Overview of Regions

Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean at 109,884 km² — larger than all other Caribbean islands combined. From west to east, it spans over 1,200 km. The country can be roughly divided into five travel regions:

Havana

For whom: Culture fans, history enthusiasts, nightlife lovers, photography enthusiasts
Cuba's vibrant capital (2.1 million inhabitants) is the indispensable starting point of any trip. The UNESCO old town Habana Vieja, the legendary Malecón, the Capitolio, the Fábrica de Arte Cubano — Havana needs at least 3–4 days.

Viñales & the West

For whom: Nature lovers, hikers, divers
The UNESCO-protected Viñales Valley with its spectacular Mogotes limestone cliffs is Cuba's most beautiful landscape. Add tobacco plantations, caves, and at the western tip: María la Gorda with Cuba's best diving area.

Trinidad & Central Cuba

For whom: Colonial architecture fans, hikers, beach vacationers, history
Trinidad is a perfectly preserved colonial town (UNESCO). In the hinterland: the waterfalls of Topes de Collantes. On the doorstep: Playa Ancón. Also, Cienfuegos (the "Paris of Cuba") and Santa Clara (Che Guevara).

Beaches & Cayos

For whom: Beach vacationers, snorkelers, all-inclusive fans
Varadero (20 km of dream beach), the Cayos in the north (Cayo Coco, Cayo Santa María), and Cayo Largo in the south offer pure Caribbean — but little Cuban flair. Perfect for unwinding after the round trip.

The East (Oriente)

For whom: Adventurers, music lovers, hikers
Santiago de Cuba, the second capital, is Cuba's Afro-Caribbean heart — hotter, more musical, less touristy. Baracoa at the easternmost point is Cuba's hidden gem. The Sierra Maestra offers Cuba's best trekking.