Hotels in Varadero

Varadero: Where Pristine Beaches Meet Vibrant Coral Dreams

Nestled on the pristine Varadero Peninsula, Varadero, Cuba, is a tropical paradise renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This vibrant destination boasts world-class resorts, lively nightlife, and a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore lush natural parks, snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, or unwind at the idyllic Sol Caribe Beach. The bustling center offers charming shops and local cuisine, while breathtaking sea views provide the perfect backdrop for romantic sunsets. With its unique blend of relaxation and adventure, Varadero is an unforgettable escape for beach lovers and explorers alike. For the best hotel rates in Varadero and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Varadero

Some of the best places to stay in Varadero are Cárdenas, Matanzas and Jovellanos. Cárdenas, Matanzas, and Jovellanos offer unique cultural experiences for travelers. Cárdenas is known for its vibrant local life, while Matanzas showcases beautiful architecture and rich history. Jovellanos provides a quieter escape. Hotel accommodations range from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts, particularly in Varadero, where you'll find a variety of hotels and all-inclusive resorts ideal for relaxation. For first-time visitors, Varadero is the best choice, offering stunning beaches and a wide range of amenities. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Varadero:

1. CárdenasOpens in a new window: Known for its beautiful beaches, Cárdenas offers a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor activities. It features attractions like Varadero Beach for sunbathing and swimming, Varahicacos Ecological Reserve for nature enthusiasts, and Josone Park for family-friendly outings. For accommodations, consider Sanctuary at Grand Memories Varadero - Adults Only - All InclusiveOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star all-inclusive resort with a plethora of amenities, including unlimited food and drinks, a fitness center, and direct beach access. Another option is Royalton Hicacos - Adults Only - All InclusiveOpens in a new window, also a 4-star all-inclusive resort, which offers spa services and business facilities, ideal for both leisure and business travelers. Lastly, Roc Arenas Doradas HotelOpens in a new window is a charming 4-star hotel focusing on romance, providing spa services and a beautiful pool area.
2. MatanzasOpens in a new window: Matanzas is a vibrant city known for its cultural heritage and beautiful parks. Key attractions include the Varadero International Skydiving Centre for adventure seekers, Parque de la Libertad for family outings, and La Arboleda, perfect for relaxation. For a comfortable stay, Hotel E VelascoOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel offering various dining options and recreational activities like snorkeling and kayaking. Another great choice is Memories Jibacoa- Adults Only - All InclusiveOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star all-inclusive resort that emphasizes wellness and natural surroundings, featuring direct beach access. For budget-conscious travelers, Casa Particular Ritmo LatinoOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star guesthouse, offers basic amenities and a cozy atmosphere.
3. JovellanosOpens in a new window: A charming location with cultural touchpoints, Jovellanos boasts attractions like Cardenas Cathedral, Varadero Beach, and the Flagpole Monument. This area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying beach access. Consider staying at Hostal Mirta y VladiOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star guesthouse that welcomes pets—ideal for animal lovers. Another option is Casa BerthaOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star guesthouse with direct beach access, perfect for sun-seekers. Lastly, Hotel Río San JuanOpens in a new window, also a 2.5-star hotel, offers a full spa service in a city center location, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring.

Things to do in Varadero for first time

Varadero is a tropical paradise perfect for a three-day getaway, featuring stunning white-sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lush natural parks. Travelers can enjoy activities like boating, diving, and hiking, or simply relax in beautiful gardens. The serene atmosphere and breathtaking landscapes make it a must-visit destination. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Varadero:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Varadero with a visit to Cardenas Cathedral, where you can admire its stunning architecture and learn about the local history. Afterward, make your way to the Santa Catalina Caves, a natural wonder that offers a glimpse into Cuba's geological treasures. Conclude your day at the Flagpole Monument, a unique landmark that celebrates the town's heritage, providing an excellent photo opportunity and a chance to reflect on your experiences.
• Day 2: Begin your exploration at Cueva Saturno, a breathtaking cave filled with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Next, head to Morrillo Castle, a historic fortress that offers stunning views of Matanzas Bay, where you can delve into the area's rich history. Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll along Matanzas Bay, soaking in the picturesque scenery and enjoying the local atmosphere.
• Day 3: Kick off your day with an adrenaline rush at the Varadero International Skydiving Centre, where you can experience breathtaking views of the coastline from above. Following the excitement, visit Loma de Jacan, an elevated area that provides panoramic views and a chance to enjoy nature. Finally, explore Las Cuevas de Bellamar, a fascinating network of caves that showcases impressive stalactites and stalagmites, making for a memorable conclusion to your Varadero adventure.

5 tips to find a great Varadero hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Varadero is during July, August, and November, when hotel prices tend to drop. For those looking to make the most of their trip, a stay of at least 3-4 days is recommended to fully enjoy the area's attractions. Highlights in Varadero include its stunning beaches, vibrant marina, and beautiful coral reefs. This destination offers great value for money, making it perfect for travelers on a budget who want to experience the natural beauty of Cuba.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Varadero, Hotels.com is a great place to start. Check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about potential savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you're more likely to catch flash sales and special promotions, giving you flexible booking options without missing out on great prices for Varadero hotels.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. Therefore, if you have flexibility with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Varadero.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Varadero is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like a car, taxi, bus, or bicycle, or even walk to explore the area while saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Varadero and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Varadero

Here are some popular dishes in Varadero, Matanzas, Cuba:

• Ropa Vieja: This beloved Cuban dish features shredded beef cooked slowly in a tomato-based sauce with bell peppers, onions, and spices. It’s often served with rice and black beans, making it a hearty meal that reflects the island's rich culinary heritage. Ropa Vieja is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings families together, typically enjoyed during gatherings.
• Lechon Asado: A true Cuban classic, Lechon Asado is succulent roast pork marinated in a garlicky citrus marinade, then slow-cooked to perfection. This dish is often the centerpiece of festive occasions and family celebrations, served with rice and yuca, showcasing the importance of communal dining in Cuban culture.
• Moros y Cristianos: This iconic dish consists of black beans and rice cooked together, symbolizing the historical coexistence of different cultures in Cuba. The flavors meld beautifully, making it a staple on many Cuban tables, often served alongside meats or as a hearty vegetarian option.

Best time to go to Varadero

Varadero experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 71.8°F (22.1°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.4°F (28.0°C). June is usually the wettest month. January, March, and July are the peak travel months in Varadero, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with dry to light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.