7 Things to Do for 7 Days in Cuba

So you’re heading off on holiday and this time Cuba is your destination. For those traveling to one of the last Communist hold-outs in the world, it’s like traveling back in time. The island is the perfect mix of history, politics and a vibrant culture. While visiting Cuba you’ll probably want to hit some of the highlights of the island, and there’s no shortage of things you can do. Cuba used to be off limits for Western foreigners, but recently they’ve become much more open and a multitude of cheap holidays in Cuba are now available. So get your holiday organised and start dreaming of what’s in store for you in Cuba.

1. Enjoy the music

Want to get a real taste of Cuban culture? Then make sure to visit some of Cuba’s music halls. Make it a point to stop by El Gato Tuerto (Calle O, entre 17 y 19, 833 2224). During the wild nights of the 1950s it was one of the main haunts of the writers and singers credited with creating filin, a Cuban style of song popular in the late 1940s through the 1960s.

2. Habana Vieja, Havana

Want to feel like you stepped back in time 500 years while still being able to enjoy good food and drink? Then visit Habana Vieja in Havana. This colonial style quarter is filled with castles and cathedrals, harkening back to the early days of the island. However, current restoration projects have also introduced hotels, stores and restaurants to the area. The best of both worlds!

3. Have a cigar

If there’s one thing Cuba’s known for its cigars and the fine tobacco grown on the island. Even though it’s not the healthiest of industries, tobacco is part of Cuba’s history and economy. While in Havana take a guided tour of the Partagas factory (Calle Industria #520, entre Dragones y Barcelona, Centro Habana, 866 8060, tour CUC 10). Here you’ll see how cigars are actually made.

4. Visit Che Guevara’s Mausoleum

To some he was a hero of the revolution, to others a mass murderer. Either way, Che Guevara was an integral part of Cuba’s Communist revolution. Visiting his mausoleum in the city of Santa Clara gives a sense of just how much of a legend Che is in Cuba.

5. See some art

Every country has their art museums and Cuba is no different. The Muse Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Museum of Fine Arts) has a collection totalling 50,000 pieces and was originally opened in 1954. While world art is represented, the museum’s main draw is its display of Cuban art and the architecture of the museum itself.

6. Take a trip to Trinidad

Placed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list in 1988, Trinidad is one of the Caribbean’s oldest cities. The beauty of the area can be experienced almost everywhere from the beaches to the historic buildings. You’ll be walking through history in Trinidad.

7. Try snorkelling

While not unique to Cuba, a snorkelling trip in Cuba will provide a unique experience. This is because Cuban waters are free of the massive boat traffic you’ll find at other islands. This means your snorkelling trip will be free of major disturbances to the underwater wildlife and will allow you to visit untouched areas that are breathtaking to behold.