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Things to Do in Trinidad, Caribbean - Trinidad Attractions

Things to do in trinidad.

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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Plaza Mayor

2. Ancon Beach

3. Romance Museum

4. Valle de los Ingenios

5. Horseback Riding Tours

6. Parque el Cubano

7. YuditVidalFaife

8. Trinidad Architecture Museum

9. Iznaga Tower

10. Salto del Caburní

11. Convento de San Francisco de Asis

12. Ruinas de Ingenio San Isidro de los Destiladeros

13. Palenque de los Congos Reales

14. Church of the Holy Trinity

15. Museo de Historia Municipal

16. Embalse Hanabanilla

17. Cayo Iguana

18. Parque Central Cespedes

19. Galerie D'Art Calleyro

20. Manaca Iznaga

21. Casa de la Música de Trinidad

22. Lazaro Niebla Gallery

23. Mr.Inkzide Tattoo Studio

24. Museo de Arquitectura Colonial

25. Basso Art & Souvenir Gallery

26. Playa La Boca

27. Cerro de la Vigia

28. Cayo Blanco

29. Deustua Galeria Taller

30. Santeria Israel

What travelers are saying.

• Plaza Mayor
• Ancon Beach
• Parque el Cubano
• Salto del Caburní
• Valle de los Ingenios
• Parque Central Cespedes
• Convento de San Francisco de Asis
• Gio's Cuba Photo Tours
• Trinidad Travels

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Trinidad Cuba

The UNESCO World Heritage city of Trinidad, Cuba combines picturesque cobbled streets with crumbling colonial architecture built on the profits of the sugar cane trade and a truly Cuban vibe.    The best things to do in Trinidad revolve around exploring this attractive city and understanding its history.  Trinidad is small and easy to explore on foot, with interesting things to do near Trinidad easily accessible.

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You’ll find photogenic classic cars here, pastel-painted buildings, and an almost quaint decaying elegance in some of the buildings.  At first glance, you might imagine Trinidad as trapped in a time warp, but spend a little time wandering her streets and end your day at the vibrant Casa de La Musica and you’ll realize Trinidad has her rhythm and you shouldn’t miss it!

#1 THING TO DO

Take a FREE WalkingTour

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage City of Trinidad – explore the old town, understand its history, and find where to get the best cocktails + the Casa de la Musica.

The Best 15 Things to Do in Trinidad Cuba

Trinidad was founded by the Spanish around 1514 and grew to become one of Cuba’s richest cities.   This was thanks in the main to the production of sugar cane, tobacco, and cattle in the area.  It’s in no small part also because the vast majority of the labor used to produce this wealth were slaves from Africa.

Trinidad was the most touristy part of Cuba that we visited – but that’s not a reason to miss her out.  Explore here and you’ll find a whole lot of history that will help you understand Trinidad today:  the best things to do in Trinidad and around include exploring:

• The Colonial History and Sugar Cane Wealth that Contributed to Trinidad’s Architecture
• The Natural Beauty of the nearby nature reserves
• The stunning beaches bordering the nearby Caribbean sea
• The music and rhythms of this central part of Cuba

Top 15 Things to Do in Trinidad Cuba

How long you need to see Trinidad Cuba depends on how active you want to be and what you want to see.  At a minimum if you’re visiting for one day and one night you can expect to see:

• The main historical center of Trinidad
• The Bell Tower and the views across Trinidad
• The Palacio Cantero
• Plaza Mayor – the main square of Trinidad
• Bar La Canchanchara – THE cocktail bar in Trinidad
• The Casa De La Musica

If you have longer than one day in Trinidad, then you’ll want to probably spend time at the beach, Playa Ancon is just 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) away, and a tour to the Valle de Los Ingenios will give you the history of the sugar plantations and the slave trade here and a hike into the Topes de Collantes National Park will help you see some of the natural beauty of the National Parks in Cuba surrounding Trinidad. Our guide to the best day trips from Trinidad, Cuba explores these and other great days out from Trinidad.

So let’s now look at the best things to do in Trinidad, then you can arrange how long you want to spend here!

1. Explore Old Trinidad

If you’d specifically like to focus on the founding of Trinidad and her history, then this free tour of Old Trinidad is a super option for getting your bearings in Cuba. It meets on the Calle Real de Jigüe and explores the historic center of Trinidad. On this free Old Trinidad Tour, you’ll hear about the legends of Trinidad, Cuba as well as see some of Trinidad’s most traditional neighborhoods, and these are the ones that you won’t read about in the guidebooks. You’ll get to visit the La Popa, Loma de Los Chivos, La Chanzoneta, and Mano del Negro neighborhoods. These aren’t usually found by visitors to Trinidad, which means that in the heart of this very touristy city, you’ll get a very local experience. This free tour of Old Trinidad lasts about 3 hours, and you can reserve a place here. While the tour is free (tip your guide instead of a fee), you’ll need to reserve to guarantee a place!

2. Take a Free Walking Tour of Trinidad, Cuba

This is always the number one activity when we visit a town or city. Walking tours given by locals are the BEST way to find your bearings in a city. (it’s even better when you can find a foodie walking tour because you get to taste as well, but I digress). We are serious fans of free walking tours – because they let me pay everything I’d spend on a tour directly to the tour guide. Free tours, of course, mean that you tip what you think the tour is worth. You can book THIS free walking tour of Trinidad Cuba as little as 24 hours in advance, so long as there is space. It’s a FABULOUS introduction to Trinidad and to what to expect here. And, SPOILER ALERT, you’ll get some fabulous tips for where to eat and drink that you won’t read about in the guidebooks!

Book your place on this FREE Walking tour in Trinidad Cuba now – it won’t cost you a CENT to book.

3. Visit Plaza Mayor Trinidad

The main square in any village or town is usually the best place to start to get your bearings.  Plaza Mayor is no exception in Trinidad.   The often crumbling colonial buildings that surround Trinidad’s Plaza Mayor date back to the 18 th and 19 th centuries when Trinidad made its fortune from the local sugar cane trade.

You’ll find shade under the palm trees of the Plaza Mayor here in Trinidad and cast iron benches on which to people watch away the hours.  It’s also one of the locations to get internet in Trinidad.  ( Read more on how to get access to the internet in Cuba in our guide here ).

Regardless of how you access the internet in Cuba – please do consider using a VPN. If you plan on making online bookings (say for the Viazul Bus, or a Casa Particular), checking details of your return flight, or even using some social media sites then you’ll need a VPN in Cuba. The VPN that I use (12+ years now) and recommend is ExpressVPN – this link gives you 3 months for free

Some of the historical buildings that surround the Plaza Mayor have been renovated as cafes, hotels, and museums.  You’ll find the Museo Historico Municipal and the Iglesia Parroquial de la Santisima here too.

4. Visit Trinidad’s Bell Tower – Museo Nacional de Lucha Contra Bandidos – Convento de San Francisco

If that title of one of the best things to do in Trinidad seems complicated it’s because it is.  In this, you’re getting three things in one.  The building is the old Convent of San Francisco.  It houses a museum of the Struggle against Bandits (about the Cuban revolution) and attached to the building is the Trinidad Bell Tower which gives you great views across the city of Trinidad.  (See easy when you know how it fits together!)

You can’t miss the yellow bell tower of Trinidad.  It’s part of the Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco and is a famous landmark of Trinidad.  It also provides the best views of Trinidad.  Trinidad’s Convento de San Francisco is no longer a working convent or church but is now a museum of the Cuban Revolution.  (There are other museums of the Cuban revolution throughout Cuba – the Museum of the Revolution in Havana is particularly interesting if you understand Spanish (and it’s one of the top things to do in Havana .) The Museum in Playa Giron covers primarily the Bay of Pigs failed invasion and is again worth a visit if history is your thing, and the Santiago de Cuba Museum of Revolutionaries is worth a visit).

There’s a small entrance fee to visit Trinidad’s bell tower, but this does cover your entry to the Museo Nacional de Lucha Contra Bandidos (National Museum of the Struggle against Bandits) as well.  The stairs are steep and rickety without railings.  The view at the top and the walk across the roofs is well worth it.

The Convent of San Francisco in Trinidad was built in 1813 by Franciscans.  It became a church in the mid 100’s, then a jail, very little of the original church remains today apart from the bell tower and a few external buildings.

5. Hike to Radio Tower Hill in Trinidad

If you want to see more of Trinidad and views over Trinidad’s surrounding areas without venturing too far, then take the hike to the Radio Tower of Trinidad.  Cuba is generally very safe and you won’t be putting yourself at risk by taking this hike, but you will get some great views of Trinidad and the nearby Valle de Los Ingenios.

The hike is about 30 minutes each way – go early or later, to get the best views and kinder sunlight for your photos.   The views of the cities aren’t too great, (you’ll want the Bell Tower for that), but you’ll get more of an understanding of how Trinidad is located by hiking there.

There are no fees to pay here, but you’ll likely bump into a local or two who may want to show you around in broken English, or more likely just Spanish.   Tips will be requested and of course, you’ll also be able to buy drinks and snacks from them too.

6. Explore the Santa Rosa Valley, Trinidad, Cuba

Trinidad’s farming community is located primarily in the Santa Rosa Valley, close to the city and this area of farms and rolling green hills is glorious. It’s just a short walk from Trinidad’s historical center and you are in a completely different world. Now you can take a free walking tour of the Santa Rosa Valley , Trinidad to experience it. Meet your guide at his house (you can walk from the center, and you’ll get full map details BEFORE you book this free walking tour) and get stunning views of Trinidad’s Santa Rosa Valley, and then set off on a gentle stroll around the green hills and farms of this area. You’ll head to the community of La Pastora, and see the old country estate of the Quinta de Santa Rosa. There’s also an old brick and tile factory here. There are farms here dedicated to cattle, sheep, goats, chickens, and pigs – and you’ll get to learn about this area and the traditions of farming here.

Doesn’t sound like your average free walking tour, does it? Well, it’s not. This is a super way to get in touch with the locals of Trinidad and learn more about the way of life in Cuba. The walking tour takes about 3 hours, the walking is very gentle and slow, and it is FREE – you just need to tip your guide appropriately, but you do need to prebook your place on this walking tour of Santa Rosa.

7. Visit the Palacio Cantero in Trinidad – Museo Historico Municipal

This once beautiful but now crumbling palace was built in the early 1800s – there are large open rooms and Italian marble floors.  It’s now a museum that covers the history of Trinidad and the area surrounding the city.    You’ll get a flavor of the history of the area, the UNESCO World Heritage Valle de Los Ingenios, and learn about some of the slave trading that happened here and Cuba’s independence wars.

The signage in the museum is quirky, to say the least.  Depending on the time of year that you visit and the time of day the guy who takes the money may or may not find you.  It’s a great opportunity here though to take a look around the inside of the neoclassical palace.   The mansion was originally owned by the Borrell family and was then bought by a German sugar cane planter called Kanter (Cantero in Spanish), hence the name. If you’re on our 7-day colonial Cuba itinerary , you’ll want to come here!

8. Iglesia Parroquial de la Santisima Trinidad

This church, the Christ of the True Cross is the largest in Cuba and it comes with a legend.   The much revered 18 th -century wooden statue in the church was headed to a church in Vera Cruz Mexico, en route from its origin in Spain.  Bad weather had the ship it was on landing in Casilda, near Trinidad instead.  The statue ended up staying here as the ship carried on.  The Senor de la Vera Cruz remains in the church today.  There are carved cedar and mahogany altars and vaulted ceilings in the church also.

9. Palacio Brunet – Trinidad’s Museo Romantico

Housed in an early 19 th -century colonial mansion that once belonged to the sugar baron, Conde de Brunet, you’ll find the Museo Romantico. The museum is so named as the time it was owned by the Brunets (1830 – 1860) was known as the Romantic Period.  This museum contains many of the family possessions and treasures as well as items from other families of the time – there’s porcelain, furniture, and artwork here and an interesting bathroom with a 1.5-ton marble bath!

10. Museum of Colonial Architecture, Trinidad’s Museo de Arquitectura

Originally owned by the Sanches Iznaga family, this 18 th -century mansion is now home to the Museum of Colonial Architecture in Trinidad.    The style of the period has been retained to some extent and you’ll see architectural details such as doors, windows, grills, and a recreated bathroom.  You can also take a walking tour through Trinidad’s historic streets to gain a wider perspective of the architecture of the city.

11. Drink a Canchanchara in Trinidad Cuba

You should make time to taste Trinidad’s local cocktail while you’re here (and they will make you an almost non-alcoholic one too if you ask nicely!  At Bar La Canchanchara you can taste the famous cocktail made from rum, honey, lemon, and aguardiente. The Canchanchara is one of Cuba’s famous cocktails – and they will even make an alcohol-free version for you.

12. Eat Ice-cream In Trinidad Cuba

Dulce Crema is on the corner of Maceo and Simon Bulevar and is open between 1000 and 2200.  sit down and take a break from the hot sweaty streets and delight in the variety of flavors here.  You won’t regret it!

What to do at night in Trinidad Cuba

The nightlife in Trinidad revolves, as in much of Cuba around dancing and cocktails.  The Casa de La Musica here is quite possibly the best on the island, although Santiago de Cuba’s is pretty darned good too.  You can dance and drink the night away at a disco in a cave, or you can chill out and watch the world go by.  We recommend stopping by Bar La Canchanchara for a unique cocktail that originated here in Trinidad too.  ( Check out our guide to Cuban cocktails here – and find out some of the histories of the island through her drinks!)

13. Dance at the Casa de La Musica in Trinidad Cuba

From 7 pm every night at Trinidad’s Casa de la Musica you’ll find live music and dancing.   And it’s not just for the tourists, you’ll find locals here too.  There’s a cover charge for tourists and after that, it’s free unless you want to buy beers or mojitos from the local bars here.

Grab a seat on the wide stairs that surround the outdoor Casa de La Music in Trinidad and listen to the music, watch the dancing, or join in.

14. Discover the Disco La Ayala in Trinidad

Disco La Ayala or La Cueva (the Cave) in Trinidad is exactly what it says.  A disco in a cave.  It’s a short walk uphill past the church in Trinidad’s main square – it’s along Calle Simon Bolivar to the Ermita de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria de la Popa.

Ask for Ayala and you’ll get directed and no doubt see the increase in impromptu bars set up in front of locals’ houses – cocktails while you walk!

Trinidad’s Disco La Ayala is indeed inside a cave.  It’s open 7 days a week, but not until around midnight, although 0100 is more likely to have more of a vibe.  There are very few tables here, but most people will be dancing.  There’s a cover charge to enter, which gives you one drink.   You can’t take bags into Disco La Ayala, but there’s a bag check at the door (leave your valuables at home).   You’ll find 3 different bars and 5 dance floors at the disco La Ayala.  At 0100 there’s usually a show with dancers and entertainers.

15. Explore Trinidad at Night with a free Pub crawl!

This free night tour of Trinidad is a fabulous way to see the city after dark. You’ll get to visit a brewery – the Santa Ana factory, as well as two of the most centrally located bars in Trinidad – Las Ruinas de Segarte and the Casa de la Trova. There’s also a visit to the Palenque de los Congos Reales, for some fabulous Afro-Cuban music and of course you can’t miss the dancing at the Casa de la Música. The tour finishes at the infamous La Canchánchara where you’ll get to taste Trinidad’s most famous cocktail. This tour of the night spots of Trinidad is free, but you’ll need to book your spot here.

Food and Drinks to Try in Trinidad

The best places to eat in Trinidad are the small ones.  Be sure to get breakfast at your Casa  Particular, it sets you up for the day.  You’ll also want to take advantage of the proximity of the Caribbean Sea and check out some seafood – head to La Boca for fabulous lobster.  Trinidad is also renowned for a local cocktail, the Canchanchara, and ice cream too!

Ice-cream in Trinidad

Dulce de Crema is a small spot open from 1000 until 2200 in the center of Trinidad, on the corner of Simon Bulevar and Maceo.  It’s a delightful place with seats and gorgeous tasty ice cream.

Eat Lobster in La Boca near Trinidad

Cuba runs a lot on the black market, and some of the best food you’ll get will be in the most surprising of places.  Your casa particular is likely to provide great food, and if you want to try seafood for not too much money there’s no better place.  The lobsters in La Boca are not only cheap (US$15) but massive.  Check out the spots to eat here for a great dinner, fabulous prices, and some great stories from the owners.

Drink the Canchanchara Cocktail in Trinidad

There are a few cocktails that tell the story of Cuba through drinks ( more here ) and one of those is the Canchanchara, which has its home here near the sugar plantations of Trinidad.  There is, in fact, an entire bar dedicated to this drink.  Visit Bar La Canchanchara to try out this treat.  You’ll drink it in a special ceramic cup and I promise it’s different from all the mojitos and daiquiris that you’ve tried so far.

Key Information About Visiting Trinidad, Cuba

Trinidad, Cuba is more than worth the journey to get here – but don’t be fooled by what looks like a short distance on a map from Varadero or Havana.  In Cuba, the most important element is the travel time as Cuban transportation and Cuban roads are different from the rest of the world  Here’s the key information that you need to plan a trip to Trinidad Cuba – from where the city is, how to get to Trinidad, where to stay and where you’ll find internet access in this glorious city.

Where is Trinidad Cuba?

The UNESCO World Heritage city of Trinidad, Cuba is located in the center of the island of Cuba.  It is easy to reach Trinidad (in Cuban terms).  Here are the travel time and distances from Trinidad to some of the major cities of Cuba.

• Havana to Trinidad distance: 315 km (195 miles); Trinidad from Havana travel time; 4 hours driving, 7 hours bus travel.
• Varadero to Trinidad distance: 265 km (164 miles); Trinidad from Varadero travel time; 4 hours driving – our guide on how to go from Varadero to Trinidad is here.
• Vinales to Trinidad distance: 500 km (310 miles); Trinidad from Vinales travel time; 8 hours driving, you’ll need to travel via Havana on buses.
• Cienfuegos to Trinidad distance: 120km (74 miles); Trinidad from Cienfuegos travel time; 90 minutes, 1.5 hours bus travel.
• Santiago de Cuba to Trinidad distance: 590 km (367 miles); Trinidad from Santiago de Cuba travel time 9 hours.

How to get to Trinidad

Trinidad, as one of the main tourist areas of Cuba, is easy to reach.  You can get to Trinidad by bus, or taxi or you can rent a car. There’s more on Cuban Transport options in our guide to Cuban Transport here .

 How to get to Trinidad by Bus

Trinidad is on a main Viazul Bus route from Havana.  Viazul is the main tourist bus company in Cuba.  You can read all about how to use the Viazul bus system in Cuba in our guide here .

Booking Viazul buses online is easy – although online availability is often hard to come by. 

The Viazul bus station is in the center of Trinidad and it is easy to get to.  The Bus timetables to Trinidad Cuba are as follows:  The new February 2024 times for the Viazul buses to Trinidad are in our guide to the Viazul bus network, which you can download here.

How to Get to Trinidad by Taxi Colectivo

Usually, a shared taxi will cost the same price per person as the Viazul bus plus maybe 10—15%.  If you have a group you can always ask at your Casa Particular, or a bus station how much it will cost to go directly to Trinidad by taxi.    Remember to factor in that you will have to arrange to get to the Viazul bus station in the town that you are leaving from.  You will have to pay cash in Cuban pesos for this.

Alternatively, you can book a private taxi or a shared transfer – by booking with our partners in Cuba.   This comes with the benefit that you don’t need to speak any Spanish to do this and you can pay with your card online, with no need for cash.

How to Get to Trinidad by Rental Car.

You are extremely unlikely to pick up a rental car in Cuba without pre-booking.  Renting a car in Cuba is likely to cost between US$50 and US$90 a day including insurance.    You should rent several weeks if not months in advance.

Rental cars in Cuba are usually in good condition, but the roads are not, especially the further down the island you go.  Also, be aware that driving at night is much more dangerous than in other countries, fields are not always fenced and animals tend to roam. Our guide to car renting in Cuba is here.

Where to get Internet in Trinidad Cuba

There are several public Wi-Fi spots in Trinidad Cuba, the most popular are the steps of the Casa de La Music and you’ll also find Wi-Fi in Trinidad’s Plaza Mayor.

For more information on how to get on the internet in Trinidad and the rest of Cuba, read our extensive guide to internet access in Cuba here

Where to Stay in Trinidad

The BEST type of place to stay in Cuba is in a Casa Particular.  These private homestays are similar to a bed and breakfast, some are more luxurious than others.  All stays in Casa Particulars benefit the local community.  You’ll get to stay in a Cuban’s house, most casa particular stays have private rooms, private bathrooms, air conditioning, hot showers, and usually the best food in town.  Food is usually an extra cost.

Stay in a Casa Particular in Trinidad Cuba

It is easy to prebook and prepay for your casa particular in Trinidad Cuba, Homestay, and don’t worry they cover private rooms and ensuites as well as dorm rooms.   Here are some of our top choices of where to stay in Trinidad Cuba.

Casa Colonial Torrado 1830 is a stunning casa particular in the center of Trinidad.  The house was built in 1830 and has been remodeled several times, but still retains the Cuban architecture of the 19th century.   Rooms here are opulent with air-conditioning, fabulous views from the terraces, and glorious courtyards.  Stay here, you won’t regret it.  Take a look at the amazing photos and reserve a room while you can!

Hostal Omara – close to the center of Trinidad, with lovely design and two fabulous terraces where you can watch the city go by. Rooms all have private bathrooms, hot and cold water 24 hours, air conditioning, WiFi, TV and Minibar Check prices, book and pay for this Trinidad Casa Particular online here.

If you don’t pre-book your accommodation in Trinidad Cuba, then there are PLENTY of jiniteros (hustlers) who will throng you as you get off a bus or out of a taxi and want to take you to a local Casa Particular.

Hotels in Trinidad Cuba

We generally don’t recommend hotels in Cuba.  They tend to be government-run, and service levels are lacking, to say the least.  

Trinidad is, however, a busy place and if you’d like to get away from the city and all its touristy qualities and get more of a local vibe we recommend heading to La Boca, just 5 kilometers from Trinidad.  It’s on the coast of Cuba and there is a variety of Casa Particulars here to stay in.  We stay just over the road that sees just 6 cars a day tops, from the beach, where it was locals only.  We ate breakfast on the terrace of our Casa, dined on black market lobster in one of the small restaurants in town, and paid more like local rates for everything.

Stay in La Boca, near Trinidad

Stay in La Boca near Trinidad for a peaceful time, with swimming and snorkeling right across the street.  You’ll find local pop-up bars, great food, and a lot of peace and quiet here.  Our recommendations for where to stay in La Boca are:

Hostal Cuba – just 30 meters from the Caribbean Sea, this is a lovely place to stay. We love La Boca for its peace and quiet. There are several rooms available here – a luxurious and comfortable air-conditioned double room, you’ll have your own private bathroom, safe deposit box, TV, minibar, night reading lamps, fan, hair dryer, and hot water 24 hours. Towels, bedding, and amenities will be free. There’s also a sea view superior apartment on the first level with a terrace, it has a kitchen, and the room has one king-size bed and one single. private bathroom, silent AC (split), fan, TV, minibar, hairdryer, free amenities, safe box, and reading lamps. Check the room and prices and book and prepay for your Casa Particular here.

Where to go after Trinidad, Cuba

You can go from Trinidad to Santiago de Cuba – for more cultural immersion in Cuba, head to the bustling vibe of Havana or also take a direct bus to the beaches of Varadero , where white sandy beaches await you.  These are the easiest places to visit after spending time in Trinidad Cuba. If you’re staying longer in Trinidad and want day trips, then we wrote about some of the best day trips from Trinidad here.

ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR EXPLORING CUBA INDEPENDENTLY

These are the resources and booking sites that we use when traveling to Cuba.

Get a Cuba Travel and Medical Insurance Quote from Visitors Coverage here – Alternatively, Civitatis Insurance is a great option for the required insurance for Cuba. You will need a Cuba Tourist Card to enter Cuba – some airlines include these, if yours doesn’t, buy one from EasyTouristCard – now valid for 90 days. Book your Viazul Bus tickets here Pre-book and prepay shared & private shuttles here Book the best FREE Walking Tours in Cuba Reserve attractions, day trips, and activities in Cuba here Get online in Cuba EASILY with a Cuba eSIM – read about Cuba ESIMS here , or buy a Cuba eSIM here .

Download and install a VPN BEFORE you travel to Cuba > discount coupon here Book Accommodation in Cuba’s Casa Particular here

Final Words on the 15 Best Things to Do in Trinidad, Cuba

The gorgeous crumbling architecture of Trinidad and its pretty cobbled streets are a superb place to visit on a trip to Cuba.  The city is a great place to base yourself to visit the beaches of Playa Ancon or the more local Playa la Boca.    This small and compact city is photogenic wherever you turn and bursts with life and a faded elegance.  We hope you’ll enjoy exploring Trinidad, and also get out of the city and see some of the surrounding countryside and coastline too!

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15 Must-Visit Attractions in Trinidad, Cuba

The small Cuban city of Trinidad is a firm favourite with travellers, and most visitors to the island make a point of visiting its colonial streets. Here are the top attractions that you should make an effort to see while you are there.

1. plaza mayor.

The main square is a safe bet as a starting point in any city, and Trinidad is no different. It’s a picturesque spot, and one that is surrounded by many other attractions. Before you start exploring, grab a drink at one of the cafés or bars and just soak up the atmosphere.

2. Museo Historico Municipal

This museum is housed in the neoclassical Palacio Cantero, and locals will be able to help you find it if you use either name. The palace was built in the early 1800s and now houses exhibits on the history of the city and the wider region. After you’ve had a good look around, climb up the tower and enjoy the view over the city.

3. Iglesia Parroquial de la Santisima Trinidad

The biggest church in Cuba sits at one end of the Plaza Mayor, and hides plenty of treasures beneath a simple exterior. People come from far and wide to worship the statue of the Christ of the True Cross, which was left behind by a Spanish captain who was blown to shore near Trinidad en route to Mexico in the 18th century.

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5. Museum of Colonial Architecture

Colonial architecture is everywhere in the city, and this museum gives visitors the chance to learn more about the style. You can see items of distinctive features such as doors, locks, handles, windows and grills, or check out a recreation of a 19th-century bathroom. There are also guided tours of the city that set off from the museum, focussed on the architecture that is a constant feature.

6. Museo Nacional de Lucha Contra Bandidos

This museum is housed inside the famous Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco, with its yellow and green bell tower. Before the exhibits were moved in, the building was a convent, then a church and later a jail. These days, the Museo Nacional de Lucha Contra Bandidos (‘National Museum of the Struggle against Bandits’) tells the story of counterrevolutionary forces known as bandits that operated around 1959. Climb the bell tower for a great view over the city.

7. Casa de Aldeman Ortiz

Art Gallery

This colonial mansion was built in 1809 for slave trader and former mayor of the city Ortiz de Zuniga. It is now home to the Galeria de Arte, which comprises an art school and a gallery that offers works for sale. It’s worth a visit to see the architecture, even if you’re not shopping for art.

8. Casa de la Musica

Music Venue

Music is a huge deal in Cuba, and every city has a Casa de la Musica. The difference in Trinidad is that the venue is spread over the stairs that lead up from Plaza Mayor, and people hang around drinking, dancing and enjoying the views over the city. There is live music every night from 7pm.

9. Playa Ancon

Natural Feature

Head 12 kilometres (seven miles) outside the city to this great stretch of sand, known as one of the prettiest on the south of Cuba. It’s a good day trip from the city, or you can choose to stay at one of the varied hotels. If you’re up for some exercise, you can hire a bike in Trinidad and make your own way to the beach.

10. Valle de los Ingenios (Valley of the Sugar Mills)

Sugar made a handful of Cuban families incredibly rich, but their fortunes were amassed at the expense of thousands of slaves who were made to work in the fields. Just outside the city, you can visit the vast sugarcane plantations, see the disused sugar mills and slave dormitories and even climb the Manaca Iznaga tower, which was used for spotting runaway slaves.

11. Radio Tower Hike

Hiking Trail

If you want to get an idea of how Trinidad fits with the area around, make the 30-minute hike to the radio tower outside town. From here, you can look down over the city to the coast and see the Valle de los Ingenios. It’s best to set off early in the morning, before it gets too hot!

12. Topes De Collantes National Park

Around 25 minutes by car from the centre of town lies this impressive national park in the Sierra Escambray mountain range. It’s home to hiking trails, horse riding tracks, waterfalls and caves. Hire a guide and explore the park for a great day away from the crowds of the city.

13. Vista Gourmet

Restaurant, Cuban

This private restaurant sits on a terrace looking over the rooftops of Trinidad , and guests are given free cocktails at sunset. The Cuban fare is great, and there is a wide selection of wine available. Ask your waiter for advice on the cigar menu if you want to top off your meal in typical Cuban style.

14. La Redaccion Cuba

Restaurant, Contemporary

If you want familiar comfort food, this is the place to go in Trinidad . Its varied international menu encompasses pasta, burgers and other favourites, and there is a communal central table that is great for solo travellers who want to meet people.

15. Disco Ayala

Nightclub, Cuban

Many visitors to Trinidad will likely have heard whispers of a nightclub in a cave, and it turns out that it does exist. Disco Ayala, found on a hill outside town, charges a flat entrance fee that entitles you to all-you-can-drink mojitos once you’re inside.

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10 Best Things To Do in Trinidad, Cuba [2024]

Is it any wonder why Trinidad is a favorite “second city” for travelers looking to experience Cuba beyond Havana ? This small, historic city is the epitome of charm and beauty, making it one of Cuba’s ultimate gems and one of the best places to visit in Cuba for that perfect combination of a beach getaway and a colonial city, all in one.

As locals, we’ve loved learning Trinidad like the back of our hands. Read on for our local tips on the best things to do in Trinidad, Cuba, plus some of the best day trips from Trinidad and the experiences you just can’t miss.

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Best Things To Do in Trinidad

From waterfall hikes to exploring the beautiful historic center of Trinidad , there are so many things to do in Trinidad, Cuba you won’t want to pass up. I usually recommend at least two to three full days in Trinidad to take in all it has to offer!

Looking for a quick few recommendations of the top highlights of Trinidad? These are the things to do in Trinidad that you can’t miss:

• Explore Historic Trinidad
• Visit Playa Ancón
• Take a Day Trip to Valle de los Ingenios or Topes de Collantes

There’s just no way you can skip exploring the historic center of Trinidad; this is why everyone travels to Trinidad in the first place! In addition, you’ll also want to make time to visit the nearby Valle de los Ingenios, packed with gorgeous rolling landscapes and historic sugar mills, or Topes de Collates , a lush, forested mountain region that hides hidden waterfalls and coffee plantations.

While most travelers want to visit Trinidad’s nearby Playa Ancón, located just 15-20 minutes from the city, feel free to skip this in your itinerary if you’re already planning to head to Varadero or another premier Cuban beach destination.

Cuba Travel 101

• Currency in Cuba: A Local’s Guide for Travelers
• How to Get Wifi in Cuba [Updated!]
• Is Cuba Safe? Updated Cuba Safety Guide
• Ultimate Cuba Travel Guide – A Local’s Advice for Travelers

Things To Do in Trinidad, Cuba

1. climb the bell tower at the iglesia y convento de san francisco.

Get a birds-eye view of historic Trinidad’s red-tiled rooftops and the surrounding mountains from the bell tower of the Iglesia y Convento de San Franciso in the heart of old Trinidad. There is just no beating this view!

The church is centrally located in town and is impressive inside. A few small museum exhibits display artifacts related to an uprising called the “Lucha Contra los Bandidos” against the new Cuban Revolution in the 1960s; feel free to skip through these rather quickly (especially if you can’t read in Spanish!), though the patio with its jeep and ship used in the battles is interesting!

Climb to the rooftop and bell tower for the most impressive part of the visit to this integral part of the Trinidad skyline. While there aren’t any elevators to the top, it’s worth the several flights of stairs to reach the top for the incredible view that awaits. This is one of the best things to do in Trinidad, and a highlight for most visitors to this gem of a city.

Plan a Trip to Trinidad

• Trinidad, Cuba: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide
• 8 Easy Day Trips from Trinidad
• Where To Stay in Trinidad, Cuba: Accommodations Guide

2. Take a Free Walking Tour of Trinidad

One of my favorite things to recommend for travelers heading to some of Cuba’s most popular cities is to check for a free tour! Civitatis offers a number of free walking tours in cities around Cuba , all hosted by expert local guides who have a true passion for their city and for Cuba.

The free walking tour of Trinidad is a particularly great one, as there is just so much to see in do in the historic center of Trinidad. It’s incredible to get a little bit of the background of Trinidad’s most famous spots, as well as getting local recommendations for things to do in Trinidad, the best places to eat, and hidden local gems along the way. I couldn’t recommend it enough!

Looking for free walking tours in other Cuban cities?  Register for your spot here for these free tours of Cuba’s most popular destinations:

• Havana Free Walking Tour
• Viñales Free Walking Tour
• Cienfuegos Free Walking Tour

3. Visit the Valle de los Ingenios

Part of Trinidad’s well-deserved UNESCO World Heritage List designation stretches beyond Trinidad to cover the neighboring Valle de los Ingenios, or Valley of the Sugar Mills . The heart of the sugar production that made Cuba such a rich colony and nation for so many years, this valley is filled with rich and layer history and stunning vistas , making a visit to the area a must for any visitor to Trinidad.

Highlights of a visit to the Valle de los Ingenios include visiting famous sugarcane plantations like Manaca Iznaga, with its tower to observe all corners of the plantation and the San Isidro de los Destiladeros , left in ruins after its closure at the end of the 1800s, though still a fascinating destination.

You can plan on taking a taxi out to these areas and the most famous destinations or schedule a guide from Trinidad for a private trip or a small group excursion with other travelers. It’s a popular spot, so you’ll have no problem finding others to visit with you.

What to Pack for Cuba

Check out our  Ultimate Cuba Packing List   to help you pack for your trip – we’re sharing exactly what to bring to Cuba and what we never travel without.

4. Hike to Waterfalls in Topes de Collantes

A trip to Topes de Collantes is easily one of the best things to do in Trinidad, Cuba, but it’s also one of the best things to do in Cuba . The lush jungles of this national park (Gran Parque Natural Topes de Collantes) boast beautiful peaks, stunningly clear waterfalls, and more. Whether you have an entire day to spend here or just an hour or two, you’ll quickly see how special this place is.

Some of the highlights of a day trip from Trinidad to Topes de Collantes include El Rocio waterfall with its stunning hiking path, Centinelas del Rio Melodioso, which takes you along coffee plantations. Other popular spots include waterfalls like Salto de Vegas Grandes and Salto de Caburní located within the Parque Altiplano.

El Nicho waterfall is arguably one of the most impressive waterfalls in Cuba, and while it’s technically located within Topes de Collantes, it’s located on the far western side of the park, closer to Cienfuegos . Many visitors take a day trip from Cienfuegos – it’s one of the best things to do in Cienfuegos .

You can choose between traveling to Topes de Collantes via private or shared taxi, or booking a small-group excursion to Topes de Collates , as there isn’t any public transport that reaches the area, or at least in a reasonably quick or straightforward way.

Read More: 8 Easy Day Trips from Trinidad, Cuba

5. Visit Playa Ancón

Cuba’s north coast is the true stunner when it comes to beaches, boasting almost all of the best beaches in Cuba spread across mainland Cuba and the tiny cays that dot the coast. However, Playa Ancón, just 15 minutes south of Trinidad, is known as perhaps the best beach on Cuba’s southern coast. Visiting Playa Ancón is by far one of the best things to do in Trinidad, Cuba.

Playa Ancón is a typical stunning Caribbean beach with fine white sand, shallow, clear waters, and overall stunning scenery. Popular with locals and visitors alike, Playa Ancón can get busy at times, especially during the winter (December through April), though it’s large enough and long enough that it’s not overwhelmingly crowded.

Local buses serve the beach and cost next to nothing, but most visitors take a taxi, whether you choose one shared with other travelers or private. Some visitors to Trinidad prefer to stay directly at the beach and take day trips into the city, but most prefer the historic guesthouses and boutique hotels of Trinidad .

• Varadero, Cuba: Ultimate Travel Guide
• Old Havana: A Local’s Guide for Travelers
• 47 Best Things To Do in Havana, Cuba

6. Explore Parque El Cubano

The closest park within Topes de Collantes to the city of Trinidad, Parque El Cubano is a more popular destination for a quick trip or a half-day excursion, while further-off Topes de Collantes spots are generally best saved for a full-day excursion .

However, they share many of the same characteristics: lovely hiking trails, lush forests, and stunning waterfalls. Many of the excursions to Parque El Cubano include horseback riding excursions, while Topes de Collantes excursions tend to include longer visits to more waterfalls.

You’re free to enter Parque El Cubano as you please and choose the hikes or paths you’d like as you explore the park if you’re not interested in going with a group or guide. The hiking path to Salto de Javira (Javira Waterfall) is perhaps the most popular choice – this waterfall is stunning and has a fantastic (though always cold!) swimming hole perfect for hot days. The one-hour round-trip hike is easy.

7. Take a Catamaran to Cayo Blanco

If you’re looking for a fun day trip from Trinidad – and a different beach experience to the one you’ll have at Playa Ancón, consider taking the increasingly popular catamaran excursion to Cayo Blanco, a white-sand cay just off the coast of Trinidad.

Excursions include lunch and a relaxing day at this island, otherwise deserted except for a small restaurant and bathrooms for visitors. You’ll also get to enjoy snorkeling along the way! While we thought the snorkeling at La Batea was better (keep reading below for more on this!), it’s still a fabulous snorkeling experience amidst a great rest of your day.

An important note for travelers: due to admittedly strange regulations surrounding Cuban citizens using boats, this excursion isn’t one that Cubans can enjoy. If you’re traveling with Cuban friends or family, this might not be the excursion for you.

Read More: Trinidad, Cuba: Ultimate Travel Guide

Travel Insurance

Cuba requires that all travelers have proof of a comprehensive travel insurance policy in order to enter the country. Check out our guide to travel insurance for Cuba for more details. We recommend these brands for Cuba travel insurance:

• Visitors Coverage : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries, though not currently available to residents of New York and Maryland in the United States.
• Insubuy : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries and states of the United States.

8. Go Snorkeling

Trinidad isn’t just known for its stunning beachfront at Playa Ancón – it’s also home to some truly great snorkeling experiences. While you can certainly rent snorkeling gear at Playa Ancón, head to Playa La Batea for much more impressive reefs with stunning fish.

The main beach access point at Playa La Batea has great snorkeling just offshore, but you can also swim north along the beach for impressive snorkeling spots as well. A variety of colorful coral and tropical fish await!

Playa La Batea is actually slightly closer to Trinidad than Playa Ancón, located between Playa La Boca and Playa Ancón. You’ll find fewer beach amenities here than you will at Playa Ancón, but Playa La Batea has its own dive shop, and you’ll enjoy much calmer, more uncrowded shores.

Travel Essential

Don’t think about traveling to Cuba without a good  VPN (Virtual Private Network) . Using a VPN while connecting to the internet is an easy way to keep your personal information safe from hackers and trackers.  We’ve used  NordVPN  for years and couldn’t recommend it more – it’s a must for safety online, especially in Cuba. 

9. Dance at Casa de la Música

Trinidad’s Casa de la Musica is a popular evening institution in Cuba, and while it isn’t much more than a plaza and staircase with live music and (admittedly great) drink service , it’s absolutely perfect to enjoy a warm Caribbean evening. Though it’s in a more touristy area of town, it has a local, authentic feel.

Just a block away from Plaza Mayor, Casa de la Música is super easy to find. We found Trinidad to be great fun, with tons of spots offering live music and found a good number of places to dance, drink, and hang out during the evening, so if Casa de la Music isn’t your style, no worries – there’s plenty here for you!

10. Take in the View at Cerro de la Vigia

This list of the best things to do in Trinidad, Cuba starts with a great spot for a stunning, and it has to end with one as well. With the gorgeous mountains in the distance and the stunning rooftops of the historic center, it’s only fitting !

Take the easy 25-minute hike up this hillside just outside of central Trinidad for gorgeous views of the hillsides, with sweeping vistas reaching as far as the ocean. While you won’t get as great a view of the actual city from this spot, it’s a great complement to the view from the bell tower at the Iglesia y Convento de San Franciso .

Make sure to come prepared with sunscreen and a hat, and try to plan your visit for the morning or as the sun starts to set to escape the hot Cuban sun. The path is quite well-defined, and with a radio tower at the top of the hill it is easy to keep your endpoint in view as you hike.

• Trinidad, Cuba: Ultimate Travel Guide
• 12 Best Beaches in Cuba
• Where to Stay in Havana, Cuba
• Is Cuba Safe? A Cuba Safety Guide

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Home to Havana and Explorers Away. She is a serial expat and traveler, having visited 40+ countries and counting. Carley has written for publications like Travel + Leisure, MSN, Associated Press, Weather Channel, Wealth of Geeks, and more. Find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Trinidad, Cuba

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Nudging the emerald Escambray mountains, Trinidad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Cuba's most charming towns. So perfectly preserved are the quaint colonial buildings, the entire town feels as though it's trapped in a time warp from the 1800s.

Stroll the winding cobbled streets here to discover a trove of architectural treasures, from colorful colonial mansions to historic churches and pastel-painted bell towers with panoramic views. Most of the buildings span the 17th to 19th centuries, when the town prospered from the sugar and slave trades.

Trinidad is also a great base for day trips to the mountains and the sea. From here, you can hike to waterfalls in the Sierra del Escambray; bike to the pretty Playa Ancon, a palapa-studded beach; or venture into the Valle de Los Ingenios, yet another World Heritage-listed gem.

For more sightseeing ideas in one of the best places to visit in Cuba, see our list of the top things to do in Trinidad.

See also: Where to Stay in Trinidad

1. Plaza Mayor

2. palacio cantero (museo de historia municipal), 3. parque el cubano, 4. playa ancon, 5. palacio brunet (museo romantico), 6. iglesia y convento de san francisco (museo nacional de lucha contra bandidos), 7. iglesia parroquial de la santisima trinidad, 8. museum of colonial architecture, 9. casa de aldeman ortiz (galeria de arte), 10. day trip to the valle de los ingenios, 11. day trip to salto del caburni, where to stay in trinidad, cuba for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in trinidad, cuba.

The picturesque Plaza Mayor lies in the historical center of Trinidad, Cuba and is an ideal place to start a sightseeing tour of the city. Many of Trinidad's top tourist attractions lie on or near the Plaza Mayor, including the fascinating Museo Historico Municipal , the famous Iglesia Parroquial de la Santisima Trinidad , and other museums and architectural gems.

After exploring the pretty colonial mansions and museums that preside over this palm-studded square, relax at one of the nearby restaurants or alfresco cafés. Live salsa music often fills the tropical air, especially at night, and it's an evocative spot to pull up a seat and order a cool drink. Sitting here, soaking it all in, it's easy to imagine what life must have been like when wealthy sugar barons sauntered along the cobbled streets.

The Museo de Historia Municipal should be one of the first places to visit on your sightseeing itinerary. It's housed in the golden-hued Neoclassical Palacio Cantero and offers an excellent overview of Trinidad's history - not to mention photo-worthy vistas of Trinidad itself from the top of the tower.

Built in the early 1800s, the mansion has an air of grandeur throughout, with Italian marble floors and large open rooms. On display are documents and maps, as well as exhibits on the World Heritage-listed Valle de los Ingenios , the industry of slave trading, and the wars of independence.

After browsing the exhibits, save time to ascend the steep spiral stairs of the tower for a panoramic view of the city and Caribbean Sea. It's particularly beautiful at sunset.

Looking for a way to get some exercise and admire beautiful scenery at the same time? The hike along Huellas de la História trail to the picturesque Javira Waterfall in Parque el Cubano is a great option. It's the perfect place to cool down on a swelteringly hot day.

Bring your swimsuit (and sturdy footwear) so you can take a refreshing dip under the falls in the jade-green pools. And keep an eye out for birds along the way - you might even spot the national bird, the Cuban trogon (tocororo).

After your hike, or on the way, you can refuel at the nearby rustic farm-style restaurant with lunch and a refreshing drink.

Many visitors hire a guide to take them to the waterfall, but it's also possible to catch a taxi from town and do the hike on your own - the trail is well-maintained and clearly marked. If you're really up for some exercise, you can also hike the 16 kilometers from town to the waterfall and then rest your weary legs by taking a taxi on the return trip.

Insider's tip: Try to go earlier in the day before the tour buses arrive.

About 12 kilometers south of Trinidad, Playa Ancon, on the Peninsula Ancon, is one of the prettiest beaches on the south coast of Cuba. A coral reef bristles just offshore, and the four-kilometer stretch of white sand fringes crystal-clear seas in dreamy shades of blue. Pick a shady spot under one of the thatched palapas here and spend a relaxing day by the sea.

Though not quite as striking as Varadero , Guardalavaca , and Cayo Coco, Playa Ancon tends to be less crowded than these famous strands and offers a broader range of accommodations, from all-inclusive hotels to guesthouses.

If you're on a budget opt for a home stay at La Boca , another beach area near the top of the peninsula, which offers much more interaction with the locals than some of Cuba's other beach resorts.

For a fun day out, many tourists rent bikes in Trinidad and cycle to Playa Ancon; the trip takes about 40 minutes.

A short boat ride from Playa Ancon, Cayo Blanco is popular for day trips. In addition to basking on the island's white-sand beaches, you can dive and snorkel the largest black coral reef in Cuba .

The yellow-hued Palacio Brunet houses the Museo Romantico, which offers a window into the world of wealthy sugar baron, Conde de Brunet. Built in the early 19th century, this attractive colonial mansion was owned by Brunet, from 1830 to 1860, an era referred to as the Romantic period.

The museum's collection comprises items from several wealthy Trinidad families, but primarily the Brunet's possessions. Among the displays are exquisite glass and porcelain pieces, artwork, and antique furniture from the period. Each room, some graced by chandeliers, is set up as it would have been at the time, providing a snapshot of life in this elegant colonial mansion.

From the first floor, you can peer down into the sunny courtyard and across the red-tile roofs of town.

A distinctive landmark in Trinidad, the Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco, with its pretty yellow and green bell tower is mostly visited for its beautiful views over the city. Yet it claims an eventful history.

Built in 1813 by the Franciscans, this former convent was taken over and turned into a parish church in the mid 1800s and later became a jail before much of the structure was torn down in the 1920s. Only some of the outer buildings and the bell tower still stand.

Today, this picturesque building accommodates the Museo Nacional de Lucha Contra Bandidos (National Museum of the Struggle against Bandits). Fans of Cuba's revolutionary history should devote some time to explore the few exhibits here. On display are photographs, documents, and equipment associated with the counter revolutionary forces or "bandits" of 1959 and the problems and battles that ensued.

After browsing the museum, you can lighten the mood by climbing the bell tower and snapping some photos of the stunning views across the city to the lush mountains beyond.

On the upper end of the Plaza Mayor, the Iglesia Parroquial de la Santisima Trinidad wears a simple sun-bleached Neoclassical façade, which belies its interior treasures.

This is the largest church in Cuba and houses a much-worshipped statue known as Christ of the True Cross or Senor de la Vera Cruz . This 18th-century wooden statue was bound for a church in Vera Cruz, Mexico from its place of origin in Spain. But strong winds thwarted the ship's arrival at its destination, and the ship landed in Casilda instead, just a short distance from Trinidad. The captain decided to leave the statue behind when he set sail, and the Senor de la Vera Cruz was brought here, where it still graces the church today.

Interior highlights of the church are the vaulted ceilings and a series of impressive altars carved from cedar and mahogany. Iglesia Parroquial de la Santisima Trinidad is also renowned for its fine acoustics.

For visitors who would like to learn more about the intricacies of Trinidad's colonial architecture, the Museo de Arquitectura Colonial delves into the details. The Sanchez Iznaga mansion houses the museum and consists of two blue 18th-century buildings that were combined in the early 19th century.

Within its interior are displays of architectural trimming, such as doors, handles, locks, windows, and grills, as well as a recreated 19th-century bathroom.

The Museo de Arquitectura Colonial also offers guided walking tours through the historic streets of Trinidad, giving visitors a richer appreciation of the town's magnificent buildings.

The Casa de Aldeman Ortiz is a colonial mansion from 1809 that was originally built for Ortiz de Zuniga, a slave trader and mayor of Trinidad. The building now houses the Galeria de Arte, which contains an art school and offers paintings for sale to the public. Contemporary Cuban art dominates the collection.

As well as viewing some of these vibrant pieces, a visit here is a good excuse to see the inside of the Casa de Aldeman. Note the frescoes and ornate ceilings, as well as the grand staircase.

East of Trinidad, on the road to Sancti Spiritus, lies the lush Valle de los Ingenios with gorgeous scenery of green sugar cane fields, palms trees, and mountains. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the valley, also known as Valle de San Luis, contains relics and monuments from the 19th century, when slave-tended sugar cane plantations and mills flourished here.

Tours of the valley should include a number of key sights: The Mirador de La Loma del Puertos , an elevated lookout, offers impressive views of the entire Valle de los Ingenios. Also not to be missed is the 44-meter-high Manaca Iznaga tower. You can climb the tower for more views, and dine at the restaurant in the house next door.

Another historic house turned restaurant is the Casa Guachinango , owned in the 18th century by Don Mariano Borrell, a well-known name in the history of the region. Here, visitors will find another beautiful view of the landscape, which also takes in the river, Rio Ay.

A tourist train runs through the valley from Trinidad, and you can also explore the valley by car or horseback, with or without a guide.

Surrounding Trinidad are the emerald peaks of the Sierra del Escambray with some rewarding hikes. Here, in the Topes de Collantes National Park, nature lovers can embark on a challenging trail to the 75-meter waterfall of Salto del Caburni. The trail is about five to six kilometers round trip through a forest of palms and pine trees, where you can spot hummingbirds, woodpeckers, insects, and beautiful tropical plants.

Once at the falls, you can cool off in the crisp waters of the swimming hole. Be sure to wear appropriate shoes, as the trail can be narrow and steep. Note that during the dry season, the falls are less impressive.

We recommend these welcoming hotels and guesthouses in Trinidad near the city's top historical attractions:

• Iberostar Grand Hotel Trinidad offers colonial-style luxury in a fantastic location, steps from the Plaza Mayor. Live music, a games room, hot tub, and spa are some of the many perks of a stay here.
• Hotel La Ronda is a mid-range boutique hotel in a central location, with spacious rooms and a quaint courtyard.
• Casa MiCuba is an affordable bed-and-breakfast with a friendly host, air-conditioned rooms, and laundry service.
• Hostal Casa El Ceramista , a budget-friendly guesthouse, comes with wonderful hosts, authentic Cuban cuisine, and a lovely rooftop terrace.

More on Cuba

10 Things to Do in Trinidad, Cuba: Experiencing the Vibrant Charm

Immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythm and timeless charm of Trinidad , Cuba, with our comprehensive guide to the top 10 things to do in this captivating colonial city. From exploring historic cobblestone streets to indulging in mouthwatering Cuban cuisine, Trinidad offers an unforgettable blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. 

Join us on a journey through this UNESCO World Heritage Site as we uncover the hidden gems and must-see attractions that define the essence of Trinidad’s vibrant spirit. 

Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a food enthusiast, there’s something for everyone to discover in Trinidad, Cuba.

Table of Contents

Things to do in trinidad.

1. Explore the Historic Centre: Step Back in Time

Begin your journey through Trinidad’s historic center by strolling along its cobblestone streets, where every corner reveals a piece of the city’s rich history. Admire the intricate architecture of colonial-era buildings, adorned with vibrant colors and ornate details, showcasing the city’s architectural splendor. Don’t forget to explore the charming alleyways and hidden courtyards, where you’ll encounter local artisans, bustling markets, and quaint cafes, offering a glimpse into Trinidad’s vibrant cultural tapestry.

2. Visit Museo Romántico: Relive the Romantic Era

Step into the Museo Romántico and immerse yourself in the opulent lifestyle of Trinidad’s elite during the 19th century, as you marvel at the exquisite furnishings and elegant decor of this meticulously preserved mansion. Explore the museum’s diverse collections, ranging from fine art and decorative objects to historical artifacts, providing insight into the city’s romantic past. Delve deeper into Trinidad’s cultural heritage by attending special exhibitions and events hosted at the museum, offering a deeper appreciation for the city’s artistic legacy.

3. Climb the Tower of Manaca-Iznaga: Witness Panoramic Views

Ascend the Tower of Manaca-Iznaga and behold the breathtaking vistas of the Valle de los Ingenios, where verdant landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see, punctuated by the remnants of ancient sugar mills and sprawling haciendas. Capture panoramic photographs of Trinidad and its surroundings from the tower’s lofty vantage point, offering a bird’s-eye view of the city’s architectural charm and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Valle de los Ingenios as you descend the tower, exploring the surrounding trails and landmarks that echo the legacy of Cuba’s sugar industry.

4. Dance the Night Away at Casa de la Música: Salsa and Rhythm

As night falls, head to Casa de la Música and immerse yourself in the electrifying rhythms of Cuban music, where live bands and talented musicians set the stage for an unforgettable night of dancing and entertainment. Join locals and fellow travelers on the dance floor as you learn the sultry moves of salsa, merengue, and cha-cha, guided by expert instructors who infuse every step with passion and energy. Savor the vibrant atmosphere of Casa de la Música, where the infectious beats of Afro-Cuban music create an exhilarating ambiance that ignites the soul and leaves you craving more.

5. Discover Playa Ancón: Beach Bliss at Your Fingertips

Escape the city’s hustle and bustle by embarking on a scenic drive to Playa Ancón, where pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters await, inviting you to unwind and soak up the Caribbean sun. Indulge in a variety of water activities, from swimming and snorkeling to kayaking and paddleboarding, as you explore the vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life. Relax under the shade of swaying palm trees and sip on refreshing cocktails served by beachside vendors, immersing yourself in the laid-back beach vibes of Playa Ancón.

6. Horseback Riding in the Valle de los Ingenios: Embrace Nature's Beauty

Embark on a memorable horseback riding excursion through the picturesque landscapes of the Valle de los Ingenios, where rolling hills, lush forests, and historic ruins create a captivating backdrop for your adventure. Saddle up and traverse the scenic trails that wind through sugar cane fields, offering panoramic views of the valley and its surrounding mountains. Explore hidden gems along the way, such as cascading waterfalls and hidden caves, as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of this enchanting valley.

7. Indulge in Cuban Cuisine: A Gastronomic Delight

Treat your taste buds to an authentic culinary experience by sampling the diverse flavors of Cuban cuisine at Trinidad’s array of eateries, from charming paladares to bustling cafes and street vendors. Delight in traditional dishes such as ropa vieja, arroz con pollo, and picadillo, prepared with locally sourced ingredients and infused with rich flavors and aromatic spices. Engage in the culinary traditions of Cuba by joining cooking classes and food tours, where you’ll learn the secrets behind classic Cuban recipes and discover the cultural significance of each dish.

8. Explore the El Cubano Natural Park: Nature's Retreat

Escape the urban bustle and venture into the serene wilderness of El Cubano Natural Park, a pristine oasis located just a short distance from Trinidad, where lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil rivers await exploration. Embark on a guided nature hike through the park’s scenic trails, spotting native wildlife such as colorful birds, playful monkeys, and elusive reptiles along the way. Cool off with a refreshing swim in the park’s natural pools, fed by crystal-clear mountain springs, and rejuvenate your senses amidst the soothing sounds of nature.

9. Wander through the Art Galleries: Appreciate Local Creations

Immerse yourself in Trinidad’s vibrant art scene by exploring its eclectic art galleries, where you’ll discover a diverse array of paintings, sculptures, and crafts created by talented local artists. Engage with artists in their studios, gaining insight into their creative process and artistic inspirations, as you admire their unique works of art. Browse through galleries such as the Galería de Arte Universal and Galería de Arte Colonial, where you’ll find captivating pieces that reflect the cultural heritage and artistic expression of Trinidad.

10. Join a Salsa Class: Embrace the Rhythm of Cuba

Enrich your cultural experience in Trinidad by participating in a lively salsa class, where expert instructors will teach you the spirited dance steps and rhythms of this iconic Cuban dance style. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the dance studio, where lively music and energetic movements create an electrifying ambiance that’s infectious and exhilarating. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, salsa classes offer a fun and interactive way to connect with the local community and embrace the rhythmic heartbeat of Cuba.

Frequently asked questions

What are some must-visit historical sites in Trinidad, Cuba?

Some must-visit historical sites in Trinidad include the Plaza Mayor, which is the central square surrounded by colorful colonial buildings, and the Museo Romántico, a beautifully restored mansion showcasing the city’s romantic past. Additionally, don’t miss the Tower of Manaca-Iznaga in the nearby Valle de los Ingenios for panoramic views of the valley.

What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Trinidad, Cuba?

In Trinidad, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like horseback riding in the Valle de los Ingenios, where you can explore lush landscapes and historic sugar mills ruins. You can also relax on the white sandy shores of Playa Ancón or venture into the El Cubano Natural Park for hiking trails, hidden waterfalls, and natural pools.

Where can I experience the vibrant nightlife in Trinidad, Cuba?

For a taste of Trinidad’s vibrant nightlife, head to Casa de la Música, an open-air venue where you can dance the night away to lively Cuban music. Additionally, explore the city’s local bars and restaurants, where you can immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere and enjoy live music performances.

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Trinidad is one of a kind, a perfectly preserved Spanish colonial settlement where the clocks stopped in 1850 and – apart from a zombie invasion of tourists – have yet to restart. Huge sugar fortunes amassed in the nearby Valle de los Ingenios during the early 19th century created colonial-style mansions bedecked with Italian frescoes, Wedgwood china and French chandeliers.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museo Histórico Municipal

Just off Plaza Mayor, this grandiose mansion, Trinidad's main museum, belonged to the Borrell family from 1827 to 1830. Later it passed to a German…

Plaza Mayor

Trinidad's remarkably peaceful main square is located in the heart of the casco histórico and is the town's most photographed spot.

Iglesia Parroquial de la Santísima Trinidad

Despite its unremarkable facade, this church on the northeastern side of Plaza Mayor graces countless Trinidad postcards. Rebuilt in 1892 on the site of a…

Plaza Santa Ana

Located on the eponymous square, which delineates Trinidad's northeastern reaches, is a former Spanish prison (1844) that has been converted into the…

Casa Templo de Santería Yemayá

You will need some luck to find this religious center in action. While no Santería museum can replicate the ethereal experience of Regla de Ocha (also…

Museo Nacional de la Lucha Contra Bandidos

The most recognizable building in Trinidad, this dilapidated pastel-yellow bell tower occupies the former convent of San Francisco de Asís. Since 1986 it…

Maqueta de Trinidad

Opened in 2014 and encased in the beautifully restored Casa Frias, this scale model of Trinidad's casco histórico displays amazing attention to detail …

Museo Romántico

The ground floor of the glittering Palacio Brunet was built in 1740, and the upstairs was added in 1808. In 1974 the mansion was converted into a museum…

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Best Things to Do in Trinidad: Ultimate Guide

Home | Travel | The Caribbean | Cuba | Best Things to Do in Trinidad: Ultimate Guide

If you only have three days to see Cuba , I would recommend spending at least one in Trinidad. The most beautiful attraction in Cuba, located in the central part of the island, is an ideal place to enjoy history, culture, nature, and relaxation. Legacy of the Spanish colonization period is displayed here in its beautiful cobblestone streets and colorful buildings.

Old Town of Trinidad

Trinidad was the third city founded by the Spaniards when they arrived in Cuba. This capital city of the Sancti Spíritus province won its title as a World Heritage Site because it is one of the best-preserved colonial cities in the Americas.

Considering its ability to maintain a breathtaking World Heritage Site similar to others around the world amidst the environment of its location, you can guess that the level of wealth is exponentially higher here.

Complete Trinidad Cuba Travel Guide

We have divided this complete travel guide for Trinidad, Cuba into 4 main sections, so that you can make the most of all the possibilities that the city may offer you:

• Old Town of Trinidad. Visit the authentic colonial Cuba.
• Topes de Collantes. Discover the mountains where half of the country’s endemic species live.
• Valle de los Ingenios (Valley of the Sugar Mills).   Explore the sugar mills operated by African slaves.
• Playa Ancón (Ancón Beach).   See the most beautiful sunset of your life.

We have also added five other sections that we believe will be very useful:

• Nightlife in Trinidad. The liveliest music house on the whole island.
• Where to eat in Trinidad. Our top 3 restaurants picks.
• Where to stay in Trinidad. Our private house.

OLD TOWN OF TRINIDAD

Trinidad is considered to be the  city museum  of Cuba, both for the amount and variety of sights, and also for the conservation of historic facades. The life of the city moves around the Plaza Mayor , where all points of interest we will discuss next are within a 10-minute walk from there.

THE ROMANTIC MUSEUM

The Romantic Museum of Trinidad, also known as Palacio Brunet, is located in the northern corner of the Plaza Mayor. It is the orange building that appears in the far right of the following pic.

Romantic Museum at the Plaza Mayor

It is an eighteenth century colonial residence that has managed to preserve all of its details. Here we can find displays of historical furniture, jewelry, crockery, linen, and other luxuries of the time. This is the best way to learn about the colonial life in Trinidad.

A Mudéjar style especially highlights the Andalusian patio in the inside. The price of admission is 2 CUC. It opens at 8:30 Tuesday to Sunday and closes at 17:00 except Tuesdays and Thursdays when they close later at 22:00. On Mondays it remains closed all day.

THE HISTORIC MUSEUM

Very close to the Plaza Mayor, we find the Historical Museum sticking out with its square tower. This nineteenth century museum located on the Palacio Cantero is not only a display of the wealth possessed by their former owners, it also teaches about the history of the sugar industry, business of the slave trade, as well as artillery and weapons used at the time.

History Museum

Do not miss climbing up its tower to see some very nice views of the city. The price of admission is 2 CUC. It is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from Saturdays to Thursdays. On Fridays it remains closed all day.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE FIGHT AGAINST BANDIDES

We found this museum installed in the old Convent of San Francisco de Asís of the XVIII century. Its bell tower is the only remaining part from the original structure, and is the highest one amongst all of old town. You can find the best views of the city from here.

National Museum of the Fight Against Bandits

This museum explains the warfare that took place between the militias of Fidel Castro and the counterrevolutionary bands that hid in the nearby Sierra del Escambray (Escambray Mountains). Some interesting objects that we can find inside include a pirate boat, a GAZ 63 truck, and fragments of an airplane shot down in the 1962 missile crisis.

THE CHURCH OF THE HOLY TRINITY

The Church of the Holy Trinity is one of the largest places of worship in Cuba. This majestic building is the real protagonist of the Plaza Mayor de Trinidad, surpassing the extension of the square by a lot.

Church of the Holy Trinity

Inside stands the image of Our Father Jesus , whose mantle embroidered in gold was donated by Queen Elizabeth II.

COPPELIA AND BODEGUITA DEL MEDIO IN TRINIDAD

If you missed visiting this two establishments in Havana and in Cienfuegos you are in luck as Trinidad will give you a third chance.

Although the mythical Bodeguita del Medio  where Hemingway used to go is the one in the capital, if you missed it and really want to try the most famous cocktail in Cuba , do not hesitate to visit this place.

In the Coppelia of Trinidad, you will find a small supply of ice cream flavors at really low prices just like you would in Havana and Cienfuegos . We recommend you to try those if you have not already done so.

La Bodeguita del Medio

THE PRETTIEST COBBLESTONE STREETS OF TRINIDAD

But far from museums, palaces, churches and locals, what really made us fall in love with Trinidad were its cobblestone colonial streets.

Although all are beautiful, the ones that left us speechless were those that we walked on between the Plaza Mayor and Plaza de las Tres Cruces , on Amargura Street and Real de Jigüe Street.

Real de Jigüe Street

The variety of colors is unimaginable. Your eyes will lose count until you come across the Sierra del Escambray.

Amargura Street

DAWN IN THE CERRO DE LA VIGÍA

And if you want to see the best views of not only Trinidad’s historic center, but also Valle de los Ingenios, Sierra del Escambray, and Playa Ancón, we recommend you to climb up Cerro de la Vigía.

Cerro de la Vigía

The journey will take you about half an hour from the center of Trinidad. We went up to see the sunrise and the morning mist. The beauty of the landscape touched us.

In the following map you will find both of the points mentioned above, as well as places to eat and bars in Trinidad that we will discuss in later sections.

Trinidad Cuba Map

Topes de Collantes

If you visit Trinidad, you cannot miss a trip to Topes de Collantes National Park. Fifty percent of Cuba’s native species inhabit in these mountains that are part of Sierra del Escambray. Along with the wildlife scene, its tropical vegetation and rock formations combined is an environment that will leave you speechless. It is an incredible way to spark your sense of wonder.

HOW TO GET TO TOPES DE COLLANTES

It took us a long time to find a car that would take us to the mountains. Drivers sometimes say that the slopes are very steep up there so not any car can go up, in order to increase fare prices. They may also claim that not many people want to go to Topes de Collantes, which makes it difficult to set up shared cars.

I do not know what part is true of all this, because the driver that we went to Topes de Collantes with apparently made two round trips from there to Trinidad that day. At first, he told us that he could not find anyone to share the car with and that he had to charge us for the price of the whole car. However, upon returning, we realized that the car was to return to Trinidad with other passengers who had gone there the same day. Given that we were able to share the return trip, the price we paid for the taxi in the end was 25 CUC instead of 30 CUC which was what we negotiated for a round trip with only us. Although it is only 20 km from Trinidad, the ride takes approximately 40 minutes each way.

Before embarking on route, our driver took us to a travel agency called Paradiso in the center of Trinidad to buy discounted tickets for Topes de Collantes. We paid 6.75 CUC instead of 10 CUC at the park entrance.

THE CABURNÍ WATERFALL

The main attraction of Topes de Collantes is Salto del Caburní . From the village of Caburní, you only have to follow the path to meet this 64-meter waterfall, which is the highest waterfall in the Caribbean.

After about 100 meters on the road, there are two cabins that offer snacks and refreshments. The attendants also verify that you have an entry ticket, otherwise you would just purchase it right there.

Access booth to the trail of the Salto del Caburni

As you go down the path, the dense jungle begin to cover the sky. Giant butterflies, chickens and some lizard will accompany you on a route that is not easy. The humidity and the slippery mud on the road forces you to be equipped with closed toe shoes. We saw several groups that had to turn around when they were trying to descend in the mud with flip flops.

Trail Salto del Caburni

You should be able to complete the 3.5-kilometer route in less than two hours before you reach the waterfall.

Unfortunately, Salto del Caburní did not surprise us as much as we expected. It had rained a lot the previous night and the blue waters that we had seen in photos were stained with reddish clay from its surroundings, and we couldn’t swim in there.

Salto del Caburni

If you have a window of several days to visit Salto del Caburní, avoid going if it has rained recently or if there is any rain in the forecast.

A tropical storm began on our walk back on the trail. Despite the fact that it was barely a half hour journey, we had to take refuge in an outpost because moving forward was impossible.

Refugees from the tropical storm in Topes de Collantes

THE CUBAN HUMMINGBIRD

If you do not pay attention, it will easily go unnoticed. With the aid of a good camera, you will discover that what flits between the flowers that surround Salto del Caburní is not an insect, but a Cuban hummingbird. The smallest bird in the world, also known locally as zunzuncito , got its name from the sound of its wings when flying. This bird lives within the mountains of Topes de Collantes as one of the 50% of native species on the island.

Cuban Hummingbird  

Apart from having a camera with great focusing speed, you will have to pay close attention to see the zunzuncitos feeding on flower nectar at the edge of the river where water from Salto del Caburní exit.

Cuban Hummingbird

VALLE DE LOS INGENIOS

Valle de los Ingenios, Valley of the Sugar Mills, is another must see on your visit to Trinidad.

Sugar factories and distilleries had settled in this valley since the 17th century. At the time, these industries supplied sugar to virtually all of Europe, creating an incalculable fortune to the Spaniards who undertook the new continent. However, Valle de los Ingenios also hides an obscure truth. The fortunes of landowners resided in the hands of slaves brought from Africa.

Valle de los Ingenios is the place where we have felt closest to that dark, hidden history of our country, Spain. To learn it firsthand, you must cross the Atlantic and let the spoils of our colonies tell us. It is not surprising that like Trinidad, Valle de los Ingenios is recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.  Thanks to this, important restoration and conservation actions are being carried out.

MANACA IZNAGA

Of all the sugar plantations settled in Valle de los Ingenios, the most prosperous one was Ingenio de Manaca Iznaga mill. It is very well-conserved, with a house farm that was once part of the slave barracks, as well as an impressive watchtower that turned out as the highlight of this visit.

Manaca Iznaga

The Manaca Iznaga tower served as a watch tower over the slaves and warned in the event of an escape or fire in nearby plantations.

View from the Manaca Iznaga Tower

Valle de los Ingenios

The estate of Manaca Iznaga today is quite exploited by tourism. At the entrance, there are lots of stalls where you can buy handmade souvenirs. You can find everything from hats, handmade tablecloths to sugar cane juice. Climbing the tower costs 1 CUC, and you will undoubtedly have the best views of the entire valley from there.

Hacienda Manaca

Inside the property, you will find a museum shop with lots of souvenirs. After the farm, you will arrive at what is known as ingenio, the device that extracts sugar cane juice. We were very fortunate to be able to see a demonstration that a private guide was doing for his clients.

Another construction that still stands is the slaves’ barracks, now as the restaurant El barraca de Manaca.

San Isidro de los Destiladeros

The ingenio of Manaca de Iznaga surprised us with beautifully conserved buildings and the incredible tower with views of the entire valley. Then, the Ingenio San Isidro de los Destiladeros captivated us with an incredible tour from our guide.

The price for the visit is only 1 CUC, although it would have still been worth it even if it cost us more. The gentleman who took us to the entrance is the only farm worker and the one in charge of conservation. Tourist visits here are very seldom, and this plant did not hold back on showing us every detail about the farm.

Unlike the previous one, the main business being carried out here is to distill rum using sugarcane from the plantations. The mill presides over a smaller but quite similar watch tower to the previous one, also once used for slave watch.

San Isidro de los Destiladeros tower

The main construction together with the remains of the farm was much deteriorated. He told us that this was used to keep animals during the revolution, and has not obtained similar restoration like that of his sister in Manaca since.

Then we walked through the remains of the distillery, hidden under the overgrown grass. He explained the whole process step by step from harvesting sugarcane to packaging the rum.

THE SLAVE TRAFFIC in Trinidad

The best thing about our guide was that he move us through the era of slavery with stories. Amongst all the anecdotes, I remember this one with a special emotion:

Taken from their African lands, the slaves arrived in the New World, separated from what they wanted and what they knew. Nothing was familiar to them, no one they knew before, not even the flowers or insects told them about their home. They just found something in the farms where they were enslaved that made them feel their land. The sacred tree, the Ceiba or Bongo. Ceiba

It was not exactly the same kind of tree but it was very easy to confuse them being that they from the same family. Under the Ceiba of the farm of San Isidro, I, for the first time, was put in front of all the horror caused by Spain where millions of families saw their loved ones ripped away and taken to distant lands.

HOW TO GET TO VALLE DE LOS INGENIOS

There is a steam train that takes you to Manaca Iznaga from Trinidad for 10 CUC per person. As we discussed, this mill is amazing but we would not have done it without the whole story we were told at the San Isidro sugar mill. That is why we recommend that you visit at least these two mills. However, the farms are quite far away from each other, so the train option is not good if you want to do something other than going to Manaca.

We found transportation through the landlord of our private house. For 35 CUC, he took us to the two mills and a stopover in Playa Ancón (Ancón Beach) on the way back, as we discussed in the post where we wrote about our  budget .

Valle de los Ingenios can be easily visited within three hours’ time, so I recommend you take advantage of the day and try to negotiate with a taxi driver for this type of route to see different points of interest near Trinidad on the same day.

playa ancón

Playa Ancón is that expanse of white sand and crystal-clear waters you day dreamed about when proceeding with buying your plane tickets to the island. However, to say it is only that is just not enough. At Playa Ancón, there are also rocks that hide millions of colorful fish, flames in the sky under the sunset light, and hours under the beach umbrella that will add years of life.

In short, going to Playa Ancón is mandatory if you visit Trinidad. However, I cannot say that it was our favorite Cuban beach due to its easy access. There is a monstrous hotel on this beach, full of tourists who we managed to dodge with difficulty – a miracle for families traveling with children, and a nightmare for those who like to enjoy nature on their own. However, we will tell you some tricks to make Playa Ancón your private paradise.

Ancon beach

HOW TO GET TO playa ancón

We liked Playa Ancón so much that we returned for another visit because once was not enough.

The first day, we rented bikes in Trinidad for 5 CUC per person. In total, it takes about 40 minutes to reach the beach, so you have to take your physical condition into account. Bear in mind that the return trip will be an uphill ride.

The trail that we did by bike in Playa Ancón

Our return to Trinidad by bicycle was hard and unpleasant because a thunderstorm started out of nowhere. With the rain, the road was filled with crabs that were impossible to not run over. To add to this, some thunder threatened to hit us and it was completely dark by the time we returned.

A storm began in Playa Ancón and we still had a lot to pedal to our casa particular

Upon arriving at our casa particular we were able to photograph the lightning bolts

The journey to Playa Ancón was not exactly a path of roses either. The heat was brutal, and we found out from our private house that the first beach we had planned to stop at on the way, La Boca, is a sewage dump. Since La Boca is the closest beach from Trinidad on the way to Playa Ancón for most cyclists, it is likely that they would have stopped there to swim and sunbath without knowing this information.

Nonetheless, not all was bad. With a bike, you are free to stop and check out any beach you want until finding one that you like most. You can also find stretches of both white sand and rocky coves to snorkel. In addition, you can bike to the main beach where there are places to eat, and then return to one of the more secluded beaches where you can be alone.

TOUR WITH OUR PRIVATE HOUSE LANDLORD

We made our second visit to Playa Ancón through a personalized tour with the private house where we were staying, as we have commented in the Valle de los Ingenios section. Our landlord took us to see the two mills in the valley and then left us at Playa Ancón. After sunset, he picked us up at the same spot where he had left us.

The best thing about going to Playa Ancón by car is the comfort and quicker trip time. However, it limits the areas of the beach that you can explore to a large extent. This is undoubtedly the best option for those who want to spend the day laying down and ordering cocktail in the beach bar next door.

We paid 35 CUC for the tour, but you can easily find a round trip taxi ride between Trinidad and Playa Ancón for 10 CUC. If you plan to visit both Valle de los Ingenios and Playa Ancón, we recommend that you choose the tour option as you will save money and time.

DIFFERENT CORNERS OF Playa Ancón

Playa Ancón is an extensive land that spreads out over the Caribbean Sea. Imagine beyond a very long beach, as it is an extension of land that you can hardly cover completely on foot. Each section is different – some with all the amenities ideal for families, others where you can enjoy the paradise of Playa Ancón in solitude. We promise to help find the option that best suits you in this section.

As some of these coves have no known name that we knew, we present them to you on a map with a made-up name by activity or description so that you know what part of the beach we are talking about.

The first beach we will talk about, and the only beach we named precisely for you to stay away from,  is La Boca Beach. If you go to Playa Ancón by bicycle, after half an hour pedaling through hot Cuba, it is tempting to refresh yourself in the first piece of sea you see. However, sewage from both Trinidad and neighboring towns dumps in La Boca. Alas, the beach is not visibly dirty and there are no signs of warning. We avoided this experience thanks to the owners of our private house who informed us of this fact. If you go by there, you may see some clueless tourists enjoying their beach day in these waters.

No matter how hot you feel, wait for the next beach. Paradise is close. We promise!

Snorkel Playa Ancón

Although almost all of Playa Ancón is white sand, there are stretches of rocky beaches where the waters are more crystalline. If you come by bicycle, we recommend a stop at the point we have called Snorkel Playa Ancón on the map. This stretch of beach has rock piles full of colorful fish and other marine life, where you may even find coral while snorkeling! When you are tired, look for the big umbrellas made of straw for a rest.

Since there are more rocks than sand in this area of Playa Ancon, you will find a few companies who rent snorkel gear along the road. Because we love to snorkel, we had our own diving goggles and was able to spend some alone time at this part of the beach.

In addition to being an intermediate point between the main beach of Playa Ancón and Trinidad, it is a perfect place to watch the sunset. If you have come to Playa Ancón by bike, remember that you also have a long way back and it is not convenient for you to spend 40 minutes pedaling in the dark. From this beach, it will take you less time to return to Trinidad.

Playa Ancón

WEST playa ancón

If you decide to spend the day at the beginning stretches of the main beach area at Playa Ancón, there will be a beach bar nearby to get food or a cocktail while at the same time you won’t be surrounded by hundreds of beach goers.

This is your ideal beach if you like the convenience of having a bar next door and at the same time you do not want your beach neighbor’s children to step on your towel.

West Ancon beach

We visited this side of the beach the day we biked, but it is also an ideal place if you come by car, since you will be isolated but still close to an establishment (water bottles available here) at the same time.

 BEACH in FRONT OF THE ANCÓN HOTEL

This area of the beach is the most crowded of all. Guests of the hotel only have to cross the sand that separates them from the sea. It is also the favorite meeting spot for taxi drivers. If you ask to be taken to Playa Ancón, they will drop you off here.

Sunset at Playa Ancón

Cubans do not like to drive at night, so avoid asking for taxi services after sunset at all costs – and that can be a problem for a photographer. The day we went to this area of the beach, we came in with our landlord’s car and he asked us to be at the doorstep of the hotel no later than 8:30, where he would pick us up and head back to Trinidad.

When the sun began to fall, we had just enough time to get to the hotel to meet our landlord from where we were at the beach.

Surprisingly, the crowd that had been here in the morning disappeared.

Almost alone, we experienced one of those sunsets that will be kept in our minds’ eyes forever. We have seen many more since then, but none as beautiful as this one.

First, the water became a reflection of the infinite sky.

When the sun plummeted, the sky and sea were engulfed in flames of bright colors.

Purple, orange, fuchsia, blue… The best valued free show in the world.

Paradise of playa ancón

We spent the whole morning at the place we called “Paradise of Ancon Beach” on the map, a hidden spot close to the hotel. Then, when we saw the sunset in front of the hotel, we could only imagine how much better it would be from the Paradise of Ancon Beach.

As we discussed, most of the taxis prefer to drop you off near the hotel. Walking along the beach on the left towards the end of Playa Ancón, you will see straw umbrellas hidden among the vegetation. You have to walk about 15 minutes to find yourselves alone and make this your own private beach.

Our private beach at Ancon

In the 5 hours we spent in this corner of white sand and blue waters, nobody came crossed our umbrella. And the only ones who stepped on our towels were crabs and hermits, which came out of the holes they dug in the sand from time to time.

Our first time together in the Caribbean

Snorkeling is not the best here as the waves silt up the water, however, if you only have time to visit one beach, this would be it.

MOSQUITOES IN playa ancón

If you are staying late at Playa Ancón or any other beach in Cuba, do not forget to bring a good mosquito repellent.

Generally, there will be mosquitos present anytime the temperature cools down, but what you really need to look out for is a flea beetle that locals call “ pulguilla ”. Found mostly in coastal areas, this tiny mosquito leaves a very annoying and incredibly itchy pimple-like sting. In addition, flea beetles target in groups, which can suddenly leave you what feels like a thousand bites all over your body. To make matters worse, both the marks and burning can remain for several weeks.

My advice is that if you plan to be on the beach to watch the sunset, equip yourself with repellent. Hopefully, you are also accompanied by someone who tends to get stung more than you. In my case, I was accompanied by Dani and had no problem. I was not bitten by a single bug while he suffered from this painful presentation of the flea beetles.

NIGHTLIFE IN TRINIDAD

I could not leave out a section to talk about the nightlife of Trinidad in this complete guide. Even Havana cannot compete with Trinidad’s nightlife. To live the authentic Son Cubano touch, it will be your turn to lose yourself in the Trinidad night. In this section we tell you three main sites where you can enjoy Cuban parties that you cannot miss.

casa de la música OF TRINIDAD

Of all the existing ones in Cuba, Casa de la Música of Trinidad is the most acclaimed. By day, you may pass the front of its stairs without appreciating it. At dusk, it is difficult to find a gap between the steps.

Casa de la Música is composed of an outdoor stage and extra space to sit between the stairs, in addition to the few tables that are in front of the dance floor.

Casa de la Música of Trinidad

Anonymous couples give themselves up for a dance, while the others look with envy from the stands. Normally, two groups play live. We were lucky enough to see two completely different styles. The first performance was Latin music, where they played a large part of our Cuban classics.

The second, was of Afro-Cuban music . The humor, eroticism, and incomprehensible rites with a lot of emotional charge were accompanied by the rumble of drums made by artisans. We have never seen a similar performance. It seemed like a religious ritual.

CASA DE LA TROVA

In the historical center, Casa de la Trova is an ideal place to enjoy Cuban music with a good rum. It is less crowded than Casa de la Música, mainly because the performances are not held outdoors.

They also host live music and all kinds of events to promote Cuban musical development. It also serves as a museum, as decorations of local discographies and high cultural value objects are shown here.

The price of admission is 1 CUC. We recommend this place if you prefer something less crowded than Casa de la Música.

NIGHT CLUB AYALA “LA CUEVA”

The Disco Ayala also known as  la Cueva (the Cave) is one of the most popular discos in all of Cuba. The nightclub is directly inside a cave. The rough walls of the stone are illuminated every night with the lights of this club. If you want to end the night dancing to Reggaeton, or the two previous options are closed too early, we recommend that you come here. The place does not close until 3 in the morning. It opens every day, but it can be a bit overwhelming during the weekends. The price of the tickets and drinks is 3 CUC.

It is located a little away from the center. We did not go there at the end because I got sick the night we had booked to go to the club, so as soon as we return to the island again, we will for sure stop by this place. What I do recommend is that you buy the best travel insurance if you visit Cuba . Unfortunately, I had to use it. Travel insurance for frequent travelers (multi-trip) is also a great option if you travel a lot.

5% OFF your travel insurance

WHERE TO EAT IN TRINIDAD

At least to me, this was probably the restaurant where we ate the best food on the whole trip , since being a vegetarian in Cuba is challenging. I have never imagined the limited variety of foods which Cubans have access to. In Sol Ananda, there was everything and it was delicious.

The decor also could not be more original, retaining all of the furniture from the old colonial palace where it is located. The tables were placed in a room where there was also bedroom furniture as a bed with golden details. The wardrobe, the mirrors, everything is from the colonial era.

Sol Ananda decoration

A visit here is required if you visit Trinidad. The price is ok – we dined two people with drinks included for 25 CUC. The staff is very nice, and we also enjoyed the evening with a group playing live. This place is ideal for traveling couples.

We became fond of La Ceiba after the stories we heard at Ingenio San Isidro de los Destiladeros. The main attraction of this restaurant, as you can imagine, is one of these immense trees overlooking the terrace.

We liked the place very much. I especially recommend it for dinner while enjoying the breeze of eternal summer.

Taberna la Botija

And not every restaurant are being suggested for couples in love. Our last recommendation for you to eat well in Trinidad is La Botija, a tavern that serves meals 24h . This is your perfect place if you leave the night club Ayala more hungry than tired.

The quality is quite good for how cheap it is. The walls are decorated with instruments of torture used during the centuries of slavery, as well as shackles.

We went to dinner one night here when we were out late and everything was closed. A few people recommended this place, and it was completely full. Groups of young people clearly arranged to go out that night in this place.

WHERE TO STAY IN TRINIDAD

As we explained in the Guide to planning your trip to Cuba we always stayed in private houses. We typically found them the same day we arrived at a new place. However, for Trinidad I will insist on recommending our private house. It is called the house of Tony and China. It is very close to the historic center, at 293A de Calle Desengaño.

This couple owns our favorite house of the entire trip. You could see all of Trinidad from the terrace, especially the tower at the Museum of the Bandidos and the tower of the Trinidad History Museum.

Views of Trinidad from the terrace of our casa particular

The breakfasts on the terrace for 5 CUC were great, with a variety that we did not see in other houses.

Our breakfast

Our landlord was also our driver for our trip to Valle de los Ingenios and Playa Ancón, as we said before.

During my stay in Trinidad, I got infected by amoebas (in this post I will tell you my experience with the travel insurance for Cuba ). Tony and China not only bought me medicine, they also cooked me a soft meal while I was recovering. Lovely people.

They were great hosts to us, and we would not hesitate to stay there again if we return to Trinidad. You can make a reservation at his home here.

We didn’t book in advance, but we were lucky that they had a room available. However, don’t be surprised if there are no rooms left if you go without a reservation during high season.

HOW MANY DAYS do you need TO VISIT TRINIDAD

If you intend to visit the Old Town of Trinidad, hike the route to Salto del Caburní, visit Valle de los Ingenios, and enjoy a trip to Playa Ancón, plan for at least three full days.

We stayed one more day because I got sick, but still left a lot of things that we didn’t get to see, especially around the old town. Three and a half days or four would be more than enough to not miss anything essential of Trinidad.

HOW TO GET TO TRINIDAD

To finish this Trinidad guide, we wanted to include a section on how to get to the city.

Trinidad is the most visited city in the northern half of Cuba, after Havana. Therefore, you will have no problem moving around via any means of transport.

If you come to Trinidad from Cienfuegos, as we did, it is best to use a shared taxi.

However, if you want to get to Trinidad from Havana , our recommendation is a private bus (if you want to leave from the center of Havana) or a Viazul bus (if you do not mind leaving from the Viazul bus station outside Havana).

If you want to go directly from Trinidad to Viñales, you will not have other options than shared taxi, because you will have to first make a connection in Havana if you decide to go by bus, where you will lose a lot of time.

I recommend you to read the transport section included in the guide to planning a trip to Cuba.

AND WITH THIS WE FINISH THE COMPLETE GUIDE OF TRINIDAD Cuba. WE HOPE THAT THIS WAS USEFUL AND YOU CAN ENJOY THIS INCREDIBLE CITY. ENJOY IT TRAVELERS!

Ascen Aynat

4 replies on “ Best Things to Do in Trinidad: Ultimate Guide ”

Brilliant blog – thanks for all the travel ideas!

Thanks Adrienne,

We try to get our readers travel through our guides.

This is amazing stuff. I am planning to visit Cuba this March. I have 7 days where i land in Varadero for 2 days and spend 3 days in Trinidad and 2 days in Havana. Your blog has got amazing information. Thank you.

Thank you Antony. I hope you like it and let us know if you have any question.

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A Colorful Travel Guide to Trinidad, Cuba

Welcome to the colorful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trinidad, Cuba! If you’re planning visit, here’s what you expect what to do, where to eat, and more .

Trinidad was such a fun way to spend our last few days in Cuba (minus our last night in Havana). In just two and a half days, we strolled, we danced, we ate, we shopped, and we even cooked! The town is located in the central province of Sancti Spíritus and honestly feels like stepping back in history. Full of winding cobblestone streets, you’ll find the architecture has remained unchanged for at least a century. Besides the old sugar baron mansions that are now museums, the town is full of 1-2 story homes in various colorful hues.

If Havana feels like a capital city and Viñales feels like a serene, mountain escape, Trinidad feels like an ongoing party. During the day, many of these buildings are full of art galleries, restaurants, bars, shops, and more, and once night hits, you can always find the sound of live music coming from somewhere . The sun is hot; the nights are cool, and I can see why Trinidad is one of Cuba’s most popular places to visit.

Below is all you need to know if you’re planning your own trip!

Disclosure: My tour with Cuban Adventures was gifted. However, I paid for everything else out of pocket and all opinions are my own. They kindly gave me a discount code should you want to book a tour as well; just use SAM01 to get 5% off.

Quick Cuba Travel Tips

• For Americans: Can Americans visit Cuba? Yes! If you click that link, I have a whole post explaining the process.
• Getting in: Chances are you’re arriving at Jose Martí in Havana. My tour arranged my transfer into the city, but if you need to, you should be able to find a taxi outside the airport.
• Stay in Touch: Order a tourism SIM card ahead of time on the ETECSA website and pick it up at the airport. Otherwise, you may find ETECSA stores themselves are out of these SIM cards.
• Where to Book Activities: Rely on your casa owner or tour guide to help you plan activities. My Cuban Adventures guide, Yummet, was a rockstar at figuring out where to go and what to do.
• Getting Around: Walking! Every city and town we visited, we just walked. Bring comfortables shoes – I had my Hokas with insoles and Birkenstocks . You especially want something sturdy in Trinidad – those cobblestones will destroy anything too flimsy!

A Brief History of Trinidad, Cuba

While Trinidad was “founded” back in 1514 by Diego Velázquez de Cuéllar, it’s the sugar mills of the late 1700s – 1800s that made the town what is today.

Fleeing the Haitian Revolution, many French colonists settled in Sancti Spíritus and eventually opened up sugar plantations in nearby Valle de los Ingenios. According to UNESCO, this area at its peak in 1827 had over 50 sugar mills and 11,000 enslaved persons.

Following the wars of independence, Trinidad, with all its colorful Spanish colonial architecture, seemingly froze in time until tourism in the 1950s brought it renewed attention.

All the Best Things to Do in Trinidad, Cuba

Figure out where Plaza Mayor is

As you might guess from the name, Plaza Mayor is the center point for Trinidad. Figure out how to get here from your casa, and you’ll never be lost again. All the buildings in here once belonged to the rich sugar plantation owners and are now museums or restaurants.

Wander the colorful, cobblestone streets

Once you know where Plaza Mayor is, my best recommendation is to just wander around. Trinidad is one of the places you want to get a little lost in because there’s so much to see. As I mentioned in the opening, the architecture here is quite unique. Most buildings, if not all, have red terracotta roofs and rarely go above a single story. Walls are splashed in pastel hues of blue, pink, green, and yellow, and windows have barrotes (wooden columns) instead of glass to allow air flow.

Check out the Museums

Admittedly, I did not do this while in Trinidad, but if I had an extra day, I would’ve liked to! Like I said, many of the old mansions in and around Plaza Mayor were turned into museums, so in just a few blocks, you’ve got:

• Museo Histórico – housed in the former Palacio Cantero. Mix of historical exhibits and has a cool view overlooking Trinidad.
• Museo Romántico – full of antiques from the old sugar barons; in the former Palacio Brunet
• Galería de Arte Universal Benito Ortiz – Once known as Palacio Ortiz, this gallery has various exhibits on Trinitarian art.
• Museo de Arquitectura Colonial – Has exhibits that trace Trinidad’s history and development.
• Museo de Arqueología – mix of exhibits showcasing pre-Colombus Cuba.
• Museo Nacional de la Lucha Contra Bandidos – Located in the former Convento de San Francisco; this one focuses on Cuba’s revolutionary history. It also has panoramic views from its bell tower.

Do a cooking class

One of the things my friend, Millette , wanted to do while we were in Cuba was do a cooking class. We really only had time for it in Trinidad, and I decided to tag along last minute because I was curious how some of my new favorite dishes were made.

Our guide, Yummet, led us to Hostal Milagros Trinidad, where we spent the morning helping prepare an absolute feast of a lunch with Milagros and her daughter-in-law, Lisandra. And when I say we helped, I mean we attempted to help and mostly watched while practicing our Spanish with them, Lisandra’s daughters, and then her husband when he made a surprise visit home.

Get your salsa on

I mean, we had to! After taking a basic salsa lesson in Viñales, I was more than eager to try out some moves when we had more time and energy in Trinidad. We wound up going to La Rincón de Salsa because it seemed the most lively, but Casa de Música is also supposed to be good. If you want a little adventure, Disco Ayala is well known for literally being in a cave, but we didn’t make it over to see if it was worth the hype.

Catch the sunset at Playa Ancón

When it comes to beaches, the closest one to Trinidad is Playa Ancón , and it’s about 20 minutes away! Even if you don’t want to spend all day here, I’d still make it over for the sunset. We managed to get a peak of one before it started raining, and the beach itself is lovely. Pay for one of the seats and umbrellas, and enjoy the water. You can also get some drinks from the bar. I got a virgin piña colada and a few of us got some coco locos.

Take half a day to visit Valle de los Ingenios

No trip to Trinidad would be complete without visiting the incredible Valle de Los Ingenios (often translated to the Valley of the Sugar Mills). The 100 square mile valley refers to three connected valleys: San Luis, Santa Rosa, and Meyer, and is less than a 10-20 minute drive from the city. Back in the day there were over 50 sugar mills with over 30,000 enslaved people working them.

Today you can visit the former plantation of Manaca Iznaga, which has been transformed into various houses, a restaurant, and general tourist spot. The big thing to do is to climb the 147ft (45m) Torre de Manaca Iznaga which offers some really stunning panoramic views of the valley. (I think you can guess what it would’ve been used for during the height of sugar production.)

Where to Eat and Drink in Trinidad

Restaurante La Esquina 373

As soon as we arrived to Trinidad, we had lunch at this beautiful spot. Restaurant La Esquina 373 offers up a ton of traditional Cuban options and has a nice, airy design. I got croquetas, some sort of meat dish (I want to say say it was ropa vieja or something similar, but I remember it had a unique name), and some creme brulee and cafe bombon for dessert. YUM. Honestly would’ve gone back if I had an extra day.

Bar Cafe Restaurante Giroud J&J

Millette and I stopped into Giroud for a little pre-dinner snack and some wi-fi. It’s a nice little spot and does have a normal menu if you want actual food!

Restaurante San Jose

Restaurante San Jose is one of the fancier places we ate in Trinidad as seen in portion size and price. They have a ton of options including pastas and pizzas if you want a break from Cuban food. It’s a nice spot, but I think I preferred La Esquina or Conspiradores a bit more. Millette and I split some croquetas, and then I’m pretty sure I got either ropa vieja or vaca frita, and finished off with some torrejas. Funnily enough, the Brit on our tour managed to get a version of fish and chips here!

Bonus: If you eat here, you get a free ticket to Casa de Música.

Los Conspiradores

Our final night in Trinidad, we ate at Los Conspiradores . It’s located in this cheerful yellow house covered in bougainvillea and right next to Casa de Música. We had a little balcony to ourselves, and it was the perfect way to end our time here. The food was delicious and tied with La Esquina for my favorite restaurant in town. (My favorite meal has to go to Milagros and our cooking class because nothing beats a homemade dinner!) I got tostones rellenos with ropa vieja and frituras de malanga, drunk chicken as my main, and a really delicious flan to finish.

Also, I swear I read somewhere that the restaurant got its name because it used to be where revolutionaries met. However, I can’t figure out where I read it, so I might’ve just made that up in my head. If you know, feel free to tell me, so I know I’m not crazy!

Taberna La CanchÁnchara

La canchanchara is one of the many cocktails that were created in Cuba, and apparently it all started at this tavern in Trinidad. The drink is made with rum, honey, lemon juice, and lime, and served in these little clay cups with ice. They only serve canchanchara here, so enjoy it with some live music! (They do offer it without the rum, and it’s still quite tasty).

Just adding Bar Frío because it was near our casa and had free wifi, which we both needed to check in with family. Most casas should have free wifi in Trinidad, but ours didn’t for some reason. It’s a fun tint bar that’s, as the name suggests, kept quite cold.

Markets and Shopping in Trinidad

Arts & craft market.

We only saw this in passing somewhere near Plaza Mayor, but it’s an open air market that operates daily and is full of different goods and souvenirs.

Yudit Vidal Faife

One of the most interesting people we met was Yudit Vidal Faife ! We visited her home to check out all her art and learn more about her story from both her and her wife. She’s gone through different styles but some of her most unique pieces are the ones where she mixes in embroidery and crochet into her paintings. I bought myself a little painting she’d done, but someday I want one of her massive crochet designs! (I first need the money and the space lol).

Yami Martinez

Another really cool artist to check out is Yami Martinez. Her work often features moka pots and, to me a non-art person, there’s something surreal about them. She has a big collection on the first floor of Los Conspiradores, and one of the girls in our group picked up a few to take home for her friends. This is another one I’d have loved to buy if I had enough cash on hand and space in my suitcase!

Any crochet or embroidery

If you plan to buy any crochet or embroidery, you’ll want to do it in Trinidad. Apparently if you buy it elsewhere in Cuba, it’s all just imported from here. There are lots of different stores, and I wound up buying a crochet dress from one of them. (Unfortunately, a lot of the embroidered tops did not fit!)

Valle de los Ingenios Market

When you visit Torre de Manaza Iznaga in the Valle de los Ingenios, you’ll also find a huge market for crochet and embroidered goods. It’s a lot of gorgeous tablecloths and table runners with some tops and dresses mixed in. Honestly, I’m coming back here for when it comes time to decorate as the embroidery is stunning! I did pick up some smaller things for my mom and a huge table cloth I think I can get turned into a really cute top.

This market is also a good place to bring out your donations especially tylenol as this is the community that would need it the most. I will say it can get really overwhelming because everyone is eager to sell or receive some sort of donation, and they can be really in your face about it. If you speak Spanish or have a guide with you, just ask them to give you some space or else you’ll be too overwhelmed to want to do anything. This worked for us somewhat.

Also, it goes without saying, do not bargain or haggle; it’s extremely distasteful and disrespectful!

Where to Stay in Trinidad

As I’ve said in many posts now; Americans are not allowed to stay in any government-owned hotel. You can see them all specifically listed here under Sancti Spíritus. Our casas were taken care of by our tour, but I’d also contact Milagros or her son to see if their casas have availability as well. Otherwise, check out Hotels.com to find a place stay.

More Travel Tips for Trinidad, Cuba

Getting to trinidad.

If you’re coming from Havana, Trinidad is roughly 4 hours by car. Of course, I was on a tour, so transportation was taken care of, but if you’re going to DIY it, I believe a Viazul bus is your best bet.

WiFi in Trinidad

As I mentioned, Trinidad is one of the towns in Cuba that actually has a lot of wifi offerings – even more than Havana. Most restaurants had it, and most casas offer it as well! Otherwise, you’ll want the ETECAS wifi cards which last an hour and tend to work in public areas like Plaza Mayor.

Safety in Trinidad

Trinidad like the rest of Cuba feels pretty safe. Because it’s so touristed, I’d say your biggest safety concern is pickpocketing, but even then I’d say I was more concerned for my things in places like Paris or Barcelona than in Trinidad.

As always, be smart and look like you know where you’re going. Just in general keep our wits about you as you would anywhere else. If men try to be creepy, pop into the closest restaurant or bar and ask for help, but you should be okay.

FAQ for Trinidad, Cuba

Trinidad is known for its role in the sugar industry back in the late 1700s- mid 1800s. Nearby Valle de Ingenios was home to 50+ sugar mills.

Absolutely! It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason. It has such a unique history to central Cuba and looks and feels different to other popular spots like Havana, Viñales, and Cienfuegos.

At least 2 days! You could easily fill up a week though if you wanted to explore the surrounding areas more.

It’s roughly 4 hours from Havana if you were driving straight through. However, I recommend stopping through Santa Clara to at least see the Che Guevara museum on your way there or back.

And there you have it! A complete guide to the colorful, charming Trinidad, Cuba. If you have any questions or further recommendations, just comment below!

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Complete Trinidad Cuba Travel Guide

By: Author Hannah Lukaszewicz

Posted on Last updated: 5 January, 2024

When traveling to Cuba and deciding on what cities to visit, a few nights in Trinidad Cuba should be a must. Trinidad is Cuba’s best-preserved colonial town, with the old part of Trinidad being a UNESCO heritage site  since 1988. Trinidad, like most colonial towns, is gorgeous with brightly colored buildings and cobblestone streets.

We’ve put together everything you need to know when planning a trip to Trinidad.

Jump to: Where is Trinidad, Cuba?  |   How to get to Trinidad  |   What to do in Trinidad  |   Where to stay in Trinidad  |   Where to Eat in Trinidad  |   Wifi in Trinidad  |   More Cuba Resources 

Trinidad Cuba Travel Guide

The view from Palacio Cantero – The Best Lookout in Trinidad

Where is Trinidad Cuba?

Trinidad is located in the center of Cuba and easily accessed from many of the best places in Cuba . Trinidad is only 15 minutes away from the white sandy beaches of Playa Ancon on the Caribbean Sea.

• 4 hours/315km from Havana
• 4 hours/265km from Varadero
• 15  minutes/11km from Playa Ancon
• 85 minutes/120 km from Cienfuegos

How To Get To Trinidad?

Classic Chevy car on the streets of Trinidad

You can get to Trinidad several different ways: bus, taxi, or rent a car.

Trinidad by Bus: There are buses that head to Trinidad daily from most main cities in Cuba. Make sure to book your bus ticket at least a day in advance, the buses frequently sell out a day in advance.

You can book your tickets online, but prices were cheaper at the bus stations. The Havana bus station is called the Viazul bus terminal which is located at the corner of Avenida 26 and Avenida Zoologico. See a map here for Viazul bus station in Havana

Currently, buses run to Trinidad from several cities in Cuba:

• Havana to Trinidad: ($25USD/CUC) – 7:00, 10:45, 14:15 (6 hour & 50 min)
• Vinales to Trinidad: ($37USD/CUC) – 6:45 (9 hours & 30 min)
• Varadero to Trinidad: ($20USD/CUC) – 7:00 (6 hours & 25 min)
• Cienfuegos to Trinidad: ($6) – 12:15, 14:40, 15:15, 18:00 (1 hour & 35 min)

There are more routes than this. Please check current bus schedules at Viazul

By Taxi: If you’re traveling with a few people you may want to ask a local taxi driver for their fare to Trinidad Cuba, we heard prices of $160 CUC. We were a group of four, and we took a local taxi from Havana to Vinales for the same price it would have cost us for four bus tickets and a taxi to the bus station.

If you take a private taxi, then you’re on your schedule, and you can stop along the way for photos. With the big old American cars in Cuba, you can easily fit a group of four comfortably along with a driver.

By Car: We rented a car and drove ourselves to Trinidad, which is a great option if traveling with others or your budget isn’t a concern. There were so many things to do in Cuba , but we wanted the freedom of having a car.

Our rental car was $85 a day with insurance, and we picked it up right at the Havana airport. Booking a car rental in Cuba was not easy. Make sure to book a car several weeks, if not months in advance online. The odds of a car being available for rent without a reservation at the Havana airport are not good.

The drive to Trinidad from Havana was easy; the roads weren’t in the best condition, but we felt safe and had no problems finding Trinidad.

Travel tip: When on wifi, get directions on Google Maps, the GPS and map will still work offline. You may not get voice directions, but you can follow your position on the map. This can be a big help whenever traveling without an internet connection.

Make sure to check out our Americans traveling to Cuba guide 

Things To Do In Trinidad Cuba

A group of men playing dominoes at the end of the day in Trinidad

There are tons of things to do in Trinidad, we’d suggest staying at least two nights and possibly longer if your Cuba travel plans allow. Once you are here, you’ll know why we suggest longer here. There is easily enough in Trinidad to fill 5 days to a week in Trinidad. Here are our top things to do in Trinidad.

1. Stroll Through Plaza Mayor

A view of one of the main buildings in Plaza Mayor in Trinidad

The Plaza Mayor is the heart of Trinidad. Like many Spanish colonial cities, the plaza is the center of the city with green spaces and stunning churches. There are many restaurants that fill the buildings surrounding the square, making it a great place to start your adventure.

2. Palacio Cantero (Museo Historico Municipal)

Sunset over the Palacio Cantero tower in the center of Trinidad

For the best views in Trinidad, head to the very top of the tower inside the Historical Museum. Make your way up the twisting spiral staircases to the top of the tower. From here is where you can get the quintessential picture of Trinidad and the beautiful yellow bell tower with the mountains in the background. On the ground floor, there are a number of historical items from the city’s past.

• Location: see a map of Viewpoint Tower

3. Get Lost Exploring The Beautiful Town

Vintage American car on the cobblestone streets of Trinidad

Trinidad is a small town that would be hard to truly get lost in, so wander down the side streets and take in all of the city’s charm. Trinidad is painted in bright yellows, blues, and pinks. Wander down the small alleys for great pictures of vintage American cars surrounded by beautiful colonial architecture.

4. Spend A Day At The Beach Near Trinidad – Playa Ancon

Just 15 minutes from Trinidad lies a nice beach on the southern shores of Cuba. Day trips or local taxis can be arranged in town to visit the beach. If you like beaches, we also suggest Playa Jibacoa  on the other coast.

Taxi Cost: $10-$15 each way

5. Visit Topes de Collantes Natural Park

Lookout from a Mirador in the Topes de Collantes Park outside Trinidad

Just outside Trinidad sits a massive nature preserve, Topes de Collantes. The park is full of hiking opportunities and waterfalls to explore. From Trinidad, you can visit the park by horse or there are large 4×4 vehicles that take tourists into the park to the various waterfalls.

Tours can be arranged through locals in town, or take one of the big old Russian Trucks through the park with Cubatur.   Read Trip Advisor reviews on the trips.

6. Hike To The Top Of The Radio Tower Hill

The trail to the radio tower hike in Trinidad, Cuba

The best views of the countryside outside of Trinidad can be found from the radio tower. From high on the hill, you can see Trinidad and the sugar plantations in the nearby Valle de Los Ingenios.

At the top, there is a man who watches over the tower and he is eager to show you around and bring you to places you probably shouldn’t with the hopes of a tip. In case, you didn’t bring enough to drink he has you covered there too with water and soft drinks to buy, at an inflated price of course.

From the Radio tower hike, you aren’t able to get very clear views of the city, but it was a relatively easy 30-minute hike each way. The hike is best done early in the morning before the daytime temperatures rise and the light isn’t as harsh for pictures.

7. Visit The Waterfalls Near Trinidad

Vegas Granade Waterfalls near Trinidad, Cuba – 100’+ waterfall with swimming pool and cliff jumping

Within an hour’s drive of Trinidad, there are hundreds of waterfalls ready to be explored. Salto del Caburni 75m waterfall is one of the most popular and is often highly recommended by locals and many tours run here.

The most impressive falls are El Nicho waterfalls, with several layers of cascading water. However, El Nicho is one of the most difficult to reach and generally requires a 4×4. Pictured above is Vegas Grande, one of the most picturesque waterfalls around Trinidad, Cuba.

A post is coming soon for more information on Hiking near Trinidad and for more information and pictures of Vegas Grande Waterfalls near Trinidad.

8. Valle de Los Ingenios

A view into the Valle de Los Ingenios from the radio tower hike

Further down the valley from Trinidad is the Valle de Los Ingenios, or valley of the sugar mills. This is the heart of the sugar industry in the 18th and 19th centuries in Cuba, farmed by 30,000 slaves. Sugar is still grown here and makes for a nice peaceful day trip from Trinidad.

9. Horseback Riding

Horseback Riding around Trinidad, Cuba

The lush green area around Trinidad is a great place to ride for an afternoon. Leave the city and explore the vast nature preserves around Trinidad.

10. Hiking Near Trinidad

The city has very close access to Topes de Collantes Natural Park which is home to some great hikes and some of Cuba’s best waterfalls. The information online is very scarce about hiking in the park, but there is a visitor center inside the park with good detailed information on the hikes and waterfalls close to Trinidad.

11. Visit Tobacco Fields Near Trinidad

A tobacco drying barn in the middle of a field

Although Trinidad is not the main tobacco-growing region, like most places in Cuba you can still find some tobacco fields near Trinidad. Just ask around, or look for the tobacco drying barns which are easy to spot with their quintessential shape.

Also note, if you are looking for Cuban cigars in Trinidad, they are simply called tobacco, not cigars (same in all of Cuba). There is a popular brand of cigars with the same name as the city, but the factory is in the west along with the rest of major tobacco production, and not in Trinidad.

Where To Stay In Trinidad

Hannah blending in on the colorful streets of Trinidad

The most common accommodation in Cuba is casa particulares , they are private homestays very similar to bed and breakfasts. Here you’ll stay at a local Cuban’s house have your own room, private bath, air conditioning, hot water, and typically home-cooked Cuban meals can be provided for $4-10.

There is no need to book accommodation in Trinidad Cuba in advance, if you arrive by bus at the bus station tons of locals will be there with pictures of rooms they have for rent in their casa’s. We drove around Trinidad and looked at a few before settling on a room in the old part of Trinidad for $30 a night.

On average most casa particulares in Cuba are $25-35 a night

If you prefer to have your accommodation arranged before traveling to Trinidad we suggest looking on Booking.com they have over 1,000 listings and the best prices and free cancelations.

There are a few hotels in Trinidad as well, the Iberostar Grand Hotel Trinidad  is centrally located, and the #1 hotel in Trinidad Cuba on Trip Advisor. More and more hotels will be available as tourism in Cuba increases.

*When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Trinidad check prices on Booking.com , we’ve found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.*

Where To Eat in Trinidad

Breakfast spread at a homestay casa in Trinidad – $5 per person, lots of food!

There are tons of restaurants for tourists and local Cuban cafeterias. Enjoying a home-cooked meal in Cuban casa particulares is a must for at least one meal while traveling in Cuba. Some of our favorite restaurants in Trinidad are:

• Palador Sol y Son  Authentic Cuban food in a gorgeous old colonial house filled with antiques where you dine in the outside courtyard. Located a few blocks from Plaza Mayor, address: Simon Bolivar #283 between Jose Marti & Frank Pais                           Read Trip Advisor reviews

Restaurante San Jose  is not only the #1 restaurant on Tripadvisor in Trinidad but also super cheap: sandwiches $2.50+, pizza $3+, local beers $1.50, chicken $4.50+, etc. Located a few blocks from Playa Mayor, Address: Maceo #382 between Colon & Smith Read Trip Advisor reviews

Nightlife In Trinidad Cuba

Red Old American Car in Trinidad, Cuba at night

Nightlife in Trinidad Cuba has something for everyone. For those on a budget, you could always pick up a bottle of Havana rum and make your own drinks and people watch from Plaza Mayor or scope out cheap mojitos at a local restaurant or bar.

However, if you’re looking for a night out in Trinidad, head to Disco Ayala or Casa de La Musica is one of the best nightlife spots in Trinidad.

Disco Ayala – Trinidad, Cuba

A Dance club inside of a Cave! – Photo by: James Emery – cc  – edited

Head to Disco Ayala a club literally inside of a cave! Disco Ayala is definitely the best nightlife in Trinidad, open 7 days a week. Around 1 am every night they have a show with fire dancers and acrobats. There are limited tables so get there early to secure one.

Don’t show up much before 11 pm, we showed up at 12 am and there was a line about 20 people long. The cover charge is 5 CUC and includes one beverage. No bags are allowed, you will have to check them at the door. Inside the cave, there are 5 dance floors and 3 bars.

Strange fact: The club is named after Carlos ‘Coco’ Ayala, a serial killer who abducted children, took them to a cave, and killed them.

Most locals will know where Disco Ayala or cave club is, they will point you in the right direction. At night, the walk does seem a little sketchy, and it’s up a hill. Follow Calle Simón Bolívar from Plaza Mayor up to the Ermita de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria de la Popa.

The cave club is at the top of the hill on the left, there will be locals selling cocktails from carts along the way, pick up a drink while you wait in line.

Read Trip Advisor Reviews

Casa de La Musica

Casa de la Musica – Photo by: Marcelo Forlani –  cc  – edited

Located right in Plaza Mayor in Old Town Trinidad you can’t miss the Casa de la Musica. Every evening in Trinidad Plaza Mayor, right next to the cathedral they have a live salsa band.

Just sit on the steps next to the cathedral enjoy the free music from the Casa de la Musica while using the Wifi hotspot and even have a mojito delivered to you by a local bar. There is a cover charge of 1 CUC to go inside Casa de la Musica.

Read Trip Advisor reviews here .

Wifi In Trinidad Cuba

Wifi in Cuba can be difficult to find at times, but in Trinidad, they have a wifi hotspot right in Plaza Mayor. The wifi even reaches a few restaurants in the square, so you can surf the internet and grab a drink/meal.

Wifi cards can be purchased throughout the town but the best prices were at the ETSCA booths or from the tourist info center, they were $2 an hour. Most hotels have internet cards for purchase also but will charge as much as $6 per hour card.

  Additional  Cuba Cheat Sheet  to help plan your trip to Cuba.

Have you been to Trinidad Cuba?

Hannah guiding the way around Trinidad Cuba

If you found this Trinidad Guide helpful pin it!

More on trinidad cuba.

Thursday 13th of December 2018

Thanks for the lovely write up. It is advisable to rent a car from Havana and drive to Trinidad? We read some sites and it says not very safe to drive in Cuba.

Is there motor way from Havana to Trinidad or it’s just normal trunk roads with people pushing carts on the road?

So excited that we will be going to Cuba next year

Monday 4th of February 2019

We found it safe to drive. The roads were fairly full of potholes, but other than that traffic was minimal and most roads were rather wide. I wouldn't drive long distances in the dark due to the road condition, but I wouldn't hesitate during the day. I think it's one of the better ways to get around. There is a main road between Havana and Trinidad. Safe Travels and enjoy Cuba!

Greg Pittman

Monday 2nd of July 2018

Hannah -- Love this guide and the photos! I'm stoked to get finally get to Cuba (next week). I'm taking a group with me and we will be in Trinidad for 3 days. Just curious, do you know about how long the hike at Topes de Collantes will take start to finish... and how strenuous it is? So much to do, see, and experience in such a short time!

Hannah Lukaszewicz

Sunday 8th of July 2018

What an amazing place to bring a group. I don't remember exactly how long but under an hour and we hiked it in sandals. You will need a car to get you to the start of the hike or jump in one of the jeeps that leaves Trinidad. Will you be renting a car in Cuba?

Sunday 17th of December 2017

I am on my way to Cuba. This will be my first trip as a travel blogger as yourself. This is the first guide I read and. it truly helped me especially the mentions of pricing and distances. I am trying to explore the hidden parts and this really helped me put Trinidad on my list. Plus I love waterfalls. Thanks for the great travel guide to Trinidad.

Yippie you are traveling to Cuba! We hope you have an amazing time, it's a gorgeous country with some of the best locals in the world. Trinidad is a must, let us know what you think of it and if you make it to the waterfalls.

Friday 21st of July 2017

Hi everyone. Im loking to go next year with my wife. My problem is im flying from England but have no idea where to fly to .What international airport is closest. Can anyone help

Saturday 22nd of July 2017

Havana is an international airport but I am not sure there are direct flights from England. There are flights from the US as of today but we flew direct from Cancun and I know there are direct from London to Cancun. You could add some fun in Mexico to your trip. I'd look at Cancun and Toronto as your layover options.

Safe travels.

Danika Daly

Friday 30th of December 2016

Great post! I'm heading to Cuba in February and stopping in Trinidad for 2 days. I wanted to see if you have a link to the casa particulares you stayed in or photos and contact information. I want to book in advance as I'm taking my grandmother with me on this trip and don't want to leave much room for error.

I'd greatly appreciate if you could share! :)

Sunday 1st of January 2017

We booked all of our Casa's on the spot in person. I do now that many of the Casa's are on Airbnb www.airbnb.com/c/hlukaszewicz which would give you photos to look at and you wouldn't have to bring all that extra cash. The families in Cuba have family outside of Cuba that manage the airbnb booking. So if you book they will call their family in Cuba about your reservation.

Trinidad: an elegant old town in southern Cuba

Trinidad attracts plenty of tourists despite being far from Havana

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Set in the foothills of the Escambray Mountains, close to Cuba's southern shore, Trinidad is one of the island's most perfectly preserved towns, says Claire Boobbyer in The Times . 

It is a full four hours' drive from the capital, Havana, on the north coast, but still attracts plenty of tourists. They're drawn partly by the town itself, with its cobbled streets, old churches, and "sherbet" mansions with red-tiled roofs and wrought-iron balconies. But they also come for its densely forested, mountainous surroundings. There are some wonderful b&bs in town, and last year a new resort, the Meliá Trinidad Península , opened beside a beach just 15 minutes away. It is the first five-star hotel on Cuba's south coast. Founded by the Spanish in 1514, Trinidad grew rich from sugar production between the mid-18th and mid-19th centuries. Some of the sugar barons' mansions are now open to visitors, including the Palacio Brunet, which houses the Museo Romántico, a magnificent collection of furniture from the colonial era.

Roughly 15,000 slaves were brought here from Africa to work on the plantations, the remains of which you can visit in the nearby Valle de los Ingenios, where there is still one functioning refinery. The melding of African and Spanish cultures has left a "rich" heritage of music, craft and folk art in Trinidad, which has been named a Unesco Creative City owing to its "distinctive" workshops, music venues and galleries.

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The Península hotel is a self-contained world of luxury restaurants and swimming pools, but also offers some cultural engagement in the form of history talks, dance classes, cigar-rolling workshops, and so on. And there are plenty of other interesting places to visit along the coast to the west, including the elegant city of Cienfuegos (founded by French immigrants in 1819), and the Bahía de los Cochinos – or Bay of Pigs. Famed as the site of a thwarted invasion by CIA-backed, anti-Castro Cuban rebels in 1961, this beautiful spot is also the best place for bird-watching on the island.

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7 Great Things to Do in Trinidad, Cuba

Trinidad, maybe one of the best places in Cuba , because it has everything a cute cobblestone town needs, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site title for best-preserved colonial town mixed with 1850’s architecture, cares from the 1950’s given the feeling of being back in time. And of course, a pristine beach, lush green valleys, and some of the best places to dance salsa in Cuba. 

I was planning to spend 72 hours in Trinidad, Cuba, but somehow ended with four days. That is what Trinidad does; it sucks you into the lusty rhythms of salsa and the beautiful scenery surrounding the town, lush green valleys, and ocean view if you walk to the top of the radio station or clock tour. The people are warmer than ever, and asking you to dance will always be around the corner. We are all having a good time in Trinidad if you let the city show you the town’s flow. 

1. First things, first! Walk Around the Town of Trinidad Cuba 

Trinidad Cuba is a world heritage site for it’s very well preserved colonial style. The best thing about Trinidad in Cuba is that you can walk around anywhere, don’t only stick to the main street, go walking, and get lost in those beautiful streets before getting your feet back to the plaza. Plaza Mayor is the largest plaza, and this is where you hang out in the evening (Catching your daily WIFI) before visiting some local bars.

2. Climb the Trinidad’s Bell Tower for the Panoramic View 

Climbing the Bell Tower in Trinidad is an easy thing to do and should not be missed. It will give you a superior view of the town and to the ocean if you are lucky with the weather. 

3. Cuban Food on a Better Level 

Have Dinner at Restaurant Bar La Redaccion an amazing colonial house and some of the best food I had in Cuba. Because for some reason, Trinidad is somehow ahead in the game when making food for tourists.

Some places have tuned the menu to be a bit more friendly for travelers. Favorite places to eat in Trinidad are La Botija, and the best street food was the local pizza that they make on the street with onion because that is the poshest pizza you can get. Onions being the most expansive vegetable in Cuba. 

4. Playa Ancon Beach

When you need a beach day and a break from the hustle and bustle of the charming streets of Trinidad, go and take the bus or colletivo to Playa Ancon Beach. It is pristine, with crystal clear blue Caribbean ocean, if it feels crowded, keep walking towards the right side of the beach where you will not find so many people.

I did try the beach massage, and it was a mix of everything just like Cuba, and he was doing his very best, it was not according to my standard for a massage. It is always fun to try these things around the world, and I think Sri Lanka has the best massages in the world. It is a great way to support the local community, why not give it a go, probably some are good, and some are making money from nothing. 

5. Casa de la Música for Practicing Salsa Or Rincon de la Salsa

If you haven’t been to Casa de la Música , you have not been to Trinidad! Right next to Plaza Mayor, you will find this live music place, where everyone meets and dance to salsa rhythms!

Please don’t be shy; it will not work. All Cubans love dancing, including grandma, the five your old and all your new Cuban friends. I can’t dance salsa, but I can fake it, that is option two if you don’t take a salsa lesson! Which I regret not doing. Later in the evening, check out Rincon de la Salsa for more salsa beats and more fun. 

6. Horseback Riding 

Escape the town and get into the green and lush scenery of Trinidad Valley. Go horseback riding for 5 hours and soak yourself into the culture of being a Cowboy in Cuba.

The horses are mostly calm and easy-going. The guide is at your assistance. You will be riding to a sugar plantation and try the sugar-juice with passionfruit! And then a coffee farm and then the final stop is a waterfall to cool off from the long ride. Most likely, the same way back.

 7. Salsa Class with a Cuban

I do regret not taking any salsa class, I should definitely have done that. If you have the time try to make time for a salsa class because it looked like real fun and best of all you will become better on dance floor when dancing salsa with your new Cuban friends. Also it is a nice way to support the local community.

If I had more time in Trinidad, I would have gone to Topes de Collantes National Park, but due to a short time and maybe not so good planning, the time was running short. You need a day for it, same goes for horseback riding.

Disco Ayala – Discoteca Las Cuevas

On the outside of Trinidad, up in the hill, you will find the Discoteca Las Cuevas, which means Cave Disco. The cave has a morbid story about the first free slave in Trinidad, captured young girls in the cave, and then killed them. The cave was discovered one day one of the village people followed the men, and that’s when he found the horror of the Cave.

Today there is a nightlife disco. I never managed to go there, and I always had to much fun at Rincon de la Salsa.

Getting To Trinidad

I used the Colectivo – Shared car to get to Trinidad from Playa Larga. Remember to book one day before going. Also, from Trinidad to Havana, I used a Coletivo. Ask around for departure time and the best price. It usually departs in the morning.

Where To Stay In Trinidad

Best accommodation in trinidad.

Bielka or Biki was the most excellent host I had in Cuba, from the minute I walk in the door I felt welcomed and relaxed. The house has a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The bed is excellent, and the shower was the best in Cuba!! Breakfast delicious! I highly recommend this Casa when staying in Trinidad! It is a very quiet house, with no street traffic noise, which is rare in Cuba.

Casa de Norge

If traveling alone, and you want to find your safe place in Trinidad. I would highly recommend Casa de Norge. A Norwegian girl married to a Cuban. And then they created Casa de Norge, which has all the welcoming Cuban spirit, but also the understanding of how things operate in an international standard.

Casa de Norge will take great care of you, and can also help you organize more of your trip to Cuba. They speak Norwegian, English, and Spanish. Casa de Norge is cozy, with a good location and super friendly and helpful owners. I highly recommend a stay here !

Trinidad Travel Tips & Advice

You will feel very safe in Cuba. Tourists are the Holy Grail

Do respect that people will sell you things, of course you are allowed to say NO at any time.

Average Salary in Cuba is 30 US dollars, that’s why tourist and jobs in tourism are very important for Cubans.

Ask around for the prices. In that way, you discover if you are paying 5 CUC to much or not.

More Cuba Travel Tips? 

I hope you enjoyed the guide on Trinidad, Cuba. Hopefully, you can use some of the information for your planning. If you want more articles about Cuba, I recommend you: 

10 Days Cuba Itinerary

7 Great Things to Do in Viñales, the Countryside of Cuba

7 Great Things to Do in Havana, Cuba

Postcard from Cuba

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Travel With Lady Chin

Welcome To Travel with Lady Chin

The Complete Trinidad, Cuba Travel Guide

Caribbean , Cuba / January 28, 2022 by Lady Chin

Trinidad de Cuba, a Spanish colonial town located in central Cuba with rich history, is a destination that I overlooked. It wasn’t even on my radar. However, I’m here to tell you that you should add it to your Cuba bucket list

In this post, I’ve put together the complete Trinidad, Cuba travel guide to help you plan your trip. Read on to discover the magic of Trinidad.

Pin Me for Later! 

This is the ninth post in the Cuba series. Here’s the complete 10-part series:

Cuba Travel Series

Travel Guide: The Complete Travel Guide For First Time Visitors

Money Honey: Cuban Currency Guide: Everything You Need To Know

For The Culture: 36 Ways To Immerse Yourself in Afro-Cuban Culture

The Ultimate Cuba Bucket List: 101 Fun Things to Do in Cuba

Cuba Bucket List: Top 10 Epic Things To Do in Cuba

Packing Tips: The Complete Guide To Packing For Your Trip To Cuba

Inspiration: 30 Photos That Will Inspire You To Visit Cuba

Travel Tips: 10 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Cuba

Trinidad: How To Explore Trinidad in 3 Days

Viñales: How To Take the Perfect Day Trip From Havana To Viñales

Trinidad Travel Guide: Things To Do, See, and More

Where is trinidad .

Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1988, is located in central Cuba in the Sancti Spíritus province. Trinidad is easily accessible to other places in Cuba. 

• 4 hours/196 Miles from Havana
• 4 hours/165 Miles from Varadero
• 15 minutes/ 7 Miles from Playa Ancon
• 85 minutes/75 Miles from Cienfuegos

How do you get to Trinidad?

Traveling from the United States – José Martí international airport in Havana is the only airport U.S. flights can land. American Airlines, Delta Airlines, JetBlue Airlines, Southwest, and United Airlines are the most popular airlines that fly into Cuba. My preferred U.S. airline carrier is JetBlue. I just love their perks and their customer service is top-notch! 

Once you’re in Cuba, here are several ways to get to Trinidad.

Bus – Buses travel daily to Trinidad from most cities on the island. If you’re traveling from Havana to Trinidad, you can catch your bus at the Viazul bus terminal located at the corner of Avenida 26 and Avenida Zoologico. You can purchase tickets in advance from Viazul , but prices at the stations may be lower.  

For last-minute bus tickets, you can stop at the hotel Meliá Cohiba located in Vedado (a 10-minute drive from Old Havana), and ask the concierge or front desk about purchasing a  Cubanacan  bus ticket ($54 r/t).

Our host in Havana recommended buying bus tickets through the hotel especially seeing how we were within walking distance.

One downside to catching a bus from the hotel is the bus stopped at practically every hotel in Havana before hitting the road. I might as well give you a heads up about what to possibly expect!

Private Taxi  – If you’re traveling with a group of people, consider taking a private taxi and splitting the cost. Prices may vary and remember always to negotiate but expect to pay between $100-$120 for a group of 4 people. If you can get the ride for cheaper then more power to you! 

With this option, you have the flexibility to be on your own schedule and stop along the way to take photos and explore. 

Car Rental – There’s nothing like the freedom of having your car to explore and see all there is to see in Cuba. Like taking a private taxi, you have the liberty of being on your schedule. 

The average car rental is $85 per day, not including gas, insurance, and hire fees. However, once you add everything up, it can end up being quite expensive. You can pick up your rental cars at the José Martí international airport in Havana. Your home license will be sufficient enough for you to rent and drive in Cuba.

If you’re interested in renting a car, make sure to book your reservation weeks or even months in advance. Booking a rental ahead of time is highly recommended.

The blog, Why Not Cuba, goes into great detail about  how to rent a car in Cuba , including the advantages and disadvantages of driving around the island.  

Where is the bus station in Trinidad?

The bus pickup area for Viazul is on the corner of Calle Gloria and Boca Calle. Be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure and purchase your ticket in advance. 

Where does the bus drop you off in Trinidad? 

Buses drop passengers off at the Plaza Carillo. Plaza Carillo is about five blocks away from Plaza Mayor.  

Wifi is available in Plaza Carillo if you have an internet card. 

Where can you buy bus tickets in Trinidad?

Bus tickets are available for purchase online at Viazul or in advance at the local ticket office located at the corner of Calle Gutierrez and Calle Rosario. 

Top things to see and do in Trinidad

Use this map below to help you find the locations of the best things to do in and see in Trinidad!

Trinidad has pristine cobblestone streets, inviting sherbert-colored buildings, rows of Spanish colonial architecture, and sugar plantations. It’s the perfect place to explore Cuba’s colonial history. At night the charming town comes alive with the sounds of salsa music that can be heard coming from La Casa de Musica (The house of music).

I suggest staying for 3-5 nights if your travel plans allow. I went to Trinidad for three nights and could’ve easily spent a few more nights. Here are my top things to do in Trinidad. 

Stroll through Plaza Mayor – Plaza Mayor was built back when the region was wealthy from the sugarcane industry. The plaza is surrounded by exquisite raised gardens, fancy cast-iron benches, cobblestone streets, and historical buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Plaza Mayor is great for people watching, but be warned that this area is the main tourist attraction, so be prepared for vendors wanting to sell you things.

Wander down the cobblestoned streets –  It’s nearly impossible to get lost in Trinidad, given its size. Spend a few hours wandering around the charming city. As you get away from the city center, you’re welcomed by a striking backdrop of mountains and houses painted the color of sorbet. A highlight for me wandering the streets was making friends and catching a game of domino.

Take a day trip to Valle de Los Ingenios (Sugar Mills) –  to learn about the history of sugar cane production in Cuba. Valle de Los Ingenios is a series of three interconnected valleys about 7.5 miles outside Trinidad. During the 18th and 19th centuries, this region had over 30,000 enslaved Africans working in the sugar mills/fields allowing the Spanish to dominate the sugar industry.

Don’t miss  Manaca Iznaga,  one of the only intact plantations in the area where the owner’s house, a tower, and original enslaved quarters remain. Pay a small fee to climb dozens of stairs of the 149-feet tall Manaca Iznaga Tower, leading to the observation deck with stunning views of Valle de Los Ingenios. The tower served as a lookout for watching the enslaved Africans.  

A fun way to get there is by taking the steam train from Trinidad. This railroad route dated back to the late 1800s and was created to transport sugar to the port town of Casilda.

Tip: Don’t forget to wear comfortable walking shoes.

Head to Playa Ancón ( Ancón Beach) – If you’re a beach lover like myself and looking to chill out, then I highly recommend you set a day or afternoon aside for the beach! Ancón beach is fantastic! The water is crystal blue, and the sand goes for miles!

The beach is conveniently located just 15-minutes from Trinidad. You can rent bikes and make a 30-minute trip each way, or you can take a taxi. If you’re staying in a casa particular, ask your host about the best way to get to the beach.

Spend the day at Topes Collantes & Salto del Caburní – If you’re looking to spend a day in nature, hiking in Topes Collantes is your best bet! Topes de Collantes Natural Reserve stretches across the Escambray mountains in southern Cuba. While you can hike the trails independently, you can ask your driver to go on the hike with you as I did.

The thought of walking for an hour through unfamiliar woods wasn’t an option for me. I felt much better hiking with someone familiar with the area. After an hour’s hike, we were greeted by a lovely waterfall, Salto del Caburní. I went for a much-needed and well-deserved swim.  

After your swim and hike back to the top, stop at the Casa Museo Del Café or the Museum of Coffee for a delicious cup of coffee.  I had my coffee with rum!

Tip: Make sure to bring the following: comfortable shoes, bathing suit, towel, and change of dry clothes. The terrain can be uneven, and sandals won’t cut it. The hike is about 2 hours round trip, so plan accordingly.

Visit Convento de San Francisco de Asis (Trinidad Bell Tower) – Visit Convento de San Francisco de Asis before heading out for a day trip. This picturesque yellow bell tower is in Plaza Mayor. If you’re feeling adventurous for a small fee, you can climb the 120 steps to the top of the bell tower for an exceptional panoramic view of Trinidad that goes all the way out to the beach!

Inside the museum are photographs of Cuban history. The descriptions underneath the photos are in Spanish, so make sure to bring a translator with you. 

Stop in at Casa Temple de Santeria Yemayá, The Yemayá Temple – This 18th-century house is a Santería temple dedicated to the deity of the sea. Yemayá, the goddess of the sea, is dressed in white and decorated with fish representing her sons’ eyes. The religious temple and house symbolize the historical and cultural importance of the Afro-Cuban culture and local identity. 

Visit the Open-Air Market – Located in front of Casa de la Trova, La Candonga craft market, open daily is one of the most popular tourist markets. Here you can purchase one-of-a-kind handcrafted souvenirs such as textiles and crochet pieces. The souvenirs are unique to Trinidad, making them difficult to find in other parts of the island.

I don’t recommend buying black coral or turtle-shell items. Airport officials will confiscate them as they are forbidden. 

Visit the museums

Trinidad has no shortage of excellent museums. Here are a few notable ones worth checking out:

• Palacio Brunet, Brunet Palace – Also known as the  Romantic Museum , is the most visited architectural gem in Cuba with the most exquisite Andalusian-style courtyard. Formerly owned by a wealthy Creole family, this 14 room palace turned museum is filled with decorative artwork, silverware, old furniture, and more.  
• Palacio Cantero, Cantero Palace – This Neoclassic style four-room museum, also known as the  Trinidad Municipal Museum , is great for learning about the history of Trinidad. The rooms showcase the local history, weapons, armors, canyons used to protect from the pirates, the transatlantic slave trade, and the sugar industry. My favorite feature of this museum is the bell tower that offers the city’s most spectacular views. You can’t miss it! 

• Museo de Arquitectura, Museum of Architecture -This unique architectural museum comprises of two buildings joined together, known as  La Casa Azul  (The Blue House). The museum consists of 8 rooms dedicated to local architecture and works of artists. Specialized guided walking tours are available to learn about the history of the houses and of Plaza Mayor. 

Nightlife in Trinidad

Stop in Palenque de los Congos – My casa particular host recommended visiting Palenque de Los Congos, and I’m glad we did! This traditional venue has some of Trinidad’s best Afro Cuban drumming and live music. Folklore Afro-Cuban dance performances are hosted regularly. We only meant to stop in for a bit and ended up enjoying the chill not-so-touristy bar. Best of all, regulars aren’t shy and will teach you how to salsa! 

Don’t miss La Casa de la Música de Trinidad – I can’t think of a better night than dancing to live salsa and rumba music under the stars. Casa de la Música is conveniently located in Plaza Mayor. At night, this outdoor venue comes alive with vibrant music and locals and tourists alike. After 11:00 pm, the venue turns into a nightclub. $2USD to get in. 

Dance the night away at Disco Ayala – Disco Ayala ,  also known as La Cueva (“The Cave”), is a dance club you can’t miss! The cave is 100 feet under earth and is no place like it! Popular on the weekends, it’s an ideal spot to see Cubans and tourists mingling, dancing the night away, and one of my favorite experiences in Trinidad.  

The entrance fee of $5 includes a complimentary drink. The music is energizing, and the lights add to the naturally formatted stalactites. Rumor has it every night before the club opens at 10 pm, the staff has to smoke the bats out of the cave. I didn’t see any bats myself, but hey, don’t say I didn’t warn you. 

Tip: Disco Ayala is a dark 10-minute walk uphill from the center of town. So make sure to bring your phone or a small flashlight.

Visit La Bodeguita del Medio – Stop in this famous Cuban bar near Plaza Mayor for a mojito and listen to live bands play the music that makes your body move. Check out the walls covered with names and messages written from people who have visited the location over the years. 

Try a Canchánchara – A night out in Trinidad isn’t complete without trying a canchánchara. Canchánchara is the original Cuban cocktail, famous in Trinidad and practically unknown off the island. This refreshing yet potent cocktail is made with honey, rum, lime, and water.  

For an authentic cocktail with flavors that will dance along with your taste buds, head over to Taberna la Canchánchara or Plaza Mayor for the tastiest and most refreshing cocktail you’ll have!

Money Saving Tips

• Take the bus
• Carpool with a few people
• Enjoy home-cooked meals at your casa particular

Where to stay in Trinidad

Casa particulares, private homes, are the most common accommodations in Cuba. I highly recommend staying at a casa, particular for part of your trip. Most casas offer the privacy of your own room, private bath, air conditioner, hot water, and my personal favorite, home-cooked meals! Home-cooked meals typically cost between $4-10 per person.  

If you decide not to book a place in advance before heading to Trinidad, not to worry, there will be plenty of Cubans waiting at the bus station with pictures of rooms/amenities available in their homes.

You can also walk around and check out a few places before settling on a location. If you’re staying in the city center, casa particulars should be about $25-30/night.  

I opted to book our place beforehand; we stayed at this cute casa particular , for $21 a night and loved it! We had the entire back of the house to ourselves, including a lovely terrace with incredible city views.

Our hosts, Rey and Laura were amiable, hospitable, and knowledgeable. Oh, did I mention the food was delicious! Having a meal at your casa is a great way to have an authentic and affordable meal. 

Hotels in Trinidad

While I highly recommend staying in a casa particular for a more authentic experience, here are a few hotels in Trinidad to consider. 

Budget – For budget travelers,  Casa Colonial el Patio  and  Hostal Marley Y Miguel   (approx $30-$35/night) offer affordable accommodations in a shared bedroom with airconditioners, shared kitchen, bathroom, patio, and in-house restaurant and bar. 

Mid-range – Hostal El Shadday  (approx $65-$70/night) is a good choice for travelers looking for something that won’t break the bank. Double and triple bedrooms are available with private bathrooms, air conditioners, small kitchens, access to a lovely terrace, and a shared lounge area.  

High-end – For a more luxurious stay,  Iberostar Grand Hotel  (approx. $300/night) and  Ana Hostal Shalom  (approx $280/night) are considered the best hotels in Trinidad, according to Trip Advisor. Both hotels are adults only, and I recommend booking in advance. 

Ana Hostal Shalom is an entire villa that groups of travelers can rent. Amenities include a terrace with great views of the surrounding mountains, cozy rooms with AC, refrigerators, and WiFi. 

Amenities at Iberostar Grand Hotel Trinidad include spacious guest rooms, a conference center, an in-house restaurant and bar, and delicious breakfast options. 

Wifi in Trinidad 

Wifi in Cuba can be a pain to find at times; in Trinidad, you can find several wifi hotspots in public areas like Plaza Mayor. You’ll know you’re in the right place because you’ll see other people sitting on the steps of La Casa de Musica glued to their phones. Some restaurants in the plaza have wifi, so you can enjoy a drink/meal while checking your email.  

You can buy wifi cards throughout the town, but the most affordable prices are at the ETECSA booths or the tourist info center. Wifi cards are $2 an hour. You can also purchase internet cards from local hotels, but they will charge as much as $6 per hour.  

Check out the three public wifi locations in Trinidad listed below: 

• Parque Céspedes de Trinidad
• Casa de la Música
• Clínica Internacional de Trinidad

Getting around Trinidad

If you’re staying in the city center, the easiest way to get around and explore is on foot. The cobblestone streets are pretty narrow, which doesn’t allow for cars to move around with ease.

By Taxi  – There is no shortage of taxis. You can find a taxi in the city center or ask your host to arrange a pickup. Our host was gracious enough to arrange a taxi to bring us to Playa Ancón, which was a huge help!

Little yellow coco taxis are also available, and I recommend taking them at least once during your stay. The taxi is a non-air-conditioned three-wheel vehicle that is convenient for getting around. Trips usually cost between $4-6, depending on where you are going.  

Tip: If you can, try and negotiate the price of the taxi beforehand. You shouldn’t pay more than $8 to Playa Ancón and $15 to take you to Manaca Iznaga. 

By Bicycle  – For the adventurous types, renting bikes is a great way to explore the area. A lot of visitors rent bikes and venture out to Playa Ancón for the day. However, keep in mind that the beach ride is mostly downhill on your way to the beach.

However, when coming back, the trip is entirely uphill. Ask your casa particular host about rentals as they may have bikes of their own for rent or know someone who does! Rentals cost $2-4 per day. 

By Bus  – The Trinidad Bus Tour offers transfers to Playa La Boca and hotels on Playa Ancón. The tour starts at the Transtur office on Lino Pérez between Maceo and Francisco Cadahía.

Departure times are: 9 am, 11 am, 2 pm, 4 pm, and 7 pm, and picks up at a few stops in town, including the Cubatur office. Buses return from the beach at 10:15am, 12:15pm, 3:15pm, 5:15pm, and 8:15pm. The fare is $2 per person.

Things to know before you visit 

Best time to visit trinidad.

There isn’t a wrong time to visit Trinidad, Cuba, but the three seasons are dry, wet, and hot. Every season offers its uniqueness to the region. 

Weather in Trinidad

Dry Season (November – April) – The dry season is the best time to visit as the average temperature is 24°C (75°F). Keep in mind this is also high season in Cuba, which means a lot of visitors. I suggest booking your accommodations in advance. I spent New Year in Trinidad and was surprised by the number of tourists.  

Hot Season (May – July) –   The hot season is no joke, but on the flip side, it can be an excellent time to visit, especially if you want to avoid the high season crowds. Visiting during the hot season also means you don’t have to compete with other visitors and have the luxury to book accommodations and transportation last minute. The hot, humid temperatures can be overwhelming if you’re not used to the heat. The average temperature is 31-33°C (89-91°F).

August – October (Wet Season) –    During the wet season, you can expect spells of heavy rains, humid temperatures, and a higher risk of hurricanes or tropical storms. I visited Cuba during the wet season, and while it rained a bit every day, it wasn’t enough to keep me inside. A bonus for visiting during the wet season is the lush green landscapes and tobacco fields. The rain also means overflowing waterfalls and rivers, so keep that in mind if you’re venturing out to Salto del Caburni inside Topes de Collantes. 

How to stay safe in Trinidad?

Overall, Cuba is very safe for travelers, and Trinidad was no exception. We had no issues roaming the streets during the day or night. We had a few late nights and felt completely safe walking back to our casa particular.  

Petty theft in Trinidad is growing. However, like any city with lots of tourists, anything can happen. The most common crimes include bag snatching, pickpockets, and money exchange, especially at bars and clubs.

With that said, I recommend staying alert of your surroundings, never strolling around with your phone out (it won’t work anyway!), and keeping your purse and belongings with you at all times. Make copies of your documents, including your passport and ID.  

Always go with your gut instinct. If you wouldn’t do it at home, then don’t consider it while abroad. 

Favorite travel resources

Check out some of my favorite resources I use when I travel to Cuba.  

Book Your Flight –   My go-to flight search engines are Skyscanner, Google Flights, and skiplag. I love these three sites because they search smaller websites to find the cheapest and best flight deals. 

Hopper –   I can’t express how much I love and use Hopper! I used Hopper to help me determine the best time to purchase my tickets to Cuba, along with other places. You can download the app from the Apple store to your phone, plug in the dates you are looking to travel, and you will receive a notification letting you know the best time to purchase plane tickets. 

Accommodations – Airbnb is my first choice when it comes to booking accommodations. It’s an excellent alternative to staying at a hotel.  

Booking.com – This website is incredible for finding affordable accommodations. I like this website because they have a no money down policy, unique selections ranging from high-end luxurious penthouses to bungalows, and the best rates you will find online. 

Conclusion – Lady Chin’s Two Cents

As I stated before, Trinidad wasn’t originally on my bucket list and decided last minute to spend New Year’s here instead of Havana. I am happy I did! Trinidad is the perfect city to escape the bustling city life and be one with nature, history and meet lots of interesting people.

I was surprised to see the number of tourists, but I could see why the city attracts people far and wide after spending three days there.  

During my next visit, I plan to stay for at least five days to venture out to Cayo beach and visit the neighboring tobacco farms.

Make sure to bring lots of cash just in case, as American debit cards and credit cards won’t work! 

Trinidad has something for everyone, and a year later, I still rave about the remarkable city! 

Have you been to Trinidad, Cuba? What was your favorite thing to do there? 

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Our time in Cuba was a wonderful experience.

Plenty of other Cuban towns are filled with beautiful old buildings, but there is a completeness about Trinidad’s cobbled, traffic-free centre and its jumble of pastel-coloured mansions and houses, with their red-tiled rooftops and shuttered porticoes, that puts it in a league of its own. Its pedestrianized colonial district has a distinct village feel, where people walk at a subdued pace over the uneven ground and neighbours chat from their doorsteps. With tourism continuously on the rise, however, you’re as likely to see a foreign face as a local one on walks around the centre.

Brief history of Trinidad

Places to visit in trinidad, península de ancón, valle de los ingenios, sierra del escambray, sancti spíritus.

In general, if you’re walking on cobblestones you’re in the UNESCO-protected part of the city, the old town, at the heart of which is beautiful Plaza Mayor. All of Trinidad’s prominent museums, including the standout Museo Romántico, are either on the square or within a few blocks of it, so you can enjoy a full day of sightseeing without walking too far. That said, wandering around the old town’s jumble of steep streets, shadowed by colonial houses and enlivened here and there by arts and crafts markets, is one of Trinidad’s highlights and at least as stimulating as visiting the museums. North of the Plaza Mayor you soon reach the northern limits of the city, where some of the streets are little more than mud tracks. One of these leads to the top of the Loma de la Vigía, an easily climbable hill overlooking Trinidad, marked at its base by a ruined church, the Ermita de la Popa, and one of the town’s newest hotels.

Heading downhill from Plaza Mayor will lead you south, out of the historic centre towards Parque Céspedes, the centre of town for locals and a sociable hub of activity. Beyond this square and the historic centre there are very few specific sights; you’ll get far more out of a visit if you take advantage of the nearby valley, beach and mountains.

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A Spanish settlement was first established in Trinidad in 1514, but interest in the area was short-lived. The gold mined in the area soon ran out and news spread of the riches to be found in Central America, contributing to a flow of emigration that left the town all but empty by the mid-1540s. It wasn’t until the 1580s that the Spanish population rose again and local agriculture began to take off. By the 1750s the region possessed over a hundred tobacco plantations and at least as many farms and sugar mills, as well as a population of almost six thousand.

The mid-eighteenth century marked the start of the sugar boom, a roughly hundred-year period during which Trinidad became one of the country’s most prosperous cities. Thousands of African slaves were imported to cope with the increasing demands of the sugar industry. Trinidad’s prosperity peaked when the economic tide began to turn in the 1830s and 1840s. Slave revolts, the exhaustion of cultivable land and the rising challenge of European sugar beet sent the town into a downward spiral, accelerated by the Wars of Independence. In the early twentieth century local land fell increasingly into foreign – and especially US – hands, and unemployment shot up. Trinidad’s fortunes turned again in the 1950s as tourism increased, encouraging the construction of a small airport and the Hotel Las Cuevas, both still standing today. This brief period of prosperity was cut short by the revolutionary war that ended in January 1959.

It was in the Sierra del Escambray around Trinidad that, for five years following the rebel triumph, US-backed counter-revolutionaries fought in a guerrilla conflict during which significant numbers of local men were killed. Celebrating its 500th anniversary in 2014, Trinidad began the rise to its current prominence after its historic centre and the nearby Valle de los Ingenios were declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 1988.

Plaza Mayor

The beautiful Plaza Mayor is the heart of Trinidad’s colonial old town. Comprising four simple fenced-in gardens, each with a palm tree or two and dotted with various statuettes and other ornamental touches, it’s surrounded by painted colonial mansions, which are adorned with arches and balconies and home to several museums and an art gallery.

The fabulous Museo Romántico is an essential part of Trinidad’s delve into the past. With one of the country’s finest and most valuable collections of colonial furniture packed into its fourteen rooms, there is no better place to go for a picture of aristocratic lifestyle and tastes in eighteenth- and nineteenth-century Cuba. Dating from 1808, the house itself – built for the very wealthy Brunet family – is a magnificent example of elegant nineteenth-century domestic Cuban architecture. Though the museum’s contents have been gathered together from various buildings all over town, there is a wonderful consistency and completeness to the collection, befitting the perfectly preserved and restored rooms.

Looking down on Plaza Mayor is the city’s main church, Iglesia de la Santísima Trinidad, also known as the Parroquial Mayor. Though there has been a church on this site since 1620, the structure now standing was officially finished in 1892. Among the pictures and paintings inside are a disproportionate number of impressively crafted altars, especially the neo-Gothic structure in the central nave, with its mass of pointed spires. Most of them were created by Amadeo Fiogere. A Dominican friar assigned to the church in 1912, he set about livening up the interior, drawing on his own personal fortune to donate many of the images on display today.

The Museo de Arquitectura Colonial exhibits the components that make up a typical colonial-era house in Trinidad, but the small collection of fixtures and fittings won’t keep you for long. The former residence of the Sánchez-Iznaga family – local aristocrats who made their fortune from sugar – the building was constructed in 1738 and then extended to its current size in 1785. Don’t leave before taking a look at the quirky-looking US-made Art Nouveau shower, dating from 1912. It’s in a block out the back, off a courtyard vibrantly bedecked with plants.

Museo Romántico

Loma de la vigía.

Looking down on the colonial centre, beyond the end of Simón Bolívar, in a more run-down part of town, stand a dilapidated church, the Ermita de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria de la Popa del Barco – known locally as La Popa – and a brand-new five-star hotel, the Pansea Trinidad. This is the last line of buildings before the town dissolves into the countryside and marks the start of a rewarding, fifteen-minute walk up the Loma de la Vigía, the hill against which Trinidad is set. A dirt track takes you to the summit where, within the grounds of a radio station, the lush landscape of the Valle de los Ingenios on the other side of the hill is revealed, as well as views back across the town and down to the coast. Back down at La Popa you can cut across to the Las Cuevas hotel complex on the adjoining hillside, where non-guests can use the only publicly accessible swimming pool in the town.

Ancon beach, Trinidad, Cuba © Delpixel/Shutterstock

A narrow 8km finger of land curling like a twisted root out into the placid waters of the Caribbean, set against a backdrop of rugged green mountains, the Península de Ancón enjoys a truly fantastic setting. Covered predominantly in low-lying scrub, the peninsula itself is unspoilt yet unenchanting once you get away from the coastline, but it does boast several enticing beaches, including Playa Ancón, and an idyllic stretch of mostly undisturbed seashore.

The 7km journey from Trinidad is a glorious ride along the coast, with the turquoise blue of the Caribbean just a few metres away and the lofty mountains of the Sierra del Escambray rarely out of sight.

Diving, snorkelling and fishing around Ancón

Marina Trinidad, opposite Hotel Ancón , offers diving excursions and diving courses, including beginners’ classes. Fishing excursions include deep-sea fishing, trolling for big game, and bottom fishing.

One of the most popular snorkelling excursions is to Cayo Blanco, a narrow islet 8km from the peninsula with its own coral reef, where the waters teem with parrotfish, trumpetfish and moray eels. Trips on catamarans last six hours, and usually include a lobster lunch. The area is known for its easy diving with good visibility, minimal currents and an abundance of vertical coral walls. You’ll need your passport for any trip leaving from the marina.

Playa Ancón

A gentle curve of beach at the far end of the peninsula, Playa Ancón has put the area on the tourist map and has an encouragingly natural feel, with shrubs and trees creeping down to the shoreline. As one of the largest and longest beaches on the south coast of Cuba, there’s more than enough fine-grained golden sand here to keep a small army of holidaymakers happy. There’s also decent snorkelling and diving in the waters and reefs around these shores.

The Valle de los Ingenios, a sprawling, open valley bordered by the eastern slopes of the Sierra del Escambray, was once one of Cuba’s most productive agricultural areas. In its heyday it was crammed with dozens of the sugar estates and refineries on which Trinidad built its wealth during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Today just one functioning refinery remains, but the remnants and ruins of the manor houses and mills that occupied the estates remain dotted throughout the valley, the most intact example at Manaca-Iznaga. You can get there on a sporadically functioning steam train from Trinidad, dating from the early twentieth century, which pulls rickety wooden carriages on an hour-long ride to the estate through rich layers of rural countryside, rattling and puffing between thick bush and small forests, then into open, lush grazing land and maize fields, with green hills and low mountains forming the backdrop. When the steam engine is in disrepair they use a diesel engine instead.

Manaca-Iznaga estate

The tiny train station at Manaca-Iznaga is two minutes’ walk from the old house and tower, the main attractions at this former estate. Most people can’t resist heading straight for the 45m tower, built by one of the most successful sugar planters in Cuba, Alejo María del Carmen e Iznaga. You can climb the precarious wooden staircase to one of the tower’s seven levels for views of the entire valley, a patchwork of sugar-cane fields, wooded countryside and farmland dotted with palm trees and the odd house. This lofty perspective over the surrounding area would have been used by plantation overseers for surveillance of their slaves working in the fields below. The huge bell that once hung in the tower, used to ring out the start and finish of the working day, now sits near the front of the Casa Hacienda, the colonial mansion where the Iznaga family would have stayed, though they spent more of their time at their residences in Trinidad and Sancti Spíritus. The building’s main function is as a gift shop, bar and restaurant, the latter occupying a terrace overlooking a small garden. Over the road are the scattered dwellings of the old slave barracks, now converted into family homes.

Rising up to the northwest of Trinidad are the steep, pine-coated slopes of the Guamuhaya mountains, more popularly known as the Sierra del Escambray. This area is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in Cuba, though its highest peak – the Pico San Juan – is a modest 1140m high. A large proportion of this mountain range sits within the borders of the neighbouring provinces of Cienfuegos and Villa Clara but the heart of the visitor park and hiking area, the Gran Parque Natural Topes de Collantes, is in Sancti Spíritus province.

Topes de Collantes

The mountain resort of Topes de Collantes is a kind of hotel village, its unsubtle architecture completely out of keeping with the beauty of its surroundings – as is the road clumsily blasted down the middle of the resort. Though there are a couple of likeable museums around the village, and one or two modest venues for eating and drinking, the main reason to make the trip up here is to use the resort as a base for hiking along designated trails, which you can follow as part of an organized excursion from Trinidad or independently by first visiting the park’s information centre.

At the heart of Topes de Collantes is its founding building, the monstrous Sanatorio Topes de Collantes, commissioned in 1936 by Fulgencio Batista, the Cuban dictator overthrown by Fidel Castro and his rebels. Originally a huge tuberculosis clinic and once referred to as the Sanatorio General Batista, it represented Batista’s Mussolini-esque desire to leave a lasting legacy, a monument to his own power and influence. It wasn’t completed until 1957 and today operates as the Kurhotel, an anti-stress centre and hotel.

This mountainous area has its own microclimate and is always a couple of degrees cooler than Trinidad. It’s also far more likely to rain here than down by the coast, and as the heavens open almost every afternoon for much of the year, it’s a good idea to get up here early if you’re visiting on a day-trip.

During the 1980s the hotels of Topes de Collantes were filled with hundreds of artworks by Cuban artists of national renown. Scores of these are now installed in the rooms of the engaging Museo de Arte Cubano Contemporaneo, opened in 2008 on the main road through Topes de Collantes, 350m before the information centre on the approach from Trinidad. In all there are some sixty paintings by artists such as Rubén Torres Llorca, Zaida del Río and Tomás Sánchez, as well as some sculptures and prints. The pretty museum building, with its colourful stained-glass windows, dates from 1944, and was owned by a Cuban senator before the Revolution and its subsequent appropriation by the State.

Hiking at Gran Parque Natural Topes de Collantes

If you want to go hiking around Topes de Collantes, the best way to do so is to book an organized excursion in Trinidad. If you arrive independently you won’t be permitted access to all areas of this protected park, but at the park’s information centre you can get advice on the trails you can visit without a guide.

Typically, trails here are well marked and shady, cutting through dense woodlands, smothered in every kind of vegetation – from needle-straight conifers to bushy fern and grassy matted floors – opening out here and there for breathtaking views of the landscape.

Parque Altiplano

As well as being the location of all the local hotels, Parque Altiplano also contains the area’s most popular target for hikers, the fantastically situated 62m-high Caburní waterfall, surrounded by pines and eucalyptus trees at the end of a 2.5-km trek down steep inclines and through dense forest. Independent access is at the northernmost point of Topes de Collantes. There are several other relatively easy trails within this park, including the Vegas Grandes, which also finishes at a waterfall.

Parque Guanayara

Fifteen kilometres north of the hotels, Parque Guanayara is host to one of the area’s most scenic hiking routes. The gentler hike here follows the Guanayara River for a couple of kilometres up to the Salto El Rocío, a beautiful waterfall, and the Poza del Venado, a natural pool; along the way it incorporates some memorable views of Pico San Juan.

Parque Codina

The focal point of Parque Codina is Hacienda Codina, an old Spanish coffee-growing ranch where you can eat and drink. From the ranch there are easily manageable walks, some no more than 1km, into the forest. Several trails lead to La Batata, a subterranean river at the foot of a lush green valley where you can bathe in the cool waters of the cave. You access this area independently from the southwestern corner of Topes de Collantes.

Parque El Cubano

Just 5km from Trinidad, Parque El Cubano is the most popular location for horseriding. The route here, which can also be followed on foot, takes in a campesino house and the remains of a colonial sugar ranch, as well as rivers, brooks and waterfalls.

The provincial capital, also called Sancti Spíritus, sits in the dead centre of the island, 30km inland and around 70km east of Trinidad by road. There’s less to do and see here than in neighbouring provincial capitals, but it nonetheless makes a good stopover if you’re making the journey between Havana and Santiago – few visitors stay for more than a night or two, but as one of Cuba’s original seven villas founded by Diego Velázquez in the early 1500s, it has plenty of historic character and holds some appeal as one of the country’s least touristy original cities.

Top image: Church of the Holy Trinity overlooking Plaza Mayor, Trinidad, Cuba © Maurizio De Mattei/Shutterstock

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Six Cool Things to Do in Trinidad

View of the city of Trinidad, Cuba

Photo: Shutterstock

Discover the Top Things to See and Do in Trinidad, Cuba

Come discover Trinidad, one of Cuba’s most charming cities, captivating visitors with its cobblestoned streets, vibrant cultural scene, and a plethora of activities for the intrepid traveler. From adventurous hikes in cloud-kissed forests to the beautifully preserved historic center, and the pulsating rhythms of rumba under starlit skies, there's an abundance of things to do in Trinidad . Each corner of this UNESCO World Heritage site beckons for exploration, offering a glimpse into its rich colonial past and a culture that warmly welcomes every visitor.

Manaca Iznaga tower near Trinidad, Cuba

1. Climb the 184 steps of the mystical Manaca Iznaga Tower

In the heart of Trinidad’s lush landscape, the Manaca Iznaga Tower rises—a colonial-era titan with stories etched into its heights. Built in the early 19th century, it whispers tales of an age where sugar barons watched over their estates from such lofty perches. 

From its peak, the panorama extends over the valleys and colonial relics visible from what locals fondly dub 'Cuba’s Leaning Tower.' It’s a monument not just to the Iznaga family, who erected it amidst a fervent rivalry, but also to the more somber history it oversaw, a silent sentinel above the plantations. 

Visitors can immerse in the local myths of love and jealousy that still linger around the tower. Some say the winds carry whispers of the past, tales of a love so fierce it led to the tower's creation, and of a jealousy so strong it turned to tragedy. 

Reaching Manaca Iznaga is a short 20 minute drive from Trinidad's city center, where taxis stand ready to transport you back in time for a modest fare. And a mere $1 entrance fee grants you passage up the steps to the top of the tower.

Plaza Mayor in Trinidad, Cuba

2. Find peace at Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor is a central piece in the puzzle of things to do in Trinidad , encircled by the storied facades of colonial houses and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Its compactness offers a leisurely escape, where one can revel in the historic ambiance and enjoy local crafts and bites.

If you’re exploring the myriad of activities Trinidad has to offer, the plaza serves as a perfect pause point. Especially in the cooler hours of dawn and dusk, when the sun casts an enchanting glow on the surroundings. Whether you’re seeking a moment of relaxation on a bench away from the cobblestone streets or indulging in the local fare at a nearby café, Plaza Mayor enriches any visit to Trinidad

Mayor Santísima church in Trinidad, Cuba

3. Step Inside the Church of the Holy Trinity

While exploring Plaza Mayor, the sight of Iglesia Mayor Santísima Trinidad (or Church of the Holy Trinity) is hard to miss. It has been part of the square's landscape since its initial construction in wood back in 1514, with the current stone structure taking shape over the course of the 19th century.

The church's architecture is a tapestry of styles, a visual narrative of the 75 years it took to reach completion. Should you find its doors open, step into the cool interior and let your gaze settle on the altar carved from precious woods by a Dominican friar. With Gothic touches, this altar is not just a centerpiece of worship but also a splendid piece of artistry from bygone days.

Casa de la Música de Trinidad

4. Dance the night away at Casa de la Música de Trinidad

Casa de la Música stands out as a lively beacon for night owls and music lovers, just a heartbeat away from the Plaza Mayor on Calle Cristo. It's one of the top things to do in Trinidad , offering an unforgettable evening with the locals over the universal language of dance. From the first strum of the guitar to the last call of the trumpet, the open-air venue invites you to sway to the rhythm of the city’s best live bands.

The music and dance start at 9:00 p.m. and the infectious beats ensure that even those who arrive solo won’t stay that way for long. It’s almost guaranteed that you’ll be whisked away for a dance, making new friends as the rumba spins around you. With tables dotting the area, you can also enjoy local refreshments and snacks without missing a beat. At Casa de la Música the night is always young, and the music is always warm, an experience to savor one beat at a time.

Horse carriage ride through the streets of Trinidad, Cuba

5. Experience Trinidad's history on a carriage ride

Travel through Trinidad's streets as generations before have, in a horse-drawn carriage that offers a different pace to explore the city's rich heritage. This tour isn't just a nod to the city's colonial architecture; it's a narrative of Trinidad's evolution, told through visits to landmarks like Plaza Santa Ana and the evocative Valle de los Ingenios .

On this 2- to 3-hour journey, you'll gain insights into the culture and history that makes up modern Trinidad, with guides who bring depth to the experience, connecting you to the stories that shaped the city. It's a thought-provoking way to engage with Trinidad's history, offering a window into the complexities of its past.

Salto del Caburní waterfall near Trinidad, Cuba

6. Looking for adventurous things to do in Trinidad? Hike the rugged trails to Salto del Caburní!

Salto del Caburní isn’t just a destination; it's an awesome daytrip for the prepared and the adventurous. The trek to this cascade which is one of the prettiest waterfalls in Cuba , is a challenging descent through the untamed jungle forest of Topes Collantes National Park . The rugged terrain requires sturdy shoes and a readiness for a strenuous hike, not just a casual walk. There are no smooth paths or handrails here, and the rocky stretches might test your endurance and agility. Expect to hike 90 minutes to get there from the entrance of the park. 

For the best experience, we highly recommend the company of an experienced guide. Their knowledge not only ensures a safer trek but also enriches the journey with insights into the local ecosystem. The climb back is equally demanding, and an expert can help navigate the quickest and safest route back to civilization. A dip in the refreshing pond at the waterfall's base awaits those who undertake this adventure, a natural reward for your efforts. Remember to visit outside the dry season to see the falls at their most impressive and bring along plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the hike.

Written by Teresita Padrón.

Published November 2023.

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Outside of  Havana  and Cuba's famous  beach resorts ,  Trinidad is Cuba’s most popular destination  for travellers. This popularity arises from its location - wedged between beach coastline and scenic mountains, and the fact that the city itself is still greatly preserved from its centuries old beginning. Trinidad is a city with Latin-Caribbean flair but has that natural subdued feel that almost feels like a small village that is perfect to get lost with your camera. In the midst of the streets are colourful rooftops, century old mansions and locals harmlessly chatting away to each other on doorsteps. You might hear a busker playing a  tres  or the sound of a tricycle's bell but generally the soothing atmosphere here is the reason why many travellers prefer Trinidad. Due to this, Trinidad is year on year the most visited destination in Central Cuba; travellers don’t pass through here, they extend for longer.

Trinidad is undoubtedly the richest when it comes to the colonial architecture and old-fashioned appeal. What is more inspiring is that you’ll regularly see locals playing dominos by the curbs of the cobbled streets, oblivious to who comes and takes a peek. Trinidad has a slow pace but easy to go along with.  Plaza Mayor  is at the centre of the colonial section of Trinidad and is mainly for tourists rather than locals. This place boasts balconies, mansion houses, small gardens, art galleries and museums.

Parque Cespedes  however is Trinidad’s main city square for Cubans. Locals will gather after work, as will flurries of school children play about during afternoon periods. The town’s council HQ is based here as well as churches, schools, cinemas, shops and the  Asamlea Municipal  building.  Plaza Santa Ana  is more of a widened area that gets much of its attraction because of the old Royal Prison, or locally known -  Carcel Real . Among the places that surround here are local bookstores and shops with cigars and other crafty items available too.

If you do want to learn a little more about Trinidad’s place in Cuba then there are a selection of museums such as the  Romantic Museum ,  Colonial Architecture Museum ,  Archaeological Museum , and the  Museo de la Lucha Contra Bandidos . Now that maybe too many museums to visit at once in Trinidad, but they are all interesting in their own way. The latter,  Museo de la Lucha Contra Bandidos , showcases the struggle both locally and nationally throughout the beginning of the Cuban Revolution in the 1950’s and has some compelling photography for all to see.

In Trinidad the eating and drinking is a thing they get right. Although the best areas are normally are off the  Plaza Mayor  historical hub, there are some street food vendors on many corners.  Casa de la Musica  is vibrant, entertaining and friendly that is perfect for salsa dancing and drinks. Before and after, people tend to enjoy hanging and chatting at the concrete steps leading up to the venue. This is not all, as Trinidad has an actual underground cave bar.  Discoteca Ayala  is the cave network that has been transformed into a bar with nightclub tendencies. The temperature drops, as you’d imagine making it a real cool oddity that stands out to the rest of Trinidad’s nightlife attractions.

Around 15km away from the centre of Trinidad lays  Playa Ancon , a beach with a gorgeous strip of coastline and calm waters. Ancon has that mystical beach feel yet despite it having resorts nearby there are shrubs and trees along the length of it. Many enjoy an even more laid back vibe here than what filters in and around the interiors of Trinidad.  Scuba diving, snorkelling and fishing  can all be nearby.

The diversity of Trinidad expands with the slopes and trails at the  Topes de Collantes  National Park. There are a number of different hikes available. A popular choice is  Parque Caburni  for its rugged steep routes and dense forest.  Parque Guanayara  is spectacular for scenery and  Parque El Cubano  is possible the most popular and a favourite for its horse riding accessibility.  Parque Codina  has a ranch and a variety of walks and caves whilst if you love nothing more than seeing a waterfall or two on your way, then  Parque Vegas Grandes  is the way to go.

How to Visit Trinidad de Cuba

Trinidad is a 5 to 6 hour drive from  Havana , and 1 hours East of  Cienfuegos . Being one of Cuba's most outstanding cultural destinations, a stay in Trinidad is included in nearly all of Cuban Adventures' regular  small group Cuba tours .

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Things to See in Trinidad, Cuba

Unquestionably, the greatest attraction in Trinidad is the town itself, which constitutes one of the finest colonial centers in the Americas and, justifiably, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its entirety. The town's cobblestone streets contain a treasure-trove of small and grand colonial homes, churches, and quiet squares. Walking aimlessly about the curving streets of the old town is unmatched in Cuba for tranquillity and charm. About the only feature not authentically colonial is the neon cross that crowns the church on Plaza Mayor. Remarkably, as quaint as it is, Trinidad feels like a real town where Cubans live and work, rather than the film set it first appears to be.

A good way to get your bearings in Trinidad is to trace a path from the Plaza Mayor, the heart of the old town, heading west on Echerri and then down Piro Guinart to Plazuela El Jigüe, a quiet and pretty little square. Then head down Peña to Simón Bolívar and east on Antonio Maceo, the closest thing there is to a main drag in Trinidad.

A couple blocks south of here, along Lino Pérez, is Parque Céspedes, the focal point of the "new" town (though newer than the colonial core of Trinidad, it remains anything but shiny and modern).

Northeast of the old town, following Fernando H. Echerri to José Mendoza for several blocks, you'll reach Plaza Santa Ana and the ruins of Iglesia Santa Ana, which looks ancient, but dates only to 1812. On the square is a former 19th-century prison, Real Cárcel, which today houses a touristy restaurant and souvenir shop.

Around the Plaza Mayor

The neo-baroque, 19th-century Plaza Mayor, elaborately adorned with serene sitting areas, statuary, towering palm trees, and gardens enclosed by white wrought-iron fences, is one of Cuba's most beautiful plazas. It's ringed by magnificent palaces and pastel-colored houses with red-tile roofs and wood shutters. On the northwest corner is the cathedral, Iglesia de la Santísima Trinidad, which most locals refer to as La Parroquial Mayor. The cathedral, completed in 1892, replaced the original 17th-century church that was destroyed in 1812 by a hurricane. The new construction, completed at the end of the 19th century, is rather simple on the outside, but the restored interior reveals a Gothic vaulted ceiling and nearly a dozen attractive carved altars. The cathedral can be visited Monday through Saturday from 10:30am to 1pm. Mass is at 9am on Sunday.

The highlight of the Plaza Mayor, and the most evocative reminder of Trinidad's glory days, is the lovingly restored Palacio Brunet, Fernando H. Echerri 52 at the corner of Simón Bolívar. The colonial mansion dates to 1704 (the second floor was built in 1808) and houses the Museo Romántico  (tel. 41/99-4363 ). Its splendid collection of period antiques culled from a number of old Trinitario families convincingly evokes the life of a local sugar baron in the 1800s. Don't miss the enormous kitchen, covered in azulejo (glazed ceramic tiles), with a wood-burning stove. The views from upstairs are marvelous. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9am to 5pm. Admission is CUC$2; allow about 45 minutes for your visit.

In a pale yellow colonial building on the west side of the main square, Museo de Arqueología (tel. 41/99-3420 ) features a collection that encompasses natural sciences and pre-Columbian Cuba. It's mostly an uninspired hodgepodge of exhibits, though; you'll find bones of Indian natives and slaves, glass-enclosed stuffed animals, and a 19th-century kitchen, which, though interesting, is hard to classify as either archaeology or natural science. It is currently closed and has no scheduled reopening date.

On the east side of the Plaza Mayor, in a squat, sky-blue mansion once belonging to the Sánchez Iznaga family, the Museo de Arquitectura Colonial (tel. 41/99-3208 ) features moderately interesting exhibits that trace the development of Trinidad, including examples of woodwork and ironwork, maps, models, and photographs. What is on display, though, can hardly compare to the real-life exhibits beyond the museum's doors. It's open Monday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9am to 5pm. Admission is CUC$1.

The former Palacio Cantero, an 1830 palatial residence built by a noted sugar baron, houses the Museo Histórico Municipal , Simón Bolívar 423 between Peña and Gustavo Izquierdo (tel. 41/99-4460 ). In addition to antiques and 19th-century furnishings, there are bits and pieces of slave history, old bank notes, and exhibits of revolutionary Cuba. For many visitors, though, the highlight is the climb up the narrow and rickety wooden stairs to the tower, which has terrific bird's-eye views of Trinidad and the surrounding area. The museum is open Saturday through Thursday from 9am to 5pm; admission is CUC$2. Allow about an hour for your visit, a bit longer if you want to linger over the views.

The second of Trinidad's two major towers is the picturesque, yellow-and-white domed bell tower belonging to the former 18th-century Convento de San Francisco (Convent of Saint Francis of Assisi), Fernando H. Echerri at Piro Guinart. Today the building hosts the dogmatic, but rather fascinating Museo de la Lucha Contra Bandidos (tel. 41/99-4121 ), which focuses on revolutionary Cuba and the continuing "struggle against bandits." Exhibits document Fidel's battles against counterrevolutionaries -- the bandidos in question -- who sought to overturn the regime's ideals by winning support among guajiros (poor rural farmers) and fighting in the Sierra del Escambray in the 1960s. In addition to newspaper reports, you'll find machine guns, military maps, a CIA radio, and photos of the ragtag principals who finally, and quite extraordinarily, overthrew the Batista government in 1959. As is the case with the Museo Histórico, though, the biggest draw may be the panoramic views from atop the bell tower. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9am to 5pm; admission is CUC$1. Allow 45 minutes or so, including the visit to the tower.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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Why Trinidad, Cuba is a Must-Visit Destination

Trinidad is one of the most popular destinations in Cuba, and it’s no wonder why! This vibrant city offers plenty to see between its intriguing history, stunning architecture, and magnificent landscapes. Keep reading to learn more about Trinidad, Cuba .

What is Trinidad, Cuba, known for?

Trinidad is hundreds of years old and has been well-preserved from its origins in the 16th century, making this an ideal destination for those who love history. This city’s cobblestone streets, colourful rooftops, and winding alleyways will make you feel like you have been transported back in time.

Trinidad is known for being a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located near stunning beaches and exhilarating mountain scenery. This centrally-located Cuban city is surrounded by incredible landscapes, making it perfect for adventures in nature.

When is the best time to visit Trinidad?

With temperatures resting around a pleasant 28˚C, January to April are the best months to visit Trinidad in Cuba . While the rest of the year can be quite hot, these months offer mild temperatures and little rainfall, creating the perfect conditions for sightseeing, exploring, or relaxing at the beach.

What to do in Trinidad

From 16th-century architecture to national parks, Trinidad offers something for every type of traveller. Here are the top things to do in Trinidad , Cuba .

Explore Plaza Mayor

Situated in the centre of Trinidad , Plaza Mayor showcases lovely churches, green spaces, and fantastic restaurants. This area has been well preserved since its origins in the 1500s, making it feel like a living museum.

If you’re wandering through the Old Town, Plaza Mayor is perfect for an afternoon picnic or a lunch overlooking the town square. This neighbourhood is also home to several museums, like the Museo Historico.

Enjoy views from the Palacio Cantero

Also known as Museo Historico Municipal, Palacio Cantero offers one of the best panoramic views in Trinidad . This historical museum has a tower with a spiral staircase, which leads you to the rooftop. From above, you can enjoy scenes of the yellow bell tower and majestic mountains in the distance.

Don’t forget to explore the museum’s ground floor, which tells the story of Trinidad’s intriguing past.

Wander the cobblestone streets

Trinidad is a small town so you needn’t worry about getting lost. Ditch the map and explore on your own, taking in the pastel buildings in pink, yellow, and blue hues. Along the way, you can wander down narrow alleyways and streets, where you will likely see many vintage Cuban cars.

Go to the beach

You’ll find Playa Ancon about 15 minutes from Trinidad . Known as one of the most beautiful beaches on Cuba’s southern coast, this beach offers a laidback atmosphere perfect for swimming. It has pristine white sands, clear turquoise waters, and plenty of opportunities for watersport adventures.

Taxis to the beach only cost about $15, making this destination ideal for a day trip from Trinidad. If you are feeling adventurous, you can rent a bike and cycle to this beach, as the journey will only take about 40 minutes. Many travellers also take a boat ride from Playa Ancon to Cayo Blanco, where you can snorkel in Cuba’s largest black coral reef.

Go hiking at Topes de Collantes National Park

Topes de Collantes, a giant nature reserve, is a paradise for those who love hiking and swimming. Parque el Nicho is a stunning area in the park where visitors can swim in postcard-worthy natural pools. You can also enjoy a guided tour of a local coffee plantation at Parque Guanayara.

If you want a multiple-day hiking excursion, check out Parque Altiplano. For more secluded swimming, Parque Codina is an excellent option. Any of these nature parks will reveal stunning landscapes and wildlife along the way.

Chase some waterfalls

Visiting Topes de Collantes makes for an vigorous day-trip from Trinidad , so if you’re looking for something less challenging but still beautiful, check out Parque el Cubano. This area is only a short drive from Trinidad and features an easy 3-mile hike to a stunning waterfall.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy lush forests, rushing streams, a rocky staircase, and an incredible view of the falls at the end. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit — you can swim in the natural pool next to the falls.

Climb Radio Tower Hill

Just outside the city, Radio Tower Hill offers a peaceful and scenic hike away from the hustle and bustle. This hike is about a 30-minute trek up the hill to a magnificent lookout point, then 30 minutes back down.

The views you’ll see when you reach the top will make the journey well worth it! Try to go earlier in the morning when the weather is cooler to avoid the afternoon heat.

Sample the local cuisine

Whether you want authentic Cuban cuisine or international fare, Trinidad has several incredible restaurants to choose from. One of the best places to eat in Trinidad is El Dorado, serving traditional Cuban cuisine in the city centre. Another great spot for breakfast is Taberna La Botija, a rustic joint that is open 24 hours a day.

Palacio Brunet

Also known as Museo Romantico, Palacio Brunet tells the story of Conde de Brunet, a wealthy sugar baron. This colonial mansion was built in the early 1800s, and today, it houses historical displays, like antique furniture, artwork, and elegant architecture.

Museum of Colonial Architecture

If Trinidad’s lovely Spanish colonial-style buildings aren’t enough, architecture enthusiasts can visit the Museum of Colonial Architecture. This museum dives into the details of Trinidad’s architecture and also offers guided walking tours of this city’s most ornate streets.

Valle de los Ingenios

Located east of Trinidad, Valle de Los Ignenios boasts mountain scenery, palm trees, and lush sugar cane fields. This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses monuments and artefacts from the 1800s, the era of slave labour and sugar field plantations.

You can get a guided tour of the valley, where you’ll visit elevated lookouts, towers, and historic structures. If you don’t want a guide but still want to enjoy the scenery, a train runs from Trinidad through the valley. For more of an adventure, you can also explore the area via horseback.

Final thoughts

With so many things to do and see, Trinidad is a must-visit cultural gem. With its close proximity to lush national parks and tranquil beaches, this city offers a variety of day-trip possibilities for the adventurous at heart. Architecture and history buffs will love its museum and beautifully preserved buildings, while sampling local cuisine and enjoying the tranquility of a true Cuban holiday.

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10 Cities to See in Cuba

Y ou may wonder, where is the best place in Cuba to visit outside of Havana? Let’s explore the top cities to see in Cuba. You can hop into a vintage car for a luxury cruise around town, puff the legendary Cuban cigar, or ‘invade’ one of the beautiful old buildings and discover the country’s colonial cities. Cuba is no ordinary Caribbean country, and whichever way you choose to explore it, rest assured this little heaven will have you thrilled! Lots of timeless colonial cities throw back to vintage architecture that tells tales of opulence to miles and miles of coastline, dazzling with beauty, and Cuba is love. Welcome to a country reeling from an economic embargo abolished in 2015 – a country fast opening up to throngs and throngs of adventure-hungry tourists.

Cuba has already charmed and wowed A-listers and the “who-is-who” in the global celebrity industry, including Madonna, Rolling Stones, Barack Obama, Kim Kardashian, and Pope Francis. Beyond its pristine beaches, soul-stirring carnivals, and eclectic architecture, you’ve got thousands of reasons to visit Cuba. This little paradise is more than the indefinable magic it embodies. This fantastic destination charms and dazzles beyond its shabby facades like a prince in a peasant’s coat. It is restoring its status amongst the greats of global travel destinations.

Best time to visit Cuba?

The best time to visit Cuba is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This is when you’ll find the most pleasant weather, with warm sunny days and comfortable temperatures in the 70s and low 80s (Fahrenheit). There’s also less chance of rain and humidity, making it the best time to go to Cuba to explore Cuba’s vibrant cities, relaxing on its stunning beaches, or hiking its lush landscapes.

Cuba remains one of the world’s most attractive tourist destinations. And for a little vacation, the following are the best tourist attractions in Cuba,

1. Havana, the Capital

Hands down, there’s no better way to kick off your Cuban tour than with the first stop at the country’s capital, and by extent, its heartbeat. And as mesmerizing as this city is, Havana perfectly lives up to its reputation as one of the top cities to see in Cuba. It is one of the modern cosmopolitan cities in the Caribbean that’s yet to lose its colonial mid-century flair.

Let’s start with a little stop at Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a slice of the country’s well-preserved history. A day of strolling down its cobbled streets with a brief stop inside the grand Baroque and Neoclassical buildings should just wow you.

Discover the two Cathedrals and perhaps dine at one of the legendary restaurants in Habana Vieja. There’s also a 35-meter observatory for a 360-degree view of the city!

But it would be an unforgivable mistake to explore Havana and miss visiting its best-kept gem, the Malecon seafront promenade. Like Old Havana, this 7-km stretch is a history junkie and a sightseer’s paradise. Woe unto you if you visit the Malecon without a camera!

Havana’s Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Museum of Fine Arts) is an absolute must-visit. The vast and impressive collection of past and present-day Cuban and international art will leave you flabbergasted. There are lots of 17th-century masterpieces from as far as Greece, Rome, and Egypt.

What about a trip to two of Havana’s greatest fortresses: the Castillo de Los Tres Reyes del Morro and Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana? These 16th-century and early 17th-century gems tell the truest story of Havana’s past, including when it was the region’s most expensive fortress. I’d highly recommend you stop by the museum inside.

Lastly, on your brief Havana trip, visit the famous Plaza de la Revolucion, specifically the grand 109-meter gray tower. It is a historical tower because of the country’s greatest revolutionary and because it has hosted several global greats, including Pope John Paul II.

Directions: To get to Old Havana, the Malecon seafront promenade, the National Museum, and Castillo de Los Tres Reyes del Morro, there are tourist jump-on-jump-off buses to catch. But you can also use a taxi. The Closest airport is José Martí International Airport

Read the Havana Airport Guide

Read Travel Tips for Cuba

2. Trinidad

After having an epic trip around Havana, you should be ready to soak up the lively ambiance of the country’s second-best city – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A stroll along the city’s cobblestone streets amidst centuries old, but beautifully restored buildings will feel like a step back in time.

Trinidad, a top tourist attraction in Cuba, mesmerizes with colorful 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries blocks that pay homage to a city whose rise was fueled by ancient sugar and slave trades. Of importance during your visit will be Plaza Mayor whose neo-Baroque buildings and the Neoclassical Church of the Holy Trinity (Iglesia Parroquial de la Santisima Trinidad) attract millions annually.

To be honest, Trinidad is perfect for an adventure-filled trip only if you love history. And so, I’d suggest you bring along your camera, primarily if part of your itinerary would involve riding a horse to the magical 19th road to Sancti Spiritus.

Directions: From Havana, you can get to Trinidad by bus; several bus companies offer to-and-fro daily trips, even though this 6-10-hour trip has no direct buses. But you can also grab a “collectivo taxi” and head straight to Trinidad.

3. Varadero

Visit Cuba’s most famous beach and soak up the Caribbean sun, as you grab terrific views of the Atlantic Ocean and her turquoise waters. From Havana, Varadero is a few miles drive, and immediately you arrive at this gorgeous destination, be ready to bump into celebrities.

To give you an idea as to why Varadero is on the list of the best places in Cuba to visit. There are over 50 top-rated hotels and resorts, botanical gardens, beautiful lakes, bridges, and marine parks. It also has some of the planet’s best beaches and a massive natural cavern system; the Bellamar Caves.

Directions: The closest airport serving Varadero is Juan Gualberto Gomez Airport. However, you can find a taxi from the airport to Varadero or go for Viazul Bus.

4. Cayo Largo del Sur

On your Cuban vacation, this little gorgeous jewel should be an absolute must-visit. Located off the mainland of Cuba, it is one of those uncrowded beaches that a few tourists love retreating to. The best thing about visiting Cayo Largo is its beautiful powdery white sandy beaches, serene exclusivity, and laid-back ambiance. Just a lot of sun, a handful of sunbathers, and lots of resorts to chill in.

Directions: Those flying to Cayo Largo del Sur land at Vilo Acuña Airport. However, you can use a taxi or hop on a bus to get to the city center.

5. Parque Nacional Viñales

Cuba also has one of Caribbean Island’s greatest national parks, and one among them is a picturesque valley with a dramatic landscape characterized by steep limestone hills, little plantations, and fantastic hiking trails. Fidel Castro’s favorite retreat spot, Parque Nacional Viñales is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular site for freshly rolled cigars.

This national park is perfect for an off-the-beaten-path kind of adventure. It’s even better if you are an intrepid traveler, love hiking, or even want to try some boat riding. If you’d love to visit where they manufacture the iconic Cuban cigar, be sure also to visit Parque Nacional Viñales.

Directions: Havana airport is the closest to Parque Nacional Viñales. However, to get to the park, you can use a bus, a taxi, a train or hire a self-driven car.

Baracoa is a tourist attraction in Cuba in the North. Baracoa should feel a lot more hospitable. At the country’s oldest city, you will feel the charming ambiance of its colonial architecture, lush countryside, and amazing beaches and waterfalls.

But there’s more to Baracoa than just age-old adventure. The ‘First City’ remains in its ancient condition, all buildings pristinely kept. And if you’ve always wanted to hike El Yunque, stop by Baracoa. It’s just 30 minutes from the beach.

Directions: Gustavo Rizo Airport serves Baracoa and the entire region. To get to Baracoa from Havana, you can fly, take the Viazul or simply find a taxi.

7. Maria la Gorda

You probably know about Maria la Gorda, the fantastic scuba diving destination, west of Havana, already. This little-known jewel on the far western tip of Cuba is a hot tourist destination and attracts plenty of visitors throughout the year. Key attractions in this small town, besides scuba diving and snorkeling, include guided trips in the sea, exploring the underwater marine life and relaxation away from the buzzing Havana.

Directions: The closest airports are La Coloma Airport (the closest), Pinar del Río Airport, and Cancun International Airport. But to get to Maria la Gorda from Havana, you can catch a taxi, train or bus.

8. Jardines del Rey

Despite this archipelago remaining largely undeveloped, Jardines del Rey is a tourist attraction in Cuba that attracts thousands of vacationers. The vast chain of tiny islands connected by simple bridges brings together little-known islands, including Cayo Coco, Cayo Paredon Grande, Cayo Romano, and Cayo Guillermo.

Jardines del Rey is situated north of the mainland, Cuba, but has some of the country’s most beautiful and best-kept beaches. For all-inclusive resorts, far away from the capital, browse for offers from hotels found in the Gardens of the King.

Directions: there’s the Jardines del Rey Airport to serve Jardines del Rey – a 4h 20m flight from Havana. However, you can use the train, fly, or simply use the bus or taxi.

9. Santiago de Cuba

You can’t go to Cuba and fail to visit the country’s eastern region, specifically the popular coastal city of popular Santiago de Cuba. The city is as popular amongst sightseers as it is a historic town. And all of its magnificent architecture of bygone eras says it all. From Parque Cespedes to the magnificent Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca, most of its 17th-century wonders say it all.

Apart from visiting the town’s greatest wonders, there’s a bevy of cultural highlights to visit, including where the remains of Cuba’s famous military figures are kept. Away from the town, you can also drive to the World Heritage Biosphere Reserve for a little tour of the country’s coffee plantations or even catch a panoramic view of the mountains and the sea.

Directions: The nearest airport is Antonio Maceo Airport. You can, however, take the train, use the bus or hire a taxi.

10. Cienfuegos

There’s a huge reason why your Cuban trip shouldn’t end without a trip to the country’s only French-founded city. Welcome to Cienfuegos, the Pearl of the South. It is a must-visit, even if you’ve never appreciated mid-century architecture.

In La Perla del Sur, there are lots of well-kept 1950s mansions, art galleries, and grandiose architecture that are only exclusive to Cienfuegos. The Paris of Cuba, as it is locally called, boasts a unique atmosphere. It is the only place you can “legally” take a French language lesson, dine line a Spaniard, or meet your fellow curious Europeans.

Directions: From Havana to Cienfuegos, you can take the bus or taxi as it is within Havana.

There is so much beauty and things to do in Cuba. You have a variety of places to choose from as the best place in Cuba to visit.

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