Things to Do in Havana

About Havana

Vintage Chevrolets cruise Havana's cobblestone streets while salsa spills from doorways and the smell of Cuban coffee mixes with Caribbean sea salt. Colonial buildings meet revolutionary fervor. Worth seeing. Old Havana's baroque architecture dominates the center, where pastel buildings lean into narrow streets like friends trading gossip. Time here doesn't follow clocks—it follows the decay of impressive facades, laughter from rooftop terraces, and waves crashing against the Malecón seawall. You'll notice it immediately. Every corner shows resilience, from the elegant Teatro Nacional to neighborhood paladares where families serve meals with real pride. The city won't just welcome you. It'll embrace you with Cuban warmth—contradictions, imperfections, and all.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use collective taxis (almendrones) for 10-20 CUP ($0.40-$0.80) within Havana—they follow set routes. Private taxis charge 200-400 CUP ($8-$16) from airport to city center. Rent classic cars for tourism at $40-80 per hour including driver.

Money: Bring euros or USD in cash—Cuba has limited banking access. Exchange at CADECA offices or hotels. Budget 500-1,000 CUP ($20-$40) daily for meals and activities at official rates.

Cultural Respect: Greet with 'hola' and maintain warm eye contact—Cubans are very friendly. Ask permission before photographing people. Tipping musicians and service staff is appreciated as wages are low.

Food: Try ropa vieja and moros y cristianos at paladares (private restaurants) for 150-300 CUP ($6-$12) per meal. Sample mojitos at Bodeguita del Medio for 80-120 CUP ($3.20-$4.80). Cuban coffee costs 5-15 CUP ($0.20-$0.60) per shot.

When to Visit

Havana enjoys a tropical climate with distinct seasons offering different experiences. December through April represents peak season with ideal conditions—temperatures averaging 70-80°F (21-27°C), minimal rainfall under 2 inches monthly, and cooling trade winds. Expect 30-40% higher accommodation prices and crowded attractions, but perfect weather for walking tours and outdoor dining. May through July brings shoulder season with rising temperatures (75-85°F/24-29°C) and increased humidity. Rain remains manageable at 3-4 inches monthly, while prices drop 15-20%. This period offers excellent value with fewer crowds. August through November constitutes hurricane season with heavy rainfall (5-7 inches monthly), temperatures reaching 85-90°F (29-32°C), and high humidity. However, accommodation costs plummet 40-50%, and brief afternoon showers often provide refreshing relief. Hurricane risk peaks September-October. Key festivals include Havana Jazz Festival (December), International Book Fair (February), and Havana Carnival (August). Photography ensoiasts prefer December-March for golden light, while budget travelers find excellent deals June-October. Musicians and culture seekers should visit year-round as Havana's artistic spirit never sleeps, though outdoor activities are most comfortable November through April.