3 Things to do in Varadero

You won't be short of things to do and see in a resort the size of Varadero. With its 20km stretches of powdery sand, sparkling turquoise-blue waters and shady palm trees, Varadero's beaches are a slice of Caribbean paradise. Away from the incredible beaches, there are plenty of things to do in Varadero. From sun-drenched city tours to al fresco shopping in street market, here's why you shouldn't pass over the chance to venture outside the resort area.

City tours and experiences

If you can tear yourself away from the longest beach in the Caribbean for a few hours, you'll find there's lots of day trips and excursions you can do from Varadero. Take some time away from the buzzy tourist hub and immerse yourself in local Cuban culture.

Havana is just a two hour drive away, so you can see the city's colonial squares and colourful buildings and still return to those resort comforts come nightfall. For an experience unique to Varadero, book an evening with the world-famous Buena Vista Social Club. Once picked up from your hotel, you'll enjoy the sounds of jazz, son de cuba, and soul, as the remaining band members perform an intimate bar gig.

Saturno cave

Just a 30-minute drive from Varadero is Cueva Saturno, a flooded underground cave filled with crystal-clear freshwater. You can stare far into the 22-metre depths thanks to the water's exceptional clarity, while the warm temperature means you'll find fellow tourists enjoying a leisurely swim. Explore further and rent some snorkelling equipment from the onsite shop.

Ambrosio cave

The Ambrosio cave may be small, but it's still well worth a visit. Take a wander in this cave and marvel at the pre-Colombian cave drawings on the wall. Thought to be over 2000 years old, the cave's drawings are accompanied by the fruit-eating bats that hang from the ceiling.

House of Rum

Cuba is known for its love of rum, so what better place to learn more about this tasty liquor than at the House of Rum in downtown Varadero? Taste delicious Cuban rum, while the variations of light and dark rum are explained. With special Cuban brands of rum on sale that you won't find at the airport, you'll struggle not to leave here with a bottle or two!

Varadero street market

A stroll through the large street market in Varadero is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and unique gifts to take home. From pashminas and leather accessories to reasonably priced artwork, exploring the market's stalls is a fun way to spend a few hours.

Josone Park

As if the beauty of Varadero's beaches wasn't enough, it's matched by the sights you'll see on a visit to Josone Park. If you're looking for things to do in Varadero on a budget then this definitely ticks all the boxes. Free to enter, this popular park is enjoyed by over 500,000 people every year. Walk through the lush tropical vegetation, enjoy a boat ride on the artificial lake and re-energise at one of the many restaurants. Kids will love the swimming pool, playground, bowling and mini golf course.