![]() Varadero is located in the province of Matanzas, on the island of Cuba. This tourist resort town has more than 50 hotels, multiple restaurants, shops and nightclubs. It offers activities for all interests, and is surrounded by the colorful culture and architecture of historical Cuba. But most importantly, Varadero boasts over 20 kilometers of white sandy beaches with clear turquoise water, making it a picture perfect destination! Continue reading this quick visitor's guide to Varadero for helpful information about this amazing destination! When To Go to Cuba High and low season coincide with winter seasons, which is evident given the strong presence of Canadian visitors in the country (Europeans and South Americans are also common tourists on this island). High season lasts from December to March and takes place during the dry season (November to April). This is a great time to visit Varadero if you're looking for wonderful weather, a great beach atmosphere and amazing visit opportunities. The low season is during the rainy and humid months of May to October which also overlap with the hurricane months of June to November. This time of the year should be considered if you're more interested in a relaxing vacation with less tourists around, and don't mind the risk of rain and hurricanes. Where to Stay in Varadero The majority of hotels in Varadero these days are all inclusive, which means that anything from flight, transfer to/from the airport, hotel room, food, drinks and/or select activities and entertainment is included. From luxurious hotels to the more modest accommodations, travelers can choose their preferred all inclusive accommodations between dozens of beach resorts. However, should you wish to avoid the all inclusive nature of these hotels, there are a few who offer non inclusive stays. For a more traditional cultural experience, consider staying at a casa particular (private bed and breakfast). As for the location of your accommodations, if you're there to spend time on the beach and want a newer more luxurious resort, consider checking out the ones towards the tip of the peninsula. If you're looking forward to enjoying the nightlife and restaurants off resort, prefer to spend less on accommodations and are open to a more modest living space, consider the hotels located in town (my favorite area is around Calle 62, as there is nightly live music and salsa dancing in the closed street, and it is near The Beatles which is another amazing spot!) Varadero Airport The Juan Gualberto Gómez International Airport is located at about 30 minutes from Varadero. Most all inclusive packages will include the transfer. Upon exiting the airport doors, locate a representative from the company through which you booked your vacation to identify which bus you should take. Keep in mind that as you walk towards the bus some locals will try to get you to take cans of beer. A common mistake is to assume these are part of the all inclusive! However, that is not the case and you will be asked to pay for these (often times after you've opened it). If your travel plans don't include the transfer, you have a few options to get into Varadero, including a taxi for about 30 cuc. Exchanging Money for Cuba There are two currencies in Cuba but the only mostly used by tourists is the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC). Canadian dollar, Pounds, Euros and other currencies can be exchanged once in the country to obtain the local currency. Upon arrival at the airport you can exchange money, or you can wait and exchange some later at various locations that offer exchange throughout Varadero (including most hotels). Just make sure to count your change as some locations are known to short change tourists! Don't miss these great tips and tricks if you are traveling with someone who has food allergies and are traveling to an all-inclusive resort. Food in Cuba Since the majority of resorts are all inclusive, most facilities provide all necessary food and drinks for their guests. However, should you wish to leave your resort and explore, there are many delicious restaurants both at the International Shopping Center and along the main streets in town. As for drinks, you can find most usual staples (different types of pop). Of course, these may taste different than back home but most are enjoyable. This also applies to wine, beer and liquor, though we strongly recommend you try the Cuban rum and mojitos (if you are of legal drinking age and enjoy alcohol). What To Bring to Varadero As with most beach destinations, ensure you don't forget your bathing suit, summer clothes, sunscreen and hat for sun protection. A couple of more elegant outfits can be a good idea, especially if you plan on enjoying the a-la-carte restaurants on resorts or nicer restaurants off resorts. Comfortable footwear is a must if you plan on walking in town, and a good book to read while lounging on the beach or poolside is a plus! Additionally, you can bring your cell phone should you wish to keep in touch, as paid wifi is becoming more common on newer resorts. And of course a camera or other electronic device to take pictures of the breathtaking ocean views is recommended! Getting Around Varadero Bus – The easy to spot double Decker open top bus runs on a regular schedule, traveling from downtown Varadero to the tip of the peninsula. Look for the blue signs with the schedule, and have 5cuc ready as it gets you a day pass for the bus! Just be careful if you sit on the top as it does get windy and you might get hit with a few branches (so hold on to that hat!). Taxi – There are more common taxi looking vehicles, but Cuba is also filled with vintage cars waiting to provide tourists with a ride to remember! The costs are either based on a meter or by distance. Other – In Varadero you can also opt to go for a ride by horse drawn carriage or hop on the back of a Coco Taxi. You can also choose to rent a moped or a car, but be careful as we have known multiple tourists who ran into difficulties with this option, so be extra careful! Things to do in Varadero From long walks on the white sand to swimming or kayaking in the clear turquoise waters of the ocean, the beach is the most common destination! However, should you wish to explore past this relaxing haven, there's a variety of activities waiting for you! For example, you could take the double decker bus into town and go explore the market and Parque Josone, a beautiful park with a little café next to the lake that sells savory pina coladas. Walk around the town, enjoying the beautiful architecture. Other great options near Varadero include Cuevo Saturno, an underground natural swimming hole (5 cuc admission) and Playa Coral, which has reefs so close to shore you can swim out to them. There are always more options, especially if you wish to leave the town and venture out to experience authentic Cuba. Havana and Matanzas are very popular and well worth the travel time! You can either join in an organized bus tour or venture on your own with a taxi (or on the bus, for a more budget friendly alternative), and take in the amazing sights, sounds and delicious foods while you're there! In turn, should you prefer to spend a more relaxed day you might consider such organized options as the catamaran tour to Cayo Blanco! Heading to an all-inclusive vacation soon? Check out our list of 40 great activities to do on these resorts! Additional Information regarding Varadero and Cuba: -Remember that there is a required departure tax which you must pay before being allowed to leave the country. -Verify with your travel agent or company to obtain specific details for your chosen destination should you opt for an all inclusive vacation. -Keep in mind that star ratings for accommodations vary per country as it is influenced by culture, etc. In our previous vacations, we have witnessed that 3.5 Star hotels in Cuba are more similar to 1.5 Star accommodations in America. -Common souvenir purchases include Cuban rum and cigars, along with coffee, jewelry and wooden decorations. Check with your country for guidelines regarding importations restrictions so that you don't have a dreadful surprise on your return home! We hope you enjoyed our quick traveler's guide to Varadero and look forward to hearing about your travels to Cuba! J&C Have any other recommendations you'd like to share with fellow travelers? Add them in the comments below!
43 Comments
7/3/2017 02:55:35 pm
When we travelled around Cuba we went here and stayed in a inclusive hotel, would definitely stay in a casa next time for a more authentic experience!
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7/3/2017 07:59:45 pm
The casa are supposed to be amazing. We're also hoping we will get to try one next time we're down there!!
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The Dime Travelers
18/5/2017 08:41:28 pm
Yes, that's very true! Thanks for stopping by!
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Lindsay A Tullar
17/5/2017 11:46:45 pm
helpful read! I know im always stressing trying to find budget friendly locations to stay when vacation. THIS LOOKS PEACEFULLLLLLL
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The Dime Travelers
18/5/2017 08:47:14 pm
Happy to hear you enjoyed reading! :)
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18/5/2017 03:59:06 am
I've never been to Cuba, but my friends that have absolutely love it. I would love to visit one day. The culture is so enticing.
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The Dime Travelers
18/5/2017 09:24:04 pm
You're absolutely right!! The culture is one of the elements that keep us coming back to this country!!!
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The Dime Travelers
18/5/2017 09:24:53 pm
Glad we could help! And don't hesitate to contact us in the future should you have further questions, we're here to help :)
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Akamatra
18/5/2017 09:00:30 am
Yet another place in our bucket list! Thanks for the useful information, I am saving it for later!
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The Dime Travelers
18/5/2017 09:25:29 pm
That's great! Thanks for stopping by :)
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18/5/2017 10:29:57 am
I have been dying to go to Cuba! Thanks for the tips on the star rating, I would hate to book a hotel and it not be up to par!
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The Dime Travelers
18/5/2017 09:26:44 pm
The few people who have told us they didn't enjoy Cuba all shared that it had to do with their expectations of the ratings... it's a must know for anyone who travels to this country for sure.
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Erin F
18/5/2017 12:52:56 pm
I've heard of a lot of people doing the all inclusive trips. They say they are the best for your money. Plus, you don't have to worry about trying to find places to dine since it's all arranged for you!
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The Dime Travelers
18/5/2017 09:28:22 pm
You're right! The all-inclusive resorts are a very popular trend in Cuba. It makes for easy planning and very relaxing vacations. Just keep in mind that it does tend to limit the experience of the 'authentic' Cuba, as the resorts are very much for tourists!
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The Dime Travelers
18/5/2017 09:43:30 pm
Thanks!! Hopefully you can make it there to visit soon! :)
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Amber Myers
18/5/2017 04:10:36 pm
Thank you for this! I hope to make it to Cuba one day. I love the cars. They're so colorful!
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The Dime Travelers
18/5/2017 09:46:35 pm
We're happy you enjoyed reading this. Yes, the cars are an attraction pretty much by themselves! :)
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18/5/2017 08:16:35 pm
The first picture got me hooked in. It looks so peaceful. You got to love the authenticity of Cuba. I really would love to visit, but work at the moment is overwhelming! Great post!
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The Dime Travelers
18/5/2017 09:47:50 pm
Hopefully you will have a short period of time at least where work is less hectic and you can make it out!
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19/5/2017 12:38:11 am
I love your blog cause I love budget friendly travels ! Def wanna visit cuba! Love your pics.
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The Dime Travelers
19/5/2017 04:16:40 pm
Thank you so much!!! We love sharing our passion for cheap travel, and what better way than with a side of beautiful pictures? :)
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The Dime Travelers
19/5/2017 04:20:36 pm
You're welcome! Make sure to check our other articles for more tips and tricks on cheap (and amazing) travel ideas!
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The Dime Travelers
19/5/2017 04:19:36 pm
I'm happy to see you're so excited about traveling to Cuba! Hopefully you'll get to explore this great country eventually.
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Blair villanueva
19/5/2017 06:54:04 am
OmG whem I saw that car, I already sold! I want that driving here in Manila. So cool! Are most Cubans have that car?
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The Dime Travelers
19/5/2017 04:23:24 pm
No, not all everyone in Cuba drives the antique cars. However, many of these cars are still present and it's easy to find some to drive around (as many locals use them for taxis with tourists). :)
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19/5/2017 10:11:56 am
I would love to go to Cuba. I like all inclusive trips as it means you can pay for everything up front x
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The Dime Travelers
19/5/2017 04:24:18 pm
We absolutely agree! All inclusive vacations are great for stress free travel and help stay on budget.
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19/5/2017 12:24:49 pm
I really would love to visit Cuba. I have made several Cuban friends here in the states. I just am afraid that the people in power are still taking advantage of the people. And if I went would it help them to abuse these people even further. That would be my only concern about such a trip. It looks beautiful though. And I love the vintage car.
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The Dime Travelers
19/5/2017 04:49:20 pm
I think that's a great concern to have when traveling in general as we want to make sure that our vacations don't negatively impact our destinations. And you're right, Cuba is a wonderfully beautiful island with amazing vintage cars!
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The Dime Travelers
19/5/2017 04:47:42 pm
We hope you get to travel to Cuba and explore this wonderful country soon!
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19/5/2017 06:25:15 pm
Brought back some memories of our trip to Cuba! We made sure to stay in a 5* hotel. We were prewarned on the ratings. It felt like a 3*. We had fun.. for the most part.
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The Dime Travelers
19/5/2017 06:32:33 pm
Great to hear from people who got to enjoy a vacation to Cuba! And it's true that it's important to remember of differing star ratings in different destinations while booking vacations, especially for budget travel!
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Elizabeth O.
21/5/2017 12:31:46 pm
I think it's awesome to know where it's good to stay when you're in Cuba. I've never been but I've heard a lot of good things from people who have visited.
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The Dime Travelers
21/5/2017 01:39:38 pm
You're right, having tips and ideas of where to stay while vacationing in new countries can be really helpful when planning travel! Thanks for stopping by! :)
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22/5/2017 10:08:21 am
Me and my hubby loves to travel. Before we go somewhere, I make sure to plan our trips and search about that place first. Thanks for this tips!
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25/5/2017 11:54:36 pm
The pic of that pool is amazing enough! I'd love to relax RIGHT there!
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