Cuba Luxury Travel Guide: When to Go & Where to Stay

Havana Vintage & Caribbean Soul. Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski, Vinales tobacco valleys, and classic-car Malecón cruises.

Cuba, an island nation in the northern Caribbean, offers a distinct cultural experience defined by its historical architecture, music, and complex heritage. The capital, Havana, is notable for its well-preserved Spanish colonial centre, Old Havana, and a city-scape populated by vintage American cars from the mid-20th century. Travellers visit to explore this unique urban environment, the nearby tobacco-growing regions, and the island's vibrant arts scene. Its location offers a warm climate and access to Caribbean coastlines.

Where to stay in Cuba

Old Havana (Habana Vieja)

This is the city's historical core and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is characterised by its colonial-era plazas, cobbled streets, and restored architectural landmarks.

Vedado

A central business and residential district known for its broad, tree-lined avenues and 20th-century mansions. It is home to numerous cultural institutions, galleries, and theatres.

Miramar

An affluent residential area west of the city centre, along the coast. The district is known for its spacious properties, diplomatic residences, and modern architectural styles.

Highlights of Cuba

Old Havana and its Fortification System

Explore the UNESCO-listed historic centre, walking between its four main plazas: Plaza de Armas, Plaza de la Catedral, Plaza Vieja, and Plaza de San Francisco de Asís. The area contains a high concentration of Spanish colonial architecture.

El Malecón

This broad esplanade and seawall stretches for 8 km along the Havana coastline. It is a popular gathering place for locals and a significant feature of city life, often traversed in classic American automobiles.

Viñales Valley

Located in the Pinar del Río province, this UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its dramatic karst landscape of 'mogotes'. It is also a primary centre for traditional tobacco cultivation in Cuba.

Fábrica de Arte Cubano

Situated in the Vedado district, this former cooking oil factory has been repurposed into a major multi-disciplinary arts venue. It features contemporary art galleries, live music stages, and performance spaces.

When to go

November–April. The dry season, from November to April, is generally considered the most comfortable time to visit, with milder temperatures and lower humidity. The wet season runs from May to October, bringing higher temperatures, increased rainfall, and the possibility of hurricanes, particularly from August onwards.

Getting there

The primary international gateway to Havana is José Martí International Airport (HAV). For transfers into the city, travellers typically use pre-booked private cars or officially licensed taxis.

Cuba travel questions

What is the currency situation for travellers in Cuba?

The official currency is the Cuban Peso (CUP). Entry and health requirements change, so check current official government guidance and speak with a travel health professional before you go.

Is internet access readily available?

Internet connectivity is not widespread and can be slow by international standards. Access is generally found in hotels and at designated public Wi-Fi hotspots, requiring the purchase of a pre-paid access card.

What should I check before travelling to Cuba?

Entry and health requirements change, so check current official government guidance and speak with a travel health professional before you go. Requirements depend on your nationality and can change at short notice.

All destinations · Best hotels · Compare hotels · Plan & Book

Continue exploring

Back to Luxury Travel Guides

Hotel reviews · Destinations · Best hotels · Compare hotels · The Journal · Plan & Book

Published by Peters Signature Travel.