Las Tunas

Las Tunas is the capital of Las Tunas Province in eastern Cuba, located about 670 km east of Havana. Known as the "City of Sculptures" (Ciudad de las Esculturas), it has a population of roughly 150,000 and is distinguished by the more than 300 sculptures and public art installations scattered throughout its streets, parks, and plazas. The city has a relaxed, provincial character and serves as the administrative and commercial centre for the surrounding agricultural region.

Founded in 1759, Las Tunas grew from a small settlement into a provincial capital. The city played a role in Cuba's wars of independence, and several monuments commemorate this history. The climate is tropical, with hot summers (30–34°C) and a rainy season from May to October. The best time to visit is from November to April when temperatures are slightly lower and rainfall decreases.

The city centre is organised around Parque Vicente García, the main square named after a local independence hero. Streets radiate outward from the centre, with the sculpture trail extending through the urban area. Las Tunas hosts an annual international sculpture symposium that has contributed to its unique outdoor art collection.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Hermanos Ameijeiras Airport (IATA: VTU) on the outskirts of Las Tunas, though it has limited or no scheduled commercial service. The most practical air access is via Frank País Airport (IATA: HOG) in Holguín, approximately 100 km northeast, or Sierra Maestra Airport (IATA: MZO) in Manzanillo, about 120 km southeast. Taxis from either airport to Las Tunas cost approximately CUC 60–80.

By Train

Las Tunas has a railway station on Cuba's central line with intermittent service connecting to Camagüey (west) and Holguín (east). Schedules are unreliable; check at the station locally. The journey from Camagüey takes about 2–3 hours.

By Car / Road

Las Tunas sits on the Carretera Central. From Camagüey, drive east approximately 130 km (2 hours). From Holguín, drive west approximately 100 km (1.5 hours). The road is paved throughout. Viazul intercity buses stop in Las Tunas on the Havana–Santiago de Cuba route.

Las Tunas is a walkable city in the centre. Horse-drawn carriages (coches) are a common local transport mode, running set routes for a few CUP per ride. Bici-taxis also operate. Local buses serve the urban area but are crowded and infrequent. Taxis can be flagged on main streets. The sculpture trail is best explored on foot or by bicycle.

• Parque Vicente García — The main central square, named after the independence hero, surrounded by important buildings and featuring several sculptures.

• Sculpture collection — Over 300 sculptures by Cuban and international artists are displayed throughout the city, making Las Tunas an open-air gallery. Follow the marked sculpture trail through the centre.

• Museo Provincial — Provincial museum with exhibits on local history, the independence wars, and the sugar industry.

• Casa de la Cultura — Cultural centre hosting art exhibitions, music performances, and the annual sculpture symposium.

• Catedral de San Jerónimo — The city's main cathedral near the central park.

• Gallego Waterfall (Cascada del Gallego) — A small waterfall and recreation area on the outskirts of the city.

• Sculpture trail walk — Follow the designated route through the city to see the extensive collection of public sculptures. Allow 2–3 hours.

• Annual International Sculpture Symposium — Held typically in the first half of the year, artists from around the world create new works that join the city's collection.

• Visit nearby natural areas — The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for hiking and nature observation.

• Evening stroll on the Malecón — Walk the local promenade where residents gather in the cooler evening hours.

Las Tunas offers a modest dining scene centred on Cuban staples.

• Paladares — Several private home-restaurants serve traditional Cuban meals (rice, beans, pork, chicken, plantains) for CUC 5–10 per person.
• Restaurante El Patio — A popular restaurant in the centre serving Cuban and international dishes.
• Cafeterías — State-run cafeterias around the central park offer coffee, pizza, sandwiches, and ice cream at very low prices (20–80 CUP).

Cuban rum cocktails (mojito, daiquirí, Cuba libre) are available at local bars. The city has several bars and a small nightlife scene. Cristal and Bucanero beers are the standard choices. Coffee is strong and excellent. Water should be bottled.

• Budget: Casa particular (private homestay) — CUC 15–25 per night for a double room with breakfast. Several options near the centre.
• Mid-range: Hotel El Cambio — A state-run hotel near the centre, approximately CUC 35–55 per night.
• Upscale / heritage: Hotel Tunas — The city's main hotel, offering comfortable rooms at CUC 40–70 per night.

Shopping in Las Tunas centres on the state-run stores and a produce market. The CADECA (currency exchange) is located near the centre. The Feria de Artesanía sells local crafts and souvenirs, including miniature sculptures. For imported goods, visit the TRD (Tienda Recaudadora de Divisas).

• Holguín (~100 km northeast, 1.5 hours drive) — Cuba's fourth-largest city with parks, nightlife, and access to Guardalavaca beach.
• Camagüey (~130 km west, 2 hours drive) — Provincial capital with colonial architecture and a vibrant arts scene.
• Bayamo (~120 km southeast, 1.5 hours drive) — Capital of Granma Province, birthplace of Cuba's national anthem.
• Cayo Saetía (~130 km northeast, 2 hours drive) — A nature reserve with beaches and wildlife on the northern coast.