Cuba Historic Destinations

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Cuba has a long and storied history. The following destinations played an important role in the development of the country, and are home to some of the oldest and most important historical sites on the island. In Havana, you can explore Havana Vieja to see exquisite Spanish architecture and well-preserved cathedrals. Visit Trinidad for the colorful houses and cobblestone streets that were shaped by the colonial and industrial eras.

Who can forget Cuba’s tumultuous history in the 20th century? Not you! You'll be learning all about Cuba's historical events at destinations like Santiago de Cuba, which witnessed the birth of the Revolution, and Santa Clara, the location of Che Guevara’s memorial. History occurs at every moment — become a part of the past and indulge your mind on a vacation exploring Cuba's historical sites.

Destinations

Cuba highlights: Cuba Historic Destinations

Not sure where you want to go yet? Get inspired and browse the best places to visit in Cuba

Old Havana (Havana Vieja)

Spanish conquistadors started building Havana in 1519. The city became an important port in the second half of the 16th century. Over the years the old section of Havana has become an important showcase of Moorish, baroque, neoclassical, and art nouveau architecture. Each plaza and neighborhood of Old Havana has a distinct look and personality.

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Trinidad

Trinidad is a charming, colonial city in central Cuba. Its cobblestone streets, historic houses, and lively atmosphere help make it a top destination in Cuba.

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Camaguey

Camagüey, the third-largest city in Cuba, is known as the “City of Squares” for its many pleasant plazas. Strolling around the historic core of this city will give you insight into the culture of Cuba and the lifestyle of its citizens.

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Holguín

Holguín is Cuba’s fourth-largest city. Located along the Carretera Central in eastern Cuba, Holguín is home to several pleasant plazas.

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Santa Clara

Santa Clara is a midsized town in central Cuba. It’s best known for its massive Che memorial, but the city is also a good place to soak up unfiltered Cuban culture.

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Cienfuegos

Cienfuegos is a midsized town set along the south-central coast of Cuba. It has a pleasant colonial center, and French-styled boulevards that are perfect for strolling.

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Bayamo

The town of Bayamo played an important role in the Ten Years War. It’s not very touristy, and will appeal to travelers with a keen interest in history.

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Santiago de Cuba

Santiago is unlike anywhere else in Cuba. It’s home to the country’s largest Afro-Cuban population and was the birthplace of the Revolution. Its isolated, eastern setting helped influence its distinct cultural character and significant historical context. It’s a lively, fast-paced city that is older than Havana. Needless to say, it’s a fascinating place to visit.

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Bay of Pigs

Known for the failed CIA military invasion of 1961, the Bay of Pigs is an attractive and interesting area that’s a few hours southeast of Havana. It’s home to the most important wetland in Cuba, contained within the Ciénaga de Zapata National Park, as well as some excellent dive sites.

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Havana

Havana is a beautiful and captivating city. It’s home to the country’s most thriving cultural, culinary, and artistic scenes, and is a fascinating intersection between Spanish colonialism and Cuban Communism. The people here are friendly and welcoming, and it’s easy to spend an entire week strolling its streets, visiting museums, and listening to live music.

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Santo Domingo

The small town of Santo Domingo lies amidst the forested Sierra Maestra in eastern Cuba. The setting – with tall mountains, lush forests, and clear streams – is lovely, and the area is home to Fidel’s rebel headquarters at La Comandancia de la Plata.

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Havana Vieja

Trinidad

Camagüey

Holguín

Santa Clara

Cienfuegos

Bayamo

Santiago

Bay of Pigs

Havana

Santo Domingo

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