Looking for budget stays in Camagüey? This section is designed to save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. We've got insider tips to help you find affordable hostels and the cheapest places to stay in Camagüey.
Camagüey is often known as "The City of Mazes," due to the labyrinthine construction built to confuse and confound marauding pirates in the early days of the city. It can still prove pretty confusing for the average visitor, but that is part of the attraction of this non-touristy and distinctly Cuban town. Wandering the twisting, turning alleys and back streets with their dead ends and unexpected crossroads is part of the charm of the place, enabling visitors to get up close and personal with day-to-day life. The city is also famous for its tinajones -- huge pottery storage jars traditionally used to store wine or water, whose size was representative of a family's wealth; miniature versions make for great souvenirs and the huge originals can be found in restaurants and scattered across the city.
Whilst Camagüey doesn't have the greatest number of obvious attractions, the main squares are easily linked together and each has a spectacular church on the corners, which helps with navigation. The main pedestrian street is more Westernised than many in Cuba, and whilst there isn't the widest range of accessible eating places and bars, there are still a few good options -- although nothing like you'd find in Havana or Trinidad.
Hostels in Cuba are a bit different from those found in the West and travelers tend to be put up in private homes, which are indicated by blue anchor signs outside. The deals usually come with breakfast involved and the owners can be very useful in unearthing hidden gems or local points of interest.
Written by Travel Expert Camagüey
Howellsey