3 days in Matanzas & Santiago de Cuba Itinerary

Though located near a popular tourist resort, Matanzas remains a relatively small town with a strong cultural heritage.

Kick off your visit on the 29th (Mon): kick back and relax at Cayos Blancos and then explore the fascinating underground world of Cuevas de Bellamar.

For maps, other places to visit, traveler tips, and other tourist information, go to the Matanzas journey website.

Santiago de Cuba to Matanzas is an approximately 5-hour flight. You can also drive; or take a train. Expect a daytime high around 87°F in May, and nighttime lows around 68°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 29th (Mon) to allow enough time to travel to Santiago de Cuba.

Santiago de Cuba has taken almost as much influence from Haiti and the Dominican Republic as it has from Havana, distilling a concoction of cultures to create a city with a distinct identity.

Start off your visit on the 30th (Tue): explore the historical opulence of Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca, explore the different monuments and memorials at Cementerio Santa Ifigenia, then take an in-depth tour of Casa de Diego Velazquez, and finally walk around Cespedes Park. Here are some ideas for day two: get to know the fascinating history of La Gran Piedra (The Big Rock), then make a trip to Antonio Maceo Revolution Square, then steep yourself in history at Moncada Barracks, and finally make a trip to Casa Museo Granjita de Siboney.

For more things to do, traveler tips, and other tourist information, read our Santiago de Cuba day trip planning website.

You can fly from Matanzas to Santiago de Cuba in 5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or take a train. May in Santiago de Cuba sees daily highs of 86°F and lows of 72°F at night. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 31st (Wed) so you can travel back home.