Train Travel

Rail service in Cuba has seen major cutbacks in recent years. An overnight especial train runs between Havana and Santiago (once daily in both directions), with stops at Camagüey, Ciego de Ávila, and Santa Clara in Central Cuba. Santiago is the only stop the train makes in Eastern Cuba. Santiago's modern train station, the Estación de Ferrocarriles, is on the harbor, six blocks west of Parque Céspedes. The trip from Havana takes about 15 hours and costs CUC$60; payment is accepted only in cash. It's best to buy your ticket as far as possible in advance. The older European-style coaches have air-conditioning and reclining seats. Although a food cart trundles by twice on the trip, you'll definitely need to bring food and bottled water.