“Whenever a trip makes your heart swell, it’s always because it’s a memorable one,” says Sebastián, a seasoned tour guide from Santiago de Cuba. He claims to have more stories about eastern Cuba and its wonders than all the volumes of The Thousand and One Nights combined. His top recommendations? “Santiago, Holguín and Baracoa” he always tells his clients, captivating them with tales of monuments and breathtaking landscapes.
“The east is a place to linger, but if you’re short on time, make sure you stay for at least 7 days. A week is just enough time to truly get a feel for the pulse of Santiago and the beauty of the Holguin coast.” “Columbus landed here, uttering the first major truth in the history of America: this is the most beautiful land that human eyes have ever seen,” jokes the mulatto from El Cobre with a jovial smile.
A week in eastern Cuba is indeed an adventure to remember. While there are many destinations to explore, the combination of Santiago and Holguín remains the most popular. Whether you land in one province or the other, the holiday formula remains the same: 3 nights in vibrant Santiago de Cuba and 3 nights along the stunning Holguin coast. 7 days, 168 hours to nourish the soul.
Three nights in Santiago de Cuba
Start your visit to Santiago by exploring the heart of the city, visiting landmarks such as the Plaza de Marte, Parque Céspedes, Plaza Antonio Maceo, the Santa Ifigenia Cemetery and the Bacardí Museum. In the evening we suggest you discover the city’s rich musical heritage at the Casa de la Trova.
On the second day, venture beyond the city centre. Visit the San Pedro de la Roca Fortress for stunning views and its naval museum, Baconao Park, La Gran Piedra or the Isabélica estate – a historic coffee plantation founded by French immigrants.
Day three in Santiago de Cuba should take you to El Cobre, where the iconic church dedicated to the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre, stands nestled between mountains. The Virgin is Cuba’s patron saint and is known as Oshún in the Yoruba religion. If you come across the El Cobre Steel Band, a group of musicians with unusual instruments, take a moment to listen to them – they are a local treasure.
For your final night, dance the night away at the Santiago Café or at the Turquino Bar at the Meliá Santiago de Cuba Hotel, where you can also enjoy dinner or relax by the refreshing pool during your stay in the city.
Four days of rest and fun on the most beautiful coastline
Complete your adventure in eastern Cuba with four relaxing days on the stunning Holguin coast. We recommend Playa Esmeralda or Yuraguanal, two stunning beachside locations where all-inclusive resorts offer a serene connection with nature.
Both for solo travellers and for couples, the Paradisus Rio de Oro Resort & Spa is an ideal choice, offering a wide range of high-end services, comfortable rooms and breathtaking natural surroundings.
Families will enjoy the entertainment and wellness experiences at Sol Rio de Luna y Mares or Sol Turquesa Beach, where both young and old will love the great choice of activities in magnificent natural settings.
Four days will give you plenty of time for excursions beyond the resort, such as a visit to the city of Holguín, a trip to the dolphinarium in Bahía del Naranjo or setting sail on a sun cruise. In the evenings, unwind with the various entertainment programmes and delightful dining options at the hotels.
“I’m from the east, and I can tell you that there really is no land like this one. This is the real Caribbean, my brother,” says Sebastian with great pride, his steps almost dancing as he guides his clients through the streets of the heroic city. His clients feel their hearts swell with emotion as they uncover the hidden treasures and soul of Cuba’s easternmost region.
