Trinidad: Cuba's picture perfect city

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Built in the 18th century by Spanish colonialists as a base for the sugar trade, Trinidad is one of the best preserved colonial cities in the Caribbean.

It's a UNESCO heritage site so, yes, there are a lot of tourists around but there's real life here too. Horses and carts are pulled up alongside classic cars and food vendors walk the cobbled streets with strings of onions around their necks and carts full of avocados. And in the evenings, bands play salsa music in the square while people listen on the steps or dance.

With pastel buildings, terracotta roofs and mountain views in every direction, it's a picturesque little town that's perfect for exploring on foot.

A view of the city

Trinidad's cobbled streets

The pastel coloured buildings

A schoolgirl walking

Beautifully preserved colonial buildings

One of Trinidad's many classic cars

Street life in Trinidad

Salsa music in the square

Horses tied up in Trinidad

More classic cars!

Where to stay: Hostal Maricel y Gaby is central, with big rooms and good food. We also loved the look of Casa MiCuba, although we didn't stay there.

Where to eat: Taberna la Botija is a lively spot with a great house band and the best ropa vieja we had in Cuba; Guitarra Mia is another good option for modern Cuban food and live music.

If you're heading to Cuba, you might also like my posts on planning your trip, Havana and Viñales.

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