Santa Clara

Cuba, The Caribbean

Santa Clara is a vibrant Cuban city known for its revolutionary history, particularly the legacy of Che Guevara. Visitors are drawn to the iconic Che Guevara Mausoleum and the bustling Plaza de la Revolución. The city offers a rich cultural experience, with lively music, colorful architecture, and flavorful local cuisine. Santa Clara serves as a gateway to unique experiences like the nearby Hanabanilla Reservoir, making it an appealing spot for both history buffs and nature enthusiasts.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Abel Santamaria

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Santa Clara

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Che Guevara Mausoleum

Explore the resting place of revolutionary icon Che Guevara.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Santa Clara Central Park

Relax and soak in the vibrant local atmosphere.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Armored Train

Visit the historic site of a pivotal battle.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Museo de Artes Decorativas

Admire exquisite Cuban decorative arts and design.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy the local cuisine at a paladar

Savor authentic Cuban dishes in a local restaurant.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a performance at Teatro La Caridad

Experience the rich cultural heritage through local performances.

Booking required
7

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through the Plaza de la Revolución

Witness significant Cuban history in the main square.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Instituto Cubano del Arte e Industria Cinematográficos

Discover Cuba's film history and cultural impact.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10-15%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

6 (#32 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Cuban Peso

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Ropa Vieja

Shredded beef in tomato sauce. (National dish)

Moros y Cristianos

VE

Rice and black beans mixed together.

Lechón Asado

Slow-roasted marinated pork.

Cubano Sandwich

Cuban sandwich with pork and cheese.

Picadillo

Ground beef with spices and olives.

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)