3 days In cienfuegos
Cienfuegos is one heck of a charming city on Cuba’s southern coast. It’s got that cool French-inspired architecture, a happening cultural scene, and a totally Instagrammable Malecón. Now, Cienfuegos might not be as famous as Havana for its LGBTQ+ scene, but fret not, my friends! There are still some sweet gay-friendly activities in Cienfuegos for all you fabulous folks looking for a queer time in this city. Let’s dive in!
Day 1:
Morning
Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the Malecón de Cienfuegos, a popular hangout spot for both locals and visitors. Take in the breathtaking views of the sea and bask in the glorious sunshine. And hey, if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, why not rent a bicycle or go for a jog along the Malecón? It’s all about embracing the good vibes and enjoying the moment!
Afternoon
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, make your way to the city center and grab some lunch at one of Cienfuegos’ awesome restaurants. You’ve got to try the mouthwatering traditional Cuban dishes like ropa vieja (shredded beef) or arroz con pollo (chicken and rice). Trust me, they’re absolutely delicious! After satisfying your taste buds, it’s time to explore the city’s historic center – a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005. Get ready to be blown away by the stunning neoclassical buildings, charming French-style houses, and iconic landmarks like the Palacio de Valle and the breathtaking Teatro Tomás Terry.
Evening
In the evening, make your way to one of the city’s awesome gay-friendly bars or nightclubs. La Carpa is where it’s at, with live music and a super chill vibe. Or, check out the LGBTQ+ community center for a bunch of rad events throughout the year.
Day 2:
Morning
On your second day in Cienfuegos, you gotta check out the nearby Rancho Luna Beach. This place is seriously stunning, with crystal-clear waters and incredible coral reefs. It’s like a paradise for snorkeling and diving! You can just chill on the sand or take a refreshing swim in the sea. And it’s one of the top gay-friendly activities in Cienfuegos.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, make your way to the nearby botanical gardens of Jardín Botánico Soledad. This incredible park spans a whopping 97 acres and is home to over 2,000 different plant species. Can you believe it? From the rarest to the most exotic varieties, they’ve got it all covered! To make the most of your visit, why not join a guided tour? You’ll get all the juicy details about the park’s fascinating history and the magnificent plants that call it home.
Evening
For dinner, you’ve got to check out one of Cienfuegos’ awesome paladares, those privately-owned restaurants that know how to serve up some serious deliciousness. Trust me, you gotta try their local specialties like arroz con frijoles (rice and beans) or malanga frita (fried taro root). And after you’ve satisfied your taste buds, why not hit up one of the city’s super cool gay-friendly bars or nightclubs? They’ve got live music and dancing that’ll make you wanna groove all night long!
Day 3:
Morning
On your final day in Cienfuegos, you absolutely cannot miss the chance to go on a little adventure to the nearby El Nicho Waterfall. Trust me, it’s an absolute stunner! This natural wonder is nestled in the Sierra del Escambray mountain range, just about 37 miles away from the city center. Picture this: lush forests, crystal-clear pools, and the sound of cascading water. It’s like paradise, my friend! So go ahead, take a break, kick back, and let all your worries wash away at this perfect little spot. You deserve it!
Afternoon
After a fun-filled morning of hiking and swimming, make your way back to Cienfuegos for an awesome lunch at one of the city’s many restaurants. You absolutely have to try some of the local seafood, like the mouthwatering grilled fish or the oh-so-delicious lobster. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Evening
In the evening, make your way back to the Malecón for one last leisurely stroll along the sea. Soak in the sights and sounds of one of the best gay-friendly activities in Cienfuegos, taking it all in before you bid it farewell and head back home.