Things to do in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba
Santiago de Cuba is the country's second city and the capital of the east: cradle of son and trova, stage of the Revolution, and Cuba's most Caribbean and Afro-Cuban city. Wedged between the Sierra Maestra and the sea, it has a heat, a rhythm and an identity all its own, distinct from Havana.
Must-visit attractions in Santiago de Cuba
Castillo del Morro
San Pedro de la Roca fortress, UNESCO site at the mouth of the bay.
See stays near Castillo del Morro →Parque Céspedes & Cathedral
The colonial heart of the city, with the cathedral and Velázquez balcony.
See stays near Parque Céspedes & Cathedral →Moncada Barracks
Barracks of the 26 July 1953 assault, now a museum of the Revolution.
See stays near Moncada Barracks →Santa Ifigenia Cemetery
Cemetery where José Martí and Fidel Castro rest.
See stays near Santa Ifigenia Cemetery →
How to make the most of Santiago de Cuba
- Cradle of son and trova — live music every night
- Castillo del Morro, UNESCO World Heritage
- Moncada Barracks and Santa Ifigenia cemetery (Martí, Fidel)
- Cuba's biggest Carnival (July)
Where to stay in Santiago de Cuba
We manage 8 casas particulares in Santiago de Cuba, bookable directly with local hosts and 24/7 WhatsApp support.
Browse stays in Santiago de Cuba →Getting there
About 870 km from Havana (far east). Most fly into Antonio Maceo (SCU) airport (~1.5 h) rather than the 12–14 h drive. Viazul buses and a long-distance train also run.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main attractions in Santiago de Cuba?
The essentials include Castillo del Morro, Parque Céspedes & Cathedral, Moncada Barracks 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 Santiago de Cuba?
RentalHo manages casas particulares in Santiago de Cuba that you can book directly — no OTAs — with secure payment and 24/7 WhatsApp support from a local host.
How do I get to Santiago de Cuba?
About 870 km from Havana (far east). Most fly into Antonio Maceo (SCU) airport (~1.5 h) rather than the 12–14 h drive. Viazul buses and a long-distance train also run.