Guanabacoa city, note that Guanabacoa is also the name of the surrounding region, is known historically for being an important center in the slave trade during the early 17th Century. Consequently there is a strong Afro-Cuban culture that exists here.
There are a few visitor attractions in Guanabacoa including the Iglesia de Guanabacoa,
sometimes referred to as the Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Ascuncion, which was built in the first half of the 18th Century. There is also a Franciscan monastery, Convento de Santo Domingo from the same time period, with an impressive interior but it is not always open. For a historical perspective on the Afro-Cuban culture check out the Museo Municipal de Guanabacoa, which also focuses on the history of Cuba during the 1700s and 1800s. If shopping is what you are looking for, head to the Bazar de Reproducciones, which carries all types of crafts and miscellaneous items. Also of interest in Regla is the Museo Municipal de Regla, which describes the history of Regla and information on the Afro-Cuban religions.
Guanabacoa has little by way of tourist facilities and is best visited on a day trip from Havana.