Cuba Bucket List: The Ultimate Top 10 Travel Experiences

Every adventurous traveler should visit Cuba at least once in their lifetime; this vibrant destination has something for absolutely everyone. From hanging out in Havana, cruising the Malecon, smoking cigars with the locals to exploring the town of Trinidad.. There are so many unique things to do in Cuba. Here’s my top 10!

Live Cuban Music

Cubans believe that Cuba has played a significant role in the democratization of music and music is ingrained in the heart and soul of the country. Grammy award winning musicians can be found playing sax at many of the famous clubs and bars. Not only jazz; Danzon, Trova and many other types of music can be enjoyed here too.

Explore Trinidad

Trinidad is a very charming, colourful and photogenic town in central Cuba. A perfectly preserved Spanish colonial settlement where the clocks appear to have stopped in the 1850’s. Known for its colonial old town, cobblestone streets and a neo-baroque main square called Plaza Mayor. The city of Trinidad is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An absolute must see when in the country.

Water Sports in Trinidad

Trinidad is an exciting place to visit with its colonial architecture, preserved palaces and vibrant atmosphere. But it’s white-sand beaches are pretty special too and you can find the very best at Casilda Bay with clear waters that are perfect for diving and snorkeling. Take a day off from sight seeing and sip some Mojitos on the beach once you’ve finished your deep sea exploration.

Malecón of Havana

The Malecón is a wide esplanade that stretches along the coast of Havana for 8 km. Cruise along the sea front and discover the true spirit of Havana at this quintessentially Cuban favourite meeting spot of locals. Breathe in the salty sea air and enjoy the romantic atmosphere. This is the place to be in Cuba!

Castillo De Los Tres Reyes Del Morro

Morro Castle is a famous Havana landmark; a fortress guarding the entrance to the Havana harbour. It was erected between 1589 and 1630 to protect the entrance to the harbour from pirates and foreign invaders. It’s a symbol of Havana, well worth a visit and is also referred to as “El Morro”.

Camera Obscura

Conveniently located in the heart of the old town in Havana, this is a great place to enjoy unique 360° views of the city through a smart optical device. The camera obscura installation gives a superb bird’s eye view of the city. It’s almost like watching a video, but this is all actually live and no cameras are involved at all. It’s a short experience, but fascinating and worth doing. The view from the roof is amazing too; it’s just incredible to watch the real time activities unfold throughout the city. The guided tour which is included with the very reasonably priced admission fee (as is the air con that you will be very grateful for) is interesting and informative too.

Cayo Coco

Cayo Coco is a tropical island just north of mainland Cuba, with some of the world’s most beautiful white sand beaches. The fourth largest island of the Cuban archipelago Cayo Coco is known for its beaches and coral reefs and its northern coast is dotted with all-inclusive resorts. Check out the lagoons and marshes that are home to birds such as the white ibis as well as a native colony of pink flamingos that’s ranked among the largest in the Americas.

Visit the Dead in Havana

El Cementerio de Cristóbal Colón, also called La Necrópolis de Cristóbal Colón is one of the largest and grandest cemeteries in the world. It was founded in 1876 in the Vedado neighbourhood of Havana, Cuba to replace the Espada Cemetery in the Barrio de San Lázaro. The cemetery was named after Christopher Columbus and designed by a Madrid-educated Galician architect. Grab a map which shows you the spots where well-known artists, politicians and famous people are buried.

Teatro Nacional de Cuba

The Teatro Nacional de Cuba is a theatre building and company in Havana, on Plaza de la Revolución. One of the twin pillars of Havana’s cultural life, the Teatro Nacional de Cuba on Plaza de la Revolución is the modern rival to the Gran Teatro in Centro Habana. If you are not visiting Havana during its ballet festival, you shouldn’t leave Cuba without seeing a dance show. Some of the best performances in Havana take place at the National Theatre, but if you walk down the Linea Avenue, you will have plenty of other theatre options.

University of Havana

Founded in 1728, the University of Havana is the largest, oldest, and leading academic institution in Cuba with 60,000 students. In 1950 the university was the hub of anti-government demonstrations and notable alumni include Fidel Castro and Nancy Morejon.