Value Cuba: Cuba at a glance

Day 1

Arrive in Havana and transfer to your accommodation in the historic centre.

Transfer to your accommodation, a superior guesthouse in the historic centre.

Stay at - Madero Bed and Breakfast

Day 2

Half day walking tour of Old Havana.

Soak up the atmosphere on a guided walking tour through the cobbled streets of one of the world’s most vibrant capitals. The streets of La Habana Vieja were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, and the subsequent restoration of this part of town has transformed it into arguably Latin America’s finest colonial quarter, in marked contrast to the rambling, potholed streets and crumbling façades around it.

Stroll along the cobbles, between grand, pastel-hued mansions and bustling street life; music seeps out of every doorway and the narrow streets are clogged with gargantuan, crumbling 1950s American cars, which you will have the option of hopping into and cruising down the Malecón. You’ll have trouble keeping your camera by your side as iconic images flash before you round each and every corner.

Stay at - Madero Bed and Breakfast

Day 3

Road transfer to Viñales western Cuba.

Drive to the bus station for the tourist service to Viñales, a small town set in a stunning, Jurassic landscape of serene valleys and weirdly shaped rock monoliths. This sumptuous landscape makes a good base for horse-riding, mountain-biking or day walks. Overnight in a genuine Cuban home allowing you to experience a more authentic setting where the welcome is always warm and invariably there’s lobster on the menu! (Your popular host operates several properties along with members of his family, you’ll stay in one of them.).

Stay at - Casas particulares – homestays

Day 4

Half day bike tour of Viñales.

There’s a guided tour by bike through this lovely countryside. Cycling really is the best pace at which to enjoy the tranquillity and beautiful scenery. Tobacco and other cash crops are cultivated in the rich soils of the valley floor and you’ll stop at a plantation to learn about the techniques involved in the production of the crop, most of which are traditional.

There’s a brief stop at El Palenque, a tourist spot and restaurant reached through a narrow cave which bisects one of the area’s limestone mogotes. At the end of the path there’s a re-construction of one of the nomadic homes set up by runaway slaves who lived and hid in the many subterranean caves and tunnels which are characteristic of limestone scenery and riddle the valley.  You’ll take a boat trip down one of these rivers, which issues from a cave called the Cueva del Indio.

Stay at - Casas particulares – homestays

Day 5

Bus transfer to Trinidad, UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Transfer by coach to Trinidad, a beautifully preserved colonial town with numerous eateries and live music venues set in some of Cuba’s loveliest scenery. Trinidad was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. Its popularity has not affected its colonial charm and unhurried atmosphere.

Low-rise, brightly painted houses with vast shutters open out onto cobbled streets, palm trees dot the main plaza and evening entertainment continues into the early hours with dancing and music each night.

Stay at - Casas particulares – homestays

Day 6

At leisure.

At leisure. You could use your leisure time to take part in an excursion to walk in the cool, lush forests of the lake-dotted Escambray mountains at Topes de Collantes in the hinterland of the city or head in the other direction to the beach at Ancón, which is only a short taxi ride away.

Stay at - Casas particulares – homestays

Day 7

Guided tour of Trinidad and the Sugar Mills valley.

You’ll be driven out from Trinidad to the striking UNESCO World Heritage Site of Valle de los Ingenios. The sleepy valley was once one of the most prosperous areas on the island, having built its affluence from its many sugar plantations, worked by African slaves. Climb to the top of the Manaca-Iznaga tower and enjoy spectacular panoramic views. Next, return to Trinidad for lunch at a local restaurant and then wander the picturesque streets of this surprisingly vibrant colonial treasure. You’ll pass the Plaza Mayor, visit Museo Romántico and sample a traditional cocktail in an authentic bar before heading to a beautiful ceramics workshop, La Casa del Alfarero.

Stay at - Casas particulares – homestays

Day 8

Land transfer to Caribbean beach resort

Travel by car through the heart of the Cuba to your next accommodation, set on tightly forested coastal hills. There are plenty of outdoor activities on offer, with tennis courts, a gym with sauna, spa, water sports, a huge open-air swimming pool with poolside grill. Entertainment is not lacking either, with concerts and other shows a regular feature. There are four restaurants and five bars to choose from.

Stay at - Memories Jibacoa

Days 9-10

At leisure on the beach.

These days are left free for you to get the best out of your time – whether that’s time relaxing on the beach or enjoying the range of activities on offer.

Stay at - Memories Jibacoa

Day 11

Transfer to airport for international flight home.