Welcome to Santiago de Cuba, Cuba’s second largest city and the birthplace of the Cuban revolution! Located on the southern coast of the island, Santiago de Cuba boasts a rich Afro-Cuban heritage, iconic historic destinations and contagious music. With a mix of cultures, traditions and landscapes, this city will offer you an authentic and enriching experience if you are looking to immerse yourself in Cuban history and culture.
Santiago de Cuba: the “Heroic City”.
Founded in 1514, Santiago de Cuba was one of the first Spanish settlements in the Americas (it is said to have the oldest house in the entire Spanish Caribbean!) and became an important economic and cultural center during the Spanish colonial and republican era in Cuba. For many Cubans it is the “second capital” of Cuba, due to its national importance.
Santiago de Cuba has been the scene of several important historical events, such as the struggle for Cuban independence in the 19th century and later, the Cuban Revolution led by Fidel Castro in the 1950s, which earned it the title of “Heroic City”.
The city of Santiago de Cuba is also known for its music, dance and carnival, which are an integral part of its culture, especially the “Conga Santiaguera”: a symbol of folklore in Cuba and a cultural anthem for this city.
Curiosity! The Conga Santiaguera takes place during the festivities of the carnival of Santiago de Cuba that is celebrated every year in July. It is a popular parade or procession that combines music, dance, color and joy. The participants of the Conga Santiaguera form a long line that advances to the rhythm of the music, with a leader or “comparsa” who sets the pace and leads the procession. The dancers and musicians mingle with the crowd, interacting with the spectators and creating a participatory and energetic experience. If you come across the Conga Santiaguera, join in and enjoy an unforgettable experience!
The historical and cultural richness of Santiago de Cuba is also reflected in its cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, fortresses, churches and squares.
Curiosity! Enramada Street is an emblematic street and a tourist attraction in Santiago de Cuba. It is a pedestrian street located in the historic center of the city that extends for approximately six blocks, from Céspedes Park to Dolores Square in Santiago de Cuba. It is a street full of life, with numerous restaurants, bars, cafes, souvenir stores and cultural establishments that offer a wide variety of options for tourists. If you are looking to get into the life of this city, have an ice cream or buy some souvenirs for your trip, stop by this popular Santiago street.
Weather
You will be traveling through the hottest land on the island, so you know what to expect! Indeed, like most of the eastern part of the island, Santiago is hot almost all year round, with very few significant seasonal variations. The highest temperatures are between June and August, almost always exceeding 30°C, so most tourists prefer to visit the city in the first quarter of the year, or in the last quarter of the year.
First of all: how to get there?
- Overland
As it is very likely that your visit to Cuba will involve visiting the capital, we offer you a brief guide on how to get from the capital to the city of Santiago de Cuba, although this does not mean that you cannot plan your trip from any other city on the island.
To get by land from Havana to Santiago de Cuba, you can follow the National Highway, which is the main road connecting both cities. The trip is approximately 750 kilometers and is estimated to take about 11-12 hours by car, depending on traffic conditions and stops along the way. For this route you have several options:
- Car rental: This will give you flexibility to make stops along the way and enjoy the Cuban landscape, but it is important to keep in mind that the roads in Cuba can be in variable conditions, so driving with caution is recommended. Also don’t forget that this is a very long trip. (To learn how to rent a car in Cuba see the article: “Transportation” in the Useful Tips section).
- Tourist buses: There is a tourist bus service that operates between Havana and Santiago de Cuba, you can get information from our travel advisors or at the hotel receptions. These buses are usually comfortable and offer a relaxed option for traveling, since you don’t need to worry about driving.
- Organized tours: Some travel agencies and tour operators offer organized tours that include transportation from Havana to Santiago de Cuba. These tours can vary in length, itinerary and comfort level, and usually include accommodation, meals and tourist activities along the way. It can be a more expensive option, but also better planned and worry-free for you.
- By air
Several international airlines operate direct flights or with stopovers from Spain to Santiago de Cuba, with Antonio Maceo International Airport (SCU) being the main airport serving the city. Some of the airlines offering flights from Spain to Santiago de Cuba are Air Europa, Iberia, American Airlines and Cubana de Aviación; prices and schedules should be consulted directly on the websites of these airlines or with our travel consultants.
Another alternative would be to travel to Cayo Coco with our new air route and then continue to Santiago by road. This way you would save at least 6 hours by road.
Hotels and lodging
Santiago de Cuba has a variety of lodging options for tourists. Some of the popular options include hotels, hostels, private homes and apartments. (To learn how to rent accommodation in Cuba, see the article: “Hotels and Accommodations”).
Some popular areas for tourists visiting Santiago de Cuba include the historic center (around Parque Céspedes), Vedado and Reparto Sueño. Here you will find many casas particulares available, especially in the historic center and nearby neighborhoods. These houses usually offer private rooms with basic amenities such as air conditioning, private bathroom, and breakfast included.
Important! It is important to make a reservation in advance before embarking on your visit, anticipating of course what your needs and/or travel goals are going to be. If you plan to do city tourism, for example, it may be more convenient to rent a private house than an all-inclusive hotel.
Hotel Casa Granda is a popular choice for those looking to be in the heart of the city. It offers comfortable rooms, restaurant, bar and a terrace with panoramic views; some say that “the best terrace” in Santiago goes to this hotel. Other hotel options include the Meliá Santiago de Cuba Hotel (5 stars), known for its modern architectural style and luxury amenities; and/or the Imperial, San Juan or Libertad hotels, all located in the center of the city at more affordable prices.
Tourist attractions
Santiago de Cuba is undoubtedly one of the most attractive destinations for visitors to Cuba, especially for those looking for a city tourism experience. There will be plenty to do: from visiting the oldest house on the island (now home to the Museum of Cuban Historical Environment), enjoying a “conga santiaguera”, being surprised by an Egyptian mummy (Emilio Bacardi Museum), reliving the history of the Cuban Revolution, visiting the most popular pilgrimage center in the country, or even, if energy and time permit, climbing to the top of the highest peak in Cuba.
So that you don’t make mistakes in your travel planning, here is a list of the must-see places in Santiago; if you don’t have time to visit them all, don’t worry, your next trip is already justified.
- Céspedes Park
Céspedes Park, named after the initiator of the Cuban independence wars, is the main square of the city of Santiago. Cultural activities of various kinds are frequently held here, including the performance of the traditional danzón by talented musicians. In addition, as the nerve center of the city, it is surrounded by several places of tourist interest such as the Diego Velázquez House-Museum, the Casa Granda Hotel and the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption.
- Museums
There are museums everywhere in Santiago! This vibrant city has an impressive number of museums that will allow you to enjoy and learn about its rich history and cultural heritage. Here is a list of the most important ones: Museo de Ambiente Histórico Cubano, Museo Municipal Emilio Bacardí, Museo El Carnaval, Museo del Ron, Museo de la Lucha Clandestina, Museo Casa-Natal de Antonio Maceo, Museo Granjita Siboney and Museo de la Guerra Hispano-Cubano-Norteamericana.
- Pedro Pico” Stairway
Padre Pico is one of the unmistakable symbols of this eastern city. This stairway, built in 1899, marks the entrance to the popular neighborhood of El Tivolí, famous for being the cradle of Santiago’s carnival. From the stairway, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
Curiosity! As the staircase is surrounded by houses, in the evenings this popular staircase becomes a meeting point for locals, either for a “little game of dominoes” or to socialize. Visiting this little piece of Santiago is a unique experience that will allow you to immerse yourself in the daily life and culture of the city.
- Santiago Bay
Santiago Bay is pure history! You will be able to “sail” through it on a peculiar and emblematic double-decker boat. The journey through the bay of Santiago will allow you to enjoy impressive natural and historical-cultural landscapes, linking well-known points such as Cayo Granma, the Socapa, Punta Gorda, Ciudamar and the Castle of San Pedro de la Roca.
You can book your trip for a very reasonable price at the pier located at the Cruise Terminal in the Alameda of the port of Santiago de Cuba. Although you will not be able to get off at any point of the tour, this ride will surely be the prelude to a wonderful travel experience through some of the sites you will see from the boat.
Curiosity! In the Bay of Santiago de Cuba, the last naval battle of the Spanish-Cuban-American war took place in 1898, where the last ship of the Spanish army in America, the Cristobal Colon, was sunk. Its remains lie about 15 meters under the sea, a few kilometers from the entrance of the bay.
- Moncada Barracks
The Moncada Barracks is considered by many Cubans as a symbol of the struggle for freedom. In July 1953, the assault on the Moncada Barracks marked the beginning of the Cuban Revolution, which is why many tourists choose to visit this imposing building in order to go deep into one of the stages of the country’s history.
Curiosity! The facade of the barracks preserves evidence of the bullet impacts as a visual testimony of the historical events that took place during the assault. A photo at this site is, without a doubt, a must-see on your tour of Santiago.
Much of the former Moncada Barracks has been converted into an elementary school today. However, the part that has been used as a museum is very well conditioned and offers an interactive tour for visitors that you won’t want to miss.
- Revolution Square
Located on Avenida de las Américas, Santiago’s Plaza de la Revolución is a unique and emblematic monumental complex in the city of Santiago. It was inaugurated in 1991 and consists of an exterior plaza with a unique monumental complex, and an interior space that functions as a museum. On the outside stands a majestic 16-meter bronze sculpture of Antonio Maceo, one of the most important heroes of national history born in this province; figure to which is also dedicated, to a large extent, the museum located inside the Plaza.
It is an important site for understanding Cuban history and culture, and a must-see for those particularly interested in the history of the Cuban Revolution.
- Santa Ifigenia Cemetery
The Santa Ifigenia Cemetery is visited by tourists and locals alike, not only as a place of eternal rest, but also as a place of reflection and homage to the history and culture of the country. For sure, it is one of the most emblematic cemeteries in all of Cuba known for hosting outstanding personalities of national history such as José Martí (National Hero), Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, Mariana Grajales and, since 2016, Fidel Castro Ruz. Guided tours are a good opportunity to take away an educational and moving experience of this city.
Curiosity! Every half hour, between 8am and 5pm, an exciting military ceremony of changing of the guard takes place in honor of outstanding personalities such as José Martí, Fidel Castro, Carlos Manuel de Céspedes and Mariana Grajales; don’t miss this glorious and thrilling spectacle.
- San Pedro de la Roca del Morro Castle
Popularly known as “San Pedro” or “Castillo de San Pedro” by the locals, this military complex, together with the Morro-Cabaña complex located in the capital, constitutes one of the most important patrimonial jewels of all Cuba. Today it opens its doors to the public as a museum and stands as one of the best-preserved fortresses of the island’s colonial period and of the military architecture of the 17th century.
Getting to this site can be complex if you do not have a car, but it is well worth including it in your travel itinerary. In addition to the history it contains, it offers one of the most complete views of Santiago’s bay.
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Although we know there is a lot to discover in the city of Santiago (we just introduced you to a part of it), you can’t miss some emblematic places that are located in the outskirts. Here are some must-see places that you can easily include in your tour of this beautiful province. Let’s see!
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- El Turquino
If you are one of those who like challenges and adventure, you can’t miss the Turquino Peak, the highest point of the whole island (almost 2km high). This majestic elevation is located in the Sierra Maestra, Cuba’s largest mountain range, in the Turquino National Park. There are two access points: one through the province of Granma and the other through Santiago de Cuba.
The Santiago route to climb Pico Turquino is more complex due to the abrupt topography of the terrain and the fact that the entire route is done in the same day, with an approximate duration of 12 hours, including the ascent and descent.
Important! It is highly recommended to make a reservation for the guide a few days in advance (BEWARE! Without a guide the ascent is not allowed). Although there may be availability for you and your group to do the tour without a reservation, not doing so will mean depending on luck.
It is important to take into account the travel time from the city of Santiago to Las Cuevas (starting point of the ascent), since the ascent begins before sunrise. This trip will take approximately 2 and a half hours by car or bus.
Climbing Pico Turquino is a real feat, a strenuous and complex journey, but conquering the summit of the highest mountain in Cuba will surely be an unparalleled travel experience.
- Siboney Farm
Located on the road to Siboney Beach, this museum offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Cuba’s history: it was from this remote farm that young men led by Fidel Castro set out for the Moncada Barracks in an attempt to overthrow the government of the time. Through a guided tour you can immerse yourself in one of the sites that marked the beginning of the Cuban Revolution.
- The Big Stone
Discover the amazing mountain range of La Gran Piedra, located in the Baconao Park and only 12km from the city of Santiago. At the top of this mountain range (which you can reach by car) is an impressive rock 25 meters high and 30 meters wide: a true natural spectacle accompanied by breathtaking natural views.
Curiosity! As part of your visit, you can stop at the La Isabelica coffee plantation, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a living part of the history of coffee in the region and the legacy of French colonists who settled here after the Haitian Revolution.
- El Cobre: Sanctuary of the Virgen de la Caridad and Sculpture of the Cimarron.
About 20 km from the city of Santiago is the town of El Cobre. There, on top of a small hill, is the Basilica of Our Lady of El Cobre: the main church of Marian worship of the whole island. This sacred site is venerated by Cubans, who year after year go on pilgrimage to pray and leave offerings to the Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre, considered the patron saint of Cuba. Visiting this site is a unique spiritual and cultural experience.
Curiosity! It is believed that the image of the Virgin was found by fishermen in Nipe Bay in the 17th century and since then has been venerated as a symbol of protection and hope.
You can take advantage of your visit to the Sanctuary to visit the imposing sculpture of the Cimarrón: a figure that represents freedom and that, due to its location, will allow you to observe the remains of the copper mines that baptized the town, the Sanctuary of the Virgen de la Caridad and a lagoon with a peculiar blue tone.
Recommendations
- Protect yourself from the sun. Remember that you are going to the hottest city in Cuba. Whether you visit in summer or winter (which is very relative for Cuba), wear sunscreen, a hat or sunglasses, and stay hydrated.
- Climb Turquino Peak. We know it can be a challenging goal, but if you are in good physical condition and you like nature tourism, set yourself this goal. You will have a story to tell for the rest of your life.
- If you are looking to enjoy the beaches of the Caribbean, Santiago is not your best option. Certainly being located on a coastal strip, in Santiago de Cuba you will find some beaches to enjoy, but it is not really a sun and beach destination, as these are quite deep, rocky and the sand is rather coarse.
- If you are looking for city tourism, Santiago de Cuba has a lot to offer. If you are passionate about history, Santiago is made for you. In addition to the great variety of museums that we present you, there are corners all over the city to discover where key events in the national history took place. Discover them!
- Have a good caldosa. Caldosa is a traditional dish from Santiago de Cuba and tasting it in its place of origin will allow you to experience the authentic flavors and aromas of the local cuisine. Take this extraordinary culinary experience with you!
