Cuba's tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the Caribbean island's economy, thanks to the many attractions that exist in the Cuban archipelago.

Tourism contributes to the growth of other sectors, as it nurtures from a wide range of recreational options ranging from sun and beaches to culture, history and nature.

The Cuban archipelago also offers more than 70,000 square kilometers of insular platform and some 5,000 kilometers of coasts, which are bathed by the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea

In addition, nearly 6,500 varieties of fish, crustaceans, sponges and mollusks, and an 850-kilometer coral reef in perfect state of preservation turn the island into one of the best-preserved underwater ecosystems in the region.

Three dozens of specialized dive center operate throughout the country, where vacationers can take initiation courses and dive in coral reefs and caverns, under strict international standards for that activity.

Cuba is also an excellent place for nature lovers, who can enjoy the many attractions found in the island nation.

Natural and biosphere reserves, natural landscapes and protected areas create a broad network of offers characterized by excellent preservation and unique features in the region.

The island nation has also inherited the Spanish architectural wealth and the European influence that followed the colonial period.

Precisely, that element turns the Cuban capital, one of the first seven villages founded by the Spanish conquistadors and initially called San Cristóbal de La Habana, and especially its historic heart, into a key element in many tourist programs.

Havana's historic heart, declared Humankind's Heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), holds most of the city's museums, churches, cultural centers and buildings from the Spanish colonial period. Old Havana covers an area of 4.5 square kilometers and has a rich colonial architecture and centuries-old customs and traditions.

The heart of the Cuban capital consists of a series of castles, fortresses and highly valuable buildings constructed around a system of squares, monasteries and temples.

Cuba has a large infrastructure of 120 art galleries, antique shops and plastic art halls, in addition to nearly 260 museums, including 14 on art, seven on science and technology, five on ethnography and anthropology and 68 on history. It also has more than 80 theaters.

Traditional tourism options are complemented by the country's hotel infrastructure, which provides accommodation, gastronomic offers and extrahotel activities.