Colon

Colón is a town in the interior of Matanzas province, Cuba, located about 60 km southeast of the provincial capital Matanzas and approximately 150 km east of Havana. Founded in 1846 during the sugar boom, the town was named after Christopher Columbus and served as an important centre for the sugar industry. The surrounding landscape is predominantly flat agricultural land, with sugarcane fields stretching in every direction.

Colón has a population of around 45,000 and retains a quiet, agricultural character. The town's architecture reflects its 19th-century sugar wealth, with several notable buildings around the central plaza. The climate is tropical, averaging 24–30°C, with the dry season (November–April) being the most pleasant time to visit.

By Plane

The nearest airports are Juan Gualberto Gómez International Airport (VRA) in Varadero (~90 km north) and José Martí International Airport (HAV) in Havana (~150 km northwest). From Havana, the drive takes about 2 hours.

By Train

Colón has a railway station on Cuba's central rail line. Service is infrequent. The town is an intermediate stop between Havana and the eastern provinces. Check locally for current schedules.

By Car / Road

Colón is located on the Carretera Central, approximately 150 km east of Havana and 60 km southeast of Matanzas. The road is well-maintained. Viazul buses pass through the area on some routes. Driving from Havana takes about 2 hours.

The town centre is walkable. Bicitaxis and horse-drawn carriages provide local transport. Roads in the surrounding area are paved.

• Central Plaza – The town's main square with colonial-era buildings and a church.

• Sugar mill ruins – Historic centrales in the surrounding area reflect the region's sugar industry heritage.

• Colonial architecture – Several 19th-century buildings in the centre, including the municipal government building.

• Countryside exploration – Cycling or walking through the agricultural landscape.

• Day trips – Use Colón as a base for exploring the interior of Matanzas province.

• Local cultural events – Ask locally about community events and celebrations.

• Casa particular meals – Traditional Cuban home cooking, CUP 200–400 per person.
• Local eateries – Simple, affordable meals of rice, beans, and meat.
• Paladares – Private home-restaurants may be available; ask locally.

• Cuban coffee and rum – Available locally.
• Bottled water recommended.

• Budget: Casa particulares, CUP 400–700/night (CUC 15–25).
• Mid-range: No hotels in town; nearest in Matanzas (~60 km).
• Upscale: No local options.

Basic necessities available in town. Limited tourist shopping. For more options, visit Matanzas or Varadero.

• Matanzas (~60 km northwest, 1 hr) – Provincial capital with cultural attractions and the Yumurí Valley.
• Varadero (~90 km north, 1.5 hr) – Premier beach resort.
• Ciénaga de Zapata National Park (~80 km southwest, 1.5 hr) – Wetland reserve and Bay of Pigs site.
• Havana (~150 km northwest, 2 hr) – Cuba's capital.