Tourists love Cuba for the richness and splendor of nature, luxurious beaches and an abundance of attractions: historical, colonial and revolutionary. The feeling of freedom and happiness that visits everyone in this country is especially remembered. The climate has such an effect on vacationers, rum, salsa or the good attitude of local residents – it's hard to say, but this is a fact verified by many. Cubans are smiling, optimistic and cheerful, despite their difficult and poor life.

The best resorts in Cuba

Cuba is an island state, and the coastal zone with beach resorts is a significant part of it. In the central region of the island, there are towns and villages that are of more interest in terms of local color and historical sights. The climate is tropical trade winds, the summer heat is softened by the influence of sea winds. The resorts of Cuba, which have always been popular, have not lost it today. Nobody remains indifferent to the fabulous beauty of the island with magnificent beaches, many of which are recognized as the best in the world.

The island is unique, it has a special attraction. Arriving here, you can get into the recent socialist past, and find yourself in the times of pirates and conquistadors. While it has not changed, it is worth hurrying to visit here. Russians do not even need a visa if the duration of the trip does not exceed 30 days. A direct flight from Moscow takes 12-13 hours.

Varadero

One of the best beach resorts in the world is located on the Atlantic coast, 135 kilometers from Havana. Varadero is a city of eternal sun and endless celebration with restaurants, nightclubs and diving centers. These are 20 kilometers of fine white sand beaches and emerald blue ocean waters. All beaches are free. There are many vacationers, but there is enough space for everyone.

The descent into the water is very gentle, which is convenient for small tourists. Thanks to a long coral reef a few kilometers from the coast, the sea here is clean and always calm. Along the coast stretches a string of hotels of different stars, you can choose the option that suits everyone. There are few sights, but, tired of a beach holiday, you can choose an interesting excursion, and Havana is not far away.

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Havana

One of the most beautiful cities in the New World, an exotic and controversial capital, is located on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico with the picturesque bays of Havana and San Lizaro. It is a city trapped in time, with American retro cars and buildings miraculously preserved from colonial times, a major metropolis full of noise and movement. The city's culture is a mixture of Latin American, African, Asian and Spanish traditions.

Havana, with its fortresses, colonial palaces, baroque churches and monasteries, was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. Of course, the capital attracts with an abundance of attractions, but you can also swim near the city. Swimming areas are located east of the city – in Playas del Este and Jibacoa. There are regular buses from Central Park.

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Holgin

You can fly to the resort from Havana in an hour and a half. This second most important Cuban resort after Varadero is considered elite, hotels are more expensive here, three-star hotels cannot be found. Rest is measured and calm, assuming a merger with nature, there are not very many entertainments. The most beautiful Cuban beaches – Playa Esmeralda and Guardalavaca are located in this place.

Fans of snorkeling and diving will be surprised by the beauty of the local coral reef and the underwater world. The nature of the province of Holguin is diverse – there are rivers with waterfalls, natural springs, caves with beautiful grottoes. To see the city of Holguin from a bird's eye view, you can climb the Hill of the Cross. The panorama from the top of the hill is impressive. The city was built in the Spanish style. Interestingly, it was in this province that Columbus first set foot on the land of Cuba and was struck by its beauty.

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Cayo Coco

A tropical island off the northern coast will give you a calm and, if desired, secluded vacation. You can get to it by a road laid along an artificial dam. There is also an international airport that receives flights from the cities of Cuba, as well as from Europe and Canada. The cleanest and very beautiful beaches of the island are formed by fine coral sand of light cream color.

Coral reef in coastal waters, an abundance of colorful fish and marine life, are of interest to those who like to swim with a mask. The island has wild forests, mangroves, lagoons and coastal marshes, which are chosen by pink flamingos and white ibises, popularly called “coco”. The island owes its name to them.

About 200 species of animals, birds and reptiles live on Cayo Coco, hundreds of plant species grow, some of which are endemic, that is, characteristic only of the natural features that have developed on the island.

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Cayo Santa Maria

This coral island with few hotels off the north coast of Cuba is a true tropical paradise with hummingbird jungles and coconut trees at the water's edge. It gives a feeling of peace, solitude and merging with the bright beauty of the wild Caribbean nature. An amazing place, not yet as popular as Varadero, but already ready to compete with it.

A bulk dam connects the island with Cuba, a road is laid along the dam. From Havana, you can drive here by car in 5 hours, admiring the beauty of the opening landscapes. Beaches stretch along the northern coast of the island. The entrance to the water is generally smooth everywhere, but the depth increases quite quickly.

A constant light breeze, which gives a feeling of coolness even on the hottest days, does not leave the beaches of the island. The south coast will be of interest to wildlife lovers – there is a national park.

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Cayo Largo

This islet, located south of the main island, can be reached by taking a short flight from Havana. Uninhabited until the 80s of the 20th century, this island has now become a popular resort, providing tourists with everything they need for a good rest. Here is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Playa Paraiso, a paradise with pelicans and flamingos surrounded by a pine forest.

Due to some isolation, the resort pleases with pristine wildlife. Hummingbirds fly on the island, there are turtles that breed on local beaches. The neighboring island is inhabited by large but harmless iguanas, and is even called Iguana Island. There are good opportunities for diving and underwater fishing.

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Matansas

The center of the province of the same name, known not only for its beaches (Varadero), but also for its developed industry. The historical part of the city is saturated with antiquity and rich in sights – the Sauto Theater, the Junco Palace Museum, the Montserrat Chapel, the San Severino Castle. You can visit the underground grottoes and caves of Belyamar and Saturn with a karst lake, which are more than 400 centuries old.

Not far from the city, in Laguna de Maya, there is a natural reserve with a beautiful lake and a pebble beach. In the Bay of Pigs, which is located on the Zapata Peninsula, there are interesting beaches – Playa Giron and Playa Larga. Adherents of snorkeling and diving will love the variety of marine life – corals, sponges, gorgonians.

Santiago de Cuba

The second largest city in Cuba, the capital of the province, and in the past the capital of the entire country, is located on the southeast coast. It does not look like Havana, you will not find here masterpieces of architecture from the era of colonization. The relief of the city is hilly, the winding streets either climb uphill or go downhill, allowing tourists to admire the unique landscapes and sights.

The city fortress with the world's only Museum of the History of Piracy and the Armory is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Of interest is the Ethnographic Museum in an old manor, Diego Velasquez Palace, Museum of Natural History. The city has a conservatory, a university, a beautiful City Cathedral, theaters and cinemas. The Santa Ifigenia cemetery houses the Mausoleum of José Marti and the burial place of Fidel Castro.

Resting here in the summer, you can see colorful musical carnivals and the Fire Festival, which will give you an unforgettable experience.

Trinidad

Located on the south coast, this open-air museum city with colonial-style architecture is recognized as one of the most beautiful and authentic cities in Cuba for a reason. Magnificent palaces, houses of wealthy citizens, tiled roofs and characteristic wooden beams, fantastic courtyards and cobbled streets create a unique atmosphere. In 1988, the historical part of the city was included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The Spaniard Diego Velasquez founded Trinidad in 1514 and the city became the third Spanish settlement in Cuba. On Plaza Mayor, the central square of the city, dance floors open at night in the houses of music. The Church of the Holy Trinity, towering above the square, carefully preserves the statue of Christ, carved from wood. Next to the church is the Brunet Palace, which houses the Romantic Museum. All museums, art galleries, exhibition halls of the city are located in restored old buildings.

The Valley of the Sugar Mills, located near Trinidad, is also a historical landmark. Colonial houses, a tower and barracks where slaves were kept were preserved there. In the vicinity of Trinidad, you can find a six-kilometer Ancon spit, crashing into the Caribbean Sea. The best beaches of the coast are located on it – Maria Aguilar and Ancon.

Cienfuegos

Founded by the French in 1819, the city became a major seaport. Now it is the capital of the province of Cienfuegos. Developed trade brings income to the city, coffee and tobacco are especially popular. Cienfuegos is imbued with French charm, its center is built up with pale pastel buildings in neoclassical style. The city is recognized as a model of urban development and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of the features of this port city is its location inside a large bay. At the entrance to the bay rises a fortress built by order of the Spanish king Philip V long before the founding of Cienfuegos. The fortress protected the Caribbean Bay from pirate raids, and now it is of interest as a tourist attraction.

The symbolic place of the founding of the city is José Marti Park in the central square of the city. The park has a ceiba, or cotton tree, which was planted to commemorate the event. Not far from the city there are beautiful beaches with golden sand. Coral reefs, underwater caves and the remains of sunken ships will interest diving enthusiasts. On one of the beaches, a dolphinarium is popular, where shows with sea lions and dolphins are held.

Best hotels

Among the best all-inclusive hotels in Cuba, every vacationer can find an option to their liking.

Grand Memories Varadero 5*

Located in the resort town of Varadero. Comfortable and cosy. Meals in the restaurant at the hotel can be chosen both according to the menu and in the “buffet” format. It offers tourists traditional dishes and delicacies of Latin American, Asian and European cuisines. Vacationers can try their hand at one of the tennis courts or at the billiard table.

You can use any equipment for a variety of sports. There are centers – health, fitness, spa treatments. The indoor pool is open throughout the year. The hotel has a currency exchange office.

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Playa Cayo Santa Maria — All-Inclusive 5*

Located on the island of Santa Maria. Luxurious hotel in a secluded location. Resting here, you can feel like a celebrity. The road to the beach takes 1-2 minutes. White sand, crystal clear water, comfortable sun loungers – all this will make your vacation truly heavenly.

The all-inclusive restaurant serves local, Japanese and Chinese cuisines, as well as a variety of seafood delicacies. Guests can use the spa, play tennis, play billiards. For lovers of diving, all conditions for diving and exploring the underwater world are created.

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Royalton Hicacos Resort & Spa 5*

Las Moralas is a favorite vacation spot for Cubans. Luxurious complex, where vacationers are provided with all amenities. There is a fitness room, and the spa offers relaxing treatments. Experienced masseurs master various massage techniques, and sauna lovers can take a steam bath to their heart's content. There is a tennis court and you can play table tennis.

There are 4 restaurants on site, one of which specializes in Italian cuisine, and the other offers grilled dishes. There is a buffet system, but there is also an order for dishes according to the menu, as well as their delivery to the room. The luxurious garden surrounding the hotel will allow adults and children to relax here during the hot hours. There is a bar next to the outdoor pool.

In the evenings, an extensive entertainment program is provided. There are animators and a DJ. Young people prefer to stay up late in a nightclub. There is a laundry, a souvenir kiosk, a currency exchange office. You can rent a car.

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Paradisus Princess of the Sea 5*

This resort complex is located a few kilometers from the popular town of Varadero. A spacious sandy beach, several swimming pools and a well-equipped spa center offering numerous types of treatments – all this will delight vacationers.

All conditions are created for lovers of various sports. In particular, surfers will be able to ride the waves to their heart's content. And those who enjoy sailing will no doubt often go on boat trips. Those who want to travel around the island on their own can rent a bike or car.

The resort has 9 restaurants and 7 bars. A la carte and buffet service is provided. Cuisines – European, Middle Eastern, Japanese. They also serve amazing pizza here. There is a souvenir shop and a hairdresser's. Those who want to keep fit can visit the fitness center.

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Tryp Habana Libre 4*

It will be the best choice for those who want to relax in Havana. In addition, you can rent a car here and go to explore the local attractions. It features a large outdoor swimming pool overlooking the sea.

There is a restaurant where service is provided, both on the menu and in the “buffet” format. You can order food and drinks directly to your room. We have not forgotten here about people with disabilities. Everything has been thought of to make them feel comfortable. There is a hairdresser on site.

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Memories Varadero Beach Resort 4*

Located in the resort town of Varadero. Guests of the hotel will appreciate the design of the surrounding area, outdoor terraces. There is a wellness center, you can get spa treatments, there is a sauna. In the outdoor pool, vacationers comfortably bathe throughout the year. You can use all the necessary equipment for water sports. Go to the tennis court or play squash.

One of the specializations of this complex is the organization of an interesting holiday for young guests. A children's club is open, animators are working. You can call a babysitter to take care of the child, especially if the parents wish to go on an excursion. The hotel has a tour desk. A snack bar is open, the restaurant serves both à la carte and buffet meals. Those who wish can rent a car and explore local attractions on their own or stroll through the shops of nearby towns.

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Starfish Varadero 3*

The hotel is located in the popular resort of Varadero. It offers free parking and currency exchange. There are rooms for those who do not tolerate tobacco smoke. The hotel has an excellent outdoor swimming pool as well as a fitness centre.

The local restaurant has a “buffet” system, à la carte service, food and drink delivery to the room is possible. Leaving reviews, tourists have repeatedly noted the high level of service inherent in this hotel, and the attentive staff, ready to fulfill your every desire.

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Best time to travel

You can relax all year round, but there are climatic features. It is customary to consider the period from November to April “dry”, and from May to October – “wet”. January is the coolest month with a temperature of 25 degrees, and the hottest is August, the temperature reaches 35 degrees. The peak of the beach season falls on the period from November to April, this time is most comfortable for sea swimming and sunbathing.

With the beginning of the rainy season in May, the weather deteriorates a little, but this does not mean that you will not be able to sunbathe, the rains sometimes pass quickly, and tanning with light clouds is even safer. Hurricanes happen in October-November, but the likelihood that they will affect the resort is very small. Windsurfers will love the rainy season, because it is at this time that you can count on real waves.

Vacation with children

Holidays in Cuba with children have a number of advantages. The warm sea, gently sloping coast and sandy beaches allow even the youngest children to swim and sunbathe. Exotic fruits and communication with friendly animals of the island will also bring a lot of joy to kids. Hotels usually have children's clubs, swimming pools, playgrounds, in many cases discounts are provided for small vacationers. But there are also disadvantages.

A long flight will be difficult for the smallest tourists to endure. The hot sun will require special attention from parents – you need to make sure that the child does not burn. And swimming is recommended only on the beaches of hotels in order to avoid an unpleasant meeting with predatory and poisonous inhabitants of the sea.

Benefits of an all-inclusive holiday

Although such trips are a little more expensive, in the end it pays off. The use of beaches that are constantly cleaned by employees – not only from garbage, but also from unwanted inhabitants; unlimited access to the entire infrastructure of the hotel; the opportunity not to worry about food, and at the same time taste the best dishes of Cuban cuisine – that's what the all-inclusive system means.

Upon returning from the resort, it will become obvious that you did not spend extra money, although you spent your vacation with maximum comfort. Those who have already visited Cuba remember this vacation as a trip to another planet – beautiful and unique. And those who are going to go here, you can be sure – you will not regret this decision for a minute. Liberty Island is waiting for you!