Cigars, rum and vintage cars – when you think of Cuba you often think of a cliché. But Cuba, with its flora and fauna, white beaches and lush mountains, offers much more than most people can imagine.
The colorful island state lies in the heart of the Caribbean Sea and delights visitors with summer temperatures all year round. The country can be explored in a short time and brings with it action, pleasure and relaxation.
Discover
The journey begins in Havana. The capital of Cuba is known for its historic architecture. Especially the large number of pastel-colored houses are the hallmarks of the metropolis. History meets modern times here because in addition to the old façades, you will also find modern glass buildings and modern architecture.
About two million people live in the Cuban capital. But you don’t notice it because the city looks calm and relaxed during the day. However, that doesn’t mean there is nothing to do in Havana. You can wander the streets of the old town, have a sip of rum at the bars or enjoy the sea view at the port.
Fly: If you don’t have much time to explore the whole city on foot, you can book tours with famous vintage cars. So you can quickly see the many neighborhoods and the diversity of the old city.
Discover
Those who do not prefer to spend time in the busy capital should not miss the cities of Cienfuegos and Trinidad. Both cities can be found in the heart of the country and are definitely worth a visit.
Cienfuegos is the only Cuban city founded by French settlers. A stroll along the boulevard and in the old town is a journey through history and was even declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.
Things are a little more relaxed in Trinidad. Here – of course, colorful – you can comfortably wander the streets and enjoy seeing the whole city from different places.
Fly: If you’re still a little thirsty, you should drink a local cocktail of rum and honey. This can be found, for example, at the “Taberna La Canchànchara” in Trinidad.
to admire
Along with its white beaches and deep blue sea, Cuba brings with it another color: green. There are a lot of green landscapes, especially in the interior. So is Valle Viñales. The valley is also called the “Cuban Garden” and is considered one of the most beautiful landscapes in Cuba. A walk through the green fields is definitely worth it. But if you want to dive deeper, you should definitely visit the «Cueva del Indio» cave. Here you can walk through one-meter-high caves and even take a boat on the cave river.
Valle Viñales brings art along with caves and green spaces. And big size! The “Mural de la Prehistorica” is 120 meters long and is one of the largest open-air paintings in the world. It took four years and 20 farmers to complete the painting.
Fly: If you want a photo-ready view of the green paradise, the best way is to go to the “Mirador Los Jazmines” viewpoint. From here you will have a unique panoramic view of the entire Viñales valley.
Relax
Get away from the hectic cities and dive into the blue Caribbean Sea: If you want to gift yourself a few days of beach vacation during your island tour, you will find peace and relaxation in Cayos. Here, one hotel complex after another is ready for relaxing days. Things to note: sunscreen and snorkeling! Because the deep blue water invites you to cool off.
Fly: If splashing in the sea is not enough, you can also book a catamaran tour. These can usually be booked directly through the hotel.
To enjoy
It’s a true cliché, but what you should definitely not miss in Cuba is a good sip of rum. The brave drink alcohol plain and enjoy the Caribbean heat. But if that’s a little too much for you, mix a real “Cuba Libre” with rum, Coca-Cola and limes.
Fly: A real Cuban evening can be found in «El Floridita». Legend has it that the Daiquiri cocktail was invented in this bar, which, incidentally, was writer Ernest Hemingway’s favorite bar. Definitely a place not to be missed after a long day of sightseeing.
to cool
Cigars belong to Cuba, just as a grain of sand belongs to the beach. But smoking cigars is an art in itself that needs to be learned properly. The best way to do this is to visit a tobacco farm outside the cities and get advice and support from real professionals.
Fly: Cigars can be taken home as souvenirs. But it is worth buying them directly from tobacco plantations outside the big cities, because they are cheaper and at the same time more authentic.
This post was created as part of a press tour.