Cheap Holidays to Cuba

One of the hottest destinations in years, Cuba is topping every bucket list thanks to its white powdery sands backed by swaying palm trees, the buzz of Havana's streets, the classic American cars and rich culture. With salsa dancing, hot nights and cigars that are as thick as your thumb – holidays to Cuba are an experience like no other!

This tropical melting pot of culture, history and sizzling Cuban spirit is fast-becoming the must-visit Caribbean hotspot of the decade! Cuba holidays offer the ultimate two-in-one adventure with the spectacular capital of Havana pulsating with salsa spirit, colourful cabaret and culture and the other side of the island boasting vast glittering beaches, all-inclusive hotels and electric blue waters. Bask in the glorious sunshine on the 20-km soft white sands of the Cuban beach resort of Varadero, and once you’ve soaked up the beach vibes, head to the cultural capital of Havana where you can enjoy authentic Cuban coffee at cheerful cafes that dot the cobbled streets or watch how cigars are made at Partagás Factory, the oldest cigar factory in the world.

Cuba holidays are perfect for families and friends looking for a slice of history mixed with a few Cuba libres and hot salsa nights! So see the city's colourful Cadillacs, Spanish colonial buildings, ornate hotels and famous landmarks and then chill out on white sandy beaches with a rum cocktail in hand. This is a winter sun spot you'll never tire of.

Places to Go and Things to Do

Experience Magic Havana

Old Havana or ‘Havana Vieja’ is in the heart of the city and is a warren of narrow cobbled streets winding down to attractive squares lined with crumbling colonial buildings. Best appreciated on foot, this UNESCO world heritage site has brightly painted streets, vintage cars and feels like a bygone era. Stop for a mojito in one of the small local bars or enjoy an authentic Cuban coffee in one of the many corner cafes.

Varadero Vistas

Palm trees, expansive powdery sands and inviting turquoise seas combine to create the Caribbean dream in Cuba. Most head to Varadero (a two-hour drive east of Havana) where the tropical beaches are endless.

The Real Havana Club

Alongside cigars, Cuba is world famous for its exquisite rum exports and Havana Club is its signature brand. Visit the Havana Club Museum located in an 18th century colonial townhouse in Old Havana and take a guided tour, you'll learn about the history of Havana Club, the unique distillery process and end up in exclusive tasting rooms before heading to the bar for a glass or two of their delicious cocktails!

Life Is A Cabaret!

Since 1931 the best of Cuba’s performing artists have been wowing audiences at the Tropicana with their glitzy and glamorous shows every night, and they're so good they've even been copied around the world. A visit to the Tropicana will not disappoint and you can add dinner to your reservation to make it the perfect Cuban evening. Be sure to book in advance!

Soak Up the History

Soak up the history of Cuba by visiting the most famous Museum of the Revolution in Havana. Housed in the former palace of dictator Fulgencio Batista, the museum details all the events leading up to Fidel Castro gaining control of the country and the subsequent revolutionary war he waged thereafter. The interior of the building itself was designed by none other than Tiffany’s of New York and is well worth a visit as part of your discovery of Havana.

Visit A Real Cigar Factory

Havana is the birthplace of the cigar and holidaymakers can visit to the oldest cigar factory in the world, the Partagás Factory. The torcedors, or cigarmakers, make the cigars by hand and still don’t rely on more modern methods, thus retaining their reputation for being the best and most authentic cigars in the world. The 166-year-old original building is an example of classic Cuban architecture at its best while the on-site shop sells lots of original cigar souvenirs.

See The Sights Havana’s Way

There is no better way to discover Havana’s sights, sounds, smells and intricacies than to sit back, relax and let your English speaking tour guide show you around on a horse and carriage tour. This is a staple sight in Havana and an excellent way to familiarise yourself with the city at the start of your trip. Find out about great bars and the different neighbourhoods from your guide as you pass stunning architecture and vintage American cars, before stopping off for that all-important Cuba Libre.

Salsa Salsa!

You hear Havana and you immediately think salsa dancing! Every night the city comes alive with music and local bands playing in bars and taverns, and salsa dancing is an absolute must. Let the locals show you how its done and have a go yourself! The best places to give it a try are Café Cantante Mi Habana in the basement of the National Theatre and La Casa de la Música in central Havana.

Essential Information

Getting Around

The best way to reach your resort from the airport is by registered taxi. You can hire a car but it’s pricey and the vehicles can be unreliable. Most resort hotels are on the beach and there are plenty of organised tours and taxis. The cute egg-shaped yellow rickshaw-style Cocotaxis are a fun and memorable way for two people to get around the main tourist areas. Or try an aldmendron – a vintage 1950s taxi.

Travelling by bus or car

City bus services are mainly used by locals, with taxis being the favoured way for tourists to get around. Varadero has a good bus service, but in general service is patchy so ask your hotel about organised excursions or book a taxi.

It’s much cheaper to hire a registered taxi for the whole day in Cuba than rent a car, so most tourists choose to get in the back seat and enjoy the view as they ride. If you do decide to drive, stick to the right.

Passports and Visas

You need to get a tourist card from the Cuban embassy in London before you travel. Also you must have 6 months validity on your passport. The most recent guidelines can be found at For more information and advice, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/cuba/entry-requirements or the Foreign Office at www.fco.gov.uk/en/

Health and Safety

You’ll need travel and medical insurance for travel to Cuba. For the latest health and safety information visit For more info, seewww.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/cuba/health . Be aware that bogus taxis operate out of the airports. The hurricane season is from June to November. Avoid tap water.

Vaccinations

Travellers to Cuba don’t need vaccinations but all tourists should make sure their routine jabs are up to date. For specific advice, visit your GP before travel.

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