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written by Rough Guides Editors
updated 9.02.2021
There’s live music aplenty year-round in Santiago de Cuba, the country’s second city, but plan your trip in July to coincide with the annual carnival and join in the festive celebrations. In Havana, you’ll find an exciting new wave of independent restaurants, and once you’ve indulged yourself in the finest cuisine, dance the night away in one of the capital city’s salsa clubs. Or, head to the coast to explore the pristine coral reefs of the northern cays where you’ll find mangrove colonies and, if you’re lucky, the occasional iguana.
If you are planning to travel to Cuba, next to the map check out our Cuba itineraries and the best time to go. To add more details to your trip, read more on the best things to do in Cuba, or learn about getting around and where to stay once you are there.