Cuba Jazz Plaza Festival Trip| Havana Cuba

Each January, Havana transforms into the beating heart of Latin American jazz during the world-famous Jazz Plaza International Festival. The upcoming 2026 festival, now entering its 41st edition, features legendary Cuban musicians alongside renowned international artists. Created by cultural visionary Bobby Carcassés and led today by Grammy-winning maestro Chucho Valdés, Jazz Plaza has become a global meeting point for jazz lovers and performers alike. This festival delivers an unforgettable musical celebration in one of the most vibrant cities in the world, making our Cuba Jazz Plaza Festival Trip the perfect way to experience it all.

A UNIQUE CULTURAL ADVENTURE IN THE HEART OF HAVANA

Join us for an immersive journey to Cuba that blends world-class jazz, authentic cultural experiences, and exclusive VIP festival access. This curated trip is designed for travelers who want more than a vacation — they want a meaningful connection with Cuban music, people, and history. Explore the rich heritage of Havana, meet local musicians, discover hidden cultural gems, and enjoy guaranteed access to all Jazz Plaza concerts, workshops, and festival activities, with priority seating in theaters. Your week also includes remarkable day trips to Viñales, Cuba’s tobacco heartland, and to the beautiful beach town of Varadero, giving you the chance to experience more than just Havana during the festival. Experience Cuba like an insider while our team handles every detail, ensuring a seamless and inspiring adventure. For those seeking even more adventure, our 10-night offer extends beyond Havana, taking you to the picturesque towns of Trinidad, Santa Clara, Cienfuegos, and the stunning South of Matanzas. This extension gives you the opportunity to explore half of the island and experience even more of Cuba’s cultural and natural beauty.

JAZZ PLAZA TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Sunday, January 25th — Arrival in Havana
Arrive in Cuba’s capital and kick off your adventure with a Welcome Dinner alongside your fellow travelers.

• Monday, January 26th — Havana Neighborhood Tour
Discover Havana’s diverse districts, from historic Centro Habana to elegant Vedado and Miramar.

• Tuesday, January 27th — Guided Walking Tour of Old Havana
Explore a UNESCO World Heritage site and immerse yourself in its rich history, vibrant streets, and stunning colonial architecture.

• Wednesday, January 28th — Viñales Day Trip
Visit the heartland of Cuba’s tobacco plantations and learn about the art of cigar-making in this UNESCO World Heritage region.

• Thursday, January 29th — Hemingway Experience
Step into the world of Ernest Hemingway with a tour of his former home and insight into his legacy in Cuba.

• Friday, January 30th — Varadero Beach Day
Relax on the pristine sands of Varadero Beach and enjoy time exploring this charming resort town.

• Saturday, January 31st — Havana History Tour
Dive deeper into Havana’s past with a comprehensive city tour that reveals the stories behind its most iconic symbols.

• Sunday, February 1st — Departure or Optional Extension
Return home or continue your journey to Trinidad, with a stop in Santa Clara to explore its revolutionary history.

• Monday, February 2nd — Trinidad Exploration
Discover Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, one of Cuba’s oldest towns, and visit the historic Sugar Cane Mills.

• Tuesday, February 3rd — Southern Cuba Journey
Travel back to Havana through the island’s southern coast, with visits to Cienfuegos (founded by French settlers) and the historic Bay of Pigs.

• Wednesday, February 4th — Final Departure

Breathtaking landscapes, charming colonial towns, and sun-kissed shores—experience the rich cultural and natural beauty travelers discover on our Cuba Jazz Plaza Festival Trip.

Old Havana – Havana City’s UNESCO World Heritage Historic Center

Varadero Beach – TripAdvisor’s No. 9 “World’s Best Beaches” Award Winner

Viñales Valley – UNESCO World Heritage Site & Home to Cuba’s Famous Tobacco Farms

Trinidad & Valle de los Ingenios – UNESCO World Heritage Sites Showcasing Cuba’s Colonial History

Historic Center of Cienfuegos – UNESCO World Heritage Site and Cuba’s Only French-Founded City

South of Matanzas – Scenic Coastal Region Along Our Jazz Plaza Travel Route

Travel comfortably in a climate-controlled minibus, with optional rides in classic Cuban transport—vintage convertibles, cocotaxis, and bicitaxis.

Savor authentic Cuban cuisine with meals at top paladares and heartwarming home-cooked dishes prepared by local families.

THIS IS AN ALL-INCLUSIVE TRIP DESIGNED FOR HASSLE-FREE TRAVEL

We take care of every detail—simply arrive in Cuba, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, and enjoy an unforgettable experience.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN YOUR PACKAGE

• VIP Festival Pass and Festival Program
• Free evenings to fully immerse yourself in the Festival
• Comprehensive Documentation and Visa Support for U.S. Visitors
• Detailed Daily Itinerary & Activity Guide
• Airport Transfers (Pickup and Drop-off)
• Accommodations in Cuban Casas & Apartments (Airbnb)
• Breakfast at your lodging
• One Delicious and Authentic Cuban Meal per Day (all dietary preferences accommodated)
• Expert-Led Guided Tours
• Custom Google Map with Key Locations & Recommendations

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED IN YOUR PACKAGE

• International flights to/from Cuba ($150–$550 depending on departure city) — airline suggestions will be shared
• Cuban tourist visa — official website provided upon booking ($85)
• Travel insurance — required; often included in airfare
• Mandatory customs form — must be completed within 48 hours prior to arrival (link sent before departure)
• Contributions to Cuban family gatherings — approx. $20 (bring Cuban drinks/snacks to share)
• Optional SIM card or internet package — approx. $15
• Donations brought by group members — details available below on this page

TRAVELING FROM THE USA?

Yes — it is legal to travel to Cuba from the United States under one of the approved travel categories.
Our itinerary complies with Support for the Cuban People, ensuring a meaningful, culturally immersive, and regulation-friendly experience.

Check out our detailed guide for Americans traveling to Cuba HERE.

TRAVELING WITH FAMILY OR FRIENDS?

Get in touch to learn more about the benefits available when you and your companions travel together.

READY TO BOOK YOUR SPOT TODAY?

Spaces are limited — don’t miss this unique opportunity to combine your love of jazz with an enriching cultural experience in Cuba.
Reach out for details, ask any questions, and we’ll guide you through the next steps.

INTERESTED IN JOINING US?

Get in touch for more information: cubanisms2016@gmail.com

A GLIMPSE INTO OUR JAZZ PLAZA FESTIVAL TRIP 2025

Here’s a little glimpse of fun moments from our Jazz Plaza Festival Trip 2025. Alongside these memorable experiences, our guests enjoyed full access to every concert throughout the festival week, making it an unforgettable musical journey.

PREVIOUS PERFORMANCES OF MICHAEL AT THE JAZZ PLAZA FESTIVAL

- Special guest for Janio Abreu & Victor Goines, DVD "Nuestra Herencia Musical" (Jazz Plaza 2018)

- Michael McClintock & Cubanisms (Jazz Plaza 2019)

- Michael McClintock & Mireya Ramos (Latin Grammy Winner) Videos coming soon (Jazz Plaza 2024)

GIFTS THAT KEEP MUSIC ALIVE

All of our Cuba itineraries qualify as “Support for the Cuban People” trips—thoughtfully designed to foster connection through culture, community, and care.

As part of the journey, travelers are encouraged to bring donations that directly support primary school students, music students, and local musicians.

Their joy fills our hearts—and sharing in that exchange is one of the most meaningful parts of the experience.

REVIEWS

Traveler reviews from some of our past Jazz Plaza adventures

Teresa from New York, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

If you’re thinking of visiting Cuba, highly recommend booking through Cubanisms. Dálida crafted a personalized itinerary during the Plaza Jazz Festival that allowed us to truly experience this gorgeous, diamond-in-the-rough place. Accommodations were clean & comfortable. The food was fresh & delicious. The people are so kind & generous—even to a non-Spanish speaking gringa like me! Dálida gives you a true perspective of the country as someone who has lived through many key moments in history. I have travelled all over the world, & Cuba truly stole my heart as one of my favorite trips. ❤️

Forest from Missouri, 2019
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Despite the special care required in order to travel to Cuba I experienced absolutely no hiccups in my trip to Havana & around the island, thanks to Dalida's attention to detail & vast knowledge of the region, culture, & people. I was able to simply relax, explore, & focus my attention on what the island had to offer, without concern for the logistics associated with traveling to the region. The trip was a truly eye-opening experience that will remain with me as a major highlight. It was culturally enriching, & is highly recommended. The Cubanisms tour left me feeling as though I had received a glimpse of the REAL Cuba!

MORE FROM OUR CUBA TRAVELERS, WITH LOVE

A few more heartfelt words from travelers who joined our Cuba adventures — sharing their experiences, stories, and unforgettable moments on the island.

Read all verified Google reviews about our Cuba and France travel services HERE

ALL OUR SERVICES

At Cubanisms, we offer a full range of Cuba and France travel services, crafting meaningful cultural journeys since 2016. Our Cuba trips are fully guided cultural experiences, while in France we provide personalized travel counseling, itinerary support, and booking assistance to help you design a smooth, enjoyable stay.

Whether you're planning a customized itinerary, joining one of our open groups, traveling solo, or seeking an internship or educational program, we create trips that prioritize authenticity, culture, and meaningful connection.