Anthem
Recording: United States Navy Band · Public domain (U.S. government work) · Source: Wikimedia Commons
Visitor guide
History
Cuba was a Spanish colony for four centuries and won independence in 1902 after wars of liberation. The 1959 revolution led by Fidel Castro created a socialist state that still shapes the country today.
Culture
Cuba is the birthplace of son, mambo, cha-cha-chá and salsa's roots. Classic American cars, cigars, rum and baseball are part of the island's image.
Languages & Creoles
Spanish is the official language. Haitian Creole is spoken in some communities in the east.
Currency
The Cuban peso (CUP). Visitors often need cash in euros or US dollars, and many foreign bank cards, including all US cards, do not work.
Popular Attractions
Old Havana and Trinidad are UNESCO World Heritage Sites full of colonial architecture. The Viñales Valley, Varadero's beaches and Santiago de Cuba's music scene are highlights.
Food
Ropa vieja, moros y cristianos (black beans and rice) and roast pork are classics. The Cuban sandwich and mojitos are famous worldwide.
Places to Visit
Havana, Varadero, Viñales, Trinidad, Cienfuegos and Santiago de Cuba. US travellers should check current US travel rules.
More of the Caribbean
English-speaking Caribbean
Spanish-speaking Caribbean
French-speaking Caribbean
Dutch-speaking Caribbean
Additional Caribbean Coastal Areas
Colombia—Caribbean coast; San Andrés and Providencia
Venezuela—Caribbean coast and islands
Panama—Caribbean coast; Bocas del Toro
Costa Rica—Caribbean coast; Limón
Nicaragua—Caribbean coast; Corn Islands
Honduras—Caribbean coast; Bay Islands
Guatemala—Caribbean coast; Livingston
Mexico—Caribbean coast; Cozumel and Isla Mujeres