Golf holidays Havanna

Golf trip to Cuba: Why Havana is the perfect starting or ending point

For many golfers, a trip to Cuba does not begin with the first tee shot, but with immersion in a city that pulsates with history, rhythm and joie de vivre: Havana. The Cuban capital is not only the cultural and political centre of the country – it is also a fascinating start or stylish end to any golf trip to Cuba.

Havana from a golfer’s perspective

If you are travelling to Cuba with your golf clubs in your luggage, it is worth spending a few days in Havana – whether at the beginning or end of your trip. Why? Quite simply: here you can soak up the pure Caribbean lifestyle before heading out onto the island’s fairways or winding down in style after an intense week of golf.

Easy start to your golf trip – perfect connections

Most international flights land in Havana. From Aeropuerto Internacional José Martí, you can reach the old town in around 30 minutes – or one of the comfortable city hotels such as the Meliá Habana or the stylish Iberostar Grand Packard. Both offer not only top-notch service, but also the opportunity to relax after your flight, acclimatise and get rid of jet lag before continuing on to Varadero or the golf course.

Culture, cuisine & the Cuban way of life

What makes Havana special is its atmosphere. Between colonial mansions, old American road cruisers and the sounds of live music in the alleys of Habana Vieja, you can immerse yourself in the real Cuba.

As a golfer, you appreciate precision and aesthetics – and that’s exactly what you’ll find here in the architecture, the old-school bars and the serenity of the city. Enjoy a Cuba Libre on the roof terrace of the Hotel Saratoga, stroll along the Malecón and indulge in culinary delights at one of the many paladares (private restaurants).

A relaxed transition to your golf holiday

After a night or two in Havana, it’s an easy trip to Varadero, where the Varadero Golf Club, one of the most beautiful golf courses in the Caribbean, awaits you – right by the sea, with fantastic fairways and a wonderful breeze from the Atlantic. The route between Havana and Varadero is well developed, and the transfer takes about two hours – perfect for taking a deep breath and getting ready for your rounds of golf.

Or the other way round: relax and unwind in Havana

If you’ve been playing golf intensively for a week, Havana is the perfect place to wind down. A little more sightseeing, a few mojitos and perhaps a ride in a classic convertible through Vedado – and you’ll fly home with a wealth of impressions.

Conclusion: Havana is a must on any golf trip to Cuba

Whether you’re arriving or winding down, Havana is a must for every golfer travelling to Cuba. The combination of history, music, sun and the Cuban way of life perfectly complements the sporting part of the trip.

Tip: Plan at least 2 to 3 nights in Havana – you won’t regret it. And the contrast between the city and the golf course makes the trip all the more exciting.