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Trinidad is a must-visit destination when exploring Cuba, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich history and vibrant culture. Known as one of Cuba’s best-preserved colonial towns, Trinidad was founded in the early 16th century and earned its UNESCO World Heritage designation in 1988. Its colorful facades, cobblestone streets, and Cuban cowboys create a charming atmosphere that feels like stepping into another era.
While Trinidad may seem heavily touristic at first glance, it doesn’t take much effort to uncover authentic Cuban life and traditions. I recommend dedicating at least two days to fully explore Trinidad. Despite its compact size, the town offers plenty to discover, including beautiful colonial architecture, picturesque beaches, and adventurous hiking trails. Continue reading to uncover the best things to do in Trinidad, Cuba.
Where is Trinidad, Cuba
Trinidad, a small yet captivating town in central Cuba, is great for exploring both the coast and the countryside. Just 15 minutes south of Trinidad, you’ll find stunning beaches, while heading inland for the same distance brings you to lush tropical forests, mountain landscapes, and breathtaking waterfalls. Its central location makes Trinidad easily accessible from many of Cuba’s major cities, offering a convenient stop on your journey.
- Havana: 196 miles (315 km) – about 4 hrs
- Viñales: 308 miles (496 km) – about 6 hrs 20 min
- Cienfuegos: 51 miles (82 km) – about 1 hr 20 min
- Santa Clara: 61 miles (98 km) – about 2 hrs
How to Get to Trinidad
Trinidad is a popular tourist destination and is accessible by various forms of transportation. The most common options are buses, taxis, and rental cars. Regardless of your choice, always plan for additional travel time due to Cuba’s challenging road conditions and the potential mechanical issues.
Bus: The bus is the most budget-friendly option, though it can be time-consuming. Viazul, the bus line used by tourists, and Astro, which is primarily for locals, are the two main government-run companies. Tourists are restricted to Viazul buses, which are comfortable, air-conditioned, and generally safe. Buses depart daily from major cities across Cuba, but it’s important to book tickets at least one day in advance as they tend to sell out. Tickets are cheaper if purchased at the ticket office rather than online.
- Havana: $27 USD, 7 hrs 5 min
- Cienfuegos: $11 USD, 1 hr 35 min
Expect delays, as buses rarely depart on time and may make multiple stops. All buses in Trinidad drop off at Plaza Carrillo, a short 5-block walk to the main town center, Plaza Mayor.
Taxi: If you’re looking for speed, a taxi is the fastest option. Taxis are especially convenient for groups, as the cost per person may be more economical than bus tickets. For solo travelers, colectivos – shared taxis – are a popular choice and typically cost around $25 USD from Havana, the same as a bus ticket. They’re commonly found in larger cities and offer a faster, more direct way to reach your destination.
Rental Car: While renting a car is an option, it’s not always the most practical choice. Rental cars in Cuba are limited, often requiring advanced bookings, especially for automatic vehicles. The local rental agencies are small and government-regulated, and driving conditions can be challenging due to poor roads and a lack of parking. Additionally, without cell service, navigation can be difficult. Hiring a driver or using a taxi is a more efficient and stress-free alternative.
Things to Do in Trinidad, Cuba:
1. Explore the Colonial Town
Trinidad is a charming town that can be easily explored in a day. Begin your visit at Plaza Mayor, the heart of Trinidad, where you’ll find quaint streets lined with museums, shops, and colonial architecture.
The Museum of Colonial Architecture, located within a historic colonial home, offers a short but insightful tour of how buildings were constructed during that era. At the plaza’s northeast corner, you’ll find Iglesia Parroquial de la Santisima Trinidad, a stunning Neoclassical church worth exploring for its intricate interior details. For breathtaking town views, climb the Convento de San Francisco bell tower—a highlight for many visitors.
In the evening, head to Casa de La Musica, where locals and tourists gather in the street to enjoy live music starting around 7 p.m. Join the crowds relaxing on the steps, savor food and drinks from street vendors, or for a better view, consider venturing inside the venue to immerse yourself in the rhythm of Trinidad. Be aware that some attractions may be closed on weekends, so plan accordingly.
2. Dance at Disco Ayala
Disco Ayala, also known as La Cueva, is a one-of-a-kind dance club nestled inside a natural cave, offering a truly unique nightlife experience. Located about 100 ft (30 m) underground, this venue draws both locals and tourists, especially on weekends. The club opens at 11 PM, but it’s wise to arrive early as lines often form beforehand. Admission is about $5 USD and includes a drink, making it an affordable and memorable night out.
The cave is situated on the northern outskirts of Trinidad, behind the old cathedral. To reach it, take the dirt path off Juan Manuel Marquez Street and continue to walk 10 minutes uphill. Once inside, you’ll find a large dance floor surrounded by stalactites and natural rock formations, illuminated with colorful lights for the perfect party atmosphere. Expect to dance to a mix of reggaeton, salsa, and international hits. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for the walk and bring cash, as credit cards are not accepted.
3. Swim at Playa Ancon
Playa Ancon is widely regarded as one of the best beaches near Trinidad, offering a serene escape just 7.5 mi (12 km) south of town. A quick 15-minute drive brings you to this stunning stretch of white sand, which spans 2.5 mi (4 km) along the coast. With its calm, turquoise waters, Playa Ancon is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing by the sea.
The beach is equipped with umbrella-style palm shades provided by the three hotels located along the shore, available for rent. If you’re looking to visit, you can join a daily tour departing from Trinidad or arrange a taxi, which costs around $8 USD each way. Snorkeling and boat trips are also available for those seeking a bit more adventure. Whether you’re spending the afternoon lounging on the sand or exploring the nearby waters, Playa Ancon is a must on your list of things to do in Trinidad.
4. Hike Through Parque el Cubano
Trinidad has a few easily accessible and beautiful waterfalls right outside of town. Tours can be arranged to Parque el Cubano via horseback or you can hike the trail. It’s 16 km (10 mi) to the popular Javira Waterfall from the center of town. Motorized transportation to the trailhead will shorten your journey and can be booked through your Casa Particular.
I suggest hiking the trail. I chose to go horseback and it was something I quickly regretted. I wish I had done more research before booking my tour. Our guides were extremely friendly and went out of their way to make sure we had a great day but the horses were malnourished and underwatered. I believe it was more of a cultural difference and they honestly didn’t see anything wrong with the way the horses were treated. To them, horses are just working animals. However, it did put a damper on the day and is not an activity I would participate in again.
I would dedicate the majority of your day to Parque el Cubano. The trail leading to the falls is beautiful and has a couple of great stops along the way. There is a sugar cane farm where you can sip on fresh-pressed sugar cane. There’s also a ranch that offers traditional Cuban meals with much of the food grown onsite. The waterfall is just 3.6 km (2.2 mi) from the ranch. Make sure to wear or bring a swimsuit so you can spend the afternoon swimming in the falls.
5. Enjoy Authentic Cuban Cuisine
Trinidad may not be a foodie’s paradise, but the cuisine here was better than most I experienced throughout the country. One of the top spots for dinner is Vista Gourmet, which has a charming rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the town. Dining here during sunset is a treat, as the soft light bounces off Trinidad’s colonial rooftops.
Vista Gourmet offers both buffet and a la carte options, with a diverse menu that includes vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Given its popularity, making a dinner reservation is highly recommended to secure a table. Another excellent dining option is Sol y Son, known for its beautiful outdoor courtyard. Both restaurants provide a delightful mix of ambiance and authentic flavors, making them standout choices for your time in Trinidad.
6. Take a Day Trip to El Nicho
El Nicho is a stunning collection of waterfalls nestled within the lush Topes de Collantes National Park. It offers breathtaking scenery and a refreshing escape from the heat, making it one of the best things to do in Trinidad. Many travelers stop at El Nicho on their way to Cienfuegos, but it’s also possible to visit as a day trip from Trinidad.
The park is located 48 km (30 m) from Trinidad and while the distance may not seem far on a map, the terrain adds significant travel time. The drive takes approximately two hours due to the steep and winding mountain roads. Transportation should be arranged at least a day in advance, as the roads can be tough on the older cars often used by Cuban taxi drivers. Mechanical issues are not uncommon, but most drivers are skilled at making quick roadside repairs.
The admission fee is $6.50 USD, which includes a guided tour through the park. The guide will lead a short hike, stopping at several picturesque pools where you can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. The trail is relatively easy, although there are a few somewhat steep areas. The panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water, sturdy shoes, and eco-friendly sunscreen to protect the environment while enjoying the water.
Where to Stay in Trinidad, Cuba
Americans traveling to Cuba under the “Support for the Cuban People” category face restrictions on staying at most Cuban hotels. This presents a unique opportunity to experience authentic Cuban life by staying at a casa particular. These privately-run accommodations, similar to a bed and breakfast, range from individual rooms in a family home to private apartments or guesthouses. To operate legally, casa particular owners must have a government-issued license and pay taxes, ensuring their compliance with Cuban regulations.
Staying at a casa particular is one of the most rewarding experiences in Trinidad. It offers a glimpse into Cuban daily life, the chance to connect with locals, and an opportunity to practice your Spanish. Many casa owners go above and beyond by offering home-cooked meals, assisting with activity planning, and arranging transportation. You can easily book a casa particular through platforms like Cuba Junky or Airbnb, making the process of supporting local families an easy one.
Have you been to Cuba? What are your favorite things to do in Trinidad? I’d love to hear about your experience. If you’ve enjoyed this post, please leave a comment or share using the social media buttons below. Interested in exploring other parts of Cuba? Discover the beautiful town of Vinales in my post, “The Best Things to Do in Vinales, Cuba“.
It’s nice to read a post about Cuba that is not about Havana. Thanks for sharing!
Welcome! Glad you enjoyed it :)