CU
Santiago de Cuba
Cuba’s hot, musical second city, with a clifftop fortress and revolutionary history
Cuba’s hot, musical second city, with a clifftop fortress and revolutionary history
⚠️ Travel advisory: check before you go
Cuba is going through a severe energy crisis. Nationwide blackouts have recurred throughout 2026, most recently in September, and fuel, water and cooking gas are scarce. Some hotels have closed, several airlines (including the main Canadian carriers) have suspended flights, and many foreign bank cards no longer work, so carry enough cash. US travellers face tighter restrictions from 30 September 2026. Check your flights, accommodation and official advice before booking.
Latest official advice: UK FCDO · US State Department · Reviewed September 2026
The San Pedro de la Roca fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sits on cliffs at the mouth of the bay, about 10km from the centre.
Go late afternoon for sunset.
Photo: Sangianense, CC BY-SA 4.0
The main square is surrounded by the cathedral and colonial buildings, including the house of conquistador Diego Velázquez.
Photo: Sangianense, CC BY-SA 4.0
This cemetery holds the tombs of José Martí and Fidel Castro, with a changing of the guard.
Photo: Sangianense, CC BY-SA 4.0
About 20km west, this basilica houses the Virgin of Charity, Cuba’s patron saint, and is an important pilgrimage site.
Photo: Z thomas, CC BY-SA 4.0
Try congrí (rice and black beans), roast pork and the strong local coffee.
Food choice can be limited by shortages; casas particulares often cook the best meals.
Antonio Maceo Airport has some domestic and international flights; services have been cut back. By road it is a long journey (over 12 hours) from Havana. Most visitors need a tourist card or e-visa and must complete the online D’Viajeros form before arrival.
Taxis are needed for sights outside the centre.
Cuba’s currency is the peso (CUP), but most tourist prices are paid in cash US dollars or euros. Cards issued by US banks do not work, and in 2026 many other foreign cards have also stopped working, so bring enough cash for your whole trip.
Prices are approximate and can change quickly.
History and music.
See Parque Céspedes, the cathedral, Santa Ifigenia and the Moncada Barracks.
Visit El Cobre, then watch sunset from the Castillo del Morro.
Bring a power bank and torch; power cuts can last many hours.
Bring enough euros or US dollars in cash; cards often fail.
Look for live son at the Casa de la Trova.
Check that roads, accommodation and sights are open after the 2025 hurricane.
Quick answers for planning time in Santiago de Cuba.
Yes, eastern Cuba was severely hit in October 2025; check current conditions before travelling.
José Martí and Fidel Castro, among others.
Yes, the San Pedro de la Roca castle is listed.
Over 12 hours by road; flights may be limited.
December to April.
Planning a wider trip? Our Cuba travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.