Things To Do

The country's vibrant second city offers plenty of charm and character, buzzing with activity all year round, and represents a true slice of Cuban life. Its compact centre is full of squares or 'plazas', narrow streets and diverse neighbourhoods, and features a host of architectural styles, and a lively Afro-Caribbean influence to embrace.  

 

Historical and cultural attractions to see whilst on cheap holidays in Santiago include the colonial centre of Parque Cespedes in the old quarter, the Ayuntamiento (town hall), the French-Haitian neighbourhood of Tivoli, the 17th century El Morro Castle, the Cathedral, the house of Diego Velasquez (the oldest in the Americas), the Plaza de la Revolucion, and the Bacardi Rum Factory.

 

Baconao National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Biosphere Reserve, is one of the city's best attractions, spreading over 40km, and offering wonderful views from its summit. The park is filled with lush gardens and coffee plantations, and includes life-size models of dinosaurs, local artwork, an Automobile Museum and an aquarium.

 

The city sits between the stunning backdrop of the Sierra Maestra Mountains, and the Caribbean coastline, with offers plenty of day trips out in the countryside. Escape to the Gran Piedra for hiking, or scale Pico Turquino, the tallest mountain on the island, with fishing trips offered along the coast, and biking and horse riding available.

 

Local beaches offer a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and include Sigua, Daquiri and Bucanero Beach - golden stretches of sand backed by limestone cliffs. Scuba-diving is available along the coast, and the coastline is home to a number of shipwrecks.

 

Music is everywhere in Santiago, with the city filled with the Afro-Cuban beats of salsa and 'son', and a good selection of lively bars, pubs, clubs and shows for locals and tourists alike. Dining features down-to-earth affordable spots to eat and upscale French restaurants, and includes the island's authentic dishes of Cuban rice, beans, chicken and pork, peppered with Caribbean spice. 

 

Celebrated in July, Santiago's Carnival honours the city's patron saint, St. Lago, and features days and nights of colourful and flamboyant partying, parades, dancing, music and costume - a truly memorable experience for summer holiday visitors.