Central Railway Station
A historic hub for Cuban rail travel, often undergoing restoration, showcasing the nation's rich railway past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Embrace the journey!
Central Railway Station
Best Time
Embrace the journey!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic hub for Cuban rail travel, often undergoing restoration, showcasing the nation's rich railway past.
"Five stars for experience. We took a train from Havana to Guantanamo it took us 22h it was hard but worth."
Speak Spanish for Smoother Travel
Knowing Spanish greatly helps with booking tickets and understanding schedules.
Be Prepared for Delays
Cuba's trains are known for being unreliable; embrace the adventure!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Railway Architecture
An impressive structure showcasing Cuba's railway past, often a sight even amidst renovations.
Steam Train Displays
See beautifully restored steam trains, a testament to Cuba's rich railway heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Adventure
Scaffolding & Steam Trains
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Riding Trains in Cuba
Speak Spanish for Smoother Travel
Knowing Spanish greatly helps with booking tickets and understanding schedules.
Be Prepared for Delays
Cuba's trains are known for being unreliable; embrace the adventure!
Cuba by Train
Has anyone ever rode the National Railway Company of Cuba? If so, how was it?
Book as You Go
Flexibility is key; book accommodations and transport as you travel.
Long Journeys are Worth It
Train trips can be long (e.g., 22h Havana to Guantanamo), but offer a unique experience.
Trains?
Tips
from all over the internet
Speak Spanish for Smoother Travel
Knowing Spanish greatly helps with booking tickets and understanding schedules.
Be Prepared for Delays
Cuba's trains are known for being unreliable; embrace the adventure!
Book as You Go
Flexibility is key; book accommodations and transport as you travel.
Long Journeys are Worth It
Train trips can be long (e.g., 22h Havana to Guantanamo), but offer a unique experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews highlight the Central Railway Station as an impressive structure, often seen amidst renovations. While train journeys themselves are described as challenging and long (e.g., 22 hours), they are considered worth it for the adventurous traveler seeking a unique experience and a budget-friendly way to see Cuba. The historical significance of steam trains is also frequently noted.
".....It was so awesome to see this exceptional-lii impressive structure even though seeing it through all the scaffolding surrounding it! As so many of the main Governmental Institutes and the buildings housing them are under reconstruction and total make-overs in and around Havana! It does seem as if steam-trains was quite something in Cuba because where ever you travel through Cuba even on the way to the Caribbean Islands you will see well kept and renovated steam-train placed in strategic spots!...."
Vernon Wentzel
"Nice!"
Dzoni g
"Five stars for experience. We took a train from Havana to Guantanamo it took us 22h it was hard but worth. Recommendation only for who like adventure."
Sasha Popovic (Wedding Photographer)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Central Railway Station is a major hub in Havana. Taxis and local buses are common ways to reach it. If you're arriving by train, you're already there!
Train connections in Cuba can be limited and are known for their unreliability. It's best to check schedules locally and be prepared for potential changes.
Traveling by train in Cuba is an adventure! While it's a budget-friendly option, expect delays and be prepared for long journeys. Speaking Spanish is highly recommended. +1
Within Havana, you can use taxis (classic American cars or modern ones), coco-taxis, or local buses. Walking is also a great way to explore the city center.
It's generally not advisable to rely strictly on train schedules for tight itineraries due to frequent delays and changes. Flexibility is crucial.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are typically purchased at the train station. It's advisable to buy them in advance if possible, especially for longer routes, and having Spanish skills is very helpful.
Operating hours can vary, and it's best to check locally or ask at your accommodation. Stations are usually open for ticket sales and departures throughout the day.
There is typically no entrance fee to access the public areas of the Central Railway Station itself. Fees would apply to ticket purchases for travel.
Online booking for Cuban trains is generally not available. Tickets must be purchased in person at the station.
Train travel is one of the most budget-friendly ways to get around Cuba, making it popular for backpackers and those on a tight budget.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the grand architecture, especially if parts are under renovation, and look for any vintage trains on display. The bustling atmosphere can also make for great shots.
Yes, many well-kept and renovated steam trains are displayed in strategic spots across Cuba, serving as a visual reminder of their historical importance. [^Review]
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photographic conditions.
Generally, yes, you can take photos in public areas of the station. However, always be mindful of any restricted zones or if photography is prohibited in specific areas.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide architectural shots and details. A wide-angle lens is great for the station's scale.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Cuba's Train System
Booking tickets is typically done in person at the train station. While some sources suggest buying in advance, the unpredictable nature of schedules means last-minute adjustments are common. Speaking Spanish is a significant advantage, as it greatly facilitates communication for purchasing tickets, understanding announcements, and navigating any changes.
Despite the challenges, many travelers find the experience rewarding, offering a unique glimpse into Cuban life and a sense of accomplishment upon arrival. The historic steam trains displayed around the country are a constant reminder of the era when rail travel was a primary mode of transport, adding a layer of nostalgia to the journey. [^Review]
The Architectural Significance of Central Railway Station
While the station itself is an impressive structure, its significance is amplified by the broader context of Cuba's relationship with its railway history. The presence of well-kept and renovated steam trains placed in strategic spots throughout the country underscores the importance of rail transport in Cuba's past. [^Review] These displays serve as visual anchors, connecting the present-day traveler to the golden age of steam. For photographers, the station offers opportunities to capture grand architecture, the hustle and bustle of travelers, and the enduring legacy of rail travel, even amidst scaffolding.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit