Cuba holidays: Explore a timeless Caribbean gem

The best time to visit Cuba

Cuba is an all-year-round destination, but timing your trip right makes all the difference. From November to April, Cuba enjoys its dry season, making it the perfect time for beach lovers and explorers. Picture yourself soaking up the sun on Varadero's white sands, strolling through Havana's colourful streets or dancing the night away in Trinidad. This is also peak season, so book your flights and hotels in Cuba early to save some cash.

The wet season is from May to October, but don't let that stop you. Rain showers are usually short, and this is the best time to snag great travel deals. Plus, you'll see a greener, more vibrant Cuba. July and August are packed with local festivals, like Carnaval de Santiago, where the streets come alive with music and dancing. For good weather and fewer crowds, late April to early June and September to early November are fantastic choices.

Top attractions in Cuba

Explore the streets of Havana

Wandering through Havana is like stepping into a time capsule filled with colourful colonial buildings, vintage cars and lively music. Start in Old Havana (Habana Vieja), where cobblestone streets lead you to stunning plazas like Plaza Vieja and Plaza de la Catedral. Stop for a classic mojito at La Bodeguita del Medio, a Hemingway favourite, or take a ride in a 1950s convertible down the Malecon at sunset. Don't miss the vibrant street art in Callejon de Hamel, where Afro-Cuban culture comes alive with murals and rumba beats.

Spend the day at Vinales Valley

If you love nature and adventure, Vinales Valley is a must-visit. Less than three hours from Havana by road, this lush countryside is known for its towering limestone mogotes, rolling tobacco fields and stunning caves. Go horseback riding through the farms, where local farmers will show you how Cuban cigars are made. For breathtaking views, visit the Los Jazmines viewpoint, where the valley stretches out in a sea of green.

FAQs about Cuba holidays

Q: What is the best month to go on holiday in Cuba?

A: The best month to visit Cuba is March. The weather is warm, sunny and dry, making it perfect for beach days, city explorations and outdoor adventures. It's also outside the hurricane season, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures. You will avoid the peak-season crowds of December and January, so you can enjoy Cuba's beaches and historical sites with more ease and at better prices.

Q: Is it safe to holiday in Cuba?

A: Yes. With low crime rates, Cuba is generally safe for tourists. Roads can be tricky at night due to poor lighting, and petty theft can occur in crowded areas, so stay aware of your belongings. Locals are friendly, and tourist areas are well-patrolled.

Q: Can you fly direct to Cuba from the UK?

A: Yes, you can get a direct flight to Cuba from the UK. Airlines like Virgin Atlantic operate non-stop flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Jose Marti International Airport (HAV) in Havana. Direct flights are available from London Heathrow Airport and Manchester. The flight takes approximately 10 hours.

Q: What month is hurricane season in Cuba?

A: Hurricane season in Cuba runs from June to November. The highest risk of storms occurs in September and October. While storms don't hit every year, this period brings heavy rains, strong winds and potential travel disruptions. If you're planning a holiday, it's best to plan it during the dry season from November to April.