Depart Havana to the south of the island, stopping at Playa Giron, known to Americans as the Bay of Pigs a small coastal village and the site of the historical 1961 clash between CIA trained Cuban exiles and Cuban rebel forces. Explore the small Playa Giron Museum, which portrays the Cuban perspective of the infamous invasion and houses many historical artifacts including a Sea Fury fighter aircraft, photos and maps outlining each step of the failed mission.
After lunch at a local paladar, explore the main square of Cienfuegos, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but a city founded by the French, who came to Cuba after the Haitian revolution. The city offers outstanding architecture and is home to a large artistic community. Walk through the main square to the offices of UNEAC, the Union of Authors and Writers. Late afternoon, check in at the hotel. Overnight in Cienfuegos.