Cuba Guide
Varadero and Matanzas
Clubs, discos and karaoke venues
1 La Bamba Hotel Tuxpán, Ave. de las Américas. Opening time: Daily 10pm–3amPrice: $10CUCIn the slow-moving world of Varadero nightlife, this is one of the hotspots. The entrance charge entitles you to free drinks and there are reduced rates for anyone staying at any hotel in Varadero.
2 Habana Café Ave. de las Américas 
45/66-8070 Opening time: Daily 10pm– lateLike its counterpart in Havana, this touristy venue is littered with 1950s Cuban and American artefacts, from a full-size Oldsmobile parked inside the door to gas pumps, barbers' chairs and Coca-Cola signs. Combines the classic holiday disco with cabaret-style entertainment. Entrance is free but there is a $12 minimum consumption charge for a table.
3 Havana Club Calle 62 y Ave. 2da Opening time: Daily 10.30pm–3amPrice: $10CUCThe biggest nightclub in the town area is a popular pick-up joint and often the last place in this neighbourhood to close at night. The cover includes a free bar all night.
4 El Kastillito Ave. Playa y 49 Opening time: Daily 10pm–2am Price: $1CUCThis simple disco is popular with local teenagers and so can be pretty lifeless on a school night. When it's quiet, punters sit on the beachfront terrace drinking at plastic tables.
5 Palacio de la Rumba end of Ave. de las Américas just beyond the Bella Costa 45/66-8210 Opening time: Daily 10pm–5amPrice: $10CUCOften referred to simply as La Rumba and as lively a night as anywhere in Varadero, this is also one of the area's biggest and best-designed venues. After paying the cover, there's an open bar and therefore a guaranteed night of lost inhibitions.
6 Piano Bar Centro Cultural Artex, Calle 60 e/ Ave. 2da y Ave. 3ra Price: No cover chargeA compact and classy bar hosting a nightly karaoke from 11.30pm, with a short live music show on the tiny stage at weekends.
7 La Red Ave. 3ra e/ 29 y 30 Opening time: Daily 10pm–4amPrice: $3CUCThere's a good mix of Cubans and foreigners at this popular and friendly club which packs out at weekends.