Although there are tons of great things to do in Holguín for travelers, this Cuban town is generally looked over by tourists due to
Holguín also has one of the better foodie scenes in Cuba, with several pioneering new restaurants taking advantage of their recent access to a greater variety of ingredients served alongside glasses of (often locally brewed) beer or imported wines. After you give the article a read, feel free to message us with any questions you have about traveling to this local Cuban gem!
Want to explore Cuba differently? Have a local
Once an army barracks, this building is now a national monument and local history museum. Stop in this cheap museum to learn a bit more about local history at the start of your stay in Holguín. Two weapons are the chief highlights of the museum. One is an ax head carved to look like a man; it was likely created by indigenous inhabitants in the 1400s. And the other? It’s a shiny sword that belonged to national hero Jose Marti.
Bright white with twin domed towers this cathedral is easy to spot. It is one of the town’s original buildings, dating from 1720 when it was simply a church. Elements have been added over the years (like the towers) and the church became a cathedral in 1979 that we now know as Cathedral de San Isidoro. One of the great things to do in Holguín on a lovely day!
Hike up 465 steps to the top of a hill with a massive cross on it to enjoy panoramic views of the city and one of the prettiest things to do in Holguín. The cross was raised in 1790 in an effort to end a long drought. At the top of the hill near the cross, there’s a restaurant and a 24-hour bar where you can enjoy a cool drink and amazing views after your hike.
This annual religious festival is one of the most authentic things to do in Holguín. If you happen to be in the city on May 3rd, be sure you don't miss it! Locals process from Catedral de San Isidoro up La Loma de la Cruz for a special mass.
If you can only remember one restaurant with a date in it (there are many in Holguín), then make that date 1910 for
Wooden tables and ceramic mugs give this place a distinctive old-world pub feel. Local beers on tap include the infamous
One of fourteen locations of the National Union For Writers and Artists, UNEAC is arguably the best one for travelers and certainly one of the best things to do in Holguín. Stop in for one or more of the many events that take place here - including theater on the patio, evenings with famous authors, and musical performances.
Have more questions about Cuba? Here is a list of local Cuban Travel Experts who can help you or you can message us any questions you have. And before your trip, make sure to check out: