
Casa de la Trova
The pulsating heart of Santiago de Cuba, where live Son music, dancing, and authentic Cuban culture come alive daily.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively daytime sessions

Casa de la Trova
Best Time
Lively daytime sessions

Highlights
Must-see attractions
The pulsating heart of Santiago de Cuba, where live Son music, dancing, and authentic Cuban culture come alive daily.
"You can’t leave Cuba without visiting here."

🎶 Immerse in the Music
Don't just listen, dance! The energy is contagious, and locals love to share the rhythm.
💰 Entry Fee
Expect a small entry fee (around $5 CUC), which is well worth the authentic experience.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Son Music
Main performance hall
Experience the infectious rhythms of live Son music, the soul of Cuban musical tradition.

Impromptu Dancing
Dance floor and surrounding areas
Join locals and tourists alike on the dance floor for an unforgettable salsa and Cuban dance experience.

Historic Ambiance
Throughout the venue
Soak in the vintage charm with hardwood floors, beamed ceilings, and detailed architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Rhythm
Authentic Cuban Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎶 Immerse in the Music
Don't just listen, dance! The energy is contagious, and locals love to share the rhythm.
💰 Entry Fee
Expect a small entry fee (around $5 CUC), which is well worth the authentic experience.
🍹 Drinks are Secondary
Focus on the incredible music and atmosphere; drink quality is not the main draw.
💃 Test Your Salsa Skills
A great place to practice your Cuban salsa moves with talented locals.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎶 Immerse in the Music
Don't just listen, dance! The energy is contagious, and locals love to share the rhythm.
💰 Entry Fee
Expect a small entry fee (around $5 CUC), which is well worth the authentic experience.
🍹 Drinks are Secondary
Focus on the incredible music and atmosphere; drink quality is not the main draw.
💃 Test Your Salsa Skills
A great place to practice your Cuban salsa moves with talented locals.
📸 Capture the Vibe
The historic architecture and vibrant scenes make for fantastic photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Casa de la Trova as the heart of Santiago de Cuba's music scene, offering an authentic and vibrant experience with live Son music and dancing. While drinks are noted as average, the unparalleled atmosphere and cultural immersion make it a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to understand Cuba's soul.
"To us Santiago is all about music , and music is all about casa de la trova. While in Santiago we spent both days all
They there both downstairs ( 2 to 6 pm) and upstairs from 9.30 pm onwards. Drinks at not great but who cares ! Is all about the music.
You can’t leave Cuba without visiting here"
Manuel Palacio
"Fabulous dance hall that featured live Son music by Septepto de Santiago in Santiago Cuba. The look immediatey puts you in the mind of the era of the 1940s and 1950s. The hardwood, beamed ceilings, tall doors beautifully detailed veranda are stunning! Dancing space is limited but all space is used! This is a gem and must see if visiting Santiago de Cuba. Located very close to the centrum and Parque de Cespedés."
CB DCDiva
"A very Autotantic place must visit, to understand Cuba"
F W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Casa de la Trova is centrally located in Santiago de Cuba, very close to the centrum and Parque de Cespedés. You can easily walk there from most accommodations in the city center. Taxis are also readily available if you're coming from further afield.
Yes, it's a well-known landmark in Santiago de Cuba. Look for signs and listen for the music; it's hard to miss!
You can fly into Antonio Maceo Airport (SCU) in Santiago de Cuba. From there, taxis or pre-arranged transfers can take you to your accommodation and then to Casa de la Trova.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is typically an entry fee, often around $5 CUC, which grants you access to the live music and dancing. This fee is considered well worth the experience by many visitors.
Casa de la Trova usually has performances both in the afternoon (around 2-6 PM) and in the evening (starting around 9:30 PM). It's best to check locally for specific times, as they can vary.
Generally, you can purchase tickets at the door. However, if you are visiting during a special festival or event, it might be wise to inquire about advance bookings.
There is no strict dress code. Most visitors dress casually, but feel free to dress up a bit if you plan on dancing the night away!
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
You'll primarily hear traditional Cuban genres like Son, trova, bolero, and cha-cha-cha. The music is live, energetic, and perfect for dancing.
Absolutely! Dancing is a huge part of the experience. The venue has a dedicated dance floor, and locals are often eager to dance with visitors.
The atmosphere is vibrant, authentic, and full of life. It's a place where music and culture intertwine, offering a genuine taste of Cuban nightlife.
Yes, Casa de la Trova typically hosts live music daily, with different bands and sessions throughout the day and night.
While it attracts many tourists, it remains a very authentic place where locals also gather. It's a fantastic spot to experience Cuban culture firsthand.
🍽️ 🍹 Food & Dining
While Casa de la Trova is primarily known for its music and drinks, some light snacks might be available. However, it's not a dining destination; focus on the beverages and the music.
You can expect a range of Cuban cocktails, beers, and spirits. While the drinks are part of the experience, many visitors note that the music is the main attraction.
Yes, Santiago de Cuba has many restaurants near the city center and Parque de Cespedés, offering various Cuban dishes. You can dine before or after your visit to Casa de la Trova.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but be respectful of performers and other guests. Capturing the vibrant atmosphere and historic architecture is highly encouraged.
The vintage interior, the musicians in action, and the lively dance floor offer fantastic photo opportunities. Don't miss capturing the energy of the conga lines if they appear.
While generally permitted, avoid intrusive flash photography that might disturb performers or guests. Always be mindful of others' privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be aware that evening sessions can become quite lively and crowded, and the focus is heavily on music and dancing. If you have very young children, the late-night atmosphere might not be ideal. However, for families with older children interested in music and dance, it can be a memorable experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during the afternoon sessions for a potentially lower-key experience. Many travelers find that the sheer immersion in authentic Cuban music and dance is the highlight, making the cost of entry and drinks secondary.
💖 Couples
Enjoy a cocktail together while soaking in the historic ambiance and the vibrant energy of Santiago de Cuba. It's an ideal place for a date night or a special outing that captures the essence of Cuban culture and romance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Soul of Cuban Music: Son and Trova
Visiting Casa de la Trova offers an unparalleled opportunity to hear these genres performed live by talented musicians. You might even witness the energetic Conga, a vibrant street parade music that often spills into the streets during festivals, as seen in many TikTok videos. The venue itself is steeped in musical history, providing an authentic backdrop to the performances.
Whether you're a seasoned music aficionado or new to Cuban rhythms, the live music at Casa de la Trova is an essential part of the Santiago de Cuba experience. It’s a place where the past and present of Cuban music come alive, inviting everyone to tap their feet and feel the rhythm.
Dancing the Cuban Way
Don't be shy if you're a beginner. Many locals are happy to invite visitors to dance, offering a chance to learn and practice your moves in a fun, unpretentious environment. It's a fantastic way to connect with the local culture and experience the joy of Cuban dance firsthand.
Even if you don't dance, the sight of couples and groups gracefully moving to the music is captivating. The energy on the dance floor is palpable, making it a lively and engaging spectacle for everyone.
A Glimpse into Historic Santiago
Its location in the heart of Santiago de Cuba, near the central Parque de Cespedés, makes it easily accessible and a perfect stop during your exploration of the city. The building's aesthetic, combined with the vibrant music, creates a unique and memorable atmosphere that many visitors rave about.
Stepping into Casa de la Trova is like stepping back in time, offering a visual feast alongside the auditory one. It’s a place where the history of Santiago de Cuba is palpable, making it more than just a music venue but a cultural landmark.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit