Varadero Art Galleries

(Varadero, Matanzas, Cuba)

There are several commercial art galleries dotted around the town of Varadero, with paintings and sculptures usually providing good value for money and often being of a contemporary nature. Shops selling art works include ARTex, with Art-Musica being a good second option.

For art buffs, the magnificent National Fine Art Museum of Havana is within reach of Varadero and is one of the most visited of this city's many museums. A little closer to home is the Matanzas Municipal Art Gallery, where Cuban art works in various different mediums are displayed.

Matanzas Municipal Art Gallery (Matanzas Galeria de Arte Municipal)

Address: Matanzas, Cuba, CU
Located in the town of Matanzas, this interesting gallery exhibits art works ranging from paintings, sculptures and silk-screen prints to textile and photographic art by important local artists. Exhibitions by internationally famous Cuban artists are also held here on a regular basis.
Open hours: Tuesday to Saturday - 10:00 to 17:00
Admission: free

Museum of Decorative Arts (Museo de Artes Decorativas)

Address: Esquina E Vidado 502, Calle 17, Havana, Cuba, CU
Tel: +53 07 830 9848
With Havana less than two hours' drive away, this museum is a must-see, as it is crammed with exquisite European and oriental fine and applied art, as well as antiques including furniture, ceramics and sculptures. The Museo de Artes Decorativas resides in the Vedado area of Havana, close to the Museo de Danza, where it is known for its oriental and rococo details.
Open hours: Tuesday to Saturday - 11:00 to 19:00
Admission: charge

National Museum of Fine Arts (Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes)

Address: Sulieta y Monserrat / Calle Trocadero, Havana, Cuba, CU
Tel: +53 07 613 6858
A magnificent collection of universal arts is held here, from Cuban masterpieces and important European art works to the ancient art and artefacts of the Egyptian, Greek and Roman empires. The Havana National Museum of Fine Arts, known locally as the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, is spread over three floors and the building itself is especially distinctive, being crowned with a large dome. Many Cuban masterpieces are on display here, created by leading artists such as Blanco, Lam, Martinez and Pelaez.
Open hours: Tuesday to Saturday - 10:00 to 18:00, Sunday - 10:00 to 14:00
Admission: charge, children under 14 years old are free