Things To Do
in Güines

Güines is a charming town located in the Mayabeque province of Cuba, known for its rich agricultural landscape and vibrant local culture. The town is characterized by its colonial architecture and friendly atmosphere, making it a pleasant destination for travelers seeking an authentic Cuban experience. Visitors can explore the local markets, enjoy traditional music, and take part in community festivities.

Güines serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding countryside and nearby attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Güines
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Plaza de Güines, where you can soak in the local atmosphere and admire the colonial architecture. Enjoy a traditional Cuban breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll to the local market to sample fresh fruits and vegetables. Visit the Museo Municipal to learn about the town's history and culture.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant featuring traditional Cuban cuisine, followed by a leisurely walk around the plaza to enjoy live music performances.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Head to the nearby natural reserve for a guided tour, exploring the local flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit a nearby tobacco farm to learn about the cigar-making process and enjoy a tasting session.

evening
:

Experience the vibrant nightlife at a local bar where you can dance to salsa music and meet locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$10
Cup of Coffee$1
🚕Taxi Ride within Town$3
🍺Local Beer$2
🏨Night in Budget Accommodation$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic Cuban cultural experience.
  • Rich agricultural scenery and local markets.
  • Friendly locals and vibrant community life.
  • Limited access to modern amenities.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Spanish speakers.
  • Transportation options may be limited outside the town center.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Güines

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza de Güines

Capture the vibrant life of the town with its colonial buildings and bustling market atmosphere.

Museo Municipal

Photograph the artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the town's history.

Nearby Tobacco Fields

The expansive green fields make for picturesque landscapes, especially during sunrise.

Culinary Guide

Food in Güines

Güines offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases traditional Cuban flavors and local ingredients, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

Güines Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ropa Vieja

Shredded beef cooked in a savory tomato sauce, served with rice and black beans.

Must-Try!

Moros y Cristianos

A classic dish of black beans and rice cooked together with spices.

Vaca Frita

Marinated and grilled beef, typically served with onions and lime.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Agropecuario

A bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, meats, and spices.

Street Vendors

Look for vendors selling delicious snacks like empanadas and churros throughout the town.

Climate Guide

Weather

Güines has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season runs from November to April, characterized by warm temperatures and lower humidity, while the wet season from May to October sees higher humidity and more frequent rain. Average temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer, making it generally warm year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a friendly 'Hola' is common; always greet people you encounter.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; casual clothing is acceptable in most other settings.

Photography Permissions

Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Güines is generally safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables in public. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas, so take standard precautions. Always use registered taxis and avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas.

Tipping in Güines

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Culture

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; small tips are appreciated by taxi drivers and hotel staff.

Cash Payments

Cash is preferred; credit cards are not widely accepted, so carry sufficient local currency.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter

Mild temperatures and low humidity make this the best time to visit, with plenty of outdoor activities available.

Spring

Warm weather returns, and local flowers bloom, making it a beautiful season for photography.

Summer

Expect high humidity and occasional rain; be prepared for afternoon showers.

Autumn

Temperatures cool down, and the tourist crowds thin out, making it a peaceful time to explore.

Nightlife Guide

Güines at Night

Güines offers a lively nightlife scene, with several bars and clubs featuring live music, particularly salsa and son. Locals enjoy gathering to dance, socialize, and enjoy cocktails made with rum and fresh fruit. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to immerse yourself in Cuban culture after dark.

Hiking in Güines

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

La Güinera Trail

A scenic trail approximately 5 km long that leads through lush greenery and offers stunning views of the landscape.

Cerro de La Paz

A more challenging hike that rewards climbers with panoramic views of the region and the opportunity to see local wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Güines by plane.

José Martí International Airport

Located about 40 km from Güines, this is the main international airport serving Havana and the surrounding region, with flights connecting to various destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Güines is fairly walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, markets, and restaurants are located within a short distance of each other. Sidewalks are available, but be cautious of uneven surfaces and occasional street vendors. Walking allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the sights at a relaxed pace.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Cuban Nationals

The majority of the population consists of Cuban nationals who are friendly and welcoming to visitors.

Tourists

Güines attracts a small number of tourists, particularly those looking for an authentic Cuban experience away from the main tourist hotspots.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is the most popular sport in Cuba, and you can often find locals playing in the streets or parks.

Boxing

Cuban boxing has a rich history, and many locals are passionate about the sport, often participating in local matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Güines is generally light, with more pedestrians than vehicles on the streets. Public transportation options include local buses and classic American cars used as taxis, which can be hailed easily. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transport. It’s advisable to be cautious while crossing streets, as drivers may not always yield to pedestrians.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Güines.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Cuban cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like fried plantains and vegetable stews.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it’s advisable to ask about ingredients when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Güines are basic, with local clinics providing primary care. For more serious health issues, travelers may need to go to larger hospitals in Havana, which is about an hour away. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and to bring any necessary medications, as access to pharmaceuticals can be limited.

Discover Cuba

Read more in our Cuba 2025 Travel Guide.

Cuba Travel Guide