About
Santiago de Cuba is the island's second-largest city and, for a long period, its capital. It lies in the south-east of Cuba, in the province that shares its name, and it has a character of its own that visitors often find distinct from Havana.
What the city is known for
Santiago is known for its rich Afro-Cuban culture, which runs through its streets, rhythms and everyday life. It is also central to the island's revolutionary history, and visitors interested in that story will find much to explore in the city and its surroundings.
Music is a major draw. The city has a lively scene that includes son and salsa, and a visit can easily be shaped around listening, dancing and simply spending time where the music is played.
What a visit offers
- Music in the city's streets and venues, with son and salsa at the heart of the scene
- Afro-Cuban culture visible in daily life, traditions and the city's atmosphere
- Sites connected with Cuba's revolutionary history
- A base for exploring Santiago de Cuba Province beyond the city itself
Because Santiago is a city with a long past as the island's capital, many visitors plan a few days here to take in its culture at an unhurried pace, and to compare its mood with the larger capital in the west.
