Cuba

Brief History

Cuba’s railway history began on October 12, 1834, when the Queen Regent of Spain, Maria Christina of the Two Sicilies, approved the building of the first line . The first steam railway line in Latin America was opened by the Compañía de Caminos de Hierro de la Habana on November 19, 1837, between Havana and Bejucal. The line was extended to Güines on November 19, 1839, and by December 1843, San Felipe and Batabanó were added to the rail network.

The railway age on Cuba started with the inauguration of the Manchester-Liverpool track in 1830. Preparations for a railroad on Cuba began in the same year, supported by the Spanish crown and colonial authorities as well as by representatives of Cuba.

Ferrocarriles de Cuba (FCC) or Ferrocarriles Nacionales de Cuba provides passenger and freight services for Cuba. The Cuban rail network for passenger transportation is extensive and runs almost the entire length of the island, linking major cities and towns. The flagship Train Number 1 travels between Havana and Baracoa. Other long-distance passenger services link Havana to Pinar del Río (western railway), Cienfuegos (South branch), Sancti Spíritus, Bayamo-Manzanillo, and Guantánamo.

The train travel in Cuba is primarily recommended for longer distances or travelers who see that journey as an experience. It’s an interesting way to get around, especially if you want to travel with Cubans the way Cubans do, not in a tourist bus. However, don’t expect western standards, take your own toilet paper and allow for the odd breakdown - all part of the experience. Brand-new Chinese-built cars entered service in 2019 on all main routes across the island, with air-conditioning and cafeteria, fewer stops, faster journeys, increased frequency.

General Information and Statistics

Ferrocarriles de Cuba (FCC) or Ferrocarriles Nacionales de Cuba is the national railway company of Cuba and provides passenger and freight services for the country. As of 2018, the total number of passengers carried by FCC was 6.7 million.

The length of railroad tracks in Cuba is 4,556.25 km. Most of the system is diesel-powered and 1,055 km are electrified (23%). Unfortunately, exact information about the number of train stations in Cuba was not found

What connections to other countries there are.

Cuba has no train connections with other countries.

Are trains fast in Cuba in general? How much time to cross the country?

The average train speed in Cuba is between 40 and 100 kilometers per hour. However, train speeds can vary depending on the type of train and the condition of the tracks.

The distance between Havana and Santiago de Cuba is approximately 836 kilometers. The duration of the trip depends on the type of train and the number of stops along the way. Flagship train No. 1 runs between Havana and Baracoa, a city in eastern Cuba. Travel time is approximately 26 hours. Other long-distance passenger trains connect Havana with Pinar del Rio (western railroad), Cienfuegos (southern branch), Sancti Spiritus, Bayamo Manzanillo and Guantanamo Bay.

What railway companies are available?

The National Railway Company of Cuba is the primary railway company in Cuba. It provides passenger and freight services for Cuba.

What train types are available in Cuba?

There are two types of trains in Cuba: National Trains and Regular Trains . National Trains run long and medium distances, while Regular Trains run shorter distances. The Fast Train links Havana and Santiago with stops in Santa Clara and Camagüey. Special 1st class and 1st class are offered on the Fast Train, which is air-conditioned and has a cafeteria car.

Are there high-speed-trains available?

As of 2023, there are no high-speed trains in Cuba.

Most important train stations / hubs.

The main railway stations in Cuba are Central Havana Railway Station, Santiago de Cuba Railway Station.

Websites to buy train tickets for Cuba?

There is no official company website, but tickets can be purchased at ticket offices at train stations or through travel agencies.

Mobile apps to buy train tickets in Cuba?

Unfortunately, I couldn't find any information about mobile apps for buying rail tickets in Cuba.

Possible to buy a ticket at a Cuba railway station?

Tickets can be purchased at a train station in Cuba.  They are sold by Viajero, a state-run travel agency with offices throughout Cuba, including at or near most major train stations. However, there is no online booking system, so tickets must be purchased in person. It is recommended that you bring your passport with you when purchasing tickets. The fare is less than 2 USD

Can I buy my ticket by phone?

Information about buying railroad tickets by phone call in Cuba was not found.

Return the ticket.

Train tickets in Cuba can be canceled and refunded without penalty up to 24 hours prior to departure. Cancellations 24 hours or less prior to departure will be subject to a 10% cancellation fee. Cancellations between 1 hour and 15 days after departure will be subject to a 25% fee. Thereafter, tickets are non-refundable.

Train ticket prices

In Cuba, rail ticket prices depend on class and destination. For example, when traveling from Havana to Santiago de Cuba, second class costs 3.64 € and first class costs 5.05 €. On the Havana to Holguin route, prices are 3.06 € (second class) and 4.36 € (first class). For tickets from Havana to Bayamo / Manzanillo, you will have to pay 3.80 € (second class) or 4.67 € (first class with air conditioning). Traveling from Havana to Guantanamo offers second class for 3.83 € or first class with air conditioning for 5.30 €. And, for example, a trip from Havana to Matanzas costs 0.19 € (second class) or 0.70 € (first class with air conditioning).

Cheapest train to the closest nearby country?

There are no international trains to/from Cuba.

Where to find timetables.

Ferrocarriles de Cuba is the railroad operator in Cuba, but it does not have an official website. However, useful information about traveling in Cuba can be found at cubaify.com.

Buying tickets in advance or right before the train

It is recommended to purchase train tickets in Cuba in advance. Tickets for new Chinese-built trains can be purchased 30 days in advance and for all other trains 5 days in advance.

However, it is not possible to book train tickets to Cuba online. Tickets are sold by Viajero, a travel agency with offices throughout Cuba and at most major train stations.

Types of tickets.

There are several types of rail tickets available for travel in Cuba. One-way and round-trip tickets are available for both first-class and second-class travel. There are also discounts available for children, students, and seniors. It is important to note that discounts may not be available during peak travel seasons.

Interrail/Eurail Passes in Cuba

Interrail/Eurail Passes are not available in Cuba

Saver price.

No information on "saver price" fares on trains in Cuba could be found.

Is it cheaper to buy round-trip?

There is no information on whether it is cheaper to buy round-trip train tickets in Cuba.

Flexible tickets.

No information on the availability of "flexible tickets" on Cuban trains was found.

Rules of boarding.

As of January 23, 2023, the Cuban government will require travelers entering the country to submit a digital customs declaration. This declaration is part of a larger digital form (which also contains immigration and medical information) that will be mandatory for visitors, both Cubans and foreigners. However, I was unable to find any information on whether an ID document is required to board a train in Cuba.

Discounts for group travel.

No specific information could be found on discounts for group travel on Cuban trains.

Age groups and discounts.

Children from 0 to 4 years old travel free of charge, children from 5 to 11 years old travel at 50% off, and children 12 years old and older travel at full fare.

Age limitations for minors.

Children from 12 years of age may travel on Cuban trains unaccompanied by an adult

Handicapped passengers.

Information on discounts or assistance for disabled people on trains in Cuba could not be found.

Seat reservations in Cuba trains.

To reserve a seat on the train in Cuba, you can purchase a ticket at the train station or at an authorized travel agency. Reserving a seat is not compulsory, but is highly recommended as it guarantees you a seat on the train. The cost of reserving a seat depends on the train route and class of service. For example, a first class ticket from Havana to Santiago de Cuba costs approximately $50 USD.

Please note that trains in Cuba are often canceled and delayed, so when planning a trip, it is advisable to check the schedule in advance and allow for extra time. In addition, trains are not catered, so it is recommended that you bring enough food and water with you.

Comfort classes on the trains.

Here are the main classes found on Cuban trains:

    • First Class (Primer Clase): This class provides a higher level of comfort. Usually, first class provides seats with more space, comfortable seats, and sometimes air conditioning. In some cases, additional services such as meals may be provided.

    • Second Class (Segundo Clase): This is a class of service with more affordable prices compared to first class. Second class carriages usually have less luxurious seats and the comfort level may be slightly lower than in first class. Air conditioning is not always available in second class.

Food and drink in Cuba’s trains / train restaurant.

Cuban trains now have catering. The new Chinese-built railcars entering service in 2019 on all major routes around the island have a cafeteria car. The cafeteria is a facility that was not available on older Cuban trains. One of the first class cars includes a cafeteria car.

Night trains in Cuba?

Cuba has one reliable night train: the Tren Francés night train between Havana and Santiago de Cuba, which takes turns running. It uses equipment that used to run the Trans-European Express, and was donated to Cuba by France a few years ago (hence the name). Traveling by train in Cuba is recommended primarily for long-distance travel or for those who view the journey as an experience.

Important train routes in Cuba.

Havana - Santiago/ 14:10 hours / from 64.4 EUR /Runs every 3-4 days
Havana - Las Tunas / 10:42 hours / from 50.6 EUR / Runs every 3-4 days
Havana - Ceigo de Avila / 7:41 hours / from 32.2 EUR / Runs every 3-4 days
Havana - Santa Clara/ 4:14 hours / from 18.40 EUR / Runs every 3-4 days
Havana - Matanzas/ 1:23 hours / from 6.45 EUR / Runs every 3-4 days

International train routes.

There are no international trains in Cuba

Tourist / scenic routes in Cuba.

Cuba is a unique country with a rich history, colorful culture and picturesque landscapes. Traveling by train through this beautiful country can provide an unforgettable experience. Here are some touristy and scenic train routes in Cuba:

    • Havana to Viñales route:
This route takes you from Cuba's capital, Havana, to the famous Viñales Valley. Along the way, you'll enjoy beautiful scenery, including picturesque tobacco plantations and unique rock formations called mogotes. The Viñales Valley is also famous for its unique geology and is a great place to explore Cuban rural life and culture.

    • Havana to Cienafuegos Route:
Traveling from Havana to Cienafuegos will take you to the beautiful beaches and tourist centers on Cuba's southern coast. You can enjoy the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea, learn how to surf and experience the local culture.

    • Havana to Santiago de Cuba route:
This long route of about 800 kilometers connects the capital with the country's second largest city, Santiago de Cuba. Your journey will take you through a variety of landscapes including mountains, valleys and rural settlements. In Santiago de Cuba, you can explore a rich cultural heritage, including Afro-Cuban traditions and revolutionary stories.

    • Santa Clara to Trinidad Route:
The drive from Santa Clara to Trinidad takes you to the historic city, which is a UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Site. Trinidad is famous for its cobblestone streets, colorful colonial-style buildings and rich history. Along the way, you can enjoy views of picturesque landscapes and authentic Cuban atmosphere.

Luggage information.

On Cuban trains, you can take 1 small item and 2 large bags with a total weight not exceeding 35 kg (children under 12 years of age have half this limit). The total dimensions of any bag (length + width + height) must not exceed 160 cm. You take your luggage with you on the train and place it on the shelves above or next to your seat. You must not take alcohol or sharp objects on board. Traveling by train in Cuba requires you to be very careful with your luggage, especially on overnight journeys.

Bicycle on the train.

Unfortunately, I have not been able to find any information on whether you can bring a bicycle on a train in Cuba. Nevertheless, Cuba is surprisingly bicycle friendly, with a shortage of gasoline and a low number of cars per capita, so it has been a bicycle-friendly place for decades1. A 1 m wide bike lane on the right side of the road is reserved for bicycles and motorcycles even on highways.

Ski or snowboard on the train.

I could not find any information on whether skis or snowboards can be carried on trains in Cuba. It may be better to contact the railroad company directly for more information

Luggage lockers on the stations in Cuba.

No information on luggage lockers in Cuban train stations could be found.

Lost and Found Items.

No information on lost and found items on trains in Cuba was found.

Pets on the trains.

No information on the possibility of transporting pets on Cuban trains was found