Cuba travel advice: 10-days trip itinerary

Travelling to Cuba is much more than visiting a country: it is immersing yourself in a different way of understanding life. Its colourful streets, steady pace, recent history and natural beauty surprise anyone who decides to explore it. Planning a 10-day trip to Cuba allows you to discover the essentials of the country, combining culture, relaxation and adventure. But if you have 15 days, the tour becomes much more complete and diverse.

In this guide, we tell you which places you can’t miss on your itinerary, how to get around the island, whether it’s worth visiting Santiago de Cuba or renting a car, and what to see if you decide to extend your trip. We also link to some key resources such as what to take on a trip to Cuba and Typical Cuban food. This way, you can prepare for your adventure with everything you need and leave nothing to chance.

Essential places to visit on your 10-day trip to Cuba

Organising a 10-day trip to Cuba can seem challenging if you want to see everything. But with good planning and carefully selected stops, it’s more than enough time to experience its history, nature and culture. The important thing is to choose your routes carefully and know how much time to spend in each place. Here we suggest a basic route that you can adapt to suit your tastes, ideal for a first visit to the island.

The key is to combine historic cities, lush nature and a few days of relaxation by the sea. This itinerary begins in Havana, a city full of contrasts and energy. It then takes you to breathe fresh air in Viñales, ending the trip with a few days of rest and beach time in the Cuban Caribbean.

Let’s take it step by step:

Havana: 3 days in the Cuban capital

Your 10-day trip to Cuba should start in its most iconic city. Havana is much more than classic cars and colonial facades. It is a city that you can feel, hear in its drums and smell in every kitchen. Here are our recommendations on what to see and how to spend your three days.

Day 1: Old Havana and Malecón

Old Havana is the colonial jewel of the Caribbean. Declared a World Heritage Site, walking through its cobbled streets is like travelling back in time. Every corner holds a story, from pirates to revolutions.

What to do:

• Start at Plaza de la Catedral, where the baroque façade of the cathedral is impressive. You can go inside to visit if you like.
• Continue on to the Plaza de Armas, with its book and antique market.
• Don’t miss the Plaza Vieja, the liveliest and most colourful square of all, surrounded by terraces that are perfect for enjoying a Cuban coffee.
• Stroll along Calle Obispo, full of music, shops and galleries.

To end the day, there’s nothing better than a walk along the Malecón habanero. At this time of day, you’ll see locals fishing, young people playing music and families enjoying the sunset.
It is the social heart of the city.

Day 2: Vedado and Miramar

We will spend this day in the western neighbourhoods, which are less touristy but just as interesting.

What to see:

• Hotel Nacional de Cuba: An icon of Vedado, with a history full of stories about artists, politicians and mobsters. From its terrace, you can see the Malecón from above.
• Colón Cemetery: One of the largest and most impressive in Latin America. Ideal for those who enjoy cultural tourism.
• End up in Miramar, the diplomatic quarter, with its stately homes and peaceful atmosphere. If you like art, visit the Fábrica de Arte Cubano, an alternative space with music, exhibitions and gastronomy.

Day 3: Culture and flavour

You can’t understand Havana without knowing its recent history and trying its food.

Plan for the day:

• Visit the Museum of the Revolution, located in the former Presidential Palace. The rooms will help you understand the Cuban political context.
• If you prefer art, the National Museum of Fine Arts offers a large collection of Cuban art, from colonial to contemporary.
• For lunch, check out this guide to dishes you shouldn’t miss: 10 typical Cuban dishes

In the afternoon, we recommend taking a last stroll along the Malecón or climbing up to the Fortaleza del Morro to watch the sunset from the other side of the bay.

Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.

Spend a day in the Viñales Valley

If you are planning your 10-day trip to Cuba, a getaway to the Viñales Valley is a must. Located about 2.5 hours from Havana, this valley is one of the most characteristic landscapes in the country. With its mogotes (rock formations), tobacco plantations and rural atmosphere, Viñales offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

What is so special about Viñales?

This is an ideal destination for those seeking nature, tradition and authenticity. In just one day, you can take a complete tour of its most important sights, meet local farmers and learn about one of Cuba’s most emblematic products: tobacco.

Recommended activities for a day in Viñales

Horseback riding through the mogotes

One of the most typical ways to explore the valley is on horseback. The horseback trails pass through fields, cross rivers and reach viewpoints offering spectacular views of the mogotes. The guides are usually local and will tell you interesting facts about the area along the way.

Visit a tobacco farm

Viñales is known for having some of the best tobacco leaves in Cuba. During a visit to a farm, you’ll see how the plants are grown, how they are dried in traditional palm leaf drying rooms, and how cigars are rolled by hand. And yes, you can also try one (even if you don’t smoke).

Eat at a local paladar

After all that walking, it’s time to recharge your batteries. In Viñales there are many paladares (home-style restaurants) where you can try traditional Cuban food. We recommend ordering roast pork with yuca, arroz congrí (rice with pork and beans) and fresh juice. The atmosphere is friendly, and the service is very attentive.

3 days at the beach: Varadero vs. the Cayes

You can’t talk about a 10-day trip to Cuba without booking a couple of days at the beach. And here comes the big question: Varadero or the Cayes? Both options are incredible, but they have their differences. We’ll tell you the pros of each so you can decide.

Option 1: Varadero

Why choose Varadero?

• Proximity: Only 2 hours by car from Havana.
• Variety of accommodation: From large resorts to more economical private homes.
• Tourist activities: Catamaran trips, diving, nightlife…

Bonus: visit Matanzas

If you choose Varadero, you can spend half a day visiting the nearby city of Matanzas. Its architecture, bridges and peaceful atmosphere are perfect for a change of scenery. Here’s a guide on what to see and do in Matanzas, Cuba.

Option 2: Cayo Santa María or Cayo Guillermo

Why go to the Cayos?

• Paradise beaches: Turquoise waters, white sand and a very peaceful atmosphere.
• Ideal for relaxing: If you want to lie back and forget about the world, this is the place for you.

What you should know?

• Less accessible: They require more travel time, as they are connected by causeways or require internal flights.
• More limited accommodation: Most are all-inclusive resorts.

Is Santiago de Cuba worth a visit?

This is one of the most common questions when planning a 10-day trip to Cuba. Santiago de Cuba is located in the easternmost part of the country, so it doesn’t always fit well into short itineraries. However, if you’re planning a longer tour or are very interested in Cuban history and music, it may be worth a visit.

What does Santiago de Cuba have to offer?

A Caribbean city with a soul of its own

• Strong African influence: This can be seen in the music, food and popular culture.
• Casa de la Trova: The epicentre of traditional Cuban music. Here you can listen to live son, trova and salsa.
• Castillo del Morro: A World Heritage Site. Its colonial architecture and seafront location make it impressive.

Tip: Getting to Santiago requires a domestic flight or at least 12 hours by road. For a 10-day getaway, it may be too much. But if you’re thinking about a 15-day trip to Cuba, it’s an excellent addition.

How to get from one city to another on your 10-day trip to Cuba?

Getting around Cuba requires some planning. Although the distances are not great, journeys often take longer than expected. Here are the most common options.

Is it worth renting a car for your 10-day trip to Cuba?

Advantages of renting a car

• Total flexibility: You can stop wherever you want, change your route and travel at your own pace.
• Ideal for rural areas: Such as Viñales, the Cayos or less touristy areas.

Points to consider

• High price: Car rental in Cuba is more expensive than in other countries.
• Advance bookings: Demand exceeds supply, especially in high season.
• Road conditions: Some roads are fine, others have potholes or poor signage. It is recommended to drive only during daylight hours.

Viazul buses

An economical and comfortable option for travelling between the main Cuban cities.

What you need to know:

• Online tickets: You can book in advance on their website.
• Popular routes: Such as Havana – Viñales or Havana – Trinidad.
• Backpacker atmosphere: This is usually the preferred mode of transport for travellers who are not in a hurry.

Getting around by shared taxi

A popular alternative among tourists and locals.

How it works

• The price is agreed before departure.
• You share the car with other travellers (usually between 3 and 5 people).
• It is usually faster than the bus, but slightly more expensive.

Tip: ideal for journeys such as Viñales – Havana or Havana – Trinidad.

Getting around by private taxi

Perfect if you are travelling as a couple or in a small group and want comfort.

Advantages

• You can negotiate the route, stops and departure time.
• Although it is more expensive, it allows you to make better use of your time and see places in between.

Recommendation

Talk to your accommodation, they usually know reliable drivers who do trips for tourists.

Trinidad, 3 days visiting the colonial jewel of Cuba

If there is one place that seems to have stopped in time, it is Trinidad. This city in central Cuba has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most complete destinations in the country. Its perfectly preserved old town, its proximity to the beach and its natural surroundings make it a must-see on any 10-day trip to Cuba.

Trinidad is a city for strolling, breathing in history and enjoying yourself at a leisurely pace. Here, modern cars give way to horse-drawn carriages, and live music fills the nights from the colonial courtyards.

Day 1: Arrival and walk through the historic centre

Upon arrival, the first thing that strikes you is the colonial charm of its cobbled streets. You don’t need much of a plan here: just go for a walk and let yourself be carried away and you’ll soon fall in love with Trinidad.

What to do on your first day in Trinidad

• Plaza Mayor: The heart of the historic centre. Surrounded by colonial buildings, pastel-coloured mansions and wrought-iron balconies, it’s the perfect place to take photos or sit and watch the world go by.
• Romantic Museum: Located in the former Brunet Palace, this museum displays furniture and objects from the 18th and 19th centuries. Ideal for those who enjoy art and history.
• Cantero Palace: Another colonial gem you can visit. From its tower, you’ll have one of the best panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
• Afternoon at the Casa de la Música: Every night, local musicians gather on the steps next to the Plaza Mayor. Grab a mojito and enjoy live Cuban music. It’s a 100% authentic experience.

Tip: Bring cash, as many private homes, museums and bars do not accept cards.

Day 2: Relax at Ancón Beach

After exploring the city, it’s time to unwind on the beach. Ancón Beach, located just a 15-minute drive from Trinidad, is one of the best beaches in southern Cuba and an excellent alternative to more touristy destinations such as Varadero.

The best of Ancón Beach

• Calm, clear waters: Perfect for swimming or just floating around while you relax.
• Snorkelling and diving: There are excursions that depart from the beach to explore the nearby seabed.
• Peaceful atmosphere: Although there are a few resorts nearby, the beach maintains a relaxed and uncrowded atmosphere.
• Bicycle and motorbike rental: Get there on your own and enjoy the ride with sea views.

Tip: If you don’t have a car, you can take a taxi for a very reasonable price. There are also buses that connect to the beach several times a day.

Day 3: Excursion to the Valley of the Sugar Mills

To round off your visit to Trinidad, there’s nothing like immersing yourself in its history. The Valley of the Sugar Mills, also a World Heritage Site, was one of the richest sugar-producing areas on the island for centuries. Today, its old haciendas and colonial towers bear witness to Cuba’s sugar-producing past.

What to see in the Valley of the Sugar Mills?

• Manaca Iznaga: This estate is the most famous in the valley. The first thing you’ll see is its 45-metre tower, built to watch over the slaves working on the plantations. Climbing the steps is a bit of a challenge, but the views of the valley are spectacular.
• Ruins of other sugar mills: In addition to Manaca Iznaga, you can visit other old sugar mills, such as San Isidro de los Destiladeros or Guachinango, where parts of the mills and main houses are still preserved.
• Tourist train trip: If you fancy something a little more leisurely, there is a tourist train that leaves from Trinidad and crosses the valley, stopping at key points. It’s a different (and nostalgic) way to explore the area.

Tips for this excursion

• Leave early, especially if you want to visit on your own and take your time.
• Bring water, a hat and sunscreen. The valley can get very hot.
• If you are interested in the history of slavery and the sugar industry, this is a must-see.

15-day travel itinerary for Cuba: add Cienfuegos and Santa Clara to your list of destinations

If you have 5 more days, your trip will be transformed. Adding Cienfuegos and Santa Clara will allow you to discover other sides of Cuba.

Days 11-12: Cienfuegos, the Pearl of the South

• Stroll through Martí Park and admire the Tomás Terry Theatre.
• Climb up to the Palacio de Valle and enjoy a coffee with a view.

Days 13-14: Santa Clara

• Known for its role in the Revolution.
• Visit the Che Mausoleum and the armoured train station.
• If you want more ideas, check out this guide: What to see in Santa Clara, Cuba

Day 15: Return to Havana

• Halfway there, you can stop at one of the northern beaches.
• Check your connection before flying. If you have any questions, you can compare here: Hola vs Saily

With these itineraries, planning your 10-day (or even 15-day) trip to Cuba will be much easier. Don’t forget to bring everything you need for the tropical climate (more tips here: what to take on a trip to Cuba). Whatever your route, Cuba always leaves its mark.

Enjoy your trip!