4-Day Itinerary for Exploring Cuba (Markdown Format)
Day 1: Havana (La Habana)
Places to Go
Old Havana (Habana Vieja): Explore the historic district, visit the Cathedral Square, Plaza Vieja, and the iconic Capitol Building.
Malecon: Walk along this iconic seafront esplanade for stunning views of the ocean and cityscape.
Fusterlandia (Jaimanitas): Visit this vibrant neighborhood adorned with mosaics by artist Jose Fuster.
Activities
Classic Car Tour: Ride in a classic American car, a symbol of Cuba’s history.
Live Music & Dance: Enjoy live Cuban music at venues like Casa de la Musica or Fabrica de Arte Cubano.
Things to Know
Cuban currency: Convertible Peso (CUC) and Cuban Peso (CUP). Most tourist areas use CUC.
WiFi is limited, consider buying a Nauta Hogar card for internet access in hotels or public WiFi spots.
Transportation
Taxis Collectivos: Shared taxis that operate on fixed routes. Ask your hotel or hostel for the route schedule.
Viazul Buses: For longer trips within Cuba, Viazul is a reliable and affordable option.
Day 2: Viñales
Places to Go
Valle de Viñales: Explore this beautiful valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its tobacco farms and unique Mogotes (hills).
Cueva del Indio (Indian Cave): Take a boat tour through this stunning stalactite-filled cave.
Activities
Horseback Riding: Explore the valley on horseback, visit local farms and learn about the tobacco harvesting process.
Sunset at Los Jazmines: Watch the sunset over the valley from this scenic lookout point.
Transportation
Viazul Bus: Take a bus from Havana to Viñales (approximately 3 hours).
Day 3: Cienfuegos & Playa Girón
Places to Go
Cienfuegos: Known as the “Pearl of the South”, visit this French-influenced city, stroll along the Malecon and visit Paseo del Prado.
Playas Girón (Bay of Pigs): Learn about the 1961 Bay of Pigs Invasion at the Museum of the Revolution.
Activities
Boat Tour in Cienfuegos: Take a boat tour to admire the city’s architecture and landscapes.
Snorkeling in Playa Girón: Swim and snorkel in the clear waters near Playa Girón.
Transportation
Viazul Bus: Travel from Viñales to Cienfuegos (approximately 4 hours), then to Playa Girón (approx. 1 hour).
Day 4: Trinidad
Places to Go
Old Town (Valle de los Ingenios): Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, visit the ancient sugar mills and the charming town of Trinidad.
Plaza Mayor: The central square in Trinidad is bustling with life, music, and delicious local food.
Activities
Danzón Lesson: Learn to dance this traditional Cuban dance at Casa de la Musica.
Valle de los Ingenios & Topes de Collantes: Visit the valley of sugar mills and enjoy a hike through Topes de Collantes, with its waterfalls and natural pools.
Transportation
Viazul Bus: Travel from Cienfuegos to Trinidad (approximately 1 hour).