Cuba Holidays: Discover the New Cuba

Viñales Valley in western Cuba with the Sierra de los Organos mountains in the background

Best hotels in Cuba

Cuba is ready to surprise you. Over recent years, this Caribbean island has been evolving, blending its timeless charm with exciting new experiences. Holidays to Cuba mean more than just sun and salsa - they offer a chance to witness a country in transformation, where history and modern life collide in the most colourful way.

Why Choose Cuba for Your Next Holiday?

A Changing Island: Cuba is becoming increasingly accessible to travellers, with new hotels, improved infrastructure and a growing food scene. While the island's spirit shines brighter than ever.
Classic American Cars: Cruise Havana's boulevards in a 1950s Chevy or Cadillac, lovingly maintained by generations of Cubans. These iconic vehicles aren't just for show - they're a living, rumbling part of Cuba's story, offering the ultimate retro road trip.
Sugarcane & Rum: Experience the flavours that shaped Cuba's culture. Tour historic sugarcane plantations and visit traditional distilleries to see how world-famous Cuban rum is crafted. Don’t miss the chance to sample a fresh mojito or sip a smooth añejo in the land where it all began.
Cloud Forests: Explore Cuba's lush forests, where misty canopies and rare wildlife create a magical escape from the heat. Trekking through these highland havens, you'll discover hidden waterfalls, exotic birds and a side of Cuba that feels truly untouched.
Caves: Venture underground and discover Cuba's incredible cave systems. From the vast chambers of Gran Caverna de Santo Tomás to the ancient pictographs in Cueva de los Portales, these limestone wonders are perfect for explorers and history lovers alike.
Diving: Dive into some of the Caribbean's clearest waters. Cuba is famous for its vibrant coral reefs, dramatic drop-offs and abundant marine life. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a first-timer, spots like Jardines de la Reina and Cayo Coco offer unforgettable underwater adventures.

Top 5 Places to Visit on Your Cuba Holiday

Havana: Wander through Old Havana's cobbled streets, marvel at grand plazas, and soak up the city's unique blend of history and energy. Don't miss a sunset stroll along the Malecón or a classic car tour of the city's landmarks.
Guardalavaca: A hidden gem on Cuba's north coast, Guardalavaca boasts sugar-white sands, calm turquoise seas, and a relaxed atmosphere. It's ideal for those seeking authentic Cuban culture and stunning natural beauty.
Varadero: Famous for its powdery white sands and turquoise waters, Varadero is Cuba's premier beach destination. Relax in luxury resorts, try water sports or explore the vibrant local culture.
Cayo Coco: An island paradise with pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs, Cayo Coco is perfect for families, couples and nature lovers. Enjoy snorkelling, birdwatching and the tranquil Caribbean vibe.
Cayo Santa Maria: Known for its dazzling beaches and crystal-clear waters, Cayo Santa Maria offers a laid-back escape with plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

Food and Drinks You Must Try in Cuba

Ropa Vieja: Cuba's national dish - slow-cooked shredded beef in a rich tomato sauce, often served with rice and black beans.
Tostones: Crispy fried plantain slices, a perfect snack or side dish.
Fresh Seafood: Especially in coastal resorts like Guardalavaca and Varadero, where local restaurants serve up the catch of the day.
Mojito: Sip this iconic cocktail made with rum, lime, mint and sugar - best enjoyed in a Havana bar.
Cuban Coffee: Strong, sweet and served in tiny cups, Cuban coffee is a must-try pick-me-up.

21-35 ℃

Bask in Cuba’s warm weather and enjoy the island’s year-round sunshine

View live forecast

14-18 hours

The main international airports in Cuba are Jose Marti International Airport (HAV) in Havana and Juan Gualberto Gomez International Airport (VRA) in Varadero.

Types of holidays in Cuba

Map of Cuba

Cuba is best for...

Adventurous Explorers: Discover Cuba's cloud forests, dramatic caves and lush mountain trails. From hiking misty peaks to venturing underground in vast limestone caverns, Cuba offers endless opportunities for exploring off the beaten path.

Culture Seekers: Immerse yourself in authentic Cuban culture with lively street music, vintage American cars, colourful carnivals and colonial architecture. Experience the energy of Havana's plazas, the charm of local festivals and the island's rich artistic heritage.

Flavour Fans: Indulge in Cuba's unique flavours - tour sugarcane fields, visit rum distilleries, and sample classic dishes like ropa vieja and tostones. Sip a mojito where it was invented and savour the essence of Cuba's culinary traditions.

Getting around Cuba

Taxis are widely available in cities and tourist areas - look for official markings and make sure the meter is running before you set off. Fares are typically set in Cuban Pesos (CUP), and while some drivers may offer a fixed price, it's always best to agree on the fare upfront for clarity and peace of mind.

Colectivo taxis are suitable for longer journeys or a more local experience. These shared cars or minibuses leave when full and can be a sociable, cost-effective way to travel across Cuba.

Buses are another reliable option, especially for intercity travel. The Viazul network connects major destinations like Havana, Varadero, Cayo Coco, and Santiago de Cuba, offering comfortable, air-conditioned coaches with reserved seating. For shorter trips within cities or to nearby attractions, local buses are available, though they can be crowded and less frequent.

Fast facts for Cuba

Currency: Cuban Peso (CUP)

Language: Cuban Spanish is spoken. If you’re familiar with Castilian Spanish you may notice some differences.

Local time: Cuba is normally 5 hours behind UK time, but do note the start and end dates for Daylight Saving Time are different to those in Europe.

Fly to: The main international airports in Cuba are Jose Marti International Airport (HAV) in Havana and Juan Gualberto Gomez International Airport (VRA) in Varadero. You may have to take an indirect flight via Madrid or Paris.

Flight time: 14 to 18 hours (including a change).

Electricity: Cuba doesn’t have a consistent power socket type or voltage, so check with your hotel what type of adaptor you’ll need. If they operate on a 110V supply you’ll need a converter or transformer for larger appliances. Power cuts are possible so packing a power bank and torch is advisable.

Local laws: Do not exchange money on the street, or take photos near military sites or in other restricted areas, as these are arrestable offences.

Safety and security: Only use licenced taxis, which are yellow. Further safety guidance and important information for visiting Cuba can be found on the FCDO website.

Events in Cuba

Festival de la Trova Longina: This January music festival in Santa Clara honours Cuba's soulful trova tradition, filling the city with poetic guitar performances and heartfelt serenades by troubadours.

Festival of Fire: Held in Santiago de Cuba every July, the Festival of Fire brings together Caribbean cultures with lively music, dance and dramatic rituals, culminating in the burning of a giant effigy.

Havana Carnival: Each summer, Havana's streets burst into life with colourful parades, dazzling costumes, and infectious Cuban rhythms, making it the island's most vibrant celebration.

Cuba weather

Sitting in the northern Caribbean with the Tropic of Cancer running through the north, Cuba has a tropical climate and warm weather all year round. Things are cooler in January than over the summer, although it’s a great time for you to visit as it’s in the dry season that runs from November to April. You’ll be warmed by the Caribbean Current’s waters, while north easterly winds will help to keep you cool. The direction of the winds means there’s more rain in the north than the south, despite Cuba’s southeast mountains.

More hotels in Cuba

Popular Cuba holiday resorts

Cayo CocoCayo Coco is located on Jardines del Rey, an archipelago off the north coast of Cuba. Jardines del Rey translates as ‘King’s Gardens’, and with its soft, sparkling sands and clear blue waters, it’s certainly fit for royalty. Spend your days drinking cocktails on the white sandy beach, zip through tropical mangroves on a speedboat, and dive beneath the ocean to discover the beautiful coral reefs.

GuardalavacaGuardalavaca is a laid-back beach resort on the Caribbean coast of Cuba. Famous for its postcard-worthy beaches, Guardalavaca’s shore is a mesmerising sweep of white sand, with inviting clear waters that provide superb diving and sailing. The resort has bustling markets, beach bars and seafood restaurants, and wins new fans every year for its chilled-out vibe and Caribbean good looks.

VaraderoThe largest resort area in the Caribbean, Varadero holidays are ideal for those who want a relaxing taste of the tropics. Think warm, white sands, swaying palm trees and sapphire-coloured seas and you’re heading in the right direction! Away from the beach, you’ll find lush green parks full of colourful tropical birds, spectacular caves with ancient wall-paintings and some fascinating attractions.

Cayo Santa MariaEscape to Caribbean bliss on Cayo Santa Maria holidays. We’ll whisk you away to a remote island on Cuba’s Jardines Del Rey Archipelago. This tiny paradise is home to eight miles of glorious white sand and pristine blue waters. Once an uninhabited island, this beautiful spot is now an idyllic resort, connected to the Cuban mainland via a 30-mile-long causeway.

FAQs

What is the best month to travel to Cuba?

The best time to visit Cuba is typically from November to April, when the island enjoys its dry season. During these months, you'll experience plenty of sunshine, warm temperatures and lower humidity - perfect for exploring Havana's colourful streets or relaxing on the beaches of Varadero, Cayo Coco and Cayo Santa Maria. This is also the most popular time for holidays to Cuba, so you can expect a lively atmosphere and a great choice of events and festivals.

Why is Cuba no longer a holiday destination?

Cuba remains a unique and vibrant holiday destination for UK travellers, with its classic American cars, stunning beaches and rich culture. However, some headlines have suggested otherwise due to recent travel restrictions for US citizens, changes in international relations, or limited flight options. For UK holidaymakers, Cuba is still open and welcoming, with a growing range of hotels and resorts. The island continues to adapt and modernise, making holidays to Cuba as exciting and accessible as ever.

Can you still holiday in Cuba from the UK?

Yes, you can still enjoy holidays to Cuba from the UK. Flights are available, and British travellers are welcome to explore Cuba's vibrant cities, beaches and countryside. However, it's important to note that if you visit Cuba, you will not be eligible to enter the United States using an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) under the US Visa Waiver Program. Instead, you'll need to apply for a full US visa if you plan to travel to the USA after your Cuba holiday.