To visit Cuba is like stepping back in time, with its colorful colonial buildings, lively music, and unique mix of cultures. We spent two weeks exploring this vibrant Caribbean island, diving into Havana’s bustling streets, relaxing on beautiful beaches, and soaking up the warm Caribbean sun. Beyond the sights, Cuba gave us endless moments to unwind and embrace island life. Here, we share our itinerary, top travel tips, and unmissable highlights to help you plan an easygoing, memorable Cuban adventure.
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Quick Peek
Fact-sheet about our Cuba trip for our busy travelers.
Travel Time
August / September
Travel Mode
Journey (12 days)
Our Must-Sees
Plaza de la Catedral, Havana
Where to stay
Melia Varadero
Plant-Based Food
All-inclusive
Mobility
Taxi
Travel Budget
around €2.735
without air fare
Our Top Must-See Spots in Cuba You Shouldn’t Miss
Varadero – The Tourist Hotspot
Varadero is Cuba’s ultimate beach paradise and a must-see for anyone visiting the island. Known as Cuba’s go-to tourist hotspot, Varadero offers miles of soft, white sand beaches and endless turquoise waters. When you visit Cuba to unwind, Varadero is the perfect place to kick back, soak up the Caribbean sun, and enjoy the scenery. With a coastline that stretches for miles, there’s plenty of room to find your spot, whether you’re lounging under a palm, taking a dip, or strolling along the beach. For a classic beach holiday with stunning views, Varadero doesn’t disappoint!
Havana – Cuba’s Heartbeat
No trip to Cuba feels complete without diving into Havana’s vibrant energy. The city buzzes with classic cars, colorful streets, and music around every corner. Old Havana (Habana Vieja) charms visitors with its historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and lively spots like Plaza Vieja. For a true Cuban experience, stroll along the famous Malecón, sip a mojito in a local bar, or catch a live salsa show. Havana blends culture, history, and local spirit, making it an essential stop on any Cuba adventure.
Our Cuba Accommodation: The Perfect Spot for Two Weeks
Spending two weeks in one hotel—and an all-inclusive, no less—isn’t usually our style. But for this trip, it was exactly what we needed. Since Cuba doesn’t offer a wide range of restaurants right outside your door, staying at the Meliá Varadero kept everything within easy reach.
The beach here? Let’s just say it made our “top beaches” list, right up there with Zanzibar, Australia, and Hawaii. The sand felt like velvet, and the water shimmered in perfect shades of turquoise. It had everything we love about a beach, plus that extra something that just makes you want to kick back, relax, and stay forever.
Hotel Grounds & Dining
The hotel food was plentiful, with a clear effort to offer dishes that Europeans and Americans enjoy. We noticed that not every dish hit the mark, but honestly, if you visit Cuba, it’s good to appreciate what’s available. While we’d have loved more local Cuban dishes, importing food is likely expensive and maybe unnecessary.
The Meliá Varadero’s grounds were huge, with a relaxing pool area and lots of room to wander. But our favorite part? Those beach walks! It felt like pure paradise. And the Cuban nights on the terrace added something special. Sitting under the stars with a glass of rum in hand, soaking in the night—it was unforgettable. We’ll miss those moments!
Where to Find Delicious Plant-Based Food in Cuba
Cuban cuisine combines Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, with staples like rice, beans, plantains, and fresh local ingredients. Although fully vegan options can be limited, plant-based travelers will still find ways to enjoy Cuban flavors. Our all-inclusive hotel buffet made it easy, offering vegetarian dishes like fresh salads, rice and beans, grilled vegetables, and tropical fruits – a tasty way to enjoy Cuba’s produce.
For more vegan or vegetarian dining, Havana and larger towns have a few options. Some restaurants serve plant-based dishes like fried plantains, veggie stews, and fruit-based desserts. Cafes and juice bars also offer vegan-friendly snacks and smoothies. With a little planning and an open mind, eating plant-based in Cuba can be a delicious and memorable part of the experience.
Getting Around Cuba: Travel Tips for Exploring the Island
This trip focused on relaxation, so we skipped renting a car for the whole two weeks. Instead, we explored Cuba with local guides, which made it easy to enjoy the journey. Our guided trip to Havana was a highlight, giving us a local’s view of the city’s sights and hidden spots. If you’re up for adventure, prepare to search for alternatives, as standard rental car companies are rare in Cuba. Renting from locals is an option, though reviews are mixed – some are positive, and some are not.
Driving Tips and Road Conditions
Driving on Cuban highways is fairly easy since the main roads are in good shape. On smaller roads, though, you’ll need skill to dodge potholes! Stick to the right side, keep to the speed limits (100 km/h on highways, 50 km/h in towns, and 40 km/h on smaller roads), and always give way to pedestrians – they take crossings seriously here. In rural areas, stay alert for animals like cows and horses on the road, especially at night. Since street lighting is minimal, it’s best to avoid night driving.
Cuba Travel Budget: What We Spent on Our Journey
Accomodation
Melia Varedo (AI)
12 days = €2.183
Food & Dining
All inclusive
Mobility
Taxi & Havana Tour
€320
Activities
Dolphin tour €188
Total Spent
around €2.735
without air fare
Top Photo Spots in Cuba: Where to Find the Perfect Shot
When it comes to Instagrammable spots, Havana delivers! We focused mainly on this buzzing city, capturing its vibrant colors, classic cars, and stunning architecture. But honestly? We’ve only scratched the surface of Cuba’s beauty. This taste of Havana has us itching to come back and see even more of what this amazing island has to offer.
Estatua a José Martí, Havana
GPS Coordinates: 23.1341° N, 82.3589° W
In Havana’s Parque Central, you’ll find the Estatua a José Martí, a must-visit for a mix of culture and Cuban charm. Surrounding the statue, vintage American cars line up, creating a classic Havana scene perfect for photos. Stop by in the morning to catch the best light and avoid crowds.
Plaza de la Catedral, Havana
GPS Coordinates: 23.1136° N, 82.3514° W
Plaza de la Catedral, one of Havana’s most picturesque squares, is framed by the stunning Baroque architecture of Havana Cathedral. This historic plaza invites you to soak up the city’s old-world charm and capture beautiful photos of Cuba’s colonial past. Arrive early for a peaceful experience or later to see local artists and musicians bring the square to life.
Matanzas Bay
GPS Coordinates: 23.0418° N, 81.5774° W
Discover Matanzas Bay, where natural beauty meets Cuban culture just a short drive from Varadero. Known as the “Athens of Cuba” for its rich artistic and cultural heritage, Matanzas offers a unique blend of historic architecture, calm waters, and scenic coastal views. Stroll along the waterfront, explore local museums, or enjoy a quiet picnic with views of the bay. This charming town makes for a perfect day trip to experience a relaxed, authentic side of Cuba.
Havana Capital
Havana has a vibe like no other. The pastel buildings, classic cars cruising by, and lively streets make it feel like stepping into another world. The mix of old-school charm and everyday life makes this city ideal for photos. It’s all about those little details and the unique energy you feel around every corner.
Common Questions About Cuba: Your Cuba Travel FAQ
Yes, most travelers need a “tourist card” to enter Cuba. You can get one from airlines, travel agencies, or Cuban embassies. Be sure to check the latest requirements for your nationality.
The best time to visit Cuba is between November and April when the weather is warm and dry. Try to avoid hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
No, it’s best to stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid any stomach issues. You’ll find purified water in most hotels.
Cuba’s banking system is limited, so not all credit cards are accepted. U.S.-issued cards often don’t work, so bring enough cash and exchange it at official points.
This depends on your travel style, but bring enough cash for daily expenses, as ATMs aren’t always accessible, and cards aren’t widely accepted.
Cuba now uses only the Cuban Peso (CUP). You can exchange euros or Canadian dollars for CUP at CADECA exchange bureaus, banks, and some hotels. Although some private businesses may accept foreign currencies, it’s best to convert your money to CUP when you visit Cuba.
Sure thing, travel insurance is mandatory for entering Cuba. It must cover medical expenses in case of illness or accident. You may be asked to show proof upon arrival.
Internet access is limited in Cuba. Larger hotels and some parks offer Wi-Fi, but you’ll need an ETECSA Wi-Fi card for access. For us, getting online was an adventure – often we had to go to the lobby to get a signal. It felt strange in today’s world but encouraged us to unplug and enjoy our surroundings.
Light, breathable clothing is best for the warm, humid climate. For city exploration, comfortable shoes are essential, and a hat or sunscreen is essential for sun protection.
Spanish is the official language, and while some people in tourism speak English, knowing basic Spanish phrases can be very helpful.
When you visit Cuba, it’s best to leave your drone at home. Drones are tightly regulated in Cuba. You’ll generally need prior permission to bring one; otherwise, customs may confiscate it.
Yes, tipping is common in Cuba, especially in the service industry. It’s customary to tip around 10% in restaurants and a small amount to hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers.
Cuba uses 110V and 220V power outlets, with a mix of U.S.-style plugs (Type A/B) and European-style plugs (Type C). Bringing an adapter is a good idea to ensure compatibility.
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