Santiago de Cuba is the capital of Cuba's southeastern Santiago de Cuba Province, facing a bay off the Caribbean Sea. Founded by the Spanish in 1515, it's known for colonial architecture and revolutionary history. The city's distinctive Afro-Cuban cultural influences are on display during July's Carnaval, a festival with drum-beating parades featuring colorful costumes and son dancing, a precursor to salsa.
Area: 1,032 km²
Area code(s): +53 22
Population: 433,498 (2017) United Nations
Established: 1515

Most visitors come during Santiago de Cuba’s summer (Nov–Apr), when the weather is cooler and drier. The climate is tropical, with a rainy season May–Oct. Key events include the Festival de Rumba (Jan), with music and dancing in the streets, the Día de San Juan (Jun 24) and Carnaval (Jul),