Things to do in Matanzas, Cuba
Matanzas, the "Athens of Cuba" and city of bridges, sits on the north coast between Havana and Varadero. Birthplace of danzón and rumba, it keeps a neoclassical theatre from 1863, the Bellamar caves and the lush Yumurí valley — all 40 minutes from Varadero's beach.
Must-visit attractions in Matanzas
Teatro Sauto
1863 neoclassical theatre, a national monument with famed acoustics.
See stays near Teatro Sauto →Bellamar Caves
Cuba's oldest tourist caves (1861), with crystal formations.
See stays near Bellamar Caves →Plaza de la Vigía
The founding historic center and home of the Ediciones Vigía press.
See stays near Plaza de la Vigía →Yumurí Valley
Lush palm-filled valley with the Montserrat lookout.
See stays near Yumurí Valley →
How to make the most of Matanzas
- Teatro Sauto (1863), a national monument
- Bellamar caves — the oldest in Cuba
- Yumurí valley and the city of bridges
- 40 min from Varadero — an authentic, cheaper base
Where to stay in Matanzas
We manage 9 casas particulares in Matanzas, bookable directly with local hosts and 24/7 WhatsApp support.
Browse stays in Matanzas →Getting there
About 100 km east of Havana (~1.5 h) and only 35 km from Varadero (~40 min). An easy day trip from either, or a quiet base near the beach.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main attractions in Matanzas?
The essentials include Teatro Sauto, Bellamar Caves, Plaza de la Vigía and 1 more sites. Each is a short distance from the casas particulares we manage in the area.
Where should I stay near the attractions in Matanzas?
RentalHo manages casas particulares in Matanzas that you can book directly — no OTAs — with secure payment and 24/7 WhatsApp support from a local host.
How do I get to Matanzas?
About 100 km east of Havana (~1.5 h) and only 35 km from Varadero (~40 min). An easy day trip from either, or a quiet base near the beach.