How to Get Around Varadero, Cuba: Transportation Tips for Travelers

Looking for how to get around Varadero, Cuba? Well, you're in the right place!

When we visited Cuba, we found little information on the internet, and honestly, a lot of it was outdated. That's why we made it our mission to figure everything out for you! Whether you're a solo traveler on a budget or on a group trip looking for unique experiences, there are various options for getting around Varadero.

In this guide we're going to share of al of the options for how to get around Varadero, Cuba, so that you can plan an awesome and stress-free trip.

How to Get Around Varadero, Cuba

So are you ready to explore all Varadero has to offer? Well, here are are the different ways you can get around:

• Walking around
• Renting a car
• Renting a scooter
• Using the double-decker bus
• Ordering taxis
• Classic car rides

Now let's dive into each of the options!

 Is Varadero Walkable?

Varadero is actually much bigger than we originally thought! While the downtown area and beaches are very easy to walk to, you'll have to have another form of transportation if you want to visit some of the top things to do in Varadero outside the center.

 Renting a Car in Varadero

Renting a car is definitely the most comfortable option for exploring the surrounding areas of Varadero. However, car rentals are very expensive in Cuba, especially compared to taxi and bus prices. There are a couple of companies that offer rentals around the island, which also can't be booked through third-party sites.

CubaRentaCar and Transtur have car rentals in  Varadero that you should make reservations for in advance, and that are for a minimum of 3 days. The most affordable option is $240 for a 3-day period, and prices can hike up to $855 for a 3-day rental (insurance is included).

We also found a car rental company just across the street from the bus station that was willing to do daily rentals, but prices were about $250/day.

 Renting a Scooter in Varadero

If you're looking for another easy options for how to get around Varadero that's a bit more affordable, then renting a scooter is an awesome option! This is actually the option we chose, and if it didn't start down-pouring, it probably would've been the most ideal option for getting around the area.

Scooter rentals can be for just a few hours, or you can get them for up to 30 days. Rentals start at $25/day, and are cheaper per day the longer you rent them. Personally, we'd recommend getting one for 1-2 days to explore places like Saturn Cave and Matanzas, or to drive along the peninsula.

There are actually multiple Transtur offices for scooter rentals in Varadero. Most of them are open from Monday-Friday from 8 am- 5 pm and on Saturdays from 8 am-12 pm. 

That being said, it's important to note that these hours are flexible. The branch we went to the guy working said we had to drop the scooter off early because he was deciding to leave early! This stuff is pretty typical in Cuba, so be ready for some curveballs.

 The Double-Decker Bus in Varadero

If you're looking for how to get around Varadero in an easy and affordable way, then you should definitely get tickets for the double-decker bus!

Tickets are valid for unlimited use from 9 am to 9 pm, for just $5. This is an excellent option if you plan on sticking around the peninsula, but want to see multiple attractions along it.

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 Taxis in Varadero

Taxis are another popular way for getting around Varadero, Cuba, and there are plenty of of cars you can either flag down, or you can find locals on the streets offering rides.

You'll probably have to haggle, and if you really want the best deal you might want to consider simply hiring a driver for the day.

 Classic Car Rides in Varadero

Riding in a classic car is a true bucket-list activity in Cuba, and is particularly popular in both Havana and Varadero. Right in the heart of town you can find tons of colorful classic cars lined up ready to take tourists around for the day, many of which are brightly painted convertibles.

This is certainly one of the most expensive options, but if you are in a group and are looking for a unique way to explore the area, then this is a cool and fun option to consider.

Rides are typically offered per hour, starting at one hour (for $30-50) to 4 hours (for usually around $100-$150). That being said, you can certainly haggle a bit, and even try to get a car for the whole day!

How to Get Around Varadero: Conclusion

There are quite a few options for how to get around Varadero, from the budget-friendly bus to riding around in classic cars. The good news is that there are options for all travel types.

If you a solo traveler or with one other person and looking for something easy, we'd recommend getting the bus pass. If you are two people looking for a bit of adventure, we'd recommend renting a scooter. Going with a group and looking to ride in style? Then going in a classic car is the way to go.

We hope our guide for how to get around Varadero, Cuba has helped you exploring Cuba's most popular beach area. If you have any other questions about how to get around Varadero, Cuba, feel free to drop them in the comments below!

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