Exploring Havana and Varadero in a Week
Spend a week in Cuba exploring Havana and Varadero. Recommended activities, hotel stays and more.
July 31, 2019 – Article by redtag.ca; Posted in: Caribbean & Travel Inspiration
Perfect white-sand beaches, rich history and unique culture. Cuba is truly like no other destination in the world. With so many cities and towns to discover, it is hard to experience all of Cuba in just one week. Splitting your time between Havana and Varadero gives you a perfect blend of a city-scape and relaxing beach getaway.
There is no better time to take a trip to Havana and Varadero. The city of Havana is celebrating its 500-year anniversary in November 2019. Plus, the Varadero landscape is as beautiful as ever. We’ve done the legwork and have come up with the ideal itinerary with Hola Sun, the Cuba Specialists, to best experience these two Cuban destinations in a week.
Start your Week Roaming the Streets of Havana
One of the most vibrant places in all of Cuba, Havana is a great place to start your adventure. 500 years of art, history, culture, music and more fill the streets of this capital city. Some recommended things to do while here include:
Stay at the Melia Cohiba
Easily access some of Havana’s famed spots and attractions including Old Havana and the Malecón from this gorgeous hotel. Overlooking the Havana coastline, the Melia Cohiba has onsite entertainment, plenty of restaurants and a beautiful swimming pool to keep guests happy.
Rent a Classic Vintage Car
One of the most iconic sights in Cuba is a classic convertible parked along a cobblestone street. Now, you can rent one of these cars and tour around Havana with your own driver! Visit popular places riding in style.
See a Tropicana Show
No trip to Havana is complete without seeing a world-famous Tropicana show. Since its opening in 1939, this epic Cabaret will captivate you. From Salsa and Mambo to drumming and trumpets, a Tropicana show is one unforgettable evening.
Eat Authentic Cuban Food
If food is an important aspect of your travels, be sure to step out of your resort and treat yourself to one of many authentic Cuban meals. Tamales, Medianoche sandwiches and Pulpeta are a few dishes you must try; all while enjoying a nice drink of Havana Club on the side. El Dandy restaurant is great stop!
End the Week Relaxing in Beautiful Varadero
After you’ve seen the capital of Havana, hop on a bus or car and drive along the coast for two hours until you reach Varadero. Iconic views, blue waters and white-powdered sands will keep you smiling all day. While you visit this paradise, here are some of the top things to do:
Enjoy Award-Winning Beaches
Uninterrupted stretches of pristine beaches are in no shortage here. Make sure you spend some time admiring the crystal-clear waters and views that are almost unbelievable. For those looking for some activity, snorkelling and scuba-diving are great in this area.
Relax at Melia Internacional Spa
Everyone deserves a little pampering now and then. The Melia Internacional, a newly opened all-inclusive beachfront resort, has a tremendous spa that is sure to rejuvenate your spirit. Unwind by enjoying a variety of treatments, many that include Cuban aromas and flavours.
Explore Caves Nearby
For those seeking more outdoor adventure, visit one of the many caves nearby. The Cueva de Saturno (Saturn Cave) has a giant cenote filled with fresh water which is perfect for swimming or snorkelling. The Cueva de Ambrosio has pre-Columbian drawings and beautiful rock formations to marvel at.
Visit the Varadero Municipal Museum
If you want to take a break from the outdoors and get a history lesson, stop in at the Varadero Municipal Museum. Here, you’ll find artifacts from local Aboriginal people, as well as historic documents, imagery and objects related to the region of Varadero.