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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From TikTok & Reddit
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!
Quick Facts
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
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Riding Trains in Cuba
I'm going on a month long trip to Cuba next week and being that I have so much time (and am trying to keep my budget TIGHT), I'm planning on getting by via trains. I don't have a set itinerary and plan to book casa particulares as I go. Being that my trip and itinerary are…
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 traveled from Havana to Pinar del Rio by train. I am going to Vinales and really enjoy taking the less tourist traveled paths. I have found some information online but nothing that is terribly accurate or up to date. If anyone has an experience with Cuban rail I…
Has anyone ever rode the National Railway Company of Cuba? If so, how was it?
Title. Just curious. I was flicking through Google Maps and landed on Cuba. I noticed that they subway icons and a railway, but no overlay. They even have a airport connection in Cuba. But I don’t hear much of it. So any tourists or Cubans ever rode it? Anyone ever rode the…
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?
From what i hear most of the Hershey railway line is out of service. Are other lines fine? For example Havana to Santiago de cuba, or the few train stations google maps shows within Havana. And I know cuban trains are not the most reliable, but i dont mind it
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit