Things To Do
in Havana
Havana is a city of radiant balconies and vintage cars, where colonial grandeur meets a stubborn, rhythmic pulse of music in the streets. The historic center, Habana Vieja, unfolds around plazas, pastel facades, and paladares serving traditional flavors. The Malecón seawall provides a dramatic stage for sunsets, salsa, and street performances.
Life in Havana blends resilience, warmth, and a vibrant creative spirit that keeps the city alive despite challenges.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in Old Havana, savoring traditional Cuban coffee and a pastelito. After breakfast, meander through the cobblestone streets, visiting iconic sites like the Plaza de Armas and the Castillo del Morro. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you admire the colonial architecture and local art displayed along the way.
Indulge in a delicious lunch at a paladar, where you can taste authentic Cuban dishes made with fresh local ingredients. Post-lunch, visit the Museo de la Revolución to learn about the history of Cuba and its revolutionary past, exploring fascinating exhibits that tell the story of the nation. Take a stroll through the Parque Central, soaking in the lively ambiance filled with vintage cars and street performers.
As the sun sets, enjoy a classic dinner at a restaurant with views of the Malecón, where you can relish seafood and traditional Cuban fare. After dinner, immerse yourself in Havana's rich music scene by attending a live salsa performance at a local venue. End your evening with a walk along the Malecón, listening to the soothing sound of waves crashing against the sea wall.
Begin your day with a visit to the Fábrica de Arte Cubano, an innovative art space that fuses visual arts, music, and performance. Explore the various galleries showcasing contemporary Cuban artists while sipping on a refreshing juice from the café inside. This immersive experience sets the tone for a day filled with creativity and inspiration.
Enjoy lunch at one of the food stalls within the Fábrica, where you can try local street food and artisanal snacks. Afterward, participate in a workshop, such as salsa dancing or traditional Cuban cooking, to engage with local artists and learn about their craft. This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for the rich culture of Havana.
In the evening, return to the Fábrica for live performances featuring local musicians and dancers, showcasing the vibrant and dynamic arts scene. Savor a selection of cocktails inspired by Cuban flavors while mingling with locals and fellow travelers. As the night unfolds, lose yourself in the rhythm of Havana, surrounded by creativity and passion.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🛏️Hostel/guesthouse bed per night | $15-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee or light café bite | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within city (short trip) | $4-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and music-driven atmosphere
- Stunning architecture and photogenic streets
- Currency confusion and uneven internet access
- Outdoor heat and humidity can be intense
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Buenas tardes" - Good afternoon
- "Buenas noches" - Good evening
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much is this?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "No entiendo" - I don't understand
- "Ayuda" - Help
Places to Visit in Havana
Visit one of these nice places.
Long sea wall with dramatic Atlantic views, colorful old houses, and lively street life—perfect for golden-hour photography.
Plaza de Armas, Plaza Vieja, and Calle Obispo offer cobblestone streets, pastel façades, and photogenic doorways.
Impressive neoclassical building with grand steps and a striking dome—great for architectural shots.
Fortress guarding Havana’s harbor; dramatic sea views and sunset silhouettes.
Vibrant contemporary space with art, installations, and nightlife—stylish interior shots.
Food in Havana
Havana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded beef stewed with peppers, onions, and tomatoes; widely available in traditional eateries like La Guarida or Doña Eutimia.
Must-Try!
Black beans and white rice with garlic and onions; a staple accompaniment found across many restaurants.
Roast pork with crackling skin; common at family-run paladares and larger venues in Havana.
Rice cooked with chicken, peas, and saffron-like seasonings; a comforting, widely available dish.
Tapioca-like cassava with garlicky mojo sauce; a frequent side dish in local spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Arts and crafts market offering souvenirs, live music, and some food stalls; great for a quick bite and local flavor.
Churros, croquetas, empanadas, tostones, and grilled pork skewers sold by street vendors and small stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; with close acquaintances, a kiss on the cheek may occur among friends. Use polite forms of address and a friendly tone.
Small talk is typical; avoid sensitive political topics in casual conversations and maintain a respectful, warm demeanor.
Plans can be flexible; arriving a few minutes late is common in social settings. Patience and a relaxed attitude are appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Havana
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10–15% is appreciated. In casas particulares (private homes), a small tip for hosting or housekeeping is common. For street performances or photographers, small tips are optional depending on service.
Cash is the most reliable payment method; many places do not accept credit cards. Some hotels and higher-end venues may accept cards, but have limited capabilities. When paying in USD, expect a 10% surcharge when exchanging or using certain services; euros or other hard currencies are often easier for cash transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and plan outdoor time for early mornings or late afternoons. Hurricane season runs roughly June–November.
Still warm with occasional rain; humidity remains high but tolerable for exploring on foot. Good time to enjoy less-crowded attractions.
Pleasantly mild days and cooler nights; a comfortable period for outdoor walking and sightseeing; evenings can be cool.
Warm and sunny with low to moderate rainfall; ideal for outdoor activities and photography around golden-hour.
Havana at Night
Hiking in Havana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Near Artemisa, offering forested trails, bird-watching, and a break from city heat.
A scenic reserve with misty hills and coffee plantations—great for day hikes from Havana.
Airports
How to reach Havana by plane.
Main international gateway serving Havana; taxis and bus routes connect to the city center.
Located near Varadero, a common day trip or extension option from Havana; transfer by road to the city or coastal resorts.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time Havana families, students, and workers who keep the city’s rhythm intact.
Located around the universities in Vedado and central Havana; often young and culturally engaged.
A growing scene of travelers and expatriates exploring music, architecture, and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The national pastime; many locals follow and play in parks and schools.
Widely played and watched; local matches and fan culture are common around the city.
A traditional sport with storied Cuban boxers and gym culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Havana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Menu can be limited in some traditional spots; look for rice and beans, plantain dishes, salads, grilled vegetables, and fruit; inform staff about no meat to get chef recommendations or tailor dishes in paladares.