Cuba is the country we have written about most. Our journals come from journeys that began in 2016, when we were travelling with a very young child, and they follow the island slowly: a late arrival in Havana, colectivos and bus stations, casas particulares, quiet beach evenings and a lot of help from strangers.
This page brings those journals together. It suggests a family route, links each stop to our own stories, and adds the practical points we would check first if we were planning the trip again today.
Is Cuba a good destination with children right now?
For us, Cuba was warm in every sense: people stopped to help, children were welcomed almost everywhere, and the pace of a casa particular suited small children well.
The practical situation has become harder in recent years. Power cuts, fuel shortages and limited supplies of food and medicine affect daily life and can affect visitors too. Read your government's current travel advice, take out insurance that covers medical treatment and evacuation, and bring the baby supplies and medicines your family needs, because you may not find them locally.
A family route through Cuba
With children, two to three weeks allows a loop through the west and centre of the island with two or three nights in most places. Shorter trips work better if you choose two or three bases rather than all of them.
- Havana, three or four nights: follow our six days in Havana, start gently with our first night in Havana, then Colón Cemetery and Callejón de Hamel and Old Havana in black and white.
- Viñales, two nights: the valley, tobacco farms and riding and climbing with children.
- Playa Larga, two or three nights: a calm beach stay by the Bay of Pigs.
- Cienfuegos, one or two nights: the square, the Prado and Punta Gorda.
- Trinidad, two or three nights: cobbled streets, a casa and Playa Ancón.
- Santa Clara, one night: the Che Guevara memorial and Parque Vidal, on the way to the northern cays or back to Havana.
Money and getting around
Two practical topics shape a family trip to Cuba more than any sight. Read our guide to money in Cuba for the Cuban peso, cash and card limits, and the exchange lesson we learnt.
For transport, our Cuba transport journal compares Viazul buses, private taxis, shared colectivos and bicitaxis. With children, a pre-arranged private transfer is often the easiest choice on long days, but confirm every booking close to the date.
Beaches for families
Cuba's beaches are very different from each other, so choose by your route. Our Cuba beach guide compares Cayo las Brujas, Playa Larga and Playa Ancón, with notes on Varadero and the beaches near Havana.
Good to know
A few useful questions
How long do you need in Cuba with kids?
Two to three weeks allows a relaxed loop through Havana, Viñales, Playa Larga, Cienfuegos and Trinidad. With less time, choose two or three bases.
Is Cuba safe for families?
We felt safe and welcome, but shortages, power cuts and limited medical supplies affect daily life. Check your government's current travel advice and bring the medicines and baby supplies you need.
What is the best way to get around Cuba with children?
Private transfers are the most flexible on long journeys; Viazul buses are cheaper but less flexible. Confirm bookings close to the date because fuel shortages can affect both.
