The Basics
We arrived to Cienfuegos on the Viazul bus coming from Playa Larga and heading onward to Trinidad. This route can fill up quickly during high season, so we purchased all our tickets at once (from Havana to Santiago de Cuba).
We were able to walk from the bus station towards the town center and find a casa particular without prior reservations. From our experience, there is always someone with an empty room willing to squeeze you in for the night. However, reservations are recommended during peak seasons (see my future post on Camaguey).
Get Your Adventure On
Farmer’s Market: A couple blocks off the main square, this market was filled with authentic Cuba. Counters were filled with the standard vegetables, beans, rice, and fruits. In the corners, we watched the butchers chopping loudly at slabs of meat. We picked up some items to cook for breakfast, but I recommend even if you’re just stopping by.
Main Plaza: We spent time wandering through this area, which hosts a few local art galleries and shops. We purchased a painting from an artist who was a student at a nearby university.
Hotel la Union: This antique hotel was our go-to spot for wifi and a clean bathroom. We spent an afternoon at their outdoor pool, a refreshing time of relaxation amidst the craze of travel in Cuba.
Eats and Drinks
Casa del Prado: We stumbled upon this restaurant through luck, but then ended up meeting locals of Cienfuegos later in our trip who claimed it was the ‘best restaurant in the town’. They served us large portions with friendly service. What made this place unique was the diverse menu of paellas and seafood dishes. Prices are in CUC.
El Gato Verde: Throughout the trip, we sought to find what we called ‘in-between’ restaurants. That is, ones that are a happy medium of price and quality of CUP to CUC. This breakfast joint nailed it. Eggs and bacon for less than a couple dollars AND we got to sit down while we ate.
What Next?
Although we stayed only one night, we enjoyed the vibe here and found several things to do. I would have loved another night here to see the Malecon and explore other parts of the town.
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