CU
Trinidad
A colonial sugar town of cobbled streets and pastel houses, with sugar-mill valleys and beaches nearby
A colonial sugar town of cobbled streets and pastel houses, with sugar-mill valleys and beaches nearby
⚠️ 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
Wander the cobbled lanes around the Plaza Mayor, with its church, palm trees and museums such as the Museo Romántico in a former mansion.
Wear sturdy shoes on the uneven cobbles.
Photo: Dudva, CC0
East of town, this valley once held dozens of sugar mills worked by enslaved Africans. Ruins, estates and plantation houses remain.
Photo: Ivan2010, CC BY-SA 3.0
The 45m tower on the Manaca Iznaga estate was used to watch over enslaved workers. Climb it for views over the valley.
Photo: Jan Pešula, CC0
About 12km south, this long Caribbean beach has calm water and a few hotels.
Photo: Patrice78500, CC BY-SA 4.0
In the Escambray mountains above Trinidad, trails lead through forest to waterfalls such as the Salto del Caburní.
Photo: Martin Cígler, CC BY-SA 3.0
Try ropa vieja (shredded beef), congrí (rice and beans) and the local canchánchara, a drink of rum, honey and lime.
Many visitors eat at their casa particular; menus can be limited by shortages.
Trinidad is about 4–5 hours by road from Havana. Shared taxis and tourist buses run when fuel allows. Most visitors need a tourist card or e-visa and must complete the online D’Viajeros form before arrival.
The centre is best on foot.
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.
Town, valley and coast.
Explore the Plaza Mayor, museums and evening music on the steps.
Visit Manaca Iznaga and the valley’s estates.
Relax on Playa Ancón or hike in Topes de Collantes.
Bring a power bank and torch; power cuts can last many hours.
Bring enough euros or US dollars in cash; cards often fail.
The streets are uneven; wear good shoes.
Live music fills the town in the evenings.
Quick answers for planning time in Trinidad.
Crime against tourists is relatively low, but in 2026 blackouts, fuel shortages and flight cuts disrupt travel; check the latest advice.
About 4–5 hours by road.
Yes, together with the Valle de los Ingenios.
Cash euros or US dollars; cards often do not work.
November to April.
Planning a wider trip? Our Cuba travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.