Holguín
Cuba · 130 m
Description
Holguín is Cuba’s fourth-largest city and an important cultural center in the eastern part of the country. Known as the “City of Parks”, it charms visitors with its leafy squares, colonial and neoclassical architecture, and relaxed Cuban atmosphere. Its most iconic landmark is Loma de la Cruz, reached by climbing 458 steps and offering sweeping panoramic views over Holguín and the surrounding hills. The region is also rich in history, from Bariay, where Christopher Columbus first set foot on Cuba in 1492, to Chorro de Maíta, home to one of the country’s most significant Indigenous burial sites. Holguín also serves as a gateway to Cuba’s northern coast and the renowned beaches of Guardalavaca, Playa Esmeralda, and Playa Pesquero.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 3 days (optimal 2 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: December – April
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Loma de la Cruz Viewpoint
- Calixto García Park (Parque Calixto García)
- Guardalavaca Beach (Playa Guardalavaca)(Day trip)
- San Isidoro Cathedral (Catedral de San Isidoro)
- La Periquera Provincial History Museum
- San José Park and Church (Parque San José)
- Julio Grave de Peralta Park (Parque de las Flores)
- Mirador de Mayabe
- Calixto García Birthplace Museum (Casa Natal de Calixto García)
- Holguín Organ Factory (Fábrica de Órganos)
- Chorro de Maíta Archaeological Site and Museum(Day trip)
- Aldea Taína(Day trip)
- Bariay National Monument Park (Parque Monumento Nacional Bariay)(Day trip)
- Bariay Bay (Bahía de Bariay)(Day trip)
- Playa Esmeralda(Day trip)
- Playa Pesquero(Day trip)
- Bahía de Naranjo Nature Park(Day trip)
- Gibara Historic Centre(Day trip)
- Gibara Bay and Malecón(Day trip)
Getting there
- Airports:
- HOG
- Train stations:
- Holguín, Güirabito