Things to Do in Trinidad, Cuba

The small town in central Cuba where time seems to have stopped, Trinidad is undoubtedly one of the nicest places in the Caribbean region.

Brimming with beautiful remnants of Spanish colonialism, vintage cars, open squares, praiseworthy palaces, and cobblestone streets, Trinidad, Cuba is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. No trip to Cuba can be complete without a visit to this pretty town. Here are some things you can’t miss doing while in Trinidad, Cuba!

La Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco is a church in the center of the town that has a beautiful bell tower. Climb to the top of it to catch beautiful panoramic views of tiled roofs and multi-colored buildings from up top!

Plaza Mayor is Trinidad’s town center, a completely automobile-free zone meant only for pedestrians. It is lined with some beautiful colonial buildings and pretty street-side shops selling clothes, bags, and souvenirs.

Sitting at one end of the Plaza Mayor, the Iglesia de la Santisima Trinidad is Cuba’s biggest church. An out and out Spanish colonial edifice, it is known for its statue of the Christ of the True Cross that was installed by the Spanish in the 18th century.

Housed is a colonial mansion, formerly owned by the sugar baron Conde de Brunet, the Museo Romántico displays not only his personal possessions, but also those of other wealthy families from the region. The artifacts in this museum include impressive furniture and artwork.

Considered by locals as one of Cuba’s finest beaches, Playa Ancon is a white sand beach with clear turquoise waters. Just a 15-minute drive south of Trinidad, you can spend a laid-back morning or afternoon here, and also take a dip if you like.

Take a Day Trip to Parque el Cubano

If you are in for some hiking adventure, head to the Parque el Cubano, located just a 15-minute drive north of Trinidad. Full of swimming holes, picturesque waterfall, forest paths, and man-made bridges, this is the best place to visit for nature lovers.

Located just outside the city, the Valle de los Ingenios boasts acres of sugarcane plantations, non-functional sugar mills, and numerous slave dormitories. Climb up the Manaca Iznaga tower that once functioned as a watch post to spot runaway slaves.

The pretty, cobblestoned streets of Trinidad are ideal for a leisurely walking spree. Take a stroll across tiny alleys of the town to explore its local culture, interact with its residents, and if you please, buy souvenirs from its local shops.

Anywhere you roam in Trinidad, Cuba, you will come across local musicians sitting on the sidewalks and benches with their instruments and singing local melodies. It is quite a pleasant experience in itself, something that you’ll always remember.

Your trip to Trinidad can’t be complete without tasting its authentic local cuisine. Visit one of the town’s quaint cafés to try out Cuban delicacies such as Ropa vieja, comprising stewed beef and lots of veggies.