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Holguín – Parks, Horse Carriages, And Art
If you want to immerse yourself in the pure life of the Cubans, Holguín is the right place for you. 350,000 inhabitants live in Cuba's third-largest city, but there is no typical big-city feeling here. No masses of skyscrapers, no multi-lane streets, and no crowds. On the contrary, the city is wonderfully green, and horse-drawn carriages are the means of transportation par excellence.
Holguín does not boast; on the contrary, it even hides its beauty and sights a little. As if the city does not want to be taken over by tourists like many other Cuban cities – sympathetic. Known as the “city of parks,” in the center of which is Parque Peralta, also called Parque de las Flores. Young meets old here. People play dominoes and chess, laugh together, play music, and dance. And, of course, heated discussions about baseball “Esquina Caliente” seems like a huge argument for newcomers, but it's really all about baseball. Watching is absolutely welcome, and if you dare, join in. So don't miss the brilliant spectacle.
The art lover will not miss out on Holguín either, there are numerous museums and galleries. The Galeria Holguín is worth a visit because it shows the art of local artists. The old town impresses with richly decorated and colorful colonial houses, and the city even has its own brewery and extremely colorful nightlife. Charming colorful buildings, exciting museums, beautiful churches, and great restaurants – all these things make Holguín a perfect stop on your trip.
Holguín is a wonderfully normal city. Authentic, without mass tourism and no race against time to see all the sights in one day. On the contrary, the everyday scenes are a dream.
- Tickets: For all tours in Holguín
- Discover: All tips, highlights and tour reports in our ultimate Cuba itinerary
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Top Things to Do on a Map
Definitely a different kind of city. Quiet and familiar, we felt very comfortable here. A place to come back down a bit and to process all the impressions so far.
- Tip: Plan for Holguín 1 full day to see everything, if you love museums, you can also plan 2 full days
1 - Loma De La Cruz
Unfortunately, we lost count on the way up, but one thing is for sure: it is worth it. It takes more than 400 steps to get to the top, but then you will be rewarded with a genuinely incredible and imposing view over all of Holguín and the surrounding area. Every year on the 3rd of May a procession goes up, this is the beginning of the Romerías de Mayo, traditional celebrations with music and dance and lasts a whole week. You can also go up by a car, but where would be the fun?
2 - Parque Peralta (Parque De Las Flores)
As in every Cuban city, Holguín has a central square where young and old meet. It is named after General Julio Grave de Peralta, who led an uprising against Spain from Holguín in October 1868. His marble statue stands in the center of the park. The nickname “Parque de las Flores” is no coincidence here; you will find countless flower sellers with their beautiful flowers.
3 - La Catedral De San Isidro (Directly At Parque Peralta)
One of the most beautiful churches in the city. Many antique paintings and figures and wonderful fresh colors inside. Next to the main doors is a hyperrealistic statue of Pope John Paul II.
4 - Mural Orígenes
Across from the Catedral de San Isidro, you'll find the barrel-chested artwork Mural Orígenes. It is the work of a local artist and depicts the events of the last almost 500 years of the city of Holguín and Cuba. Cuba's discovery, independence, and liberation of enslaved people are the focus.
5 - Museo Provincial De Historia
The building was used as a Spanish barracks during the wars of independence. Nicknamed La Periquera (Parrot Cage) at the time because the guards wore red, yellow, and green uniforms. It also served as a ballroom and casino at times. Today it is a national monument and museum. The opening hours are 8 am – 4:30 pm Tue-Sat, Sundays until noon, entrance costs around 2 USD.
- Tickets: Book your Tour in Holguín online
Transport
Arrival By Plane
You can reach Holguín by plane. The airport Aeropuerto Internacional Frank País, is not too small, from there you can get to the city by cab.
Arrival By Bus
You can easily get to Holguín by the Viazul bus or, like us, with a colectivo from Baracoa. It depends on where you start from.
- Tip: You can book bus tickets online at Viazul
How To Get Around
Where to Stay
In Holguín, we recommend staying in a typical Cuban Casa Particulares. The insider tips from the owners are especially worth their weight in gold here.
- Tip: Check out good hotels in Holguín and the largest selection of Casa Particulares in Holguín
What to Eat in Holguín: A Taste of Authentic, Everyday Cuba
Holguín offers a culinary experience that is wonderfully normal and deeply authentic. This is not a city of tourist traps, but a place to immerse yourself in the real flavors of Cuban life.
The best food is often the simplest, found at bustling street stalls or enjoyed in lively local spots. Forget fine dining – in Holguín, you eat like a Cuban.
1. Peso Pizza from a Street Stall
This is the ultimate Holguín street food experience. For just a few cents, you can get a delicious, personal-sized “Peso Pizza” from a walk-up window or a small street stall.
Don't expect Italian gourmet; this is a uniquely Cuban creation with a soft, thick crust, simple tomato sauce, and local cheese. It's incredibly tasty, unbelievably cheap, and the perfect way to eat like a local while exploring the city.
2. A Classic Mojito at Bodeguita Del Medio
While it's a famous name, the Holguín branch of Bodeguita Del Medio offers a fantastic and lively atmosphere to enjoy Cuba's most iconic cocktail.
Order a classic Mojito, made with fresh mint, lime, sugar, and Cuban rum. It's the perfect way to cool down after a day of walking and soak in the vibrant energy of the city's park life.
3. Local Beer from the Cervecería Bucanero
Holguín is unique as it's home to its own brewery, the Cervecería Bucanero, which produces some of Cuba's most popular beers. While in the city, be sure to try a cold Bucanero Fuerte, a slightly stronger, richer lager, or a lighter Cristal.
Enjoying a local beer in a bar near Parque Peralta is a truly authentic Holguín experience.
4. Ice Cream from a Local "Heladeria"
Cubans absolutely love ice cream, and waiting in line at a local heladeria is a cultural experience in itself. Head to a popular spot like Cremería Guamá or Heladeria Komodidad.
Don't expect a huge variety of flavors – often there's only one or two available each day. But that's part of the charm. Enjoy a scoop of whatever is on offer and feel like a true Holguinero.
Our Insider Tips on a Map
1 - Bodeguita Del Medio
Yes, you read that right. Hemingway's favorite bar is now also in Holguín. The drinks and the atmosphere are, as you would expect, excellent. And the walls are still almost white – so get there fast, enjoy the mojitos and sign the walls.
2 - Salón Benny Moré
3 - Casa De La Trova
The musicians at Casa de la Trova in Holguín are younger, and their music is much more jazz-heavy. The audience is super mixed, from young to old. A magnificent recommendation, not only for jazz lovers.
4 - Cremería Guamá And Heladeria Komodidad
Two ice cream parlors right across the street, what could be better? Bring time because you'll definitely have to wait in line. Cubans love ice cream. Don't expect too much to no selection; often there is only one flavor. But hey, ice cream is ice cream – enjoy it.
5 - Birthplace Of Fidel Castro
Visit Birán, the birthplace of Fidel Castro. The house where the leader of the Cuban Revolution was born is now a museum. Be sure to make a reservation beforehand.
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