100% customisable travel idea

The Essence of Cuba Havana, Cienfuegos, Trinidad and the Beach

Cuba - Havana - Cienfuegos - Trinidad

Colonial Towns and White Sands

From $3700 to $4900 per person for 11 days Price depends on departure city, season, accomodation types and selected activities

Itinerary highlights

  • In Havana, Cienfuegos and Trinidad, explore UNESCO World Heritage sites.
  • Two beach getaways to savour Caribbean pleasures
  • Havana in the footsteps of a local, a night tour in a vintage American car, Cuba’s arty and modern side at the Fábrica de Arte Cubano, and a private dance lesson: it’s all planned.
  • App, concierge service, local mobile, recommendations: the extra Voyageurs touch
Havana Between the Plaza de Armas and the Plaza de la Catedral, 16th Spain is on display: winding streets, convents, magnificent baroque houses, the decadent charm of crumbling façades, and courtyards shaded by royal poinciana trees. Discover the National Capitol, tree-lined avenues bearing the names of independence heroes, and ornate buildings. On the Malecón, vintage Chevrolets are overtaken by sidecars, crammed full with cheerful Cuban families. Cadillacs, Dodges, Chevrolets, Pontiacs - beautiful American cars are part of the landscape and contribute to its charm. Cienfuegos: in the courtyards, elderly Cubans siesta in rocking chairs, while around the corner, domino players are deep in their game. Trinidad is a colonial gem - complete with colourful buildings, cobbled streets and wrought-iron balconies - that has slept through the 20th century and is now awakening unchanged, languid as a bolero ballad. Just a few miles outside Havana and Trinidad you’ll find idyllic scenery, with palm trees and long white sandy beaches lapped by turquoise waters. Between bathing, sip on a refreshing mojito: white rum, lime and fresh mint leaves over crushed ice.

Your Trip

This itinerary has been designed so that you don’t have to worry about a thing as you take in all of Cuba’s must-sees. The logistics have been well thought out with airport assistance and priority on your arrival in Havana and private transfers throughout. For your accommodation, we have chosen casas particulares. Staying with a Cuban host as you discover the island also allows you to experience its architectural diversity - from offbeat colonial buildings to traditional family homes. In Havana, you will appreciate the tranquillity of your home, convenient for everything yet slightly removed from the hustle and bustle of the city centre streets. On your itinerary, we have included several highlights, starting with a private tour of capital city with a local guide to discover authentic Havana - and even meet a local personality. Ride in a vintage American car? Obviously! What’s more, your experience will take place in the evening, for greater exclusivity. After a private dance lesson head, tickets in hand, to the Fábrica de Arte Cubano, a 7,000 m² (75,000 sq ft) space dedicated to art in all its forms. Then explore Cienfuegos and Trinidad at your own pace, in complete freedom. Top it all off with two days on the beach - Playa Tarara near Havana and Playa Ancón not far from Trinidad. Two beautiful interludes away from Cuban city life to savour the simple, gentle side of the Caribbean. Need a last-minute reservation or got a minor issue to resolve? Our concierge and their team are available to assist you at any time, using the local mobile phone provided to you.
Trinidad - Sancti Spíritus - Cuba © Olivier Romano
Trinidad - Sancti Spíritus - Cuba © Olivier Romano
La Havane - Cuba © ANTONPh / Fotolia
La Havane - Cuba © ANTONPh / Fotolia
La Havane - Cuba © Nathalie Belloir
La Havane - Cuba © Nathalie Belloir
La Havane - Cuba © Emiliano Granado/REDUX-REA
La Havane - Cuba © Emiliano Granado/REDUX-REA
La Havane - Cuba © Olivier Romano
La Havane - Cuba © Olivier Romano
La Havane - Cuba © Olivier Romano
La Havane - Cuba © Olivier Romano
Vinales - Cuba © Tobias Hauser/LAIF-REA
Vinales - Cuba © Tobias Hauser/LAIF-REA
Vinales - Pinar del Río - Cuba © Olivier Romano
Vinales - Pinar del Río - Cuba © Olivier Romano
Vinales - Pinar del Río - Cuba © Olivier Romano
Vinales - Pinar del Río - Cuba © Olivier Romano
Trinidad - Sancti Spíritus - Cuba © Olivier Romano
Trinidad - Sancti Spíritus - Cuba © Olivier Romano
Dans les rues de Trinidad - Cuba © Mathilde Salmon
Dans les rues de Trinidad - Cuba © Mathilde Salmon
Province de Cienfuegos - Cuba © Ana Nance/REDUX-REA
Province de Cienfuegos - Cuba © Ana Nance/REDUX-REA
Cienfuegos - Cuba © Tupungato / Fotolia
Cienfuegos - Cuba © Tupungato / Fotolia
Cienfuegos - Cuba © Daniel Alujas
Cienfuegos - Cuba © Daniel Alujas
La Havane - Cuba © Cécile Lhermitte
La Havane - Cuba © Cécile Lhermitte
La Havane - Cuba © Cécile Lhermitte
La Havane - Cuba © Cécile Lhermitte
Cuba © Toniflap/Fotolia
Cuba © Toniflap/Fotolia
Cuba © Toniflap / Fotolia
Cuba © Toniflap / Fotolia
Trinidad - Sancti Spíritus - Cuba © Olivier Romano
Trinidad - Sancti Spíritus - Cuba © Olivier Romano

Itinerary

100% customisable for you

Welcome at the airport, fast-track through entry formalities, and private transfer to La Habana Vieja (Old Havana). Enjoy a five-night stay in a casa particular in the heart of the peaceful Vedado district. The residence is elegant, the rooms are spacious, and the terrace is a real haven in the heart of the city. Breakfast is served in a beautiful, lush garden. But what truly makes the experience unique is, above all, the hostess, who welcomes guests with genuine warmth.

Scheduled - Discover the hidden side of Havana in the footsteps of a local resident. Immerse yourself in the daily life of Cubans, exploring markets, alleyways and hidden spots, as well as the different contrasting districts that hold many surprises. Among them are artists’ studios and abandoned theatres where young musicians hold impromptu rehearsals. It’s also a chance to talk about daily life in Havana and even meet a Cuban figure - a jazz musician, dancer, choreographer, boxer or historian. br/>Also included - skip-the-line tickets for the Fábrica de Arte Cubano - regulars call it the “FAC”. Spanning 7,000 m² of former industrial land, this space is dedicated to alternative cultures, much like those in Berlin, London or New York, hosting everything from hip-hop, rock and electronic music concerts to fashion shows, contemporary art exhibitions and performances. Opened a few years ago, the FAC has become a symbol of Havana’s cultural revival. It’s also the hotspot for the city's trendiest crowd And for travellers tired of the well-worn rhythms of the Buena Vista Social Club, this is the place to meet Cuba’s young, arty scene
. Optional - Private tour of Habana Vieja.

On your itinerary: a private dance class. Although salsa was born between Puerto Rico and New York, it remains Cuba’s beloved music. Its roots lie in Cuban rhythms such as cha-cha-cha and mambo. Dancing like the young Cuban couples you might spot in the cabarets takes practice, but an introductory lesson lets you pick up the basics and join the regulars on the dance floor.
Also planned - a night ride in a classic American car - iconic. The 1950s saw an economic boom in the United States and the growth of the automotive industry. At the time, Cuba was a favourite holiday spot for many Americans who had a second home there. In 1959, 300,000 American cars were on the island and a few models remain today. Chevrolet, Cadillac, Dodge, Pontiac, De Soto: these classic American cars are part of the local landscape. Exploring Vedado, the Malecón, or crossing Almendares Park in the back of one of these legendary cars offers a different perspective of the capital of the Caribbean.
Optional - A private a cappella recital. Things to see and do - Taste a real mojito in a bar in the historic district; discover Havana’s eclectic architecture - baroque buildings, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, skyscrapers, colonial houses; spend an evening on a Vedado rooftop; watch experienced salsa dancers in downtown clubs (and accept an invitation to join in).

Scheduled - A day at the beach. About 30 km (19 miles) from the capital, the beautiful fine, sandy beach of Tarara offers a delightful spot for relaxation, far from the hustle and bustle of Havana. Spend the day unwinding and soaking in the relaxed way of life along the Caribbean Sea. To make it effortless, we provide private transfer, beach equipment and a picnic lunch so you can fully enjoy the beach vibe.

Private transfer to Cienfuegos, about a 3 hour and 30 minute drive - through dense tropical forest, palm-planted savannah and, on the outskirts of the city, vast sugar cane plantations. Overnight stay in a colourful, renovated casa particular, blending colonial architecture, upcycled objects and contemporary features for an inspired and inspiring result. The rooms are decorated in different decorative themes, ranging from Russia to Cubism. You will appreciate the owners’ sense of service and the prime location of the house, not far from the centre of Cienfuegos. The city was founded in 1819 under Spanish rule. An important trading centre for sugar-cane, tobacco, and coffee, it boasts a rich architectural heritage from the colonial era.
Not to be missed - The Government Palace, San Lorenzo School, the former high school, and the Bishop’s Palace.

Optional - A day exploring Cienfuegos with a private guide before continuing your journey.
Private transfer to Trinidad (about 1 hour and 30 minutes), where you settle in for three nights near the centre, in a casa with a blue façade and orange-tiled roof, a typical local style. Though the place appears simple, it exudes a warm atmosphere and offers an authentic experience, with just two rooms in the house. Enjoy breakfast in the cool of the patio while chatting with the owners.

Founded in 1514, Trinidad was the third Spanish colony in Cuba. It has managed to preserve all its colonial heritage, which has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list. From the top of “la escalinata”, Cuban music comes alive in a call of salsa and bolero. The terraces fill, Cuban dancers move in time…
Things to see and do - Stroll around Plaza Mayor, an eloquent testament to the past, and visit the Romantic Museum for a glimpse of the luxury in which the great colonial families lived: marble, Bohemian glassware and Spanish ceramics.- If you are in the mood for music and dancing, head to Casa de la Trova for a drink and some lively rhythms.

Scheduled - A day at Ancón beach. Less than 15 km (9 miles) from Trinidad, escape to the sandy shores of the Ancón Peninsula and soak up the relaxed Caribbean vibe once more. Of course, we provide private transfer, beach equipment and picnic lunches for you.

Private transfer to Havana, then international flight home. Night on board, arrival the next day.

À la carte

This suggested itinerary can be customisable down to the smallest detail, including duration, stops and content. An à la carte menu of experiences is also available to create a journey that reflects who you are.

A private a cappella recital

Ariana, Luis David, Marlon and Andhra studied music at the conservatory from the age of eight. They then furthered their knowledge in conducting a choir, opera singing, piano, and other instruments at Cuba’s National School of Art. Today, they form the quartet Alma, a four-voice ensemble offering you a private performance, showcasing an eclectic repertoire from classical singing to Cuban popular music, including jazz, salsa and son cubano.

Private Tour of Habana Vieja

Havana’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an open-air museum containing the most beautiful buildings, monuments and museums in the country. This mestizo of the New World is a feast of colonial architecture, a decadent city in every sense of the word, and that is what makes it so charming. This walking tour of Old Havana is also an opportunity to explore the streets and different neighbourhoods, and soak up the local way of life.
Optional - With a private guide

A Different Side to Cienfuegos

Set out to discover Cienfuegos, exploring its history as a colonial city and centre for the tobacco and coffee trade, as well as its architecture, which is UNESCO World Heritage listed. Then cross the bay by motorboat to discover another side of the town - the fishermen and fortress of Punta Jagua.
Optional - With a private guide

Why visit Cuba with Voyageurs du monde?

Every day, our travel specialists craft bespoke experiences shaped around each traveller's profile, desires and budget. These passionate experts design experiences delivered on the ground by a local network of Concierges and trusted contacts. These fully customisable, made-to-measure trips are complemented by a wide range of high-end services (lounges, 24/7 assistance, travel booklet, app, Wi-Fi, restaurant booking, etc.)

Let us create your trip

A few of the advantages of travelling with us to Cuba

  • Globally unique concierge service
  • Gourmet Voyageurs
  • Adjust your trip while travelling
  • 24-hour assistance
  • CO2 absorption

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Estimated budget

Price depends on departure city, season, accomodation types and selected activities

The estimated budget for this trip is $3,700 to $4,900 per person.

A fixed price is rarely applicable to a bespoke journey. The final cost depends on various factors, such as the level of service, travel dates, and booking lead times. The only definitive price will be the one provided in your personalized proposal.

The average price for this trip is $4,300 per person


Included in this suggestion

  • Return flight to Havana with a scheduled airline
  • Airport taxes and fuel surcharges
  • Carbon absorption contribution for your trip's CO2 emissions through reforestation projects (via our Philippe Romero Insolite Bâtisseur Foundation)
  • Access to airport lounge
  • Priority customs, welcome and assistance at Havana Airport
  • Access to currency exchange on arrival
  • Private transfers as mentioned in the travel itinerary
  • Five nights in Havana in the Vedado district, in a double room with breakfast included
  • One night in Cienfuegos in a casa particular, in a double room with breakfast included
  • Three nights in Trinidad in a casa particular, in a double room with breakfast included
  • Half-day tour of Havana with a local guide, including a meeting with a local personality (jazz musician, dancer, choreographer, boxer or historian)
  • Evening ride in an American car in Havana, with a private guide
  • Dance class in Havana, with a private instructor
  • Skip-the-line tickets for the Fábrica de Arte Cubano (F.A.C.) in Havana
  • Full day trip from Havana to Tarara Beach, with a picnic lunch included
  • Full day trip from Trinidad to Ancon Beach, with a picnic lunch included
  • Local mobile phone at your disposal
  • Our on-site Concierge service
  • A travel booklet containing a wealth of useful information (your day-by-day itinerary, your hotel details, a selection of personalised recommendations with GPS locations, etc.), also available as a mobile app.
  • Our recommendations and reservations at selected restaurants
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