Santiago de Cuba

Located on the southern edge of the country, this is the second most important city in Cuba after Havana. One of two things that will happen when you visit this place is either you will love it or hate it. This city can be taken in any of two ways—the first as a hot city full of hustlers and haggle and the second as a charming cultural capital that has played an extremely important part in Cuban cultural history. Nowhere else in the country will you find such a mix of diverse people and history—Castro used this city to launch his nationalistic revolution, the first rum factory was built here and just about every Cuban music genre first emanated from here. Tourists here are welcomed with open arms, and there are plenty of hotels and casas particulares to stay in, whether on the beach or in the city. It is Cuba’s second largest city and hosts some amazing festivals, including Carnival and Festival del Caribe. It is also home to the most sacred pilgrimage site in the country— Basílica Santuario Nacional de Nuestra Señora de la Caridad del Cobre. So stroll through the winding streets, have picnics in the shady parks or tour the museums and theatres and discover this charming city in Cuba.