Why visit
Cuba is Havana's 1950s cars and crumbling facades, Viñales tobacco valley, Trinidad's cobbled old town, and Varadero's resort beaches. With restrictions on US travelers.
Country · North America
Cuba
historyculturebeachfood
At a glance
Location
21.5°, -80.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
109,884 km²
42,426 mi²
Country population
11.2 million
102/km²
Subregion
Caribbean
Currency
Cuban convertible peso ($)
CUC
Dial
+53
Language
Spanish
Demonym
Cuban
Internet
.cu
UN
Member state
ISO code
CU / CUB
Where in the world
21.5° · -80.0°
Cuba
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Did you know
- Cuba has two currencies (or had: the system changed in 2021): one for locals, one for tourists.
- Havana's old town has over 1,500 buildings from the Spanish colonial period still intact.
- Cigars from Pinar del Río are the most sought-after in the world: the climate and soil are legendary.
- The Cuban national dance, the son, is the ancestor of salsa.
Traveler notes
- Tourist card (not visa) required; US travelers face category restrictions
- Limited internet. Use it as a feature, not a bug
- Casa particulares are the authentic accommodation
Plan checks
- Start research with the capital Havana, then compare two or three other regions.
- Check passport validity, visa rules, health requirements, and travel insurance for current conditions.
- Verify swim safety, ocean conditions, and water-quality reports by month.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Cuba
What is the capital of Cuba?
Havana is the capital of Cuba.
What currency does Cuba use?
Cuba uses the Cuban convertible peso ($), ISO code CUC.
What languages are spoken in Cuba?
The primary language is Spanish.
Is Cuba landlocked?
No, Cuba has a coastline.
What is the international calling code for Cuba?
The calling code is +53.
When is the best time to visit Cuba?
Nov–Apr. Check current weather and local events before booking.
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