Dreaming of white-sand beaches, vibrant streets pulsing with music, and timeless colonial towns? Cuba offers all that and more, making it a backpacker’s paradise brimming with adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
In just seven days, you can immerse yourself in Havana’s lively rhythms, ride horseback through the tobacco fields of Viñales, and stroll the sun-drenched streets of Trinidad. Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Cuba? Here’s your ultimate 7-day backpacking itinerary!
Arrival in Havana
Highlights: Old Havana, Malecón, Plaza Vieja
Morning: Arrive in Havana, Cuba’s vibrant capital. Head to your accommodation (consider staying in a “casa particular” for an authentic and affordable experience).
Afternoon: Start exploring Old Havana (Habana Vieja), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander around the cobbled streets and take in historic squares like Plaza Vieja and Plaza de la Catedral.
Evening: Walk along the Malecón, Havana’s famous seawall, for sunset. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, where locals and travellers gather.
Night: Check out the local music scene in a bar or café in Obispo Street.
Explore Havana
Highlights: Museo de la Revolución, Fábrica de Arte Cubano
Morning: Visit the Museo de la Revolución to learn about Cuba’s revolutionary history.
Afternoon: Explore the Capitolio and Parque Central, then grab lunch at a local paladar (privately-owned restaurant). Head to Vedado, a trendy neighbourhood with beautiful streets like Calle 23.
Evening: Visit Fábrica de Arte Cubano, a multi-disciplinary cultural venue with live music, art exhibits, and performances.
Viñales
Highlights: Tobacco farms, Mogotes, Cueva del Indio
Morning: Take an early bus or colectivo (shared taxi) to Viñales (around 3 hours). This region is famous for its lush valleys, tobacco farms, and mogotes (limestone hills).
Afternoon: Explore the Viñales Valley on foot or rent a bike. Visit a tobacco farm and learn about the cigar-making process.
Evening: Explore Cueva del Indio, a cave that can be accessed by boat.
Night: Relax at a casa particular and enjoy the peaceful countryside vibe.
Viñales – Horseback Riding or Hiking
Highlights: Valle de Viñales, Murales de la Prehistoria
Morning: Go on a horseback riding or hiking tour through the stunning Valle de Viñales. Visit coffee plantations, hidden caves, and local farms.
Afternoon: Head to the quirky Murales de la Prehistoria, a large mural painted on a cliff depicting prehistoric life.
Evening: Return to the town and enjoy traditional Cuban music at a local bar or restaurant.
Cienfuegos
Highlights: Parque José Martí, Punta Gorda
Morning: Take a bus to Cienfuegos (around 5 hours). Known as the “Pearl of the South,” it has a distinct French influence in its architecture.
Afternoon: Explore Parque José Martí, the city’s main square, and visit Teatro Tomás Terry and the Palacio de Valle.
Evening: Walk around Punta Gorda, a scenic waterfront area, and enjoy a meal with a view of the bay.
Trinidad
Highlights: Old town, Playa Ancón, Topes de Collantes
Morning: Travel to Trinidad (around 1.5 hours), one of Cuba’s best-preserved colonial towns.
Afternoon: Wander the cobblestone streets of Trinidad’s Old Town. Visit Plaza Mayor and the Museo Romántico for a glimpse of the city’s past.
Evening: Head to Playa Ancón, a beautiful beach just outside the town, for some relaxation or a swim.
Night: Enjoy live music and salsa dancing at Casa de la Música, an open-air venue in the centre of town.
Return to Havana
Highlights: Last-minute sightseeing or souvenir shopping
Morning: Catch a bus or shared taxi back to Havana (around 4-5 hours).
Afternoon: If you have time, visit El Morro Castle for views of the Havana skyline, or browse Calle Obispo for souvenirs.
Evening: Enjoy one last walk along the Malecón and take in the city’s energy before your departure.
Tips for Backpacking Cuba:
Internet: Wi-Fi is limited, so buy an ETECSA card at designated hotspots or just enjoy being unplugged!
Transport: Use Viazul buses or colectivo taxis for travel between cities. They’re affordable and reliable.
Accommodation: Stay in casas particulares, which are local guesthouses offering budget-friendly stays.
Money: Bring cash (USD or EUR) and exchange it for Cuban pesos. Credit cards are often not accepted, and ATMs can be scarce.