Jamaica

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Jamaica's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in Old Havana, savoring fresh tropical fruits and Cuban coffee. After breakfast, embark on a guided walking tour of the historic center, where you’ll admire the stunning colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Take time to visit iconic landmarks such as Plaza de Armas and the Cathedral of Havana.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a traditional Cuban restaurant, trying local specialties like Ropa Vieja or Arroz con Pollo. Post-lunch, visit the Museo de la Revolución to gain insights into Cuba's rich history and revolutionary past. Stroll through the bustling streets of Old Havana, stopping by artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a rooftop bar to enjoy panoramic views of the city while sipping a refreshing mojito. Experience the lively atmosphere of Havana by attending a salsa dancing lesson or watching a live music performance at a local venue. Conclude your day with a leisurely dinner at a restaurant featuring authentic Cuban cuisine.

day 2
Relaxing on Varadero Beach
morning
:

After breakfast, head to the stunning Varadero Beach, known for its soft white sands and turquoise waters. Spend the morning lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, and taking refreshing dips in the Caribbean Sea. You can also rent a kayak or paddleboard for some light water sports.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a beachside lunch at one of the local eateries, sampling fresh seafood dishes while listening to the gentle sound of waves. In the afternoon, consider joining a snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Alternatively, unwind with a beachside massage, letting the soothing sounds of the ocean melt your stress away.

evening
:

As evening approaches, take a stroll along the beach, watching the sky turn vibrant shades of orange and pink during sunset. Dine at a beachfront restaurant, where you can enjoy freshly caught fish and tropical cocktails. Conclude your day by attending a beach bonfire party, mingling with locals and travelers alike under the starry sky.

day 3
Exploring the Blue Mountains
morning
:

Set out early for a guided tour of the picturesque Blue Mountains, known for their lush coffee plantations and breathtaking views. After a hearty breakfast, take a scenic drive through the mountains, stopping at viewpoints to capture stunning photographs. Visit a local coffee farm to learn about the coffee-making process and sample some fresh brews.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a rustic lunch at a mountain lodge, featuring farm-to-table dishes made with local ingredients. After lunch, embark on a hiking adventure through the verdant trails, discovering unique flora and fauna along the way. Your guide will share fascinating insights into the ecosystem and the cultural significance of the area.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to your accommodation and refresh before heading out for dinner. Choose a cozy restaurant in Kingston, where you can enjoy a mix of Jamaican and international cuisines. End the evening by catching a live reggae show, immersing yourself in the island's rich musical heritage.

day 4
Cultural Immersion in Santiago de Cuba
morning
:

After breakfast, fly or drive to Santiago de Cuba, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this culturally rich city. Begin your day with a visit to the Castillo del Morro, a historic fortress offering panoramic views of the harbor and coastline. Explore the nearby Parque de Céspedes, where you can see locals enjoying their day.

afternoon
:

Indulge in a traditional Cuban lunch at a local paladar, tasting dishes that reflect the flavors of the Caribbean. Spend your afternoon visiting the Museo del Carnaval, where you can learn about Santiago's famous carnival tradition and see colorful costumes. Take a walk through the streets of Santiago, where the lively rhythms of son music fill the air.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local venue to enjoy an evening of live music, showcasing the best of Cuban son and salsa. Feast on dinner at a restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious local fare. After dinner, consider joining a guided night tour to experience the city's nightlife and discover hidden gems.

day 5
Adventure at Dunn's River Falls
morning
:

Start your adventure with breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for a day of exploration. Head to Dunn's River Falls, one of Jamaica's most iconic natural attractions, where you can climb the terraced waterfalls. Guided tours are available, ensuring a safe and enjoyable ascent while learning about the surrounding flora.

afternoon
:

After conquering the falls, relax at the beach area where you can swim in the refreshing waters or simply sunbathe. Enjoy a picnic lunch or grab a bite from nearby vendors offering local snacks. Spend your afternoon exploring the surrounding park, enjoying the lush tropical landscape and vibrant wildlife.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to your accommodation to freshen up before heading out for dinner. Choose a seaside restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood while listening to the waves lapping against the shore. Conclude your evening with a stroll along the beach, perhaps catching a glimpse of the fireflies dancing in the night air.

day 6
Cuban Art and Culture Tour
morning
:

After breakfast, set off to explore the vibrant art scene in Havana, starting with a visit to the Fabrica de Arte Cubano, a contemporary art space. Spend the morning wandering through various exhibits showcasing local artists' work and appreciating the fusion of art and culture. Don’t forget to engage with artists and learn about their creative processes.

afternoon
:

Savor lunch at a nearby café, taking time to reflect on the art you’ve seen while enjoying traditional Cuban dishes. The afternoon can be spent visiting local galleries and studios, where you can meet artists and see their works in progress. Consider taking a short workshop on Cuban art techniques to immerse yourself further in the culture.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that features artwork from local artists, creating a unique dining atmosphere. Following dinner, attend a performance of classical Cuban ballet or theater, experiencing the richness of Cuban performing arts. End the night by visiting a nearby bar known for its mojitos and live music, mingling with locals and fellow travelers.

day 7
Exploring the Caves of Jamaica
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local café before heading to the enchanting Green Grotto Caves. Take a guided tour through the caves, marveling at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and learn about their fascinating history. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that inhabits the caves.

afternoon
:

After exploring the caves, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a restaurant overlooking the ocean, savoring fresh seafood and local specialties. Spend the afternoon at a nearby beach, where you can relax, swim, or try your hand at snorkeling in the clear waters. The beach offers a perfect setting to unwind and soak up the sun.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to your hotel to freshen up before dinner. Choose a local restaurant known for its jerk chicken, a must-try dish in Jamaica. After dinner, head to a nearby bar for a taste of local rum and live music, embracing the lively spirit of the island.

day 8
Exploring the Historic Town of Trinidad
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at your accommodations before heading to the charming town of Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, taking in the well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant bougainvillea. Visit the Museo Romántico to learn about the town’s rich history and cultural significance.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Trinidadian dishes such as casabe and picadillo. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby Valle de los Ingenios, where you can see the ruins of old sugar plantations and learn about the history of sugar production in Cuba. Consider visiting a local artist's studio to appreciate and perhaps purchase some unique artwork.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to Trinidad and dine at a rooftop restaurant, enjoying breathtaking views of the town and surrounding mountains. Experience the vibrant nightlife by visiting the Casa de la Musica, where you can dance to live salsa music and mingle with locals. End your evening with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the magical atmosphere.

day 9
A Day in Negril: Beaches and Cliffs
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before heading to the famous Seven Mile Beach in Negril. Spend your morning lounging on the soft sands, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoying various water activities such as jet skiing or paddleboarding. Take a moment to appreciate the stunning views and vibrant beach culture.

afternoon
:

For lunch, visit a beachside restaurant to savor grilled lobster or jerk chicken, paired with a refreshing drink. Afterward, head to the cliffs of Negril, where you can explore the scenic landscape and relax at a cliffside bar. If you're feeling adventurous, try cliff diving into the azure waters below.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a spot to watch the breathtaking sunset over the Caribbean Sea, a highlight of any visit to Negril. Enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant, where you can indulge in more Caribbean flavors while listening to live reggae music. Conclude your day with a moonlit stroll along the beach, reflecting on the beauty of the day.

day 10
Cuban Culinary Delights
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and Cuban coffee. Then, take a cooking class where a local chef will teach you how to prepare traditional Cuban dishes, explaining the significance of each ingredient. Participate in hands-on cooking, creating delicious meals like Arroz con Pollo and Moros y Cristianos.

afternoon
:

Savor the fruits of your labor with a lunch feast featuring the dishes you learned to prepare. Spend the afternoon visiting a local market, where you can explore fresh produce and spices unique to Cuban cuisine. Engage with local vendors, learning about their culinary traditions and perhaps purchasing some ingredients to try at home.

evening
:

As evening approaches, dine at a renowned restaurant that offers a fusion of traditional and modern Cuban cuisine. After dinner, join a guided food tour, sampling various street foods and drinks while learning about Cuba's culinary history. End the night at a local bar, enjoying a classic Cuban cocktail like a Daiquiri or a Cuba Libre.

Discover Jamaica

Read more in our Jamaica 2025 Travel Guide.

Jamaica Travel Guide