Santiago de Cuba

The islands' second largest urban center, Santiago de Cuba is proud to be the most Caribbean city in Cuba. The singular beauty of its landscapes, the nearby sea and mountains, the lively atmosphere which always reigns on its streets, and its friendly, open inhabitants are characteristics which distinguish Santiago de Cuba and make it a desirable destination for event and incentive tourism.Comfortable city hotels, some modern and others steeped in tradition; the magnificent Heredia Theater Convention Complex, and considerable experience in the organization of events like the Caribbean Fair (EXPOCARIBE) and the Fire Festival, all these are additional virtues which characterize Santiago, the last of the seven original townships founded in Cuba by conquistador Diego Velazqauez.

The city functioned as the country's capital until 1550, and today it is the capital of Santiago de Cuba province, which has a surface area of 6343 square kilometers, 70% of which is occupied by mountainous and hilly terrain.

The center of the city is Cespedes Park, surrounded by the Casa Granda Hotel, the Santa Basilica Metropolitan Cathedral- the home of the Ecclesiastical Museum of Cuba, the City Hall and the Diego Velazquez House, considered the oldest remaining building of its type in the Americas.

Getting There From Havana

Daily flights, bus and train transportation.

Where To Eat

Santiago de Cuba offers a wide range of Cuban and international cuisine, especially fish and seafood dishes. There are many fantastic "paradares" (private restaurants) along with the following:

Zunzun, El Cayo, El Morro, La Teressina, La Taberna de Dolores, Kiam Sand, El Baturro and Metamoros.