Fascinating Cuba - beach vacation round trip

The best time to travel to Cuba are the dry months, from November to April.

Welcome to Havana, where the Cuban heart beats the loudest. Upon arrival at the international airport, you will meet with our representative and take the transfer to your accommodation in Havana. You can spend the day as you wish. Cuba is truly exotic: not only is it one of the last communist countries on earth, but it has also produced a special culture that is incomparable to any other island in the Caribbean. With the warmth of its people and its impressive nature, it is the perfect place for a fantastic vacation.

Havana airport - Casa Havana: about 30 minutes / 20 km

1 night stay with breakfast included in Havana, Cuba

Havana is considered the crown jewel of Spanish colonial cities in the Caribbean. But this city is more than just a museum: the lively life on the streets is at least as charming as the numerous architectural treasures.

We recommend you start your morning with a walk through colonial Old Havana. Don't miss the most important sights: Calle Obispo, the unusual El Templete, Plaza de Armas, the Palace of the Captains General, Cathedral Square, Plaza Vieja as well as Hemingway's "Bodeguita". Enjoy a mojito, Hemingway's favorite cocktail, at the establishment.

In the evening, you can optionally visit Tropicana, the show. Tropicana has been an institution since the 1930s - an absolute must for nostalgics and lovers of Cuban rhythms. Experience a relaxed cross-section of Cuban music history - open air and in front of a magnificent tropical backdrop as well as with a large 50s live orchestra and over 200 dancers and artists.

1 night stay with breakfast in Havana, Cuba

You can spend the last day in Havana with an optional e-bike excursion to the beaches outside the city.

First you will go through the Vedado district and along the Malecón sea promenade to the small jetty in the old town, from where you can cross the Bay of Havana towards Casablanca on a ferry. The Casablanca district lures visitors with its dreamy view of the old town around the statue of Christ. You will experience pure Cuban nostalgia in Hemingway's favorite place, Cojimar, and its dreamy bay, numerous fishermen and lively promenade. Alamar, the housing complex, is considered the birthplace of Cuban rap music and, as a former social housing project, reveals controversial contrasts. Here you will visit an artist whose museum enhances the gray district and gives forgotten objects a new shine. At the end of the excursion, when the parasol and deck chair are in place, it’s time to enjoy this Caribbean dream.

Ask our travel consultants for more details about this excursion.

In the afternoon, a representative of our partner agency will be waiting for you at the rental car station and will be available to help you with the handing over of the information documents and the completion of the contract.

1 night stay with breakfast in Havana, Cuba

Today is time to say goodbye to Havana. Along the tobacco route, you will drive to Pinar del Rio, the greenest of all Cuban provinces, which also has the world's best soil for tobacco cultivation. Not surprisingly, the best cigars in Cuba are said to come from this province. Pinar del Rio also captivates with its rural charm and is made up of small villages surrounded by mountain ranges with large forest areas. Drive to the observation deck - you will have the best view of the Mogotes, the characteristic limestone hills that await you the next day.

Havana - Viñales: approx. 4 hours / 200 km

1 night stay with breakfast in Viñales, Cuba

Once in Viñales, we recommend a panoramic tour of Mogote Valley, where time seems to stand still. The Mogotes are cone karst mountains that stand isolated as monoliths in the valley. Also worth noting is the Mural de la Prehistoria, the huge rock painting that stops everyone in their tracks. Created in 1961 by Mexican artist Leovigildo Gonzales Morillo on a limestone rock, the painting depicts earth’s evolutionary history. The colors have to be refreshed regularly due to heavy rainfall. The red soil of the valley is so fertile that the best tobacco on the island is grown here. Why not visit a tobacco farmer and learn more about the cultivation of what are perhaps the best cigars in the world? You can easily book the excursions on site at any time.

1 night stay with breakfast in Viñales, Cuba

At the innermost point of the legendary Bay of Pigs, on the edge of the Zapata Peninsula, lies the small, sleepy village of Playa Larga.

The bay gained its fame in April 1961, when the U.S. launched a military attack on Cuba with the aim of overthrowing Fidel Castro. The fighting lasted three days, and the U.S. ultimately failed.

However, the Zapata Peninsula is not just known as the site of the Bay of Pigs Invasion: You can also find one of the largest swamps in Cuba here. The core of this wetland is the 4,000-square-meter Montemar National Park, one of the most pristine regions in the country. Nature walks and bird watching are popular activities here.

However, the absolute highlights of the Bay of Pigs remain the region's natural beaches, which invite you to relax.

Viñales to Bay of Pigs /Playa Larga: approx. 4.5 hours / 355 km

1 night stay with breakfast in Playa Larga, Cuba

After an invigorating breakfast, today you will set off for Cienfuegos, known for its French colonial architecture. Once here, we suggest a stroll through the Plaza Mayor, home to the nostalgic Tomas Terry Theater. Opera greats such as Caruso have performed on the stage of this venue, which is a national heritage site. Enjoy a cocktail at the Moorish Palacio de Valle before ending the evening with a delicious dinner at your hotel.

Trip duration: approx. 1.5 hours / approx. 97 km

1 night stay with breakfast in Cienfuegos, Cuba

Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988, Trinidad is Cuba's crown jewel. Thanks to its colonial architecture, it is one of the most important tourist attractions in the country. Take a tour of the city and visit one of the many museums, such as the City Museum in the Palacio Cantero. The rustic Canchánchara, a honey liqueur bar, is also worth a visit: Try the long drink of the same name, the forefather of the daiquiri.

Just outside Trinidad is the Valle de los Ingenios. Whereas the rich plantation owners lived in their colonial houses in Trinidad, the sugar cane itself was cultivated in this "valley of the sugar mills". Today, the region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visiting it is practically mandatory on any trip to Cuba. Immerse yourself in another world and explore the largest estate of the time as well as the famous slave tower, Torre de Iznaga: From here, slaves were once supervised while working in the fields. Nowadays, you can enjoy a wonderful wide panoramic view over the lush green valley and its hills from the tower.

Cienfuegos - Trindad: approx. 1.5 hours / 85 km

1 night stay with breakfast in Trinidad, Cuba

Besides Viñales, there are other beautiful green places in Cuba where you can hike and explore nature. One of them is the Topes de Collantes National Park in the Sierra del Escambray, which you can easily reach with your rental car. Upon arrival, we recommend exploring the jungle scenery of the park on exciting hiking trails - past orchid and bamboo gardens and right through the rainforest. Pass through the idyllic nature to the famous El Nicho waterfall. You can find other waterfalls and natural swimming pools in the national park - a welcome refreshment after all that hiking.

Located at an altitude of 800 meters, it is a bit cooler here than on the coast anyway - the perfect place to be active without breaking a sweat.

Back in Trinidad, we recommend a foray into the romantic, musical nightlife with live music at Casa de la Trova or Casa de la Músic.

1 night per person with breakfast included in Trinidad, Cuba

After breakfast, leave Trinidad and continue to Santa Clara - a name as associated with the Cuban Revolution as Che Guevara himself. Visit the imposing Che Guevara Monument, erected in 1987 to mark the 20th anniversary of the death of Che Guevara, the last great fighter of the Cuban Revolution. Ten years later, the remains of the popular hero were solemnly transferred to the neighboring mausoleum. This tribute to the revolutionary leader is the biggest attraction in the municipality. Many travelers come here, but few stay overnight in Santa Clara, which is why the town has managed to retain its original charm amidst more fertile valleys.

You will then drive towards Varadero, where you can enjoy the next few days by the breathtaking Caribbean Sea.

Trinidad - Santa Clara: approx. 2 hours / 100 km

Santa Clara - Varadero: approx. 3.5 hours / 235 km

1 night stay with All Inclusive in Varadero, Cuba

Enjoy the coming days on the picture-perfect beaches of Varadero. Your accommodation is the Royalton Hicacos Resort & Spa, located directly on a paradisiacal stretch of beach. The adults-only, spacious resort is equipped with tropical plants as well as numerous watercourses. It is particularly well suited for couples. Look forward to experiencing pure relaxation.

2 nights with All Inclusive in Varadero, Cuba

Your Cuba round trip comes to an end today. A private transfer will take you to the International Airport in Havana. We are also happy to help you with a custom extension if you are not ready to say goodbye to Cuba just yet. Our travel consultants are at your disposal with advice and assistance.

Varadero - Havana Airport: 2,5 hours / 160 km

itravel - For that moment.

La Siguaraya Casa Particular, Havana, Cuba

Located right in the center of Havana, La Siguaraya offers garden views, a bar, a shared lounge and a garden with a terrace. The bathroom is equipped with a shower.

Los Tres Caballeros Casa Particular, Viñales, Cuba

The house is located not far from the center. Rooms feature a private bathroom, air conditioning and a minibar. The terrace offers views of the Viñales countryside.

Hostal Kiki Casa Particular, Playa Larga, Cuba

The Casa of Kiki and Daylena is located directly at the Bay of Pigs. The terrace leads directly to the small beach. There are three simple and clean rooms in total. Two of them are on the first floor and one on the second floor. All rooms have their own bathroom.

Hostal Cienfuegos Center Casa Particular, Cienfuegos, Cuba

The accommodation features a bar and a terrace. The rooms are equipped with a balcony, a closet, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom.

Zenia Ana Casa Particular, Trinidad, Cuba

Casa Zenia Ana is located in the heart of Trinidad's historic Old Town. The modern accommodation features a contemporary design without losing its Cuban flair.

Royalton Hicacos*****, Varadero, Cuba

The 404 rooms each have a bathroom, air conditioning, king-size bed, minibar and safe. Extras like a TV, a tea and coffeemaker and a telephone ensure a carefree stay.The hotel's Caribbean architecture immerses you right into the Cuban world. Gastronomic facilities include four à la carte and one buffet restaurant. Caribbean and Italian dishes are served, as well as seafood.

Casas Particulares

Casa Particular literally translates to "private house". It is the common name for a private lodging establishment. Since 1997, private individuals have been allowed to rent rooms to foreign overnight guests to provide a much-needed extra income stream during special times. Since all other overnight accommodations, including hotels, motels and the so-called campismos, are owned by the state, the designation Casa Particular also indicates that this type of overnight accommodation is for the benefit of private individuals in exchange for payment.

Rooms are generally clean and up to tourist standards. They range from simple furnished rooms with only a bed and a closet to almost luxurious, fully equipped apartments. Additional amenities may include a telephone or television. Food and drinks may be included in the form of a minibar (e.g. a small refrigerator with snacks and drinks that can be consumed for a fee).

Usually, the room rate includes breakfast - similar to bed & breakfasts. However, to be on the safe side, this should be inquired in advance. Oftentimes, lunch or dinner is also offered - but not usually included in the price. In addition, the house owners sometimes offer other services - such as laundry or even the sale of cigars.

Why stay in a casa particular?

Staying in a casa particular can be one of the most interesting experiences during your stay in Cuba. Here you will have close contact with the local population and dive into Cuban everyday life. Another important argument is the price. An overnight stay in a casa particular is often cheaper than an overnight stay in a hotel.

Duration of the trip: 13 days / 12 nights

Included

• 12 nights in the aforementioned accommodations or similar:
  • 3 nights at La Siguaraya Casa Particular with breakfast in a standard room in Havana, Cuba.
  • 2 nights in the Los Tres Caballeros Casa Particular with breakfast in a standard room in Viñales, Cuba
  • 1 night in a Hostal Kiki Casa Particular with breakfast in a standard room in Playa Larga, Cuba
  • 1 night at Cienfuegos Center Casa Particular with breakfast in a standard room in Cienfuegos, Cuba
  • 2 nights at Zenia Ana Casa Particular with breakfast in a standard room in Trinidad, Cuba
  • 3 nights at Royalton Hicacos***** with all inclusive in a standard room in Varadero, Cuba
• 10 days of rental car of the category Peugeot 208 or similar
• The starting price is valid in the following travel periods: 01.05.21 - 30.06.21 and 01.09.21 - 31.10.21

Not included

• International flights
• Meals and drinks not mentioned in the scope of services
• Excursions (sightseeing, entrance fees etc.)
• Tips and personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Rental car deposit (to be paid on the spot)

Rental car

General rental car conditions:

• Incl. insurance for loss and theft (incl. windows), accidents and natural disasters
• Road map (book with comprehensive maps)
• Directions around Havana (detailed descriptions for driving from the capital to the provinces)
• Booklet with information about Cuba and rental car information
• Please note: Theft or loss of wheels and radio/audio/CD equipment is not covered. The excess in case of damage for the client is limited to 350 CUC.
• One rental day is equal to 24 hours
• Minimum age for drivers: 21 years
• At least 2 years of driving experience
• Valid national driving license
• The original copy of the passport and driver's license must be presented in original by all drivers when handing over the rental car.
• The car must be returned with the same fuel level as it was taken over.
• Partner agency confirms a car rental category, but not a car rental model. There may be changes on site, which may result in higher additional costs (e.g. for insurance or deposit) due to a higher category. These are to be paid by the customer on site.
• The rental car must be returned by the main driver registered in the contract, otherwise a penalty fee is payable.
• In case of late drop-off, an additional day may be charged.
• In case of early return of the rental car, there is no right to reimbursement of already paid rental costs.

Services not included and to be paid directly at pick up:

• Compulsory Cuban car rental insurance
• Security deposit (refundable upon proper fulfillment of the contract by the customer)
• Registration fees for additional drivers (max. 2)
• Drop-off fees
• Obligatory surcharge of 20 CUC for car pick-up at an airport station
• If the car is very dirty: 10 CUC at the time of drop-off

Car rental insurance conditions:

• Car rental insurance is is mandatory but not included in the price. It must be paid directly to the car rental company when the car is delivered in Cuba. The insurance is only valid for the drivers registered in the rental contract.
• The insurance covers loss and theft (including windows), accidents and natural disasters. Attention: Theft or loss of wheels and radio/audio/CD equipment is not covered. The deductible in case of damage is limited to 350 CUC.

The rate for the insurance varies according to the car rental category and is per day:

• Económico 10 CUC
• Medio 10 CUC
• Medio Alto 20 CUC

The rate for the deposit varies according to the car rental category and is:

• Económico 200 CUC
• Medio 200 CUC