Unquestionably one of the most charming, culturally-rich and beautifully diverse destinations in the Caribbean, Cuba is a treasure trove of captivating history, awe-inspiring beaches, chaotic, colourful cities and lush valleys.
From the warm embrace of its locals to tantalising cuisine that dances on your tongue and the pulsating beats of rumba, mambo and son, it’s hard not to fall in love with Cuba. But just in case you need persuading, we’ve highlighted the top 10 reasons why this country has the ability to tug on your heartstrings long after you’ve visited…
1. Cuba’s Cities
Havana, with its pastel-hued colonial architecture and vintage cars that edge the cobbled pavements, feels like a scene from a bygone era. Arguably the most famous city in Cuba (well, it is the capital) it’s a major draw for tourists looking to get a taste of rich history and local culture. With ample landmarks to tick off, from its UNESCO-listed Fortification System and seeking out Hemingway’s famous haunts to sampling rum cocktails and wandering the Malecón – there’s so much to see and do in Havana.
Similarly, discover cities like Trinidad, and Cienfuegos UNESCO World Heritage Sites where bustling streets rub shoulders with stories of pirates, colonial conquests, and horseback rides. The beautiful Viñales Valley also impresses with its rural farm land and traditional agricultural production, particularly its famous tobacco fields.
2. Cuba’s Beaches
Ah, Cuba’s world-famous beaches need no introduction. Gracing the front of a thousand postcards, the country’s generous offering of white-sand beaches stretch as far as the eye can see and are fringed by contrasting turquoise waters and swaying palms. A few standout stretches include Varadero, arguably the best of the bunch for its family-friendly activities and its selection of sand-lined inclusive resorts. This popular tourist beach unfurls over 12 stunning miles, with plenty of water sports and entertainment to get involved in.
Playa Paraiso is another slice of paradise perfect for sunbathing. Floating in the Jardines del Rey archipelago, this heavenly cay is a fairly secluded spot with shallow gemstone waters housing a coral reef, plus a kayak rental hut. If you’re busy exploring Trinidad city, Playa Ancón serves up a lovely arch of sand and a host of diving centres too, offering the opportunity to discover the isle’s tropical marine life.
3. Cuba’s Weather
Crowned as a year-round destination, you’ll be treated to tropical climes whenever you choose to visit this Caribbean jewel. Winter sun holidays are particularly popular for escaping the drizzly UK weather, with pleasant daytime temperatures of 26°C from December to February in Havana and around 28°C in the southernmost areas.
The rainy season runs from late April to early November and can be particularly muggy, but is tempered somewhat by the breeze. The hottest months are July and August, when you can expect toasty temperatures averaging around 33/34°C – if you plan on travelling in the height of summer, be sure to top your sunscreen and pack sensible clothing such as loose breathable fabrics and a sunhat.
Whether you’re basking under the sun or enjoying the milder temperatures, Cuba’s climate ensures you’re always in the mood for a Mojito!
4. Cuba’s People
Warm, welcoming, and with hearts as vast as their homeland, the Cubans are the country’s true treasure. You’re sure to feel the camaraderie with every conversation, whether you stop and chat to curb-side musicians, local cigar rollers, family-run restaurant owners, or people you simply pass in the street. Speaking to the locals is also a great way to bulk up your itinerary, since they’ll most likely happily point you in the direction of the best local attractions and off-the-beaten-path places of eat, dance, or shop!
5. Cuba’s Music and Nightlife
The rhythms of rumba, salsa, and son are the beating heart of Cuba. Once the sun begins to set, the cities light up with musical beats spilling from every corner, inviting you to dance the night away in the many vibrant clubs and bars – or hey, even in the streets. Whichever destination you visit in Cuba there’s no lack of nightlife, however, if you’re eager to let your hair down, some of the best spots can be found in atmospheric Havana, including La Zorra Y El Cuervo, Tropicana, El Floridita and The Miramar House of Music.
Club’s aside, Cuba is also renowned for its lively street parties and festivals, sure to draw in toe-tapping tourists. If you can plan your visit accordingly, Trinidad Festival, Havana Jazz Festival and the International Cuban Dance Festival are not to be missed!
6. Cuban Cocktails
Fancy a tipple? From the refreshing zing of a Mojito to the sweet sip of a Pina Colada, Cuba’s cocktails are pretty legendary. Many of the country’s alcoholic beverages are conjured up by mixing different combinations of rum (an island favourite), sugar, lemon juice, liquor, herbs and ice, however, there are a few staples to try whilst you’re here.
Mojito’s are Cuba’s most famous cocktail. In fact, legend has it that Ernest Hemingway helped to name the drink, mispronouncing the word “manojito” to a bartender when referencing the “mint sprig” as “mojito”. Daiquiris are a close runner up (again, one of Ernest’s favourites) which can be enjoyed in one of Havana’s iconic haunts, Floridita. Similarly, Cuba Libre (Cuba’s answer to a rum and coke) is another classic cocktail worth ordering.
Whether you’re in a beachfront hut or a boujee city bar, the island’s rum-based cocktails are sure to be one of your five a day!
7. Cuba’s Culture
Get ready to dive deep into a rich tapestry of history and culture when you visit Cuba. From UNESCO-listed sites to museums, galleries, food stalls and the sound of son – you’re sure to learn a lot about the country’s revolutionary spirit and Afro-Caribbean heritage.
A few of the top traditions worth exploring on your travels include learning how to hand-roll cigars (even if you don’t smoke them yourself), dancing the mambo or rumba, devouring the local cuisine such as Ropa Vieja (and not forgetting to wash it down with a Mojito or two, naturally), and appreciating the arts, including great literature from the famous Cuban writer José Martí.
8. Cuba’s Wildlife
Beyond its urban and coastal allure, Cuba boasts unique ecosystems that are waiting to be discovered. Nature enthusiasts can uncover the country’s diversity of endemic wildlife species, including birds, reptiles, and marine life, amid unspoiled habitats such as the Zapata Swamp (the largest wetlands in the Caribbean). This is home to the Cuban Crocodile, Cuba’s national bird the Cuban Trogon, and the world’s smallest bee, the bee hummingbird.
The undeveloped Guanahacabibes National Park is where you’ll spot the endangered green and hawksbill turtles, which nest on the area’s white-sand beaches between June and November. While, crowned as the most biologically diverse corner of the isle, Alejandro de Humboldt National Park’s verdant rainforest plays host to the world’s second-smallest bat and the smallest frog in the northern hemisphere. You’ll need good eyes to spot them, though!
9. Cuba’s Cigars
Having briefly touched on the Cuban cigar above, it’ll come as no surprise that the history and craft behind these world-renowned stogies are fascinating. Smoker or not, you should take a tour of Cuba’s tobacco plantation in beautiful Viñales where you can witness the art of cigar-making – from leaf to luxury! You’ll learn all about the farming process, including how the leaves are treated with water boiled with rum (unsurprisingly), cinnamon, honey, and other spices, before hand-rolled and sold.
10. Cuba’s Scenery
One thing we can all agree on is how the natural beauty of this destination truly sings. From the verdant mountains of Sierra Maestra to the otherworldly landscapes of Viñales Valley and the hustle and bustle of Havana City, Cuba’s allure will leave you awestruck. The perfect multi-centre destination, you’ve got the best of both worlds here whether you’re seeking tropical coasts, authentic villages, rural countryside or chaotic city life. Drive along the Malecón where the city meets the sea or hike up El Yunque for panoramic vistas you’ll remember for a lifetime – the country’s scenery is nothing short of top tier.
There you have it; a few of the reasons why a visit to Cuba will stay with you long after you’ve touched back down in the UK. If this article has inspired you to book your next escape to this Caribbean jewel, our expert team is on hand to help you craft the perfect itinerary.
Love Cuba is the UK’s leading Cuba holiday specialist. Click here for more info on Cuba holidays, Multi Centre Cuba Holidays or Tailor Made Cuba Holidays please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team of Cuba holiday specialists on 0207 071 3636 or email enquiries@lovecuba.com.