Things To Do
in Marianao

Marianao is a vibrant neighborhood located in the outskirts of Havana, Cuba, known for its rich cultural heritage and colorful architecture. It features a mix of residential areas, local markets, and parks, making it a unique place to experience everyday Cuban life. The area is characterized by a strong sense of community and traditional Cuban music that fills the streets.

Visitors can enjoy local art, lively street performances, and the hospitality of its residents.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit the Parque de Marianao for a stroll among the lush greenery.

afternoon
:

Explore the neighborhood's vibrant street art and visit local markets to experience daily Cuban life.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Cuban restaurant, followed by live music at a nearby venue.

day 2
Day 2: Natural and Historical Wonders
morning
:

After breakfast, head to the nearby Playa de Marianao for a relaxing morning by the beach.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Casa de la Cultura to learn about the local arts scene, followed by a visit to the Museo de Marianao.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a sunset walk along the beach and dinner at a seaside restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$10
🍺Beer in a bar$2
🍦Ice cream$1
🚌Public transport fare$0.50
🏨Hotel night stay$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Vibrant nightlife and music scene
  • Limited healthcare facilities
  • Public transportation can be unreliable
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Spanish speakers
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Hola" - Hello

Places to Visit in Marianao

Visit one of these nice places.

Parque de Marianao

A picturesque park with lush greenery, perfect for capturing the essence of local life and vibrant street scenes.

Street Murals

Colorful murals and street art scattered throughout Marianao provide a unique backdrop for photography.

Playa de Marianao

The beach offers stunning sunset views and the opportunity to capture the beauty of the coastline.

Culinary Guide

Food in Marianao

Marianao offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the flavors of traditional Cuban cuisine.

Marianao Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ropa Vieja

A classic Cuban dish made of shredded beef stewed in a savory tomato sauce with peppers and onions.

Must-Try!

Moros y Cristianos

A dish consisting of black beans and rice cooked together, symbolizing the historical blending of cultures.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Marianao

A bustling market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and local snacks, ideal for sampling street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Marianao has a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with an average of 24°C (75°F). The rainy season runs from May to October, bringing humidity and occasional storms. The dry season lasts from November to April, offering cooler temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Daily temperatures can range from 20°C (68°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common; use 'Hola' to greet locals warmly.

Respect for Culture

Show respect for local customs, including music, dance, and art, which are integral to Cuban identity.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and adhere to local customs regarding attire.

Safety Guide

Safety

Marianao is generally safe for tourists, but it’s essential to take standard precautions. Avoid displaying valuables and stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. It is advisable to travel in groups at night and use reputable transportation services. Emergency services are limited, so familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Marianao

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants and bars, and rounding up is appreciated for taxi drivers.

Payment Methods

Cash is the primary payment method; credit cards are accepted in some places, but it's advisable to carry cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (Dec - Feb)

Mild temperatures and less humidity make it a great time to visit, perfect for outdoor activities.

Spring (Mar - May)

Warm weather with occasional rain; ideal for exploring the area, though be prepared for short showers.

Summer (Jun - Aug)

Hot and humid conditions prevail; visitors should stay hydrated and seek shade during midday.

Fall (Sep - Nov)

Tropical storms can occur, particularly in September; however, the weather is generally warm and pleasant.

Nightlife Guide

Marianao at Night

The nightlife in Marianao is vibrant and full of energy, with numerous bars and clubs featuring live music, salsa dancing, and cultural performances. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the lively atmosphere, especially on weekends. Popular venues often showcase traditional Cuban music genres like son and rumba, providing an authentic experience. Don't miss out on the opportunity to dance the night away and mingle with friendly locals.

Hiking in Marianao

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

La Güira National Park

Located about an hour's drive from Marianao, this park offers beautiful hiking trails through lush forests and stunning scenery.

Sierra del Rosario

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with various trails that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and local wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Marianao by plane.

José Martí International Airport

Located approximately 20 km from Marianao, this is the main airport serving Havana, offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Marianao is relatively walkable, with many attractions, restaurants, and parks within a short distance. Sidewalks are available in most areas, but some streets may be uneven. Walking allows visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture, though it’s advisable to stay cautious of traffic and local drivers.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Many young families reside in Marianao, contributing to the vibrant community life and local culture.

Artists and Musicians

The area is home to a diverse group of artists and musicians, often seen performing in public spaces and contributing to the local arts scene.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is the most popular sport in Cuba, and you can often see locals playing in parks and backyards.

Boxing

Cuban boxing has a strong reputation, and the country has produced many world champions, making it a sport of national pride.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Marianao can be busy, particularly during rush hours, with a mix of cars, bicycles, and pedestrians sharing the road. Public transportation consists of buses and shared taxis, which are affordable but may not always run on time. Visitors should plan accordingly and consider walking when possible.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Marianao.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Cuban cuisine is meat-heavy, some restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like vegetable stews and rice.

Gluten-Free

Cuban staples like rice and beans are naturally gluten-free, but always check with the restaurant for specific dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Marianao is basic, with local clinics available for minor issues; however, advanced medical facilities are limited. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are present, but availability of medications may vary, so it's wise to bring necessary prescriptions.

Discover Cuba

Read more in our Cuba 2025 Travel Guide.

Cuba Travel Guide