Either way, you're about to discover that there's more to Cienfuegos than just hitting the usual hotspots. Forget merely walking the paths of José Martí Park, snapping pics of the Cienfuegos Cathedral, or strolling down the Paseo de Prado—unless you enjoy just scratching the surface!

Dive deeper with us! Local secrets are the spice of life here, offering adventures and surprises that are anything but ordinary. Ready to add some zest to your trip? Here are our top six picks for unforgettable experiences in Cienfuegos.

Don't miss the chance to visit Castillo de Jagua, a fortress with over three centuries of history and a key cultural landmark in Cienfuegos province. This imposing structure, situated on the western shore of the Bay of Cienfuegos, has served as a defense against pirate invasions since the 17th century.

Pack your camera and start your adventure with a bus or taxi from the city center to the bay entrance, followed by a picturesque 10-minute ferry ride to the fortress itself.

Once there, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in Castillo de Jagua's rich history through a guided tour offered in both English and Spanish. Explore ancient corridors and archways, each echoing tales of maritime battles and historical fortitude.

Nearby, El Pescador restaurant offers local flavors and ice-cold drinks. Alternatively, you can grab a quick bite from one of the street food vendors in the area. Remember to carry some Cuban pesos and keep track of the ferry and bus schedules for a smooth return journey.

Before exploring the historic Castillo de Jagua, why not start your day trip with a visit to the nearby Flamingo Reserve? This lesser-known nature sanctuary offers a serene escape where you can observe flamingos, herons, and pelicans thriving in their natural habitat. You’ll set out in small boats for a gentle cruise across the lagoon—a spectacular sight especially in the morning, as the lake comes alive with the vibrant hues and graceful movements of flamingos flocking together.

The best time to visit is around November and December when the flamingos return from Florida. You might also spot newborn flamingo chicks and mating pairs. With an admission fee of 100 Cuban pesos, the experience is truly worthwhile. Tours are available in both Spanish and English.

Remember to bring sunscreen, as the journey around the reserve takes about two hours, and the tropical sun can be intense. It’s essential to arrive early—before 7:30 AM—to secure a spot due to a daily visitors quota, ensuring minimal disturbance to the birdlife.

Throughout the year, the grand Teatro Tomás Terry hosts an array of events, from theatrical productions and dance performances to lively concerts, all showcasing some of the best talents around.

Located in the heart of Cienfuegos at Parque José Martí, the theater is a marvel both inside and out. Its stunning architecture and exquisite interior, adorned with intricate details and meticulously restored artworks, offer the perfect backdrop for your next profile picture.

Be sure to check their social media for the latest show schedules. Tickets go on sale an hour before performances and are reasonably priced, making it accessible for everyone. A tip for first-timers: arrive early to snag tickets, as the theater's popularity can lead to long lines.

We also recommend visiting Café Tomás Terry inside the theater, one of the essential things to do in Cienfuegos. Open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, it offers a cozy spot for a cup of Cuban coffee or a casual lunch with friends, all at affordable prices.

A short 15-minute walk from the city center will bring you to the remarkable Cementerio de Reina. More than just a resting place, this cemetery serves as a gallery of poignant sculptures that tell the tales of past residents of Cienfuegos.

Among these, "La Bella Durmiente" (meaning The Sleeping Beauty) stands out. Sculpted by an Italian artist, this hauntingly beautiful piece commemorates a young woman whose 1907 death inspired a legend still mentioned among the locals today. The sculpture echoes the famous "Sleeping Beauty" of Granada, but with a uniquely Cuban twist.

As you wander the expansive grounds, you’ll also discover the solemn figures of Spanish soldiers from the 17th and 19th centuries, each statue standing as a silent guardian of history.

If you're passionate about art, the Museo de las Artes Palacio Ferrer is your must-visit spot in Cienfuegos. This museum showcases an impressive array of works from Cuban visual artists active from the 1930s to the 2000s. Notably, it features pieces by graduates of the renowned San Alejandro School of Plastic Arts, including the influential sculptor Mateo Torriente Bécquer, founder of Cuba’s first Experimental School of Plastic Arts.

Stroll through the museum’s corridors, and you'll discover "El Sacrificio" by Mateo Torriente Bécquer, alongside original vinyl records from the celebrated Benny Moré that echo the rich musical heritage of Cuba.

The museum doesn’t just display art, it also hosts cultural performances ranging from microtheater to symphony orchestras, spotlighting both local talents and visiting artists, making it a highlight among the things to do in Cienfuegos. Located at the corner of Bouyón Street and Avenida San Fernando, the museum welcomes visitors Tuesday through Sunday, from 9 AM to 5 PM, at an affordable entry fee.

Insider tip: before leaving, visit the museum’s rooftop lookout tower for the best panoramic views of downtown Cienfuegos.

Ready for a quirky dive into Cuban TV nostalgia? Visit La Casona de Toqui, where the beloved antics of Cuba's favorite puppet character come alive. Located opposite Cienfuegos Malecón on Avenida 35, this charming spot was once a puppet's home and now opens its doors to you as a hostel. It's a must-visit activity in Cienfuegos for those interested in cultural immersion.

As you wander through the gardens, you'll feel the echoes of the 1970s all around you. Inside, discover a captivating collection of local art, including pieces by Ana María Sala, the genius behind the puppet. The place is steeped in a retro vibe, mixing Soviet nostalgia with tropical flair—imagine that for a unique cocktail of culture!

Ideal for families, the garden includes horses and a small lake providing the perfect setting for children to play and learn about this iconic character through vintage TV episodes. La Casona de Toqui is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.

Havana, often celebrated for its rhythmic streets and architectural time capsules, holds a secret in plain sight: a network of green havens that weave through the city. This is where the city's heartbeat syncs with the natural world, offering escapes that are as refreshing as they are unexpected.

Join us as we explore the almost unknown parks and gardens of Havana, revealing a side of the city that’s just waiting to be discovered.

If you find yourself in Havana’s Vedado neighborhood, take a detour to this urban oasis. Right under the Calle 23 bridge, Parque Almendares (or Parque Metropolitano as it’s also known) is not your average city park. It's where Havana's families come to escape the city's non-stop energy, trading car horns for bird calls. Here, you can challenge your friends to a friendly round of mini-golf, grab a drink at one of the small bars, or rent a boat and gently row down the Almendares River—just remember, it's for boating, not swimming.

The park owes its charm to Jean-Claude Nicolas Forestier, the French city planner who left his mark on Havana in the early 20th century. Forestier, renowned for his work on the Champs-de-Mars gardens by the Eiffel Tower heavily influenced several of Havana’s iconic landmarks, including Paseo del Prado and Parque Central.

Beyond its lush landscapes, Parque Almendares serves as a cultural venue, hosting everything from the Havana World Music Festival to summer concerts that draw crowds for nights filled with music under the canopy of trees.

Just up the river from the serene Parque Almendares, you'll find the Bosque de La Habana, a verdant expanse that breathes life into the city. Known affectionately as Havana's lung, this dense forest not only cools the air but also offers a lush retreat from the urban sprawl. Among the iconic things to do in Havana, exploring the city in a vintage car stands out, with a stop at El Bosque often highlighted as a memorable part of the journey.

Far wilder and more enchanting than its park counterpart, the Bosque de La Habana is a place where the only paths are the ones you make, wandering between the road and the river.

While the forest's natural beauty is undeniable, it's also a space of spiritual significance. Santería ceremonies often take place on the bank of the river, adding an air of mystery and tradition to the forest.

Tucked away in the Playa Municipality of Havana, Parque Ecológico Monte Barreto might just be the city's best-kept secret for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. This 15-hectare oasis is perfect for everything from football matches to serene picnics. It's a stone's throw from the coast, making it an ideal spot for a day filled with outdoor fun, capped off with a meal at a nearby eatery.

Monte Barreto is where you can stretch out on a yoga mat, jog, or walk your dog in peace. It's somewhat wild, with no set paths, encouraging visitors to explore freely. You'll find a couple of cozy restaurants accessible from the street and even a thrilling zipline adventure through the treetops, which costs around 500 pesos.

Just 20km south of central Havana, Parque Lenin unfolds as the city's largest green space. Created in the early '70s, this park was meant to be a recreational haven for Habaneros. Today, its a sprawling expanse that tells the story of ambition, nostalgia, and the sheer beauty of nature reclaiming its territory, sprinkled with a dash of the surreal.

The park's diverse landscape includes an artificial lake, an overgrown amphitheater, remnants of an amusement park, and a variety of recreational facilities like horseback riding, biking or enjoying a picnic under the shade of old-growth trees. While many areas show signs of neglect, there's a unique charm in exploring its expansive grounds, from the serene to the abandoned.

If you're drawn to the thrill of discovery, Parque Lenin holds a unique appeal. The eerie allure of its abandoned amusement park is reminiscent of other world-famous urban exploration sites like Berlin's Spree Park or Japan's Nara Dreamland. It's a place where you can see the layers of Havana's story, away from the typical tourist paths.

Despite its vastness and it’s unmaintained state, Parque Lenin remains an important part of Havana's landscape, especially on weekends when it comes alive with families and friends.

Given its size, we recommend going by car or bike to fully explore Parque Lenin. For a hassle-free visit, consider starting at the more active sections before delving into its quieter, more abandoned parts.

If you've made it to Parque Lenin, you'll want to take the short 10-minute drive to the Jardín Botánico Nacional. Spanning 600 hectares, it's a vast, yet often overlooked, natural treasure. Since its opening in 1984, after 16 years of meticulous cultivation, the garden has grown to house over 4,000 plant species from around the globe, including a remarkable collection of 250 palm species, ethno-botanical crops, and a serene Japanese Garden established in 1989.

The garden offers multilingual guided tours either on a charming mini-train or in your own vehicle, providing an intimate exploration of its diverse ecosystems. From November to February, it becomes a prime location for spotting migratory birds, adding to its year-round appeal.

Dining options cater to all tastes, with Restaurante el Bambú offering a daily vegetarian buffet and a nearby ranchón serving meat dishes in a rustic setting. The entrance area features greenhouses filled with cacti, orchids and tropical flowers, leading to the tranquil Japanese Garden.

The garden is divided into thematic sections, including a giant bamboo forest, a palm garden with species from across the world, and specialized areas for medicinal and aquatic plants, as well as bonsai.

Remember to bring mosquito repellent and arrange your return transportation in advance, as public transport options are limited in this area. Expect the return trip to take about 45 minutes.

Navigating the pulsating nightlife of Trinidad, Cuba, can sometimes feel like a hit-or-miss adventure, especially with the plethora of government-owned establishments that often offer a cookie-cutter experience.

The hunt for a genuine Cuban experience—complete with cocktails that sing of the island's rich flavors and venues where the rhythms of salsa and son fill the air—can leave you wandering through a maze of mediocrity.

So, where do you find Trinidad's best nightlife spots that resonates with authenticity and warmth?

Fear not! We've roamed the city’s cobblestone alleys, sampled countless cocktails, assessed the vibes and crowds, and danced through the night to curate a handpicked selection of Trinidad’s finest bars and dance clubs for you. From a disco deep within a mountain cave to dimly lit dive bars known only to locals, read on to uncover the best of this city’s nocturnal offerings.

Let’s start by traveling back in time with just a sip of a drink. In Trinidad, you actually can with the canchánchara, the city's signature cocktail that's a blast from the past with a taste so inviting, you'll be ordering seconds before you know it.

The go-to spot for this? None other than Taberna La Canchánchara. A charming colonial-style tavern, once home to the wealthy Trinidian, Nicolás Pablo Vélez, that feels like stepping into a slice of the 17th century. Since its transformation into a bar in 1994, it's been serving history in a glass, all while maintaining those stunning wooden high beam ceilings that'll have you snapping pics between sips.

Imagine kicking back in the outdoor seating area, a live Cuban band setting the soundtrack to your evening as you nurse that slightly sweet, utterly captivating canchánchara. Crafted from honey, lemon, aguardiente (a fiery spirit that lives up to its name), ice, and water, this drink does more than just quench your thirst—it tells a story. Originating from the mambises, the Cuban freedom fighters of the late 19th century, each glass carries the spirit of rebellion.

Taberna La Canchánchara is located on Calle Real del Jigüe, just a hop, skip, and a jump from Plaza Mayor, this tavern is wallet-friendly with drinks priced between 3 to 5 dollars.

Pro tip: You'll find that the honey in your canchánchara tends to settle at the bottom of the glass. Make sure to stir it well with the stick provided to fully dissolve the sweet goodness before taking a sip. Enjoy!

A short walk two blocks down the cobblestone street from Taberna La Canchánchara you’ll find Café Fortuna. This might just be the quirkiest (and tiniest) bar in Trinidad. Step inside, and you're immediately transported into a world where vintage vibes meet cozy charm, the walls adorned with an eclectic mix of paintings and retro treasures, like old Cuban vinyl records. Don't forget to look up—hanging from the ceiling is a mesmerizing collection of currency from various nations and eras.

Café Fortuna offers a snug and intimate atmosphere, perfect if you’re seeking a spot for conversation and relaxation. As one of the many government-run establishments in town, it's worth noting that the quality of drinks can be somewhat hit or miss. During our visit, we found the cocktails to be a tad on the watery side, not quite living up to our expectations.

However, we recommend kicking back with a chilled Cristal beer. Or how about a rich Cuban coffee prepared just the way you like it—with milk, black, or perhaps a dash of rum—the choice is yours. With an average price of around 1000 Cuban pesos, you won't have to break the bank.

You’ll find Café Fortuna on Calle Rosario, open from 9:00 a.m. to midnight all days of the week.

If you’re looking for a venue where you can dance to traditional cuban rhythms head on over to Casa de la Trova. Inside its welcoming courtyard, you're treated to the soul-stirring sounds of a Cuban music ensemble. Their masterful renditions of classic rhythms like son and rumba beckon you to dance the night away. And when you need a moment to catch your breath, the quaint tables offer a perfect respite, along with the chance to sip on classic Cuban drinks, including the iconic Cuba Libre.

Bear in mind, Casa de la Trova is known to attract more tourists than locals, resembling Café Fortuna in its government-run setup. This means that while the venue excels in ambiance, it might not serve the finest mojitos—at our last visit they were made with a diluted premix, lacking fresh limes or sugar. So, come for the dance, not the mixology.

Located on Calle Cristo, Casa de la Trova opens its doors from 8:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m daily, with the dance floor coming alive around 10 p.m. Entry costs just 50 Cuban pesos, with drink prices ranging from 500 to 800 Cuban pesos.

Curious about where to find the city's best mojito, or a nightclub to mingle with the locals, read on for our next two recommendations of Trinidad's best nightlife spots.

Dive into the unique ambiance of Bar Frío, one of our favorite among Trinidad's nightlife with its distinctive dive bar essence. Far from the modern LED-lit spaces, this spot embraces a 90s vibe with its fluorescent blacklight setting, casting a cool glow that invites you into its intimate world.

True to its name, this spot offers a cool escape from the Caribbean heat with its fully air-conditioned interior and it’s also one of the rare privately-owned bars in Trinidad.

Here, you'll discover what many, including ourselves, consider the best mojito in town. The cocktail menu doesn't stop there; each drink is mixed to perfection, showcasing a mastery of mixology that's hard to find elsewhere. Be sure to try their "Trinidad colonial", a mix of white rum, grenadine, and orange juice. It's a perfect companion to the savory tapas and treats also served here, like crispy tostones topped with ham and olives or a cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth pizza.

Open every day from 2:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., and extending to 4:00 a.m. on Fridays, you’ll find Bar Frío at Francisco Cadahía, between Colón and Lino Pérez - on the street right behind Iberostar Grand Trinidad.

Ever dreamed of partying in a cave? Not the kind where you're decked out in spelunking gear and the only cocktail in sight is cave water. No, we´re talking about Disco Ayala (also known as Las Cuevas), the most popular discoteca in Trinidad.

Stepping down the stairs into the cave you’re entering a setting so surreal, you'll swear you've walked into the set of a movie where the theme is "Cuban Nightlife Meets Mother Nature."

As soon as you saunter in, you're greeted by pumping music and a kaleidoscope of laser lights that dance across the cave walls, casting enchanting shadows and painting a scene straight out of a fantasy. Unlike other nightlife spots in Trinidad, Ayala is a great place to meet locals, as both travelers and Cubans come here to dance the night away. The DJ spins the newest beats from across South America, mixing in some 90’ hits, reggaeton, and Cuban artists.

The vibe? It's as if someone took the essence of Cuba, mixed it with a dash of mystique, and set it to chill in one of nature's own creations.

Located between Pólvora and Desengaño streets, a short 10-minute walk from the city center, Disco Ayala opens its doors every day from 11:00 PM to the wee hours of 3:00 AM. The entrance to the cave is at the top of a mountain right behind the Hotel Mystique overlooking the city. And with an entrance fee of just 500 Cuban pesos, you're in for a night that promises more than just a hangover.

Havana may steal the spotlight, but Cuba's lesser-known towns are the heart of the island's soul. From the very first village founded on the island to a town cradling Cuba's largest underwater cave, we're setting off on a journey through Cuban cities that offer a different kind of allure – one steeped in history, culture, and unspoiled beauty.

Escape the relentless pace of Cuba's big cities and let Gibara, a quaint coastal town, enchant you with its serene bay and mountainous backdrop. Imagine breathing in that salty sea air, mingling with the aroma of Cuba's finest seafood - think mouthwatering crab enchilados and other crab dishes, so famous they're literally on the town's welcome sign!

Before diving into Gibara's culinary delights, dip into the Tanque Azul. More than just a stunning natural pool, this jade-hued wonder is your gateway to one of the world's oldest underwater caves - a 20-million-year-old aquatic labyrinth waiting to be explored. And let's face it, snorkeling here might just be the closest you'll get to time travel!

Gibara doesn't just do serene; it does festive too! Home to the Festival Internacional de Cine Pobre de Gibara, it's where you can catch cutting-edge Latin American cinema without the blockbuster budget.

Fancy staying like a local? Gibara's hostels and Airbnbs, such as the charming Casa Luz del Norte, offer a taste of authenticity. Constructed in 1874, this colonial-style beauty, with its Mudéjar flair, overlooks the bay. You can even rent bamboo bikes made locally to wander around at your pace.

Varadero's hyper-popular crystal waters might be the crown jewel of Cuban beaches, but a hop away, the Cuban city of Cárdenas stands as a beacon of history. Boasting a blend of 19th-century splendor and modern charm. Picture this: streets lined with rainbow-hued colonial homes, towering columns, and ceilings that could tell a thousand tales.

As you meander through the streets, don't miss the towering Parish Church of the Immaculate Conception, where a 9-foot tribute to Christopher Columbus claims its fame as the first of its kind in America.

Step into the Oscar María de Rojas Museum, the second oldest in Cuba, for a peek into the past. This National Monument, founded in 1900, houses a fascinating collection that spans from pre-Columbian artifacts to an extensive entomology display, including Cuba's largest butterfly collection. Open from Monday to Sunday, a guided English tour is a bargain at about 15 Cuban pesos.

And for those beach cravings? Varadero's pristine sands are just a hop away, with a plethora of hotels to choose from. So why not mix up your beach getaway with a dash of Cárdenas' colorful history?

Have you ever dreamt of escaping to a place where mountains whisper and palm trees sway to their own rhythm? Tucked away in the western province of Artemisa, near the Sierra del Rosario mountain range lies Comunidad Las Terrazas, a rural oasis that captivates with its natural beauty and serene ambiance. Art enthusiasts will be drawn to the renowned Cuban painter Lester Campa's gallery and studio, where the local landscape is beautifully translated into stunning paintings.

In this haven for explorers, you'll discover the ruins of Cuba's first coffee plantation, Cafetal Buenavista, dating back to 1801. Nearby, the Cafetal Buenavista restaurant offers a taste of authentic Cuban cuisine, featuring the famous congrí rice, tender pork, and fresh vegetables. The restaurant is open until 5:00 p.m. and provides a delightful dining experience for around $20 USD.

For a restful night, consider Villa Bella Vista, a hostel that stands out for its affordability and quality. Here, each room is a front-row seat to nature's grandeur, with the cool mountain breeze as your lullaby. With comfortable beds made from local cedar and a peaceful atmosphere, prices start at just $35.

As the first Spanish settlement on the island, Baracoa offers a unique blend of historic roots and unspoiled natural landscapes. Located in the province of Guantánamo, this Cuban city is surrounded by an untouched jungle forest teeming with extraordinary birdlife and endemic species. Within Alejandro de Humboldt National Park, you'll be captivated by the Tocororo (Cuban trogon) and Almiquí (Cuban solenodon), thriving amidst towering pine and mahogany trees, with a forest floor lush with ferns.

The Fiesta de las Aguas, from August 10-15, marks Baracoa's anniversary with a blend of dance, traditional music, and local cuisine. The city comes alive with festivities, especially along the Baracoa Boulevard and the Malecón. A culinary highlight is the savory bacán, a local favorite combining green banana, coconut milk, and pork, wrapped in a style reminiscent of a corn tamale.

Rest in history at El Castillo Hotel, a former 18th-century fortress. Its location on a hill provides a breathtaking view of the city and a large pool, perfect for a refreshing dip. The hotel, blending historical significance with modern comfort, is a perfect end to your day, with rooms available from 53 euros. In Baracoa, you don't just visit; you step into a living, breathing piece of Cuban heritage.

Ever wonder why Santiago de Cuba's beaches don't get as much buzz as other Caribbean spots? According to locals, these shores are where the real magic happens. With warm waters set against mountains and cliffs, each beach is an experience in itself.

They're not just picture-perfect postcards; they're places where relaxation meets genuine local culture. And the best part? Each one has its own vibe, perfect for chilling under palm trees or diving into the local scene. Get ready to dip your toes on the sandy shores of Santiago de Cuba's coast, where every beach has its own story, waiting to be part of yours.

Named after the Arawak Indian word for "people of the precious stone," Siboney Beach presents an authentic slice of Santiago de Cuba's eastern coastal life. Favored by locals for its unique brown sands and rustic charm, this beach offers a serene escape from the more frequented tourist spots. Here, you can bask in the warmth of the sun, with the backdrop of small, greenery-covered elevations cradling quaint local homes.

As you explore, the beach reveals its charm beyond just sunbathing. Snorkeling here is an opportunity to be surrounded by a world of marine life, while beachfront stalls invite you to taste local flavors. We recommend the crispy chícharo fritters and zesty lemon-infused fried fish, served with congrí rice! To reach Playa Siboney, just grab a taxi from Santiago's city center, with a ride typically costing around $15 to $20 USD.

Insider tip: Just a stone's throw away from the beach, Casa Museo Granjita de Siboney adds a historical layer, connecting you to Cuba's revolutionary past.

As the turquoise waters of Playa La Estrella sparkle under the Cuban sun, it's easy to see why this beach is a cherished retreat for those seeking tranquility. While it becomes a local hotspot from June to August, we recommend going during off-peak times, where you’ll discover a peaceful haven ideal for serene swims and moments of solitude.

Tucked away at the bottom of a cove, Playa La Estrella stretches for about 50 meters. Framed by cliffs and remnants of ancient fortifications near the San Pedro de la Roca Fortress, this Santiago beach merges natural splendor with historical intrigue. And if you're lucky, you might spot the occasional low-flying plane from Santiago Airport, reminding you that the modern world isn't too far away. The beach is easily accessible by local bus, an affordable journey at just $2 Cuban pesos.

One of the most delightful and family-friendly beaches near Santiago de Cuba, Playa Bueycabón is just a short journey from El Cobre, a quaint town to the west. Its shores are the perfect playgrounds for children sculpting sandy masterpieces, with the added comfort of vigilant lifeguards. The beach's charm is amplified by its "sombrillas de guano," (traditional palm leaf umbrellas), offering a cool respite from the Caribbean sun.

Here, the aroma of crispy plantain chips known as chicharritas mingles with the ocean breeze, and beachfront stalls entice with tropical drinks like mojitos and piña coladas (or coconut water for the kids). Less frequented by tourists, Bueycabón retains an authentic feel, accessible by taxi or pocket-friendly bus at just $2 Cuban pesos.

While the Caribbean sun dips behind lush mountains, Playa de Juraguá reveals its quiet charm, a serene escape just south of Santiago. Local wisdom suggests afternoons are the best time to visit, when the horizon blends into a canvas of yellowish-pink sunsets against the clear blue waters. Ideal for couples seeking tranquility, this small beach town, home to about 700 residents, offers a secluded retreat from usually crowded tourist hotspots.

With a modest stretch of only about 200 meters, Juraguá's gentle waters and rich flora create an intimate coastal experience. We found that the $20 taxi ride from the Santiago city center is a small price for such peaceful serenity. Trust us, it's cheaper than a spa day and twice as rejuvenating.

At Playa de Berraco, the intense blue waters invite you for a refreshing dip on those scorchingly hot days. This small strip of beach, lined with towering coconut trees and traditional sombrillas de guano, is perfect for sunbathers and shell collectors alike. The waves here have just enough kick to make swimming an adventure.

Frequented mostly by Santiago residents, Berraco is a great spot to connect with the locals, offering a genuine slice of Cuban beach life. To get there, it's a 1-hour drive from Santiago by taxi, priced at roughly $30 USD.

Come discover Trinidad, one of Cuba’s most charming cities, captivating visitors with its cobblestoned streets, vibrant cultural scene, and a plethora of activities for the intrepid traveler. From adventurous hikes in cloud-kissed forests to the beautifully preserved historic center, and the pulsating rhythms of rumba under starlit skies, there's an abundance of things to do in Trinidad. Each corner of this UNESCO World Heritage site beckons for exploration, offering a glimpse into its rich colonial past and a culture that warmly welcomes every visitor.

In the heart of Trinidad’s lush landscape, the Manaca Iznaga Tower rises—a colonial-era titan with stories etched into its heights. Built in the early 19th century, it whispers tales of an age where sugar barons watched over their estates from such lofty perches. 

From its peak, the panorama extends over the valleys and colonial relics visible from what locals fondly dub 'Cuba’s Leaning Tower.' It’s a monument not just to the Iznaga family, who erected it amidst a fervent rivalry, but also to the more somber history it oversaw, a silent sentinel above the plantations. 

Visitors can immerse in the local myths of love and jealousy that still linger around the tower. Some say the winds carry whispers of the past, tales of a love so fierce it led to the tower's creation, and of a jealousy so strong it turned to tragedy. 

Reaching Manaca Iznaga is a short 20 minute drive from Trinidad's city center, where taxis stand ready to transport you back in time for a modest fare. And a mere $1 entrance fee grants you passage up the steps to the top of the tower.

Plaza Mayor is a central piece in the puzzle of things to do in Trinidad, encircled by the storied facades of colonial houses and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its compactness offers a leisurely escape, where one can revel in the historic ambiance and enjoy local crafts and bites.

If you’re exploring the myriad of activities Trinidad has to offer, the plaza serves as a perfect pause point. Especially in the cooler hours of dawn and dusk, when the sun casts an enchanting glow on the surroundings. Whether you’re seeking a moment of relaxation on a bench away from the cobblestone streets or indulging in the local fare at a nearby café, Plaza Mayor enriches any visit to Trinidad

While exploring Plaza Mayor, the sight of Iglesia Mayor Santísima Trinidad (or Church of the Holy Trinity) is hard to miss. It has been part of the square's landscape since its initial construction in wood back in 1514, with the current stone structure taking shape over the course of the 19th century.

The church's architecture is a tapestry of styles, a visual narrative of the 75 years it took to reach completion. Should you find its doors open, step into the cool interior and let your gaze settle on the altar carved from precious woods by a Dominican friar. With Gothic touches, this altar is not just a centerpiece of worship but also a splendid piece of artistry from bygone days.

Casa de la Música stands out as a lively beacon for night owls and music lovers, just a heartbeat away from the Plaza Mayor on Calle Cristo. It's one of the top things to do in Trinidad, offering an unforgettable evening with the locals over the universal language of dance. From the first strum of the guitar to the last call of the trumpet, the open-air venue invites you to sway to the rhythm of the city’s best live bands.

The music and dance start at 9:00 p.m. and the infectious beats ensure that even those who arrive solo won’t stay that way for long. It’s almost guaranteed that you’ll be whisked away for a dance, making new friends as the rumba spins around you. With tables dotting the area, you can also enjoy local refreshments and snacks without missing a beat. At Casa de la Música the night is always young, and the music is always warm, an experience to savor one beat at a time.

Travel through Trinidad's streets as generations before have, in a horse-drawn carriage that offers a different pace to explore the city's rich heritage. This tour isn't just a nod to the city's colonial architecture; it's a narrative of Trinidad's evolution, told through visits to landmarks like Plaza Santa Ana and the evocative Valle de los Ingenios.

On this 2- to 3-hour journey, you'll gain insights into the culture and history that makes up modern Trinidad, with guides who bring depth to the experience, connecting you to the stories that shaped the city. It's a thought-provoking way to engage with Trinidad's history, offering a window into the complexities of its past.

Salto del Caburní isn’t just a destination; it's an awesome daytrip for the prepared and the adventurous. The trek to this cascade which is one of the prettiest waterfalls in Cuba, is a challenging descent through the untamed jungle forest of Topes Collantes National Park. The rugged terrain requires sturdy shoes and a readiness for a strenuous hike, not just a casual walk. There are no smooth paths or handrails here, and the rocky stretches might test your endurance and agility. Expect to hike 90 minutes to get there from the entrance of the park. 

For the best experience, we highly recommend the company of an experienced guide. Their knowledge not only ensures a safer trek but also enriches the journey with insights into the local ecosystem. The climb back is equally demanding, and an expert can help navigate the quickest and safest route back to civilization. A dip in the refreshing pond at the waterfall's base awaits those who undertake this adventure, a natural reward for your efforts. Remember to visit outside the dry season to see the falls at their most impressive and bring along plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the hike.