enjoy zooming through the mountains on a 4x4 safari to add a bit of spice to your Cuba holidays.

With over 50 dive-sites around the island, seems odd that you wouldn't give some below the surface exploration a go, even if you're a rookie, you'd be a fool not to. The stunning white-sand beaches we keep going on about are the perfect jumping off point for a dive, especially if you're feeling a snorkel more than a scuba, and if you're into your history then two of the sites include shipwrecks lying in shallow water. Another chance for you to collide some adventure with a bit of culture on your holidays to Cuba, are you sensing a theme?

🍹 Things to do in Cuba for Foodies

If you're looking to get a taste of some local flavour then you can stop off at the Museo del Ron Havana Club distillery. Tours run every fifteen minutes - though these are in different languages so make sure you book on to the right one - and you can find out all about the Havana Club rum, with, of course, tastungs and cigar parings towards the end. There's even a chance to mix your own cocktails if you fancy yourself a bit of a mixologist, you mix, we'll taste, seems fair, right?

Book yourself on a food tour of Havana if you're struggling to think of places to try or what to eat. These tours are factual divulging all the lil hidden secrets of the streets you're wandering down, paired stunningly with a whole host of dishes from sweet to savoury. Don't let the suggestion stop you at Havana though, on your holidays to Cuba these types of tours run all over the place, some span multiple days, some lean into nature, some lean into culture, but one thing is always for certain. The food, and it's gonna be delish.

More Caribbean holidays:

Stunning Cuba resorts

Weather in Cuba

JAN

25^°C

FEB

26^°C

MAR

27^°C

APR

29^°C

MAY

30^°C

JUN

30^°C

JUL

31^°C

AUG

31^°C

SEP

31^°C

OCT

29^°C

NOV

27^°C

DEC

26^°C

In Cuba, it's always summer...well, almost! From November to April, you've got yourself a balmy 23-27°C average, which we like to call the perfect "Mojito weather". You can stroll around the colourful streets of Havana without breaking into a sweat. How about that?

But if you're a sun worshipper, Cuba weather really struts its stuff from May to October. We're talking temperatures that easily climb up to 32°C, folks. Suncream at the ready, it's gonna be a scorcher – the sun in Cuba does not play around!

Be prepared though, the weather in Cuba likes to spice things up a little with some tropical rain showers between June and November just to keep you on your toes.

FAQs

It takes over 14 hours to fly to Cuba from the UK. Over a half a day, time to catch up on that show you've been binging, or power through your first hollibobs read.

Cuba is 4 hours behind of the time in the UK in summer and 5 hours behind of the time in the UK in winter. That just means you can make the most of your first day there with all them hours claimed right back!

The official currency of Cuba is the Cuban peso.

The official language spoken in Cuba is Spanish.

Find out more about:

All Inclusive holidays in Cuba

Last Minute Holidays

Cha cha cha!

If all this talk of dancing has got you worrying about your two left feet, don’t despair! Head to the Salsabor a Cuba dance school in Havana, to take a lesson in salsa or other traditional dances.

Watch out for Jaws

Cuban reefs are particularly well preserved, making them a favourite spot for sea swimmers. Jardines de la Reina Marine Park is the best place for snorkellers and certified divers to get up close to many species of sharks.

Snap up a bargain

Cuba’s flea markets are a great shout if you want to find handmade pieces for your home, or unique souvenirs that will wow your loved ones. Look out for the artists’ stalls in Guardalavaca and Varadero.

Get a bird’s eye view

Las Terrazas is an excellent place for more chilled family holidays to Cuba. The natural complex has wild swimming spots where local and international kids play together. But adrenaline junkies can still get their fill! There’s a huge zipwire for all ages that takes you over the treetops.

Tuck into local fare at the Plaza de la Catedral

Dinner with a view just gained a whole new meaning - we're talking local eateries lined up in a row to overlook the centre stage star of the show. Snap those selfies with the Grand Cathedral in the background and make sure everyone knows that your holidays to Cuba are as perfect as they look. Why stop at glimpses in the background though, you can enter the cathedral for free and we highly recommend, especially for any culture vultures out there.

What events can I go to in Cuba?
Colourful music and dance celebrations run throughout the island’s calendar. If you’re ready to march to a different beat, plan your 2024 holiday to Cuba around these events:
- Havana Jazz Festival (January) - An internationally renowned festival showcasing the finest in global jazz talent.
- Habanos Festival (February) - Celebrating another of Cuba’s famous exports, the cigar. Try the best brands out for yourself at a tasting, or join a tour of the local factories.
- Celebration of Classic Cars (March) - Any self-respecting car enthusiast knows that Havana is home to a huge fleet of well-kept classic cars. Check out the parade or get up close with some vintage vehicles.
- Old Havana: City in Movement (April) - A riotous dance festival where local and international groups display their talents across the squares and buildings of the old city.
- May Day Celebrations (May) - Did you know that the 1st May is International Workers’ Day? Cuba honours its workers with a huge parade in Havana, where the president gives an annual speech.
- Festival del Caribe (July) - If you’re aiming for a cheap holiday to Cuba, you can still see the best of local music and dance at this colourful festival’s free concerts.
- 26 July Celebrations (July) - Unleash your inner rebel at a variety of events dedicated to honouring the revolutionary heroes of Cuba’s socialist history.
- Symposia de Hip Hop Cubano (August) - If you’re more Jay-Z than jazz, head to this festival to discover Cuba’s unique hip hop scene.
- Havana Ballet Festival (October) - Salsa isn’t the only dance that Cubans excel at, and this festival showcases the best local and international ballet dancers around.
- Marabana Marathon (November) - Keep active on your beach holiday to Cuba by joining this sociable race, where you can compete with the best athletes or take a more leisurely pace.
- Parrandas de Remedios (December) - The island’s most extravagant Christmas festival where you’ll see parades, parties, rumba, and fireworks competitions.
Where’s the best nightlife in Cuba?
Music and dancing are a key part of Cuban culture, and you’ll find many stylish bars in Havana and Trinidad where you can salsa like a local. Beachside resorts have their own evening venues if you’d prefer to chill by the sea with a beer - whatever your vibe is, you can bet that a Cuba holiday has got the goods and then some... check out some of our suggestions:
- Casa de la Música, All major towns - These bars are a real slice of Cuban life, with live music and dancing ‘til the sun comes up.
- El Floridita, Havana - Ernest Hemingway’s favourite haunt, try their signature cocktails and you’ll see why!
- El Tropicana, Havana - An open-air nightclub that puts on spectacular shows - think Cirque du Soleil, Cuban style!
- Casa de la Trova, Trinidad - Experience authentic Cuban salsa with friendly locals and live musicians.
- Cafe Fortuna, Trinidad - A cosy bar with a quirky design, you can even sip your rum in a bathtub!
- Discoteca Ayala, Trinidad - It doesn't get much more iconic than this, an underground dance club (like, 100 feet underground dance club) where you can twirl and bop amongst stalactites and stalagmites - your admission price even includes a free drink!
What's the food like in Cuba?
Fans of Spanish, Caribbean, and African foods will be happy here. The local cuisine draws from the best flavours of all three, making for some interesting meals to look out for on your Cuba holidays:
- Ropa Viega - The national dish, a hearty stew of shredded beef and peppers in a tomato sauce.
- Yuca con Mojo - A healthy, yet delicious starter of cassava, with a garlicky citrus sauce.
- Sandwich Cubano - The internationally renowned Cuban twist on a ham and cheese sandwich.
- Pastelitos de Guayaba - Sweet pastry treats packed with exotic guava fruit.
- Cucorucho - A palm-leaf cone packed with coconut, honey, pineapple, and nuts.
Taste buds tingling? Head to these eateries across the island:
- Doña Eutimia, Havana - A charming and intimate location serving some of the best Ropa Viega in the capital.
- Kike-Kcho, Varadero - Sample the finest catch of local seafood on the terrace of this marina restaurant.
- Chez Victor, Playa Maguana - Chilled-out beachside spot serving tasty seafood and cocktails.
- Camino al sol, Havana - The best veggie food in the city, with daily specials and a fresh pasta bar.
- Ranchón Playa Prohibida, Cayo Coco - Stay close to the ocean as you dig into this beach restaurant’s famous grilled lobster.
- La Guarida, Havana - This delish dining spot is probably most known for it's stunning setting inside a historic mansion and of course the top-notch meal options from ropa vieja (shredded beef) to seafood risotto.

Places to visit

Valle de Vinales
UNESCO has it's name written all over this place, a strollers paradise with plenty of space to get your steps in while you wander on through the tobacco and coffee fields The two go hand-in-hand so now's your chance to sample a Cuban cigar with a strong, black coffee... though we expect you won't form the habit, it seems like an absolute must when on your Cuba holidays. The surroundings are a stunning blend of mountains and outcrops that encircle the farmland where traditional homes still stand and farming techniques are still deployed. This is Cuban history in its purest form and is an absolute must when you're on your jollies here.
Topes de Collantes National Park
This ones for the nature lovers out there, we've got a lush, national park on the cards... well more like five parks all yours for the strolling. Things don't stop at hiking trails (although there are plenty of those), there's also underground cave systems, waterfalls, rivers cutting through valleys, pools to swim in and a diverse ecosystem brimming with different plant and animal species. When you're on your holidays to Cuba, this place has to be on your list, beaches are always gorge, but sometimes you need to get immersed in some greenery and switch off for a bit, we know we do.
The Hotel Nacional de Cuba
We're going a bit rogue with this one, but stay with us. Some hotels are so saturated with history that it wouldn't be enough just to bag yourself a room at it, and this is one such hotel. At almost 100 years old, this place has more history behind it's doors than Downing Street... okay we're exaggerating, but there is a tonne of history here - it's the kinda place rebellions were planned over drinks in the bar, the kinda place Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole would've bumped elbows in the 1950's and now, it's the kinda place where you can come and soak all that culture up. Grab a drink at the bar, or wander the halls and feel like a guest from yesteryear... might be best if you had a room booked too, though we reckon the history of the place comes with its own allowances for visitors - you're on your Cuba holidays, why not push the boat out!

Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.

A departure tax of 25 Cuban Pesos (approx. £20) is payable by all visitors upon on departure. Please check with your airline if this cost is included in the cost of your ticket.

Cuba Holidays

Destination Highlights

What are the best beaches in Cuba?

Your Cuba Holidays 2024 Travel Guide

🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Things to do in Cuba for families

👩🏼‍❤️‍👨🏾 Things to do in Cuba for couples

🤿 Things to do in Cuba for Adventurers

🍹 Things to do in Cuba for Foodies

More Caribbean holidays:

Stunning Cuba resorts

Weather in Cuba

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

View destination on a map

FAQs

How long does it take to fly to Cuba?

What’s the time difference between the UK and Cuba?

What currency do they use in Cuba?

What language do they speak in Cuba?

Find out more about:

Cha cha cha!

Watch out for Jaws

Snap up a bargain

Get a bird’s eye view

Tuck into local fare at the Plaza de la Catedral

What events can I go to in Cuba?

Where’s the best nightlife in Cuba?

What's the food like in Cuba?

Places to visit

Valle de Vinales

Topes de Collantes National Park

The Hotel Nacional de Cuba

Key facts about Cuba

Flight Time

14+ hrs

Time Difference

-4 hours (summer)/ -5 hours (winter)

Currency

Cuban peso

Language

Spanish

Do I need any vaccinations to visit Cuba?

Do I need to pay tax on my holiday to Cuba?