Cuba Island Holidays -North Atlantic Ocean

Overview

Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, the island of Cuba is much more than just a handful of historical must-sees. Lying 90 miles south of Florida and boasting picture-perfect landscapes and historic cities, this frozen-in-time island is finally starting to thaw. Visitors often liken it to a time capsule with retro 1950's cars revving through old-fashioned streets and old-school bops blaring on boom-boxes.

Your first stop, Havana, is eye candy to culture vultures. Delightful to behold and oozing historical heritage, the Cuban capital attracts both history buffs and party goers alike with its time-worn architectural gems and roaring nightlife.

Whisked off on a classic car tour in true James Dean style, you’ll get a feel for Havana’s bustling streets. Every red light will give you a chance to stop and ponder the Cuban way of life, from its old fashioned vehicles to its age-old buildings. You’ll also explore the Plaza de Armas, the island's historical epicentre, thronging with chirpy vendors and camera-wielding tourists.

After visiting Havana, we'll take you to Cienfuegos, “the Pearl of the South” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded by the French, Cienfuegos offers two main points of interest: Pueblo Nuevo and Punta Gorda, the former being the city centre and the latter a peninsula cluttered with homes from the 1950's.

Making our way then on to the sparkling city of Trinidad, get ready to explore this “outdoor museum” and its abundance of historical treasures. Turquoise waterfalls, tangled hiking trails and the teal-coloured waters at the famous Playa Ancon.

Our last stop promises plenty of pampering before your flight home. The island of Cayo Santa Maria is a beach-bum’s paradise full of top-of-the-range hotels sitting adjacent to a pearlescent shoreline. Perched off the northern coast of mainland Cuba, Cayo Santa Maria’s seemingly never-ending coast sits against a backdrop of thick inland forests and labyrinthine mangroves to the south.

Whats Included

A riveting tour of Cuba’s hot spots all neatly packaged into one deal!

Return flights from UK to Havana
A fantastic 4 nights’ stay in Havana at the Hotel Nacional with breakfast
A 1 night’s homestay with breakfast in Cienfuegos
A wonderful 2 nights’ stay in Trinidad at Casa Colonial 1830 (or similar) with breakfast
A marvellous 4 nights spent in Cayo Santa Maria at the Melia Las Dunas, all inclusive.
An exciting guided American classic car tour of modern Havana for 2 hours
Airport transfer from Havana
Coach transfer from Havana hotel to Cienfuegos
Taxi transfer from Cienfuegos casa to Trinidad casa
Sightseeing transfer from Trinidad to Cayo Santa Maria with multiple sightseeing stops and lunch!
Coach transfer from Cayo Santa Maria to Havana
Taxi transfer from Havana hotel to Havana airport
Walking tour in Trinidad that includes visits to main squares and places of cultural interest in the historical centre.
Services of a local representative
Local taxes are covered

Highlights

Historical Havana, captivating Cayo Santa Maria and terrific Trinidad await you!

Stroll through mesmerizing Havana, a city steeped in history and likened to something of a time capsule.
Enjoy an American classic car tour, whizzing along the Malecon like James Dean.
Partake in a homestay in Cienfuegos and get a taste of authentic Cuban life.
Relax in the beachy paradise of Cayo Santa Maria, a perfect destination for R&R.
Discover the city of Trinidad, a World Heritage Site with a stunning coastline offering ample opportunity for beach-flopping.

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Itinerary

Day 1

HAVANA

Welcome to Havana! You’ll take a private taxi transfer to the Hotel Nacional where you’ll spend three nights.

OVERNIGHT IN HAVANA

Day 2

HAVANA SIGHTSEEING

This morning will be at your leisure, spend the same relaxing in the hotels bar and soak in the atmosphere of your hotel, favourite haunt of the mafia before the Revolution and a popular with the likes of Winston Churchill and Fred Astaire.

Alternatively book a walking tour to see what this city has to offer for £40pp (includes hotel pick up, drop off is not included).

In the afternoon travel in style around Havana on a 2-hour guided classic car tour (included in your package).

OVERNIGHT IN HAVANA

Day 3

HAVANA

Today you can get to know Havana at your own pace or enjoy a full day excursion to a cigar factory in Viñales . You will also see the Indian caves, prehistoric museum and satisfy your appetite with a delicious lunch. £85pp.

Alternatively we can offer a cocktail making class, a Hemingway tour, cigar factory and even a chance to join in with a salsa class!

OVERNIGHT IN HAVANA

Day 4

CIENFUEGOS

Take a coach transfer to Cienfuegos, on arrival you will be met and escorted to your “casa” by your host. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to explore this fascinating town.

OVERNIGHT IN CIENFUEGOS

Day 5

CIENFUEGOS / TRINIDAD

Today you are at leisure to enjoy this small colonial town, alternatively discover the sites on a walking tour of Cienfuegos on this optional tour, which will include visits to Marti’s Park, Terry theatre, City Museum, the Cathedral, Cienfuegos’ boulevard and the city’s main walking promenade, £35pp.

In the afternoon transfer by taxi to your casa in Trinidad.

OVERNIGHT IN TRINIDAD

Day 6

TRINIDAD

Enjoy a walk through the culture filled streets of Trinidad, the tour includes visits to main squares and places of cultural interest in the historical centre.

OVERNIGHT IN TRINIDAD

Day 7

SANTA CLARA / CAYO SANTA MARIA

After an early start we head east along the picturesque road towards the historic Sugar Mill valley, the site of the former sugar plantations, you can see the old plantation houses and ghostly tower of Manaca Iznaga where it is possible to climb the tower for panoramic views.

Our journey continues to Santa Clara, a city of major historical significance. We will visit “Tren Blindado” the train that was attacked by Che Guevara and the turning point in the Cuban Revolution, as well as the final resting place of Che Guevara at the very symbolic Che Mausoleum. There will also be time to visit a museum dedicated to his life before we head for lunch in the city (included). (Itinerary subject to change Sunday/Monday travel days)

After lunch, we will head north through some beautiful countryside to the delightful colonial town of Remedios. Time stands still here and the life is certainly very laid back! The central square is dominated by the most interesting Catholic Church, the oldest in Cuba and containing statues and other artefacts that are globally unique! There will be time for a coffee or drink in the oldest café in Cuba a visit to the church or a relaxing walk around the town in the later afternoon sun.

Important Note:

The Che Guevara Museum and Mausoleum does not open on a Monday and so the transfer on a Monday will allow longer for you to explore Santa Clara on an independent basis. The Tren Blindado is closed on a Sunday.
We then cross the amazing 45 km long causeway snaking out to sea and linking the mainland to the Cayos and on arrival you will be dropped at your hotel.

Check in to your hotel Melia Las Dunas, and enjoy your stay on an all inclusive basis.

OVERNIGHT IN CAYO SANTA MARIA

Day 8

CAYO SANTA MARIA

Take some time to familiarise yourself with your hotel. Make use of the pool, luxurious facilities and various restaurants serving mouth-watering cuisine.

OVERNIGHT IN CAYO SANTA MARIA

Day 9

CAYO SANTA MARIA

Today you might decide to spend your day lounging about on one of Cayo Santa Maria’s pearlescent beaches with a delicious Cuba Libre cocktail in hand, gazing into the horizon.

OVERNIGHT IN CAYO SANTA MARIA

Day 10

CAYO SANTA MARIA

The stress-free tropical break continues today. Pamper yourself at your hotel’s facilities, head down to one of the pristine beaches or laze about by the pool like a princess.

OVERNIGHT IN CAYO SANTA MARIA

Day 11

CAYO SANTA MARIA - HAVANA

You’ll be escorted back to Havana by coach where you’ll spend your last night at the Hotel Nacional.

OVERNIGHT IN HAVANA

Day 12

DEPARTURE

Time to go home! We’ll escort you to the airport ready for your flight home.

END OF TOUR

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Accommodation & Facilities

The Hotel Nacional de Cuba

The Hotel Nacional de Cuba

The Hotel Nacional de Cuba is considered a symbol of history, culture and Cuban identity. With its privileged location in the middle of Vedado, the center of Havana, it stands on a hill just a few meters from the sea, and offers a great view of the Havana Harbor; the seawall and the city.

The Hotel stands out due to its refined elegance and its ancient splendor, which since 1930 has attracted a large number of personalities from the arts, science and politcs.

The hotel's 426 rooms, 34 suites, and Presidential Suite are conveniently prepared and equipped for maximum comfort, while their location offers a magnificent view of the city.

The sloping garden with aerial Malecón views is perfect for enjoying a cappuccino, tuna sandwich, Cuban cigar or stiff cocktail. Dotted with palms and archetypical wicker furniture, it’s an oasis of tranquility. It is a popular meeting spot for local business people, visiting dignitaries and Cuban cultural icons.

Music and dance are equally represented at the Nacional where extravagant shows are hosted nightly at the Cabaret Parisien, second only to the Tropicana. Meanwhile, Salon 1930 is dedicated to Compay Segundo (of Buena Vista Social Club fame) and his successors perform here weekly.

Hostal Maikel, Cienfuegos

Hostal Maikel, Cienfuegos

Casa Hostal Maikel in Cienfuegos is a beautiful and independent house located in the residential area of Punta Gorda.

It has 4 bedrooms, ready for quick accommodation if it comes with your family or if you. Food is delicious grilled meats prepared with the best olive oils, all natural and an amazing freshness.

The guest house is just 400 meters from the “malecon” and very close to other attractions.

Casa Colonial 1830, Trinidad

Casa Colonial 1830, Trinidad

Casa Colonial 1830 is a good example of the colonial times and not only because of its name, design and architecture, but also because it enjoys a privileged position right in the historic center, just two blocks away from the Plaza Mayor.

Passing through the wooden front door of Casa Colonial 1830, you may think for a moment that you have stepped into an antique shop. The high ceilings with exposed wooden beams are typical of the style of construction of these residential houses back in 1830, and the romantic murals and various antique objects are perfect reflections of the bygone colonial period.

Five (standard) rooms are located along two open corridors at the back of the house. On the second floor, there is a large and cozy terrace with a seating area and sun beds.

On the third floor, there is a small platform unfolding an inspiring view of the city, the sea and the mountains. This 360º panorama can certainly be helpful to plan the next day’s agenda. In case you would like to dive, fish, horseback ride, or learn to dance, the landlords can provide you with information about these activities.

In the house also dinners and breakfasts are offered by request of the client. The court possesses an exotic vegetation, offers an agreeable comfort, and along with this one family, you will spend unforgettable moments in this beautiful city.

The Melia Las Dunas Hotel

The Melia Las Dunas Hotel

The Melia Las Dunas Hotel is a resort located directly on the beach in Cayo Santa Maria, approximately 110 km from the Santa Clara airport. At its beachfront location in Cayo Santa María, an exotic spot renowned for its natural beauty, this Five Star All Inclusive Resort provides multiple amenities for families, groups and couples.

The rooms are located in two-storey bungalows and provide ample space and superior comfort. Enjoy beautiful views of the sea, gardens and pool.

Enjoy your stay to the full on a huge beach with water sports, four swimming pools for adults and children, sports courts and an extensive activity programme.

The finest flavours in Cuban and international cuisine are on offer in the restaurants of Meliá Las Dunas, with buffet options and à la carte service as well as a Beer Garden, Pizzeria and Ice Cream Bar. Seven bars offer the finest Cuban cocktails and a select choice of drinks and spirits. At the Meliá Las Dunas you will find a range of dining options designed to satisfy all tastes.

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Gallery

Can't decide on a destination?

A nice problem to have! Why not speak to one of our travel experts?

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Other Info

We recommend that you buy a travel Insurance as any costs incurred due to mishaps, strikes, political unrest etc. are not included and will be the passenger’s responsibility.
Accommodation will be on twin sharing basis unless otherwise stated.
The package is non-refundable for any inclusion items not used/taken.
Anything not included in the package will be charged separately.
Optional Havana walking tour on Day 2 can be arranged at an additional £40 per person.
Incase Hostal Maikal will be unavailable, an alternative will be offered.
When taking shared transfers, please be aware that the couch will pick up and drop off at multiple destinations. We are able to arrange private transfers at a supplement.
Cuba is a fascinating country full of history, architecture and natural beauty. However you will find the tourist infrastructure in Cuba remains less developed then you will find in other Latin American countries. This can result in erratic standards of service, hotels are often outdated, road journeys that can take longer than anticipated. Dining and shopping options are limited so please take all essential items with you.
UK passport holders need to obtain a visa for Cuba.

EXCLUSIONS

Tips, bar, laundry, telephone calls and other personal expenses not specified above.
Early Check in / Late Check out.

OPTIONAL TOURS IN HAVANA

An optional English-guided collective day tour to Viñales from Havana available at an additional £89 per person which includes visit to a cigar factory, Indian caves, Prehistory Museum and lunch. Collection and drop off at hotel Nacional.
A walking tour of Havana, available at an additional £39 per person.
Hemingway tour £95
Cocktail making class, £40 without transfers/£60 with transfers
Cigar factory £40 (Monday-Saturday, no transfers)

OPTIONAL TOURS IN CIENFUEGOS

Exclusive English-escorted Cultural tour at an additional £35 per person.

Reviews

Briege Lavery

18/08/2018

Rodney from Citrus was fantastic. We discussed what we wanted from a holiday in Cuba and he delivered. From flights to transfers hotels and even our 2 hour tour of Havana in a beautiful old American car was well organised and everything was fantastic.

Can't decide on a destination?

A nice problem to have! Why not speak to one of our travel experts?

Call us on 0203 011 1550

or alternatively

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Overview

Whats Included

Highlights

Itinerary

Accommodation & Facilities

Gallery

Other Info

Reviews

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Overview

Whats Included

Highlights

Itinerary

Accommodation & Facilities

Gallery

Other Info

Reviews

read all about it

Our Latest Blog Posts