Santiago de Cuba
Cuba's second-largest city, the birthplace of son music and carnival, rich in revolutionary history and Caribbean flavor.
The city of Santiago de Cuba lies on the bay of the same name in southeastern Cuba, backed by the Sierra Maestra. One of Cuba's earliest colonial cities, it blends Spanish, African and Caribbean cultures. The main sights are Parque Céspedes and the cathedral, the Moncada Barracks, Santa Ifigenia Cemetery, the World Heritage–listed Castillo del Morro at the mouth of the bay, and the Casa de la Trova, with live music every night. The July carnival is lively and festive, and November to April is cooler. Antonio Maceo International Airport is on the southern outskirts of the city.