Varadero

Some of the best snorkeling in the area is to be had at Coral Beach (some 20km west of Varadero), where the underwater world stuns with color and variety. Diving would require you to take about an hour-long boat trip out to one of the many sites around the peninsula.

Some reputable local dive centers include:

Barracuda Dive Center
Retiro Josone, calle 59 y Playa in Varadero
(near Arenas Blancas Hotel)
+53 45 613481

Acua Diving Center
Ave. Kawama 201 (between 2 and 3 Street from Varadero, near Kawama Hotel)
+53 45 668063

Perhaps the area's most important archaeological site, the Ambrosio Cave contains drawings that date back two millennia, and is a curious attraction for those not threatened by its murky insides (inhabited by dozens of bats and various eerie cavernous creatures).

Hosed inside a traditional Cuban wood villa, Varadero's Museo Municipal contains period furniture, old home decor items and various exhibits offering visitors insight into the resort town's pre-revolution history and ways of living. Guided tours available.

Сonsider hiking one of the three trails at the rather compact Varahicacos Ecological Reserve, whose major attractions include the Musulmanes Cave (with human remains dating back over 2500 years on display) and the famous 600-year-old cactus (el Patriarca).

A green oasis in Varadero, Josone is a public park with multiple entertainment facilities, such as rental row boats and water bikes, a tourist train circulating around premises, multiple cafes and restaurants, as well as the on-site villa Retiro Josone, which once belonged to a couple of a local rum distillery owners and was expropriated after the revolution.

One of the areas central to Varadero's town life, the recently re-discovered Parque Central (bordering on another park - Parque de las Taquilas) is perfectly fit for a refreshing stroll through the greenery in the peak of tropical Cuban heat. Nearby lies the small colonial-era church Iglesia de Santa Elvira.

Those interested in learning more about the production process of Cuba's iconic liquor are more than welcome to join a tour of Varadero's House of Rum, during which visitors will get the chance to savour the iconic drink in its many varieties - from the classic dark and light to chocolate and vanilla-flavoured types.

Mansion Xanadu is a refined hotel that sits next to a vast, 18-hole golf course. The building itself was once commissioned by a moneyed American entrepreneur, who ordered it be built with the use of top-notch quality materials, such as marble. The mansion was later expropriated by the government, only to become known as the single lavish, Spanish colonial-style hotel in the area.

Marina Gaviota, at the eastern tip of Hicacos Peninsula - reportedly the largest marina in the Caribbean - is now resting in anticipation of the expected influx of American vacationers. It's Plaza Las Morlas shopping mall, waterside cafes and eateries are all set for the grand welcome.

Set on a natural cove, the Varadero Delfinario invites visitors to see the graceful marine mammals up close and even - if they so desire - go for a swim in their company, all at a rather moderate fee. Dolphins are kept in a favourable natural environment of a sea inlet.

With its well thought-out, sixties-themed interior and impeccable service, Varadero 60 is undeniably one of the finest dining establishments on the peninsula. The menu prominently features Italian flavours, with lobster and sirloin steak as the house specialties. Seating available indoors and out on the airy veranda.

Italian-run Paladar Nonna Tina serves pizzas done the right way (thin-crusted, baked in a wood oven), with personal and family-sized servings available. Other Italian delights include a whole range of pasta dishes, a couple of meat varieties, and a selection of entrees and appetizers, all at reasonable prices.

Paladar Salsa Suarez tops the list of Varadero's finest - the fine dining restaurant is known for its impeccable service and varied menu, incorporating well-crafted dishes from cuisines the world over, from sushi to traditional Cuban specialties.

The marble-floored Xanadu occupies the insides of an opulent mansion commissioned by an American millionaire several decades ago. Prices bite, but an evening here is worth the experience. Views over the ocean unfold from the top-floor cocktail bar.

The pleasant rooftop terrace of La Vaca Rosada is a great choice for dining in Varadero. The restaurant serves a wide selection of meat and seafood dishes, all in a relaxed atmosphere of an airy outdoor seating space. Located in the peninsula's west.

One of Varadero's several excellent Italian restaurants, Dante enjoys an idyllic lake setting in the lush Josone Park. The establishment serves up a wide variety of Italian specialties such as pizza, pasta, appetizers and dessert. The wine selection is one of the best in town.

The excellent BBQ restaurant is favoured by vacationers looking to break the routine of all-inclusive hotel dining. La Barbacoa serves a selection of prime cuts of meat and fresh seafood, including lobster. All orders include a side of flavoured bread, rice, vegetables, and potatoes.

What keeps guests coming back for more at La Rampa is its excellent lobster, prepared in a multitude of mouthwatering ways. A number of other great value dishes, both meat and seafood, feature on the extensive menu. Try a freshly mixed strawberry daiquiri with the meal.

To change it up flavour-wise, the longstanding Lai Lai might just be the right pick. This Chinese restaurant spanning two floors serves good value dishes and offers traditional-style dining, complete with round tables and a revolving platform for meals to share.

Kiki's reportedly serves some of the best Italian in Varadero, with pizzas topping the list of menu items most favoured by return customers. The menu features a selection of great value Italian and international dishes (with local specialties such as lobster tail present, naturally).

The extremely popular, government-owned Panaderia Dona Neli operates around the clock and sells excellent, freshly-baked breads and pastries. Arrive early to avoid lines and pick up products from the latest batch, or ask specifically for the most recently baked items when making a purchase.

La Vicaria serves non-refined, yet hearty and flavourful Cuban fare at very decent prices - the restaurant is government-run, which makes it one of the most affordable in the area. Portion sizes are rather large, so do bring an appetite. Seating offered in the outdoor patio.

Stop by the fabled La Bodeguita Del Medio if only to leave a mark of your own - the bar, tables, and walls are all fully coated with messages written or carved by the bar's grateful guests. The establishment also lays claim to inventing the mojito, so if ever there was the place to try one, it's here.

Set directly on the beach, Cielo Mar is an inviting eatery that serves good value surf and turf in the breezy setting of a waterside terrace. Menu items range from the ubiquitous lobster tail to several varieties of meat and seafood dishes. Cocktails deserve a special mention.

Set directly by the beach, El Caney is an all-around great choice for either a filling lunch or a sunset dinner. Them menu variety is decent (good selection of surf and turf) and prices are fair. House specialties include shrimp and fish fillet with garlic sauce.

Frequented by Varadero's international visitors, Gelato delivers exactly what the name promises - good quality ice cream of Italian origin that comes in a colorful array of tropical flavours (and not only - try the extraordinary Red Bull flavour for something different).

Tucked away between Streets 28 and 29, Terracita's is a pleasant cafe that is nothing like the tattered path leading up to it. Come here for filling, great value breakfasts and lunches, or a snack any time of day or night, really - the cafe operates around the clock.

El Palacio de los Jugos Frescos (or "the palace of fresh juices" in translation) in Marina Gaviota is a small cafe that serves excellent fresh juices and fruit salads mixed to fit individual preference. One definitive bonus is that the price remains the same, regardless of whether you choose to add a shot of rum.

Varadero doesn't have a lot to boast in the way of coffee shops, but La Isabelica (in Marina Gaviota) is one safe bet when it comes to enjoying a great brew. Coffee comes in multiple varieties, and both sweet and savoury snacks are served to compliment the drinks.

Calle 62 is a place unlike any other - at night, part of the road leading up to the establishment is closed off to traffic and gets turned into a makeshift dance floor. The bar is popular with both locals and tourists, hosts live music shows and invites professional dancers to get the crowd going for the night.

One of Varadero's hottest meeting spots, Casa de la Musica is where locals and tourists mingle in the upbeat setting of a modern Cuban nightlife establishment, with regular on-stage live performances and dancing till the late-night hours. Smoking indoors not allowed.

Located on Tuxpan Hotel premises, La Bamba welcomes all - hotel guests and visitors from elsewhere alike (this includes both Cubans and internationals). The club is busiest on Friday and Saturday nights, when a clientele of the 20 to 40 age range fills up the dance floor.

One of the venues to not be missed, Mambo is a live music club that regularly puts on great live shows. The club is known for its added open bar service (unlimited drinks included in the entry fee). There is dancing on some nights (and a pool table to make use of as an alternative).

The longstanding Palacio de La Rumba is, perhaps, one of the town's best venues for a hot and steamy night out dancing. It tends to get quite crowded by joyful vacationer and Cubans (the majority in their twenties). Drinks are very affordable, and some nights open bar is included in the price of entry.

The top floor of Varadero's opulent Mansion Xanadu is occupied by this luxurious lounge with some of the best views over the charming Cuban sunset. It is one of the resort town's most romantic spots, whose appeal is complimented by a good value happy hour.

La Comparsita's major draw is the fact that the venue's dance floor is set right under the stars, making it much more airy and refreshing than some of Varadero's popular indoor clubs. Open bar is sometimes included in the price of entry; live music and dance shows are often put on.

Located inside a natural cave, Cuevos Los Pirates is a busy cabaret popular with the young crowd. Evening start with a rowdy music and dance show, swiftly followed by a night-long dance party for all who wish to stay. Most hotels organize transfers for guests - enquire at you accommodation's reception.

One of Varadero's favourite nightlife venues, Havana Club is a lively discotheque that attracts both locals and tourists. The party usually starts quite late (usually after midnight), with guests dancing and savouring the excellent mojitos mixed here.

This artisan gallery treats shoppers to a show of craftsmen at work, a glimpse into the back-stage of the production process of some of many items on sale at the adjacent store. Ceramic pieces sold here are hand-made, and make for perfect gifts and souvenirs.

With its two locations in Varadero, La Casa del Habano is a boutique that provides visitors to the island with the quintessential Cuban shopping experience - picking out (and, perhaps, trying) authentic local cigars. The shop at the address below features an upstairs cafe serving excellent coffee.

The street market in downtown Varadero is the best place to go for gifts and souvenirs to bring back home. Items on sale range from small knick-knacks, leather goods and traveller necessities to full-on unique pieces of art, ranging from sculpture to painting.

Also known as the "House of Rum", this Varadero distillery is among the best places in town to stock up on the island's iconic alcoholic drink (multiple varieties, including flavoured ones, are on offer). Take the tour to learn more about the process of rum-making.

This central Varadero location is the place to go if you're looking for an old-fashioned, sand-resistant paperback to fill the lazy hours at the beach. The particular outlet stocks a good selection of English-language literature (in addition to the customary for Cuban bookstores ideologically-approved editions in Spanish).

The selection at Varadero's underground mall may offers a modest yet comprehensive selection of stores to meet nearly all traveler needs. The central location (at Parque de las 8000 Taquillas) makes it an easy choice for anything from clothing to authentic Cuban rum.

The shopping and entertainment center in Varedero's modern marina is still in its early days of development, but already contains several small boutiques (deli foods, clothing, etc.), coffee shops and eateries, as well as a few pastime options such as a bowling alley.

Varadero's first proper shopping mall still stands, and although the array of shops may seem underwhelming to an outsider, there are some rather useful tourist locales here, such as a bank, pharmacy, a few souvenir shops and stores selling anything a traveler may need.

ARTex specializes in all things music, offering a great selection of music and art paraphernalia from T-shirts to records to musical instruments. You'll find the market opposite Acuazul Hotel (Calle 12), while the store itself is just a stone's throw away from Iglesia Santa Elvira.

The airport closest to Varadero - Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport - is located about 20km away from town and serves a number of international airlines. Getting here and away is possible by pre-arranged transfer or shuttle as well as taxi. Car hire is also available at the airport directly.

Travelers visiting Cuba are required to hold a valid passport valid for at least 2 months following their travel date, medical insurance, and proof of return tickets. Proof of sufficient funds to support the stay is also required (50 dollars/day).

Visa-free entry for a period upwards of 28 days is granted to citizens of Benin, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia, Malaysia, Montenegro, Serbia, Grenada, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Antigua and Barbuda, Belarus, Mongolia, Russia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Singapore, Barbados, Dominica and Namibia (Kazakhstan and Kenya are scheduled to soon complete the list).

The remaining majority of international visitors will need to obtain a Tourist Card, Tarjeta del Turista, that grants permission to stay in Cuba for 30 days and can be extended once for a further 30. The card can be obtained via the airline, travel agent or a Cuban mission abroad.

Citizens of the following countries are not eligible for a Tourist Card and will need to apply for a visa: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cameroon, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, India, Iran, Iraq, Kenya, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Syria, and Yemen. Admission is refused entirely to Kosovo nationals.

Special regulations apply to citizens of the USA, who (as of 2018) will need to qualify for one of 12 visitor categories in order to be granted an entry visa. The easiest way to enter Cuba for USA citizens under these regulations is to join an excursion organized by a tour operator (these are also available on board cruise ships), that falls into the "people-to-people exchange program" category of the 12 officially approved. Another, slightly more complicated route, is to obtain a license issued by the U.S. Department of Treasury.

Special regulations apply to Cuban-born foreign citizens, who will need to make visa arrangements for a Cuban visa in advance (via a Cuban Embassy), unless they hold a valid Cuban passport.

A tourist double-decker bus circulates around the peninsula for a flat rate equivalent of a few dollars. The bus operates on a hop on-hop off basis; the entire route takes approximately 2 hours. Mopeds and bikes are available for hire, as are horse carriages (if those are something for you).
The Varadero Terminal de Omnibus serves multiple locations across Cuba with Viazul.

Taxis are available for hire at most hotels. The so-called "coco taxis" (small motorised vehicles) operate as a cheaper variety of taxi (these may be hired on the spot nearly anywhere in Varadero).

Postage stamps may be purchased at Agencia Postal Principal, Varadero's main post office. Mail may often be dropped off directly at your hotel, or blue post boxes around town.

Although there are a few pharmacies in Varadero, it is recommended that you bring any necessary medication along, as pharmacies may sometimes be understocked, with prices higher than elsewhere on imported medication.
International pharmacies may be found by the Hotel Varazul in cenetral Varadero, Plaza las Americas shopping mall and further locations.

110 Volts, most newer hotels have 220 V sockets. Two- and three-pin plugs are in use, adapter may be necessary.