Cuba continues to captivate travellers with its rich history, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture. From the stunning peninsula of Varadero to the colonial charm of Havana, this Caribbean island offers diverse experiences fit for every type of traveller.

Varadero: The Crown Jewel of Cuban Beaches

Stretching across a 22-kilometre peninsula, Varadero remains Cuba's premier beach destination with over 50 hotels catering to all preferences. The Varadero Peninsula is situated on Cuba’s northern coast along the Atlantic Ocean, offering stunning beaches and a variety of seaside experiences in one destination.

Varadero Airport serves as Cuba's second-largest airport, making access convenient for international visitors.

Destination’s latest developments include: Grand Aston Varadero Resort, Sol Caribe Beach, and Selectum Family Resort Varadero, and a new development in Punta Hicacos, which features a luxury adults-only section for travellers seeking an elevated experience. 

Matanzas

Those who have previously visited Varadero are likely familiar with Matanzas, the capital of the Matanzas province. Situated approximately 30 minutes from the Varadero peninsula, Matanzas offers a variety of activities and tours. Founded in 1693, the city boasts a rich history. Visitors can explore attractions such as the 18th-century Sauto Theatre, the original pharmacy established in 1882, Arms Square, the Provincial History Museum, and the Cathedral of San Carlos de Borromeo, among others. Matanzas is often referred to as the City of Bridges, thanks to the 17 bridges that span three rivers: the Yumuri, San Juan, and Canimar, earning it the nickname the Venice of Cuba.

If you are an adventurous traveller, Matanzas provides an exciting opportunity to take a boat ride on the Canimar River. There, you can operate a small motorboat and discover the scenic surroundings of the river!

If you’re visiting Varadero, why not add a few days to explore Cuba’s vibrant capital, Havana? It’s only two hours away!

Historic Havana: 500+ Years of Cuban Heritage

Founded in 1519, Havana celebrates over 506 years of rich history as Cuba's cultural and political heart. The city's colonial architecture, vintage cars, and vibrant street life create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean.

NEW: For convenient city exploration, Cubatram offers panoramic tours covering both Havana and Varadero. This new Canadian-operated tour company specializes in accessible travel, operates with solar panels, and provides services in English, French, German, and other languages. Tours begin at $15 USD with seven pickup locations around the city, plus custom pickup options for additional fees.

For more information, please visit https://cubatram.com.

Global Agents has visited Havana five times, and it’s still not enough to experience everything this city has to offer. So, we have come up with a sort of Havana 101 guide to help you start your Havana explorations! Here’s what you absolutely must visit when you come to Havana: 

1. Historical Sites of Old Havana

Havana is Cuba’s capital and is the largest city on the island. Founded in the 16th century, this gem is filled with historical sites. The most prominent include: 

• System of squares of the historic center (Arms, Saint Francis of Assisi, Old Cathedral, Christ, and Angel Squares).
• Military fortification system (Castle of the Royal Guard, Castle of the Holy Saviour of La Punta, Castle of the Three Kings of El Morro, and San Carlos de la Cabana fortress).
• City Museum (the former Colonial Government Palace).
• National Capitol Building and Grand Theatre of Havana “Alicia Alonso”.
• Revolution Museum.
• National Museum of Fine Arts (Cuban Art and Universal Art Buildings).
• Revolution Square.
• University of Havana.
• Mural – a representation of the aristocracy from the 19th century. This is a painting of notable Cubans who are also being called “First Cubans”.

2. Restaurants and Bars

The most renowned dining establishments and bars in Havana include El Floridita Bar, which was Ernest Hemingway's favourite spot where he savoured the famous Daiquiri, and La Bodeguita Del Medio, rumoured to be the birthplace of the Mojito cocktail.

El Floridita Bar, Havana, Cuba     La Bodeguita Del Medio, Havana, Cuba

3. Ride Along the Malecon in Cuban Vintage Cars

When you think of Cuba, the vibrant vintage cars that adorn nearly every image of Havana likely come to mind. This makes it essential to experience a drive along the Malecon, an 8 km coastal roadway linking Old Havana and Central Havana. For an even better experience, get a Cuban driver to make this trip even more memorable.

NEW: WestJet launches new Toronto-Havana route this winter

WestJet has announced its winter 2025-2026 schedule featuring an exciting addition: direct service to Havana. Starting December 18, 2025, the Canadian carrier will operate twice-weekly flights between Toronto and Cuba's capital, running through April 23, 2026.

With this new service, exploring Cuba has never been more accessible for Canadian travellers. Whether you're drawn to Varadero's pristine beaches, Matanzas' historic charm, or Havana's colonial splendour, this captivating island nation offers experiences that blend rich history with Caribbean beauty. From vintage car rides along the Malecon to discovering the birthplace of the Mojito, Cuba invites you to step into a world where time moves differently and every corner tells a story.

For more information about Cuba, please visit https://gocuba.ca.

By Kateryna Ivchenko