Cuba is one of the Caribbean’s most culturally rich and visually striking destinations. Known for its colorful streets, colonial architecture, live music, classic cars and rhythm-filled everyday life, the island offers a unique travel experience shaped by history, tradition and tropical landscapes.
This Fast Facts guide gives travelers a clear, reliable overview of Cuba – covering geography, population, money, transportation, weather, culture and essential visitor information. It is designed to help first-time visitors understand Cuba quickly while preparing for a smooth and informed trip across the island’s most popular destinations such as Havana, Varadero, Viñales, Cayo Coco, Trinidad and Santiago de Cuba.
Country Overview
- Official Name: Republic of Cuba
- Continent / Region: Caribbean, Latin America
- Capital City: Havana
- Language: Spanish (Castilian). English is spoken in major tourist areas.
- Government: Socialist republic
- Famous For: Classic cars, cigar culture, salsa music, colonial heritage, pristine beaches, protected nature and UNESCO-listed historic centers
Cuba’s atmosphere blends Caribbean warmth with a deep historical narrative, making it one of the most distinctive travel experiences in the region.
Geography & Location
- Total Area: Approximately 110,860 km²
- Main Island: Cuba (the largest island in the Caribbean)
- Archipelago Includes: Isla de la Juventud and more than 4,000 smaller islands and cays
- Surrounding Waters: Atlantic Ocean to the north, Caribbean Sea to the south and Gulf of Mexico to the west
- Neighboring Countries by Sea: Mexico, United States, Jamaica and Haiti
Cuba’s geography combines white-sand beaches, tobacco valleys, lush forests and dramatic limestone formations – especially around Viñales, one of the country’s natural highlights.
Population & Society
- Population: Around 11 million people
- Ethnic Composition: Mixed heritage with Spanish, African and Indigenous roots
- Major Urban Centers: Havana, Santiago de Cuba, Camagüey and Holguín
- Religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic with Afro-Caribbean influences such as Santería
- Life Expectancy: Among the highest in the Americas
Cubans are known for warmth, hospitality and a strong sense of community – something travelers experience everywhere from city plazas to seaside villages.
Currency & Payments
- Official Currency: Cuban Peso (CUP)
- Exchange: Euros are widely used for exchange; policies can change, so travelers should check before departure.
- Cards: Many foreign credit and debit cards do not work in Cuba.
- Recommendation: Bring a sufficient amount of cash for daily expenses.
Most local markets, taxis and smaller restaurants operate on cash, while high-end hotels and some airports accept cards that are approved for use in Cuba.
Time, Electricity & Connectivity
- Time Zone: GMT-5 (Daylight Saving Time may be applied seasonally)
- Electricity: 110V and 220V, depending on the building; plug types A, B, C and L
- Internet: Limited and slower than average; access mainly through government Wi-Fi hotspots, ETECSA centers and hotel networks
Travelers should download offline maps before arrival and expect occasional connection interruptions, especially outside major cities.
Climate & Best Time to Visit
Cuba has a warm tropical climate year-round:
- Dry Season (Best Time to Visit): November to April
- Rainy Season: May to October, with higher humidity and more frequent showers
- Hurricane Risk: Highest from August to October
Average temperatures generally range between 24°C and 30°C, offering beach-friendly weather throughout much of the year.
Transportation Basics
- International Airports: Havana (José Martí International), Varadero, Holguín, Santa Clara and several regional airports
- Intercity Travel: Viazul buses, shared taxis (colectivos) and private drivers
- City Travel: Taxis, Coco Taxis, local buses and, in some areas, bicycle taxis
- Car Rental: Available but with limited fleet and high demand, especially in peak season
Many travelers combine Havana with beach regions such as Varadero and the northern cays, or with cultural towns like Trinidad and Santiago de Cuba.
Culture & Lifestyle
- Music: Salsa, son cubano, mambo, bolero and reggaeton
- Arts: Street art, Afro-Caribbean traditions, live performances and festivals
- Cuisine: Ropa vieja, congrí (rice and beans), Cuban sandwiches, plantains, fresh seafood and tropical fruit
- Everyday Icons: Classic American cars, tobacco fields, pastel-colored colonial buildings and open-air music venues
Cuba’s cultural identity is expressive, rhythmic and deeply tied to its arts, storytelling and social traditions, which travelers can experience in local bars, cultural centers and neighborhood gatherings.
Safety & Practical Tips
- Cuba is generally safe for tourists, particularly in established tourist areas.
- Petty theft can occur in busy places – keep valuables secure and stay aware of your surroundings.
- Tap water is not recommended for drinking; use bottled or purified water instead.
- Carry cash for everyday payments, as card acceptance and connectivity are inconsistent.
- Pre-book accommodation and transport during high season and national holidays.
Entry & Visa
- Most travelers require a Tourist Card (Tarjeta del Turista) to enter Cuba.
- Valid health insurance that covers medical expenses in Cuba is mandatory.
- Passports should be valid for at least the duration of stay; some travelers prefer six months’ validity as a buffer.
- Immigration officers may ask for proof of onward travel and confirmed accommodation.
Quick Facts at a Glance
- Capital: Havana
- Population: Around 11 million
- Official Language: Spanish
- Currency: Cuban Peso (CUP)
- Climate: Tropical, with distinct dry and rainy seasons
- Country Calling Code: +53
- Drives On: Right-hand side of the road
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Old Havana, Trinidad, Viñales Valley and several others
- Best For: Culture lovers, beach travelers, photographers, history enthusiasts and slow travelers
