Things To Do
in Havana
Havana, Cuba, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively culture. The city features a mix of Spanish colonial buildings and modern influences, creating a unique urban landscape. With its famous Malecón waterfront promenade and classic vintage cars, Havana offers a nostalgic charm that captivates visitors.
The city's warm climate and friendly locals make it an inviting destination for travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Plaza de Armas, the oldest square in Havana, and explore the nearby Castillo de la Real Fuerza. Enjoy a traditional Cuban breakfast at a local café.
Wander through the cobblestone streets of Old Havana, visiting landmarks like the Cathedral of Havana and the famous Hotel Inglaterra. Stop by the Mercado de San José for local crafts and souvenirs.
Dine at La Bodeguita del Medio, known for its mojitos and vibrant atmosphere, followed by a live music performance at El Floridita.
Visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes to appreciate Cuban art, followed by a stroll through the lush Parque Central.
Head to the Malecón for a leisurely walk along the seawall, enjoying views of the Gulf of Mexico. Grab lunch at a food stall for some local street food.
Experience Havana's nightlife with dinner at Casa de la Musica, where you can enjoy salsa music and dance the night away.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨Mid-Range Hotel Night | $70-120 |
| 🚌Taxi Ride in the City | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🍹Cocktail at a Bar | $5-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Vibrant music and nightlife scene.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Limited access to modern amenities.
- Inconsistent internet connectivity.
- Some areas may feel unsafe at night.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Havana
Visit one of these nice places.
This iconic seawall is perfect for sunset photography with stunning views of the ocean and the city skyline.
A picturesque square featuring the stunning Cathedral of Havana, ideal for capturing colonial architecture.
A grand building resembling the U.S. Capitol, it's a great spot for architectural photography.
Food in Havana
Havana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded beef cooked in a savory tomato sauce, often served with rice and black beans.
Must-Try!
Marinated and grilled flank steak, typically served with onions and lime.
Twice-fried green plantains, crispy and served as a snack or side dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional Cuban snacks.
Scattered throughout the city, these stalls offer affordable options like sandwiches, pastries, and fresh fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or a kiss on the cheek is customary when greeting someone.
Dress neatly, especially in restaurants and cultural venues; casual attire is acceptable on the streets.
Be mindful of local traditions, including music, dance, and community gatherings.
Safety
Tipping in Havana
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is appreciated.
Cash is preferred, especially in local establishments. Credit cards are accepted in some tourist spots but may incur extra fees.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures are mild (65-80°F), making it the peak tourist season. Expect sunny days and cool evenings.
Warm weather (70-85°F) continues, with occasional rain. Fewer tourists than winter, making it a pleasant time to visit.
Hot and humid (75-90°F), with frequent rain. Ideal for beach activities but be prepared for heat.
Temperatures start to cool (70-85°F) and the hurricane season occurs. Less crowded, but check weather conditions.
Havana at Night
Hiking in Havana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A nature reserve about an hour from Havana, offering a network of trails through lush forests and coffee plantations.
Located further from the city, this area is famous for its stunning limestone cliffs and tobacco fields, providing excellent hiking opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Havana by plane.
Located about 15 km from downtown Havana, this is the primary international gateway to Cuba, serving numerous flights from North America and Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of Havana's population consists of young adults, who are often seen socializing in parks and cafes, contributing to the city's lively atmosphere.
There is a substantial elderly population in Havana, many of whom are engaged in community activities, sharing stories of the past, and enjoying cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cuba has a rich baseball tradition, and it's the most popular sport on the island, with many local teams and passionate fans.
Boxing is also a significant sport in Cuba, known for producing many world-class fighters and Olympic champions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Havana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Cuban cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian options such as rice and beans, vegetable soups, and salads.
Gluten-free options are limited, but fresh fruits, vegetables, and grilled meats are widely available.