Selection of worthy 4-star hotels in Varadero: where to stay at the resort in comfort

Every square kilometer of the island offers its own formula of contrast – bright Spanish colonial architecture coexists with retro cars and rebellious Caribbean rhythms. What do you need to know before traveling to Cuba? First of all, the specifics of legislation, currency, climate, and infrastructure. Preparation begins long before arriving in Havana, Varadero, or Cayo Coco.

What you need to know before traveling to Cuba: visa and entry requirements

Russian citizens can obtain a tourist card at a travel agency or consulate for 20-30 euros. The validity period is 30 days, with the possibility of extension for another month. The document requires filling in all sections without corrections, otherwise entry may be denied. Mandatory requirements include having a return ticket and accommodation reservation for the entire stay.

What you need to know before traveling to Cuba – the country has strict rules for insurance: the policy must cover COVID-19 treatment, preferably with an English description of the conditions. Entry may be denied without insurance, especially when arriving at the airports of Holguin or Trinidad.

Cuba’s currency: two realities in one wallet

Since 2021, only one currency remains in circulation – the Cuban peso (CUP). However, in practice, tourists encounter two realities. State-owned stores and hotels accept CUP, while the private sector actively uses dollars and euros. Exchange rates do not follow the Central Bank’s rate but rather a “tourist” rate – in banks, the rate is lower than at private exchange offices.

A Cuban account card is almost useless: most private services only accept cash. What you need to know before traveling to Cuba – bringing cash in dollars and euros is preferable. Varadero and Cayo Largo accept euros in hotels, but markets and taxis use pesos. Dollars are reluctantly accepted due to a 10% exchange commission.

Cuba’s seasons: when to visit

The climate dictates the rhythm of relaxation. The tourist peak lasts from November to April. The air temperature ranges from +25°C to +30°C, with minimal rainfall and calm Caribbean Sea. Summer brings heat up to +35°C, humidity, and possible tropical hurricanes. From July to October – the season of increased cyclonic activity.

Off-season sees lower prices for accommodation and tours, but there is an increased risk of flight cancellations. Havana and Trinidad feel like a sauna under the open sky in August. In autumn, the island attracts budget travelers, especially to the areas of Holguin and southern Cayo Coco, where storms occur less frequently.

Accommodation in Cuba: what you need to know

Hotels in tourist areas are controlled by the state. Four or five stars do not guarantee a high level of service. Private homes – “casas particulares” – offer home comfort, breakfasts, and a lively cultural experience. Official registration of accommodation is mandatory, even if rented through private platforms.

What you need to know before traveling to Cuba – it is better to book accommodation in advance, especially during the high season. In Varadero and Cayo Largo, most hotels operate on an all-inclusive basis, but in Havana and Trinidad, it is more advantageous to rent accommodation from locals – cheaper and more authentic.

Other information about Cuba for tourists: internet, pharmacies, transportation

What you need to know before traveling to the island of freedom – reality differs from stereotypes. Tourists face internet disruptions, limited choice of goods, and slow service. Connecting to the network requires purchasing a Nauta card for 1, 3, or 5 hours. Operators include ETECSA and Cubacel.

Before traveling, tourists should consider:

1. Internet: connectivity is unstable, especially outside the capital.
2. Pharmacies: medicine shortages. It is better to bring a full set of medications.
3. Transportation: Viazul intercity buses are a convenient and safe way to travel. Taxis are expensive, especially in Cayo Coco and Cayo Largo.
4. Payment: Russian bank cards do not work. Cash is preferred.
5. Communication: it is more cost-effective to buy a SIM card at the airport. Internet costs $1 per hour.

Additionally, it is important to note that in some areas of the island, electricity is cut off according to a schedule, especially during peak consumption seasons. It is recommended to preload maps, reservations, and translations for offline access – unstable connection can disrupt plans even in the center of Havana.

Tips: what is important to know before traveling to Cuba

TOP 6 recommendations for preparation:

1. Currency exchange: it is more advantageous to exchange currency with certified individuals, rates are 20-30% higher compared to banks.
2. Food: “paladares” cafes in the private sector offer tastier and cheaper options than hotels.
3. Transportation: renting a car requires local connections and knowledge of routes – roads do not always have signs.
4. Communication: international roaming is extremely expensive – it is better to use local SIM cards.
5. City map: GPS works intermittently, it is better to use offline maps.
6. Clothing: lightweight, natural fabric. An umbrella is essential – rains can occur suddenly.

Additionally, it is important to check the operating hours of museums and attractions in advance – some sites close without warning. When planning your route, it is advisable to rely on real reviews rather than promotional brochures – this will help avoid disappointments.

Conclusion

Cuba is a country that promises unforgettable experiences, vibrant emotions, and full immersion in a unique culture. However, to ensure your trip goes smoothly and without unpleasant surprises, it is important to prepare in advance. Considering the peculiarities of the visa regime, climate specifics, and local infrastructure, you will be able to fully enjoy every minute on the Island of Freedom, leaving all worries behind.

An island in the Caribbean Sea is a unique combination of colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and resort areas with transparent waters of the Atlantic and a tropical climate.

Each region of the country offers an original blend of historical values and natural beauty, turning a vacation into a full-fledged journey through eras and landscapes. Below are the main attractions that allow tourists to understand what to see in Cuba when planning a visit to the heart of Latin America.

Havana – a city of contrasts, nostalgia, and art

A vivid example of what to see in Cuba for a tourist is Havana, the capital and cultural center. The Old Town, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is abundant with buildings in the Spanish colonial baroque style, narrow streets with retro cars, and lively street music. Main points of interest: Capitolio, Malecon waterfront, Morro fortress, Revolution and Rum museums, Plaza de la Catedral square.

Interest in Cuban culture is vividly expressed in architecture, painting, music, and literature, whose traces are present on every corner. Havana combines the past and the present – from the grandeur of the colonies to the energy of street salsa.

Trinidad – a gem of colonial heritage

The city seems frozen in time, preserving cobblestone streets, 18th-19th century palaces, old mansions with wrought-iron balconies. Here you can find the Museum of Architecture, the Sanchez Ibarra House, as well as bustling craft markets. The city’s atmosphere is filled with the charm of bygone eras, and in the evenings, music echoes in the center.

Cienfuegos – a “French” region on the Caribbean coast

Located on the southern coast is Cienfuegos – a city with an unusual European-style layout for the island. Founded by French settlers, it stands out with its symmetrical streets, abundance of white buildings, and classical architecture. Among the attractions are the Tomas Terry Theater, Jose Marti Park, and the waterfront overlooking the Caribbean Sea. For those looking for what to see in Cuba, Cienfuegos offers a combination of cultural heritage and a peaceful atmosphere suitable for a leisurely vacation.

Varadero – one of Cuba’s main resorts

It is impossible to discuss what to see in Cuba without mentioning Varadero. This is the largest resort located on the Hicacos Peninsula, stretching along white sandy beaches with turquoise waters. The area offers comfortable hotels, water parks, golf courses, as well as catamaran excursions on the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Underwater enthusiasts will find excellent conditions for diving and snorkeling here.

Cuba’s Nature: Vinales Valley

An iconic site symbolizing nature is the Vinales Valley, included in the UNESCO list. The relief with limestone cliffs (mogotes), tobacco plantations, rural settlements, and a network of caves, such as Indio and San Miguel, form an ecosystem that is valuable for both tourists and researchers. The place is ideal for ecotourism and hiking routes.

Zapata National Park – biosphere and swamps

Zapata is located on the island’s south, representing one of the largest swampy areas in the Caribbean. The national park is protected as a biosphere reserve. Rare birds and freshwater crocodiles inhabit this area. Main points of interest: crocodile farm, Laguna del Tesoro, Playa Giron. For those looking for what to see in Cuba, Zapata is an excellent choice: the place is popular among eco-tourism enthusiasts and nature excursions.

Cayo Coco and Cayo Largo – islands for secluded relaxation

The islands of the Jardines del Rey archipelago – Cayo Coco and Cayo Largo – reveal another side of relaxation in Cuba. The land areas are surrounded by reefs, ideal for diving and marine excursions. Beaches with fine white sand, all-inclusive hotels, and the absence of hustle make the resort areas particularly attractive for romantic trips and relaxation.

What to see in Cuba in the Collantes Mountains

One cannot overlook Collantes! The mountainous terrain at an altitude of about 800 meters above sea level hides the Topes de Collantes reserve, which features rare plants, waterfalls, and viewpoints with breathtaking views of the island’s south. Jeep routes and hiking excursions along forest trails are organized here.

Historical and Natural Areas: a brief list

Among the wide range of natural and cultural landmarks, the following stand out:

• the tropical Vinales Valley, combining landscapes and rural architecture;
• the museum network of Havana, from Capitolio to Ernest Hemingway’s house;
• caves in the vicinity of Trinidad, popular among climbers;
• mangrove shores of Cayo Coco, home to flamingos;
• underwater reefs off the coast of Varadero, perfect for snorkeling.

Each location emphasizes the interesting aspects that Cuba holds for enthusiasts of active and educational tourism.

Resorts: versatile destinations

Given the diversity, resorts can be divided into several categories depending on interests:

• Varadero, Santa Lucia, and Guardalavaca – classic beach vacations;
• Cienfuegos and Trinidad – historical and cultural tours;
• Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo, Cayo Largo – seclusion and snorkeling;
• the Collantes and Zapata areas – eco-expeditions and nature trails.

All destinations ensure a stable tourist flow and are considered an important part of the island’s tour program.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is important to note that the question of what to see in Cuba always includes not only beaches but also cultural centers, museums, mountain routes, and protected areas. The country offers a unique variety that turns a vacation into not just a beach trip but a true cultural and natural discovery.

Thanks to the combination of history, nature, warm climate, and Latin American color, each visit to this part of the world leaves a deep impression and a desire to return.