Getting around Cuba requires patience, flexibility, and a bit of cash on hand. The state bus network, Viazul, connects Havana with most major cities — Trinidad, Viñales, Varadero, Santiago de Cuba, Baracoa, Holguín — on a fixed schedule. Buses are air-conditioned and reasonably reliable; book ahead online or at the station, as popular routes sell out. Payment is in hard currency (euros or USD cash, or a non-US bank card).
For shorter hops between towns, colectivos — shared taxis that fill up and leave when full — are often faster and not much more expensive than the bus. Locals use them constantly. You find them at the bus station or the central park of any town.
Car rental is available in Havana and at the airport; rates are high by regional standards and fuel shortages can make it challenging in practice. Road signage is sparse, so bring a paper map or download offline maps before you go. Driving is otherwise straightforward on the main highways.
Within Havana, coco-taxis (yellow three-wheelers) and bicitaxis handle short distances cheaply. Official yellow taxis are metered but expensive; negotiate a fixed price before getting in. Many Cubans with old American or Russian cars operate informally as taxis — these are often the most interesting rides and a chance for genuine conversation.
Trains connect Havana to Santiago de Cuba and several other cities, but schedules are unreliable and delays of many hours are common. The train is an adventure, not a commute.
Internet access is limited. Buy a Nauta scratch card from an Etecsa office and use it at a wi-fi hotspot — usually in the central park of any town. Download maps, guides, and anything you need before you arrive.