Cienfuegos Highlights
The Pearl of the South
Cienfuegos is a small city overlooking a large Caribbean bay which served as a refuge against storms for explorers and pirates long ago. In 1745 the ‘Castillo de Jagua’ was built at the entrance to the bay for protection against Caribbean pirates and the colonial town was later founded in 1819.
Initially settled by French immigrants, Cienfuegos became one of the chief seaports of the Cuban sugar, coffee and tobacco trades. This rich and culturally diverse heritage has left an eclectic legacy of French influenced colonial and neo-classical style buildings in the UNESCO listed historic centre. The beautiful bay, historic buildings and harbour-front Malecón make it a wonderful city to explore for one or two nights.
In the busy centre is Parque Jose Marti, here you will find locals relaxing and chatting under the shade of a tree. Surrounding the park are a variety of buildings of interest including the ornate Teatro Tomas Terry and the Paseo del Prado. The longest boulevard in Cuba is close by, also lined by many beautiful buildings. Along the bay, just outside of the town centre is a beautiful old Moorish style palace called Palacio de Valle. This building is well worth a visit to see the stunning architecture, or you may want to enjoy a meal in the restaurant or have sunset drinks at the rooftop bar.
The Palace is located in the Punta Gorda area of Cienfuegos, a narrow headland in the bay. Here you can find many excellent Casas Particulares and private restaurants, and visitors and locals enjoy spending time in this area.
In the evening there is a good choice of venues to listen to traditional Cuban music throughout this small city, and Cienfuegos has a strong link to Cuban music as it was the home to the world-famous musician Beny More.
Within a short drive of Cienfuegos, you can find a number of unspoilt beaches, ideal for a peaceful walk, swim or relaxation and the foothills of the Escambray Mountains are also not too far away. Cienfuegos also boasts one of the largest botanical gardens in the Americas on the outskirts of the city, and another off the beaten track location is the small bay popular with hundreds of flamingos.
Accommodation in Cienfuegos
Below is a selection of some of the hotels and boutique casas that we can book. Talk to us for our favourites and personal recommendations.
Pre-booked Cienfuegos Experiences
We can organise before you travel to Cuba, a wide range of fantastic experiences that can be completely tailored for you.
Take advantage of our friendly and knowledgeable pre-booking service and save time making arrangements during your holiday.
Guanaroca Lagoon
A bird watcher’s paradise, with a unique array of birds. Dense green vegetation surrounds the lake, home to more than 170 varieties of bird including pelicans, hummingbirds, and most notably a colony of flamingos.
Botanical Garden of Cienfuegos
Cienfuegos’s Botanical Gardens are one of Cuba’s largest gardens, and also the oldest on the island.
El Nicho Park and Waterfalls
A marvel of nature with dozens of waterfalls and natural pools in an area virtually untouched, hidden among the mountains and one of the most beautiful spots in Cuba.
Cruise Cienfuegos Bay
Take a leisurely boat trip around the bay with exceptional views of the city, the keys, and the coast. Visit the Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles de Jagua Fortress, built in 1745.
Already know what you want or need inspiration?
We’d be happy to answer all of your questions. Give us a call to start planning your tailormade holiday.
Call us on +44 (0) 1438 419 111 or click below to send us a message.
