Things To Do
in Havana
Havana, Cuba, is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture, renowned for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, especially in Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its streets are alive with music, reflecting its pivotal role in the creation of salsa and Cuban jazz, alongside a dynamic art scene found in its many galleries and public spaces.
The city is also famous for its iconic vintage cars, colorful facades, and the Malecón, an evocative seaside promenade offering stunning views and a glimpse into the daily life of its residents.
- "¿Qué bolá?" - What's up?
- "Asere" - Friend
- "¡Dímelo!" - Tell me!
- "Una vuelta" - A tour or a spin
- "No hay problema" - No problem
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the cobblestone streets of Old Havana, soaking in the vibrant architecture and rich history. Don't forget to stop by Plaza de Armas for local crafts and books.
Visit the Museo de la Ciudad to understand the city's complex history. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café overlooking the square.
Head to the Malecón for a sunset walk along the seawall. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and try traditional Cuban cuisine.
Begin your day at the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes to admire Cuban art from the colonial period to contemporary pieces. Enjoy the beautiful architecture of the museum itself.
Explore the Fabrica de Arte Cubano, a cultural center exhibiting art, music, and film. Grab lunch at their café, known for its trendy atmosphere and delicious offerings.
Attend a live music event at a local venue for an authentic Cuban experience. Savor some mojitos as you unwind to the rhythms of salsa.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene.
- Beautiful architecture combining colonial and modern styles.
- Warm climate year-round, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Delicious and unique cuisine, influenced by Spanish, African, and Caribbean flavors.
- Friendly and welcoming locals, known for their hospitality.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many other destinations.
- Historical significance with many landmarks and museums.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services.
- Economic challenges and shortages of goods.
- Travel restrictions and regulations for tourists.
- Infrastructure issues, including unreliable transportation and utilities.
- Political situation may impact personal freedom and expression.
- Limited internet access and connectivity.
- Hurricanes and tropical storms can pose a risk during the season.
Best Activities in Havana
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a leisurely walk through the historic streets of Old Havana to admire the colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Enjoy a scenic stroll along the iconic seawall, taking in the stunning views of the ocean and the city skyline.
Immerse yourself in the local culture by taking a salsa dancing class or enjoying live music and dancing at one of the many outdoor venues.
Escape the city and explore the beautiful countryside of Viñales Valley, known for its picturesque landscapes and tobacco plantations.
Tours
Uncover the best of Havana with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Havana
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque seawall perfect for taking photos of the sunset and the city skyline.
Offers stunning views of Havana and the harbor, great for capturing the city's historic charm.
Iconic square with the José Martí Memorial and the Ministry of the Interior building, providing a backdrop for memorable photos.
Food in Havana
Havana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Cuban dish made from shredded beef, simmered in a savory tomato-based sauce with onions, peppers, and spices. It is often served with rice and black beans. Try it at La Bodeguita del Medio or San Cristobal Paladar.
Must-Try!
This dish features black beans and rice cooked together with a medley of herbs, garlic, and spices. It's a staple side dish in Cuban cuisine and can be found in most local eateries.
A delicious sandwich made with Cuban bread, roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. For an authentic experience, head to La Floridita or El Aljibe restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Havana better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Old Havana, this market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and spices. It's a great place to sample local fruits and interact with vendors to get a taste of authentic Cuban ingredients.
Vedado is known for its vibrant street food scene. Standout offerings include fried plantains, churros, and homemade empanadas. Visit the street food vendors along Avenida 23 for a true Cuban street food experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Havana, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when waiting in line or in crowded places.
It's respectful to observe and follow local customs and traditions, such as greeting people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek and using formal titles when addressing older individuals.
In Havana, it's important to be aware of cultural taboos, such as discussing politics in a disrespectful manner or taking photos of individuals without their permission.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Havana with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Havana
Ensure a smooth experience
In Havana, Cuba, tipping is expected in restaurants, bars, and for services such as taxi rides and hotel staff. A tip of 10% of the bill is generally considered appropriate.
Payment in Havana, Cuba is mostly done in cash, as credit and debit cards may not be widely accepted. It's important to carry enough cash for daily expenses, including meals, transportation, and souvenirs.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Havana.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Havana as the weather is cooler and more comfortable. Expect clear skies and less humidity. This is also the peak tourist season, so be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.
Spring is a great time to visit Havana, with pleasant temperatures and colorful blooms. It's a less crowded time to visit, but be aware of the occasional rain showers.
Expect hot and humid weather during the summer months. This is also the hurricane season, so keep an eye on weather forecasts. However, this is also the time for festivals and events in Havana.
Fall brings the risk of hurricanes, but it's also a time when the city is less crowded and you can find good deals on accommodations. The weather starts to cool down, and it's a good time for exploring the city.
Havana at Night
Hiking in Havana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful coastal park located on the outskirts of Havana, offering scenic trails with views of the ocean and diverse flora and fauna.
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve about 90 km from Havana, featuring lush mountains, diverse ecosystems, and various hiking trails suitable for different skill levels.
A small ecotourism community located in the Sierra del Rosario, with numerous hiking trails that wind through coffee plantations, rivers, and stunning landscapes.
Located in the Cienfuegos region, this national park features waterfalls, natural pools, and hiking trails through lush tropical greenery, a great spot for a day trip from Havana.
A bit farther from Havana, this stunning valley offers iconic limestone mogotes and tobacco fields with several trails for hiking and exploring the rural landscape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Havana through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Havana by plane.
The main international airport serving Havana, Cuba, located approximately 15 km from the city center.
Also known as Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport, it serves Varadero and is about 140 km from Havana.
Located in Santiago de Cuba, approximately 750 km from Havana, serving the eastern region of Cuba.
Located in Holguín, about 700 km from Havana, serving the eastern part of the island.
Serving Cayo Coco, this airport is approximately 500 km from Havana and caters mainly to tourists.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Represents a majority of the population, primarily of Spanish descent.
Indigenous and European mixed heritage population.
A significant demographic group, many with roots from the African diaspora.
A smaller demographic primarily consisting of Chinese descent.
Includes various minority populations such as immigrants and their descendants.
The Soul of Havana
Discover the essence of Havana through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is the most popular sport in Cuba and has a rich history in Havana. The country has produced many renowned players, and the local leagues are passionate and competitive.
Boxing is highly celebrated in Cuba, with many successful amateur and professional boxers originating from Havana. The sport is well-organized and supported by the government.
While not as popular as baseball, soccer is gaining traction in Havana, especially among the youth. Local leagues and international matches attract significant attention.
Volleyball is a popular recreational sport in Havana, both on the beach and indoors. It has a strong following and is played at various community and school levels.
Basketball has seen a rise in popularity in Havana, especially among young people. Local courts are common, and the sport is actively promoted through schools and community programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Havana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Cuban cuisine traditionally features a lot of meat, many restaurants in Havana offer vegetarian and vegan dishes such as congri (black beans and rice), tostones (fried plantains), and yuca con mojo (yucca in garlic sauce). Look for the 'vegetariano' or 'vegano' labels on menus.
Rice and beans, yuca, and plantains are naturally gluten-free and commonly found in Cuban dishes. However, it's advisable for individuals with gluten restrictions to communicate their dietary needs clearly to ensure a safe dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Havana with these cultural adventures.