3. Visit El Morro de Castillo <\/h3>

This important historical landmark is worth visiting, especially if you are taking a tour around the city. This magnificent fortress guards the entrance to Havana Bay and has incredible views.  <\/p>

Come back at night to witness one of the oldest traditions in Havana, cermonia ca\u00f1onazo, cannon blast. Every night at 9:00 pm, performers dress up in the same traditional clothing worn 300 years ago and reenact the shooting of the cannon from Morro Cabana Fortress across the harbor signaling to Habaneros the closing of the walled city door. <\/p>

Inside the fortress, you’ll find several museums and exhibitions, plus your entrance ticket includes a free drink! <\/p>

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4. Learn how to roll a cigar<\/h3>

If you’re looking for an authentic Cuban experience, spend a day in Vi\u00f1ales. Just a 2 hours drive from Havana and less visited by tourists, Vi\u00f1ales is THE best place to learn how to roll a cigar. It’s an experience not to be missed! Visit a tobacco farm to learn from the very best on how to roll your very own cigar and the history of tobacco on the island. <\/p>

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5. Go for a swim at Cueva de Saturno, Saturn Cave <\/h3>

This 70 ft deep cenote or sinkhole was the perfect respite on our way to Varadero. We stopped here for a quick yet refreshing swim, and while I was skeptical at first, having never swum in a cenote, it turned out to be a real treat! For more adventurous folks, you can rent snorkeling and scuba gear, a popular activity at the cenote.<\/p>

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 6. Soak up the sun on Varadero’s best beaches<\/h3>

Referred to as the South Beach of Cuba, this spectacular Caribbean resort town attracts tourists from all over for a good reason! The beaches are exquisite, with shallow turquoise blue waters, and the sand is so lovely. Honestly, as a beach bum, I could’ve spent my entire time in Varadero. <\/p>

Consider spending one or two nights in the area to get the most out of your time in Varadero. <\/p>

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7. Explore Trinidad<\/h3>

Trinidad is a beautifully preserved colonial town located 4 hours east of Havana in the province of Santi Spiritu. This is the second most visited destination for tourists and offers a calmer vibe compared to Havana. <\/p>

The town is known for its pristine cobblestone streets, inviting sherbert-colored homes, well-maintained architecture, and picturesque views of hills and valleys for days, making it an ideal spot for a full-on photoshoot. Trinidad wasn’t originally on my bucket list, and I was pleasantly surprised! <\/p>

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8. Dine at a paladar<\/h3>

Paladares are private family-owned restaurants, usually in the part of a home. In my opinion, it’s one of the best ways to enjoy Cuban cuisine. I wasn’t too crazy about the food in Cuba, but the food at paladares was simply delicious. Some notable paladares in Havana are La Moraleja, El Cimarr\u00f3n, San Crist\u00f3bal and La Guarida.  <\/p>

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9. Visit the Yoruba Museum<\/h3>

Head over to the Asociaci\u00f3n Cultural Yoruba de Cuba<\/a> to learn about the Afro-Cuba religion, and culture and to see the Orishas (Yoruba deities). Located right across the street from the Capitolio, this museum has 32 life-size sculptures representing Afro-Cuban saint Gods. If you get lucky, you may witness a Santer\u00eda ceremony which is supposed to be a real treat! However, note you will not be able to take photos or videos. <\/p>