In Central Cuba, travel is organised around inter-city transfers. The Viazul bus links Havana to Trinidad (€25, 5h45 with Cienfuegos stop), Cienfuegos (€22, 4h), Santa Clara (€18, 4h) and between the central cities (Trinidad-Cienfuegos €6, 1h30; Trinidad-Santa Clara €8, 2h30; Cienfuegos-Santa Clara €7, 2h). Booking mandatory at viazul.com several days ahead.
Colectivo taxis (long-distance almendrones, €15-35 per person depending on distance) are more flexible and often faster than buses — negotiation possible via your casa particular. Private cars with driver (€80-150/day) allow photo stops and great flexibility.
Car hire (€50-70/day) is the richest option for a full loop Havana → Cienfuegos → Trinidad → Santa Clara → Havana over 7-10 days. Roads are middling but passable. Beware of limited signage and occasional fuel rationing.
Inside the colonial towns, everything happens on foot — historic centres are compact and closed to motorised vehicles (Trinidad especially). Bicitaxis (€1-2 per ride) for short trips. For Ancón beach from Trinidad: taxi €10-15 return or tourist bus (Cube-bus, €2 per ride).
Read also
- Trinidad, the frozen colonial town — Colourful cobblestones, Plaza Mayor, Casa de la Música: the UNESCO jewel of central Cuba.
- Cuba — Complete country guide: visa, currency, regions, best time to visit.
- Havana and the West — The Cuban capital and Viñales Valley: the most visited region of Cuba.
- South-East and Santiago — Santiago de Cuba, Baracoa, Sierra Maestra: the most authentic Cuban Oriente.