Top Sights and Activities in Cuba: What to See and Do

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Travel to Cuba has picked up as the island reopens. Airlines are increasing flights, cruise lines are adding itineraries and hoteliers are expanding offerings. Visitors can now enjoy Cuba’s rich history, vibrant culture and striking natural scenery. Below are some top experiences to consider on your next visit.

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Palacio de Valle in Cienfuegos is an architectural treasure combining Spanish-Moorish design with Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque and Mudejar influences. Visit the rooftop bar for panoramic views and live music, or enjoy an intimate meal at Café Laurent or Atelier. The palace is a lively cultural hub beloved by locals and travelers alike.

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For history and architecture enthusiasts, the Museum of the Revolution in Centro Habana is essential. Housed in a grand Neo-Classical building, the museum showcases the revolutionary period of the 1950s and the developments that followed 1959, with striking interiors and a significant collection of artifacts.

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Cuba also boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. From Viñales, take a day trip to Cayo Jutías in Pinar del Río for uncrowded white sand, clear warm waters and spectacular sunsets—an ideal spot for relaxation and swimming.

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Soroa, often called the “rainbow of Cuba,” is celebrated for its lush landscapes and abundant flora. Heavy rainfall sustains waterfalls, clear rivers and diverse plant life. Located under 60 miles southwest of Havana, Soroa makes a great day trip for hiking, biking and visiting orchid gardens and caverns.

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Baracoa, located on the Bay of Honey where Columbus first landed in Cuba, offers scenic bay views and nearby mountain ranges. This remote town features museums, music venues and natural attractions like El Saltadero waterfall, along with regional specialties such as cucuruchos and local cocoa.

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Santiago de Cuba is known for its lively cultural scene and is widely regarded as the heart of Cuban salsa. As the country’s second-largest city, it offers leafy parks, colorful streets and varied architecture. If you visit in July, the Carnival de Santiago de Cuba delivers an unforgettable celebration of music, dance and regional cuisine.

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No trip to Cuba is complete without exploring Old Havana. Famous for its classic cars and restored architecture, Old Havana features ornate columns, historic monuments, robust fortresses, grand churches and winding alleyways. Enjoy a sunset view from Hotel Nacional, wander Plaza de Armas and stop by Floridita, a bar once frequented by Ernest Hemingway.