Being just 90 miles from the United States, Havana, Cuba has become the darling of the tourism industry as more Americans plan a visit to this beautiful country. However, you are missing out on so many sites and experiences if you never leave the city.
One of the best ways to see the rest of the country is to plan some day trips from Havana. That way you get the best of both worlds.
Not sure where to go? We can help! Here are 10 great day trips that you can take during your visit to Havana.
1. Cojimar
Take the opportunity to visit Ernest Hemingway’s favorite fishing village. This smaller, more slow-paced village will give you a chance to meet the Cuban locals in an authentic way.
Take a stroll through the malecon, which is a smaller version of the iconic promenade in Havana. This little town embodies the seaside charm that romanced Hemingway 70 years ago.
2. Varadero
Depending on your travel style, the all-inclusive resorts that populate this area may be a positive or a negative trait. A good option is to spend the day here instead of committing your entire vacation.
There are long sandy beaches and clear, warm waters. You’ll find that the local Cuban population is starting to go here more. There was a government ban on their access that was lifted in 2008.
3. Playas del Este
Just 30 minutes from Havana and you’ll be enjoying the Havana Riviera. This is about 30 miles of beautiful white sandy beaches lined by palm trees.
One thing you’ll notice is that these beaches are not overly developed like what you find in places like Cancun, Mexico. If you want the best of the best, head to Santa Maria as it is the most pristine.
If you visit between January and April, you’ll find that it isn’t too crowded. Most Cubans find it too cold to go to the beach during this time.
4. Matanzas
About 60 miles from the city center of Havana is Matanzas. This small slow-paced city is close to the resorts of Varadero.
Most people tend to skip over this town on their way to the beaches. If you do this, you’re missing out on picturesque views and rich cultural heritage.
Matanzas is famous across Cuba for being home to the country’s most famous writers, musicians, and poets.
5. The Hershey Train
We bet you’re thinking of the famous American chocolate company. Well, you’d be right! During the 20th century, Hershey built a train line to provide support for their sugar mill.
When the Cuban revolution occurred, the sugar mill was nationalized. It became the Central Camilio Cienfuegos. The train remained in place though.
Today it will take you about 4 hours to travel through the 3 dozen stops the train makes. You’ll start at the Casablanca station on the east of the Havana harbor. It will then take you through the Yumur Valley and to Matanzas.
6. Cuevas de Bellamar
If sandy beaches or quaint towns aren’t your thing, how about exploring some caves? The Bellamar Caves are close to Matanzas are some of the most impressive in all of the Caribbean. They are the largest Cuban cave network.
You’ll want to arrange to go on one of the many day trips that guide tourists through the caves. These caves have been humbling and amazing visitors since their discovery in 1861.
7. Yumuri Valley
Travel to the Yumuri Valley to see lush green vegetation that is perfect for hiking and enjoying the outdoors. Through the valley runs the Yumuri River.
The sides of the valley are flanked by towering mountains, adding to the experience. Locals suggest that you take a boat ride down the river to fully enjoy all that the river and valley have to offer.
8. Vinales Valley
We recommend spending a few days in the valley as it is one of the most beautiful places in Cuba. However, if your itinerary doesn’t allow, be sure to spend at least one day.
You’ll explore the traditional tobacco plantations, caves, and small towns. It’s the perfect locale for biking, hiking, or horseback riding.
9. Jibacoa
You’ll travel a little further for these beaches, about an hour outside of Havana. It is well worth it though for the cliffs, caves, and sandy beaches. There is plenty to do here from the snorkeling and swimming to the hiking and exploring.
If you decide to visit these beaches, be sure to select transportation that lets you enjoy the sites. A major part of the commute from Havana to Jibacoa is along the coast.
10. Cienfuegos
This elegant and colorful town will charm and delight you. It’s about 125 miles southeast from Havana.
You’ll hear locals refer to the town as “Perla del Sur” which means, “Pearl of the South”. You’ll see why when you visit the city center which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The town was originally founded by the Spanish in 1819 but was settled and grown by the French. As you venture through the town, you’ll notice that it was a leader in 19th-century city planning, hygiene, and architecture.
Day Trips from Havana
Why not ride to these day trips in style? Take one of the famous classic cars of Cuba on your day trips from Havana.
This lets you have complete freedom in your schedule to relax and enjoy all that the country has to offer. All you need to do is arrange for a car and you’re on your way!
Whether you’re staying at a hotel in Havana or visiting on one of the cruises, we can help you arrange for a day trip to the sites outside of Havana.
Schedule your day trip tour today.