Classic Cuba in 10 days

Arrival transfer from Havana airport to Havana in an oldtimer - Arrival transfer from Havana airport to Havana in an oldtimer - A note on accommodation in Cuba

Day 1: Havana

Arrival transfer from Havana airport to Havana in an oldtimer
Car Transfer: Welcome to Cuba! You will be met by a representative in the airport and transported in an original classic American car to your accommodation in Havana. Estimated journey time - 30-40 minutes.


A note on accommodation in Cuba
Excursion: Since tourism hasn't fully developed in Cuba since the Revolution, accommodation differs somewhat from other parts of the World that you may have travelled to. You are most likely to stay in casas particulares which are typically a house belonging to a local person where rooms are rented out to tourists. Whilst few could be categorised as upmarket in the way that hotels are described elsewhere, many casas particulares offer conditions far superior to Cuban hotels of the same standard. Given that a casa particular is somebody's home, you will likely eat breakfast cooked by your hosts in their kitchen. The closest comparison would be a bed and breakfast but there is a stronger impression of living in somebody's home here. As you might expect, the casas differ from one to the other in atmosphere , furnishings, interior decor and general amenities. In some scenarios, the hosts may keep to themselves and in others you will be made to feel like part of the family. Rest assured that the rooms will always be comfortable and clean. Most importantly, staying in a casa particular provides you with a real insight into the everyday lives of local people! There is a growing number of hotels in Cuba but currently they all belong to the State, which means they tend to lack in maintenance and the level of service one might usually expect. Of course, there are hotels of good quality but due to rising demand the prices can be high when compared to hotels of the same standard in other parts of the World. If you'd prefer to stay in hotels then our local experts will aim to choose the best hotels in that destination (usually 5 star standard) but please bear in mind that there is the slim possibility that this can change due to availability.


At leisure in Havana after your arrival
Excursion: Spend some time getting to know the vibrant and musical city of Havana. As you amble down cobbled streets, feel the bustling atmosphere of Cuba's capital, see the beloved vintage cars pass by and hear the faint sounds of Cuban salsa at every turn. Havana is a city with an incomparable energy,. You can walk for hours and discover gem after gem. After recovering from your flight, take a leisurely stroll around and enjoy the first impressions of the City - it is safe to do so unaccompanied. Alongside Havana Vieja, Centro Habana is worth a visit- it is the most colourful district, with a distinct local touch. In the evening, try out some local cuisine: fried plantains or yucca, white rice, pork, black bean soup, and salad are the staples of a traditional Cuban meal. Cuba is renowned for its nightlife and salsa scene - if you have the energy, this is not to be missed in Havana.

Meet and greet in Havana - Tour Havana in a vintage classic car - Guided tour of Havana Vieja (Old Town)

Day 2: Havana

Meet and greet in Havana
Excursion: Welcome to Havana! One of our local experts will greet you with and provide some practical information about what to expect during your time in Cuba. You will have the chance to ask questions about your itinerary and also get some insider tips on how to make the most of Cuba so that you can enjoy your adventure like a local. Start: 08:30 am Duration: 0.5 hour.


Tour Havana in a vintage classic car
Excursion: There is no better way to explore the enigmatic streets of Havana than in a classic vintage car. This is the quintessential image of Havana and is a must-do for anyone visiting the city. These American classic cars were imported into Cuba for about 50 years from the early 20th century but after the Cuban Revolution and the US embargo, their importation was banned by the Cuban leader, Fidel Castro. Many of these cars remain on the road and are an icon of Cuba. Sit back as you cruise your way to Old Havana, Centro Habana, Vedado and Nuevo Vedado, taking in the highlights of this characterful city. You will have the opportunity to customise the tour and stop off in your favourite spots. Driving past colourful colonial architecture, mysterious cobbled alleyways and spirited paladares, will be sure to make you feel as though you've stepped back in time. Duration: 1 hour.


Guided tour of Havana Vieja (Old Town)
Excursion: Havana Vieja, or Old Havana, is a sensory adventure packed with a rich and turbulent history. On this shared walking tour, you will visit monuments, buildings and squares which hold considerable cultural, political and artistic significance. You will mingle with local people going about their daily business. Wander through the Plaza Vieja, discover its fascinating history from 1559 all the way up to today, before going on to visit the City Cathedral with its stunning architectural features that have been described as 'music set in stone'. Marvel at its theatre-like façade before discovering more hidden gems of the old town and absorbing the social buzz of the picturesque bars and restaurants. This may be a shared activity (in which case there are max 6 people per guide). The Guide speaks Spanish and English and the duration of the tour is approximately 2 hours. The tour ends in the city centre, so you can continue to explore this amazing area independently or revisit some of the spots that your guide took you to.


Salsa workshop in Havana
Shared Excursion: It’s time to get your feet moving in this salsa workshop! The Cuban music is perfect for salsa. The workshop takes place in the centre of town and there are several levels, from beginner to pro. This may be a shared activity (max 6 people) and the duration is 1 hour. The Salsa teacher speaks English and Spanish.


Afternoon at leisure in Havana
Excursion: The rest of the afternoon you are free to explore the City on your own. Havana is a notably safe and easy place to get around with every neighbourhood offering something unique. Whether it's eating at a quintessential paladar or taking a leisurely stroll along the Malecón as you take in the views, you're bound to find something that tickles your fancy. There is also an abundance of art studios and boutiques selling local artistry so if you're an art fanatic, be sure to pay a visit to shops like Clandestina and Pisoclabis Bazar-Café in Old Havana. And of course, there will be ample opportunities to sip on a refreshing mojito when the mood strikes you.

Full day oldtimer adventure from Havana to Viñales Valley - Independently experience Havana's nightlife

Day 3: Vinales - Havana

Full day oldtimer adventure from Havana to Viñales Valley
Excursion: Today you will be picked up in a classic American oldtimer car and driven to Viñales, land of the mogotes and tobacco fields. You will visit all the highlights of this splendid region and be guided by an English speaking guide. From hotel Los Jazmines you can enjoy an amazing view overlooking the Valley of Viñales, followed by a visit to the Cueva de los Indios, the prehistoric mural painting and a farmer's house to see the tobacco plantations and tobacco drying locations. The day will be split up by a typical Cuban lunch at a local restaurant. Included: lunch, a drink, entrance fees, and return trip in oldtimer to Havana. You will be picked up at 8:00 hrs and the duration of the tour is about 12 hours - a full day.


Independently experience Havana's nightlife
Excursion: As the sun goes down and night falls, the hidden gems of Havana city start to glisten in the moonlight. Don't miss the sunset from the Malecon - walking down the Malecon gives an amazing sense of Havana's rambunctious spirit. Every night at around 9pm, there is a lively ceremony in La Cabaña fort called El Cañonazo which is a fun way to start your evening. Havana offers many artsy options throughout the night: performances from Cuban artists take place at theatres, cabarets, cultural venues and cafes like El Batazo. We highly recommend you to visit Fábrica de Arte Cubano. Alternatively, if you are a fan of jazz music, you should definitely not miss El Gato Tuerto or La Zorra y el Cuervo. These suggestions are self-guided so you can take the city on at your own pace this evening and really absorb its magic!

Transfer from Havana to Cienfuegos - Transfer from Havana to Cienfuegos - Afternoon at leisure in Cienfuegos

Day 4: Cienfuegos

Transfer from Havana to Cienfuegos
Car Transfer: Today we will transfer you to the beautiful, musical city of Cienfuegos. Estimated journey time - 4 hours.


Afternoon at leisure in Cienfuegos
Excursion: Spend the afternoon at leisure in this historical town. Cienfuegos has been placed on the World Heritage List since 2005 due to its early 19th century colonial structures. Walk the streets and marvel at the architecture; the downtown area contains six buildings from 1819–50, 327 buildings from 1851–1900, and 1188 buildings from the 20th century. It's believed that there is no other place in the Caribbean which contains such a remarkable cluster of Neoclassical structures. Known by locals as the 'Pearl of the South', Cienfuegos blends Parisian sophistication with a Caribbean twist.

Transfer from Cienfuegos to Trinidad - Transfer from Cienfuegos to Trinidad - Half day 'bicitaxi' tour of Trinidad

Day 5: Trinidad

Transfer from Cienfuegos to Trinidad
Car Transfer: Today we will transfer you to Trinidad, one of the best preserved colonial cities in Cuba. Estimated journey time - 1 hour 30 minutes.


Half day 'bicitaxi' tour of Trinidad
Shared Excursion: Today you will discover the suburbs of Trinidad in a real Cuban bicitaxi! Though Cuba is widely revered for its classic American cars, bicitaxis are also a common way of getting around and offer a more intimate way of getting to know the real charms of Trinidad. The bicitaxis are typically adorned with colourful ribbons, vibrant paintings and personal knick knacks which is sure to make this journey a memorable one. You will be accompanied by your own personal guide, who will take you to the places where Cubans live, work, go to school, and play. You will pass by local shops and places that sell fresh fruit, coffee, or lemonade made of cane sugar. Gain an insight into the local education system and economic backbone of the town by visiting an elementary school and, in contrast, a tobacco and cigar factory. Not only will this give you a glimpse into the life of the people who call Trinidad home but you will also discover the different branches of Cuban society which make it the compelling country it is. Start: 09:00. This tour may be shared (max 10 people, 2 per bicitaxi) and it takes about 1,5 hours.


Interactive cocktail demonstration
Excursion: When in Cuba, do as the Cubans do! Learn how to make the most delicious Cuban cocktails during this interactive demonstration in one of Trinidad's much loved bars. Not only can you impress everyone in Cuba, you can also bring this knowledge home, where you can dazzle everyone with your cocktail-making skills. Cheers! This interactive demonstration takes about 1 hour.


At leisure in Trinidad - Discover the secrets of the city
Excursion: Wander around the timeworn streets of Trinidad and we guarantee you'll be stunned by the heritage of this colonial city. Pay a visit to the museums in the historic centre, stroll around the art galleries and get a feel for the city's people, narratives and traditions. From the stunning Plaza Mayor, take Amargura street until Las Tres Cruces- this will give you plenty of chances to soak up the atmosphere and watch locals go about their daily activities. Head down to the Canchanchara Bar in Trinidad - the most loved bar in the City where they serve the delicious local cocktail “Canchanchara”. A traditional band is usually playing in the mornings and afternoons, so you can tap your feet to the Cuban rhythms anytime!

Guided tour of Valle de los Ingenios - Photography workshop in Trinidad - Experience the music of Trinidad at your own leisure

Day 6: Trinidad

Guided tour of Valle de los Ingenios
Shared Excursion: Accompanied by a guide, you will go on a tour through former sugar cane factories scattered throughout the Valle de los Ingenios. Stop off at the Mirador del Valley for a panoramic view over the valley in San Isidro. Climb the tower in Manaca Iznaga, marvel at the verdant vistas ahead and imagine a bygone era in which these landscapes would have looked very different. On this tour, you'll discover where the wealth of Trinidad came from, as history comes back to life. On a clear day, the dramatic mountains of Topes de Collantes loom in the distance, which offer up some fantastic photo opportunities. The excursion takes 3 - 3,5 hours.


Photography workshop in Trinidad
Excursion: You’ll go on an adventure with an English-speaking local photographer and artist who graduated from the Art Academy. You will discover the hidden gems of Trinidad through artistic eyes and learn to take pictures that are different from the standard pictures you often see of Trinidad and the locals. You’ll explore both the historic centre and the less touristy areas outside of it. Please make sure you’re ready at the meeting point about 15 minutes before the start of the tour and do not forget to bring your mobile phone or camera. This excursion can take place in a small group and takes about 1,5 hours.


Experience the music of Trinidad at your own leisure
Excursion: When discovering the secrets of Trinidad, the music scene is not to be missed. This excursion is self-guided so you can experience Trinidad's musical spirit based on preference and at your own pace. Enjoy a coffee or cocktail at the popular Café Don Pepe, right in front of Plaza San Francisco de Asis in the historical centre. There is a dancing route throughout the city, from Casa de la Musica to Casa de la Trova, or to El Palenque de los Congos Reales. This is a fantastic way to interact with the local people. If you would like to experience the most popular night club of the city, the Ayala disco is the place to be. The locals call it: “La Cueva” because its is inside a real cave. Head here in the evening to practice your salsa! If you need a break from the rhythms of the city, you can hike all the way up to Loma de la Vigía. Here, enjoy some peaceful silence, alongside a 360 degree view over the city, the coast and the valley. It can be tiring but is certainly worth it once you reach the top of the hill for a fantastic panorama.

Guided city tour in Sancti Spíritus - Cooking workshop in Sancti Spíritus

Day 7: Sancti Spiritus

Guided city tour in Sancti Spíritus
Excursion: In this city walk you get to know the historic heart of Sancti Spíritus. You pass by all the characteristic buildings of the colourful square Parque Central Serafín Sánchez. Via the boulevard you reach the majestic building where the notables of the region came together in the colonial era. Another highlight of this city tour is the bridge over the Yayabo river, the city's symbol and national monument. Sancti Spíritus is also known for its Casa de la Guayabera. This is a traditional style of clothing, believed to have originated in Sancti Spíritus. And the city is famous for its engraving art, so you will pass by the studio of local artist Oscar Fernández Morera. You end the tour on the boulevard for a well-deserved cup of Cuban coffee at a nice bar (with WiFi!). For this excursion you will be picked up from your accommodation. This city tour is given by a local English-speaking guide, and it can be a shared excursion.


Cooking workshop in Sancti Spíritus
Excursion: Get stuck into this fun cooking workshop in Sancti Spíritus. Learn the basics of real Cuban food so you can recreate your holiday favourites for friends and family when you return home! Although Cuba is not renowned for its fine culinary prowess, the full bodied flavours create tasty wholesome dishes that will leave you reminiscing long after your last mouthful. Under the expert guidance of a local chef you will prepare a meal - dishes such as arroz congris, cerdo asado (grilled pork), frijoles negros and yuca con mojo will no longer be a mystery! Once your meal is ready, you will be welcomed into a local artist's home and studio. Here you can sit and indulge in your delectable offerings - bon appetit! Start: 17:00. This workshop might be shared with others (max 10 people) and takes about 2 hours.

First day in Varadero

Day 8: Varadero

First day in Varadero
Excursion: For beach lovers, the town of Varadero and its sprawling golden sands are a joy to relax in. Take a stroll along the picture-perfect shoreline and pick a tropical spot for the day. You have the whole day to bask in the Caribbean sunshine and float idly along the surface of crystal clear waters.

Second day at leisure in Varadero

Day 9: Varadero

Second day at leisure in Varadero
Excursion: This will be your second day basking in tropical Varadero and we hope that you have already settled in to the slow pace of life here. If you fancy something more active for today, watersport excursions are easily available throughout the area- just ask our local expert or the hotel staff on arrival.

Departure transfer from Varadero to Havana airport - Departure transfer from Varadero to Havana airport

Day 10:

Departure transfer from Varadero to Havana airport
Car Transfer: Unfortunately it’s time to say adiós! A taxi will bring you to the airport in plenty of time for your flight home. Estimated travel time - 2 hours.