Ultimate Havana Cuba Travel Guide: Where to Stay, Eat, and Explore
If you're dreaming of vintage cars, colorful buildings, and Caribbean energy, this Havana Cuba travel guide has everything you need to plan your trip. Havana is a city that blends old-world charm with a vibrant local culture that feels completely different than other cities around the world.
It can feel a bit overwhelming at first, especially if it’s your first time in Cuba. The pace is different, the rules are flexible, and it's one of those places you really need to do right to enjoy it fully.
This guide covers the essentials, from how to get around to where to stay and what to eat, so you can spend less time figuring things out and more time soaking it all in.
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Havana, Cuba Travel Guide: a Brief Intro
Ready to dive into our Havana, Cuba travel guide? Well, before sharing all of the logistics for getting there, moving around, etc., let's talk a bit about why travelers choose to visit Havana, and what to expect.
What is So Special About Havana?
Havana is known for being a city stuck in the past. Classic cars cruise the streets, music fills the small local bars, and it's a tropical destination with the perfect blend of historical and beachy vibes.
Why Do Tourists Visit Havana?
Due to Cuba's disconnection with the rest of the world, the country remains as a true time capsule. Travelers visit for the historic charm, laid-back atmosphere, and Caribbean weather.
What Traveling in Havana is Like
While other Havana, Cuba travel guides simply glamorize the city, we want to be completely transparent - there were moments we absolutely fell in love with the charm, and others when we couldn't get out fast enough.
It's certainly a complex destination, full of highs and lows, and in our guide we're going to share a bit about what you should really expect.
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Havana, Cuba Travel Guide: Getting There
Now that you know why people visit Havana, and what it has to offer, let's get you there! The next part of our Havana Cuba travel guide is going to show you the different options for traveling to Cuba's capital city.
How Do You Get to Havana, Cuba?
Here are the different ways for getting to Havana:
- Fly to Havana: Havana has direct flights from all over the Americas, some cities in Europe, and even a few other cities from around the world.
- Take a bus to Havana: You can get buses from several other cities across the country to Havana - it's one of the most well-connected cities on the island.
- Drive to Havana: You can rent a car in most big cities and get there on your own.
- Hire a driver to go to Havana: Nearby cities such as Trinidad, Varadero, and Viñales have plenty of local drivers for either private and shared trips.
We have a full guide about getting to Havana, so that you can see the details for each option.
Havana, Cuba Travel Guide: Entry Requirements
Now that you know how to get to Havana, we have a really crucial part of our Havana, Cuba travel guide that you really shouldn't skip. Let's make sure you can actually visit there without any issues, and be fully prepared to enter the country successfully.
Visa Entry Requirements
Travelers need a visa in order to visit Cuba, and the visa needs to be purchased online before arriving in Havana. My visa fee as an American was $100 USD, while Fede's visa fee as an Argentinian was $25.
In order to travel to Havana, Cuba as an American you'll need to also fill out a form stating the purpose of your visit, which needs to be one of 12 reasons. Most travelers choose "support of the Cuban people".
Don't worry - we have a full guide about this coming up, so just be sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you can get it delivered straight to your inbox when it's ready.
You can be involved in "Support of the Cuban People" in a lot of ways.
What NOT to Bring to Cuba
As photographers, we are always traveling with our drone, and we regret to inform you that they are strictly forbidden to enter the country.
We spent an extra hour at the airport dealing with paperwork, and when we got our drone back not only did we have to pay a fine, but our drone was covered in powder, effectively breaking it.
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Havana, Cuba Travel Guide: Local Adjustments
Now you know a bit about the basics of visiting Havana. Now let's move on to another important part of our Havana, Cuba travel guide, which is the local adjustments. Here are some of the "know before you go" details, such as the currency, language, and tipping culture of the area.
What is the Language in Havana, Cuba?
The official language in Cuba is Spanish. While there are some people in the tourism industry that speak English, it's not extremely common to come by on the streets.
Speaking Spanish will also help you immensely overall to not be taken advantage of, so we recommend learning as much as you can before visiting Cuba.
Currency Used in Havana, Cuba
The currency topic is pretty complex in Cuba, as there used to be three different currencies in the country. Now there are just two, but there is also a black market rate for money, exchange and Americans cannot use credit cards.
Many tours and touristy spots only accepted in USD, while restaurants and shops accept both USD and the local currency.
We actually have a full guide coming up where we will dive into all of the details! Subscribe to our newsletter to receive all of our weekly updates as well as exclusive content.
What Plugs are Used in Havana, Cuba?
Cuba uses the same plugs as in the US, which are type A. Typically, voltage is 110V/60Hz, although some hotels (typically in the bathrooms) sometimes also have 220V and rounded sockets for European plugs (plug type C).
Can You Drink the Water in Havana, Cuba?
The water is not safe to drink in Havana, so it's important to stick to bottled water. We recommend getting a large jug of water from the supermarket, and then refilling a reusable water bottle to be a more eco-friendly traveler.
Is Tipping Common in Havana, Cuba?
Tipping in Cuba is common, especially in the tourism industry of Havana. We recommend 10% of the bill while in restaurants - it can be in Cuban pesos or in USD.
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Havana, Cuba Travel Guide: Things to Do & See
Now you know most of the basics in our Havana, Cuba travel guide. But let's dive into the fun part! Here are the best things to see and do in Havana when you visit.
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Things to See in Havana
National Capitol of Cuba
El Templete
Castillo de la Real Fuerza de la Habana
Plaza de la Catedral
Catedral de la Virgen Maria de la Concepcion
Plaza de Armas
Plaza de la Revolucion
Plaza Vieja
Plaza de San Francisco de Asis
Christ of Havana
Colonial Havana Mural
Things to Do in Havana
Roam the colorful streets
Go on a free walking tour
Visit the museums
Take a classic car ride
Watch the sunset along the Malecon
Watch the Cannon show at Cabaña Fort
Shop the artisan markets
Browse the Sunday market on Hamel Street
Have a drink on the rooftop of Iberostar Grand Packard
Try a daiquiri at El Floridita
Go to a cafe with live music
Have a night out at the Cuban Art Factory
Watch a show at the Grand Theater of Havana
Take a day trip to Varadero, Viñales, Trinidad, or Cienfuegos
Havana, Cuba Travel Guide: Local Food & Drink
Ready to eat and drink your way through Havana? This part of our Havana, Cuba travel guide goes a bit into the food and drink scene of the city.
What Food is Popular in Havana, Cuba?
Havana has similar cuisine to other Caribbean islands - it is known for its seafood, but also has a lot of heavy dishes with meat, rice, beans, and thick sauces.
Cuba is low of resources, so you won't find a ton of variety. Dishes are super affordable, especially if you go to one of the government-owned establishments.
We had a ton of lobster, as it was always under $10! Also, you really don't want to miss out on their daiquiris, as I promise you'll never have a better one anywhere else.
Our Favorite Bars & Restaurants in Havana
Restaurants can really be hit or miss in Havana! Here are a few ones we definitely recommend though:
- Floridita: an iconic bar frequented by Ernest Hemingway, famous for their daiquiris
- Elizalde: cute restaurant with great shrimp
- La Imprenta: super affordable government-run restaurant with pretty garden, live music, and tasty local dishes.
- Mambo Habana: cute family-run restaurant with great seafood
- Restaurante Doña Ana: cute balcony seats with live music and delicious lobster
- La Caribeña: some of the best daiquiris in the city with friendly servers
- Chacon 162: the best mango daiquiri in the city!
- La Bodegita del Medio: a must for live music and their mojitos
- Antojos: great place for small bites or dinner
- Cafe del Angel Jacqueline Fumero: pretty patio great for breakfast or coffee
- Star Cafe: the best Wifi (only get coffee because the food is awful)
- Royalton Habana Paseo del Prado: amazing rooftop for a cocktail with views
Havana, Cuba Travel Guide: Getting Around
Now that you know the best things to do in Havana and a bit about the foodie scene, let's dive into the next part of our Havana, Cuba travel guide - helping you get around!
How Do You Get Around in Havana?
Here are the different options for getting around in Havana:
- Walk - some of the most popular areas of best explored by foot!
- Rent a car (or scooter) and drive around the city.
- Take public transportation (buses or colectivos)
- Use private transportation (taxis or private drivers)
- Take the ferry (to cross the channel)
- Go on a classic car ride - a fun way to explore the top sights
- Hire a guide or join a group trip
If you'd like to dive into all of the details and compare which is right for you, check out our complete guide for getting around Havana below.
If you are planning a trip to Cuba, knowing how to get around Havana is essential. The city is full of vibrant culture and colorful streets, but navigating its unique transportation options can be challenging for first-time visitors. Whether you want to explore the historic Old Havana or visit neighborhoods
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Havana, Cuba Travel Guide: Where to Stay
Now that you know how to get around Havana, let's get into the next part of our Havana, Cuba travel guide - finding you a place to stay!
What is the Best Area to Stay in Havana?
If it's your first time visiting Havana, then we'd highly recommend basing yourself in the old town of Havana, or right near the Malecon. This way you'll be walking distance to all of the best things to see and do in Havana. It's also the most tourist-friendly, and you can find plenty of accommodation options.
The best area for tourists to stay is in Old Havana or near the Malecon.
Hotels vs Airbnb: Where to Stay in Havana as an American
If you're an American, it's important to know that you are prohibited to stay in government-run establishments. While you physically will be able to book a place to stay, the government of the US can request proof of stay for up to 5 years after you have visited Cuba. I don't know about you - but I am certainly not willing to take that chance.
Upon arrival, many Americans visit Cuba on the principal of "support of the Cuban people". This means you should be supporting local businesses, and you'll need to show proof of stay while in customs. This can be a family member or home-stay.
Sites like Booking.com or Expedia are not available in Cuba, but luckily Airbnb is! Keep in mind accommodation must be booked before your stay, as the site most likely won't work once you're in Cuba (it didn't for us).
Havana, Cuba Travel Guide: Safety
So you know what to do, where to stay, and how to get around. But one of the most important parts of our Havana, Cuba travel guide is to make sure you stay safe while you are visiting.
Is it Safe to Travel to Havana, Cuba Now?
Traveling to Cuba never felt super unsafe, but it certainly felt uncomfortable. The people are struggling, and it's super common for people to come up to tourists and beg - not always even for money, but for basic necessities like medication!
In order to stay safe, we'd recommend keeping valuables at home, but also to carry some things that may help them like toilet paper, medication, water, and other necessities that can help the locals.
Health Insurance in Cuba
We're not going to lie - it's very unlikely you'll get coverage traveling to Cuba. Even Safety Wing, (the company we use for travel insurance) doesn't cover Cuba, and they cover every country in the world with the exception of 4 of them.
That being said, it is crucial to be extra cautious while you are visiting, especially since the country is in desperate need of basic health needs like medication.
Is it Safe to Walk Around Havana?
It's generally safe to walk around Havana, but we'd definitely recommend being mindful while you travel, and sticking to the more trafficked areas, and not to wander alone while it's dark out.
Is Havana Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Visiting as a solo female traveler is definitely not impossible, but I personally wouldn't do it or reocmmend it. That's because there are no hostels or places where you'd be able to meet and move around with a lot of other people.
In my opinion, it's definitely a better city to appreciate with a group of people.
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Havana, Cuba Travel Guide: Other Things to Know About Visiting
You are almost done reading through our Havana, Cuba travel guide! But don't go just yet - we have a few more things to share with you.
Weather in Havana, Cuba
Havana (and all of Cuba) has two distinct seasons- the dry season from November through April, and the wet season from May through October. Summers are insanely hot and humid, with frequent storms, while winters are sunny, dry, and have more pleasant temperatures.
September and October are the months of peak hurricane season, so we definitely recommend avoiding travel to anywhere in the Caribbean at this time.
Havana has tropical weather.
What is the Best Month to Visit Havana, Cuba?
The best months to visit Havana are from November to April, which are the dry months. The winter is when Cuba experiences perfectly warm and sunny days, which are great for walking around comfortably and going for a swim.
We visited Havana in June, and had awful weather - summers tend to be unbearably hot, humid, and full of mosquitos, so we recommend visiting in the cooler and drier months.
Packing For a Trip to Havana
Havana is a great blend of city and beach vibes, so you'll want to make sure you're prepared with comfortable clothes to explore, and beachwear to enjoy days by the pool or at the nearby beaches.
Here is our Havana packing list:
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Insect Repellent
- Insulated Water Bottle (to hold the temperature)
- Flip Flops (we personally always get Havaiana flip flops, as they are comfy and long lasting)
- Comfortable shoes (for walking around the city)
- Small Bag or Backpack - take a look at these backpacks for travelers!
- Power Bank (we use Anker power banks, as they are the best in the market and last super long)
- Beach Towel
- Bathing Suit
- Camera - (we use the Sony A7Riii)
- Action Camera (we use the GoPro for underwater shots, and the Insta 360 with the extra long selfie stick for drone-like shots)
- Waterproof Phone Pouch (we use the Case Mate Phone Pouch)
- Cash (you can't use a credit card if you are from the US)
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Is Havana, Cuba Worth Visiting?
When we first got to Havana, we honestly felt a little cat-fished. It photographs well, but there is a certain somber feeling in the air. We honestly think that Havana is only worth it for certain travelers. It has a ton of historic charm, and is great for those that want an authentic feel.
On the other hand, if you want a ton of comfort and a bit more luxury, you'll probably want to hit another Caribbean destination.
Havana has a lot to offer, but we did honestly feel that it has been on a downward slope. We're hoping for some change and that it will come back to life in the near future!
How Many Days is Enough for Havana?
Havana is the perfect place to spend a long weekend. We'd recommend 2-4 days for experiencing the city itself, and a few more so that you can take some great day trips such as Varadero or Viñales.
We highly recommend a day trip or weekend getaway to Viñales!
Travel Planning Tools
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Now you're ready to experience a truly unique Caribbean city! We hope our Havana, Cuba travel guide has helped answer any questions you may have had about visiting. If you have any other questions though, feel free to drop them in the comments below!
Want to learn more about traveling around Cuba? We plenty of other Cuba Travel Guides, as well as new ones coming up each week! Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you can stay up to date with our most recent updates, as well as to get exclusive content reserved just for our email list.
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