Holguin, Cuba
Holguin is a city located in the eastern region of Cuba. It boasts beautiful beaches, natural landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage with plenty of historical landmarks and museums to explore.
#Trip to Holguin, Cuba
##Day 1: Arrival and check-in at hotel
Welcome to Holguin! After checking in to your hotel, you can relax and explore the hotel amenities such as its swimming pool and beach access. Most hotels offer stunning ocean views and access to a variety of water sports, including snorkeling, surfing, boating and more. Make sure to try some of the delicious Cuban cuisine and tropical drinks at the hotel bar.
##Day 2: City Tour
Start the day with a city tour of Holguin, a city full of history, art, and culture. Visit the Parque Calixto Garcia, a large square and the center of the city’s social life. After that, head to the Casa Natal Calixto Garcia Museum, which was once the birthplace of a national hero who fought against Spanish colonialism. Walking further down the street, visit the beautiful Cathedral of San Isidoro and admire its stunning architecture.
For lunch, stop by the San Jose Market, which is full of local vendors selling food and crafts. In the afternoon, head to the Hill of the Cross (Loma de la Cruz), where you can hike to the top for amazing panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.
##Day 3: Gibara Fishing Village
Just a 45-minute scenic drive from Holguin is the picturesque fishing village of Gibara. Admire the colonial architecture of the town, its impressive stone fortress, and its lovely waterfront. Hire a bicycle or a horse-drawn carriage to explore the town and its hidden gems. You can also take a boat ride around the bay and enjoy the stunning views. Try some local seafood and enjoy the sunset on the waterfront.
##Day 4: Beach Day
Holguin is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Cuba. Head to Playa Pesquero, Playa Yuraguanal or Playa Guardalavaca, and enjoy the beautiful turquoise waters and white sand beaches. You can also indulge in some water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, or scuba diving. Don’t forget to try some of the delicious drinks and snacks offered on the beach.
##Day 5: Visit to Banes
Take a day trip to Banes, a town that is located between the mountains and the coast. It is said to be the birthplace of Cuban eco-architecture. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Banes Archaeological Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of pre-Columbian objects. Afterward, enjoy some lunch in one of the local eateries and then head to El Saltón National Park, a beautiful ecotourism spot that boasts a wide range of hiking trails, waterfalls, and natural swimming pools.
##Day 6: Nightlife in Holguin
Holguin has a vibrant nightlife scene. Start the evening at one of the popular bars in the city, such as the Casa de la Trova or El Hoyito del Frijol. Enjoy a variety of Cuban music and dance. For a more eclectic experience, visit the Cabaret Havana Cafe, which features a mix of Latin, Spanish, and international music.
##Day 7: Departure
After experiencing the best of Holguin, it’s time to pack up and depart. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time in the morning for a leisurely breakfast, or take a last walk on the beach. Make sure everything is packed, checkout, and head to the airport for your international flight.
