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 classic car taxis for short trips (negotiate 10-15 CUC beforehand), take bici-taxis for Old Havana exploration, or use Viazul buses for longer distances. Download offline maps as GPS can be unreliable.

Money: Bring cash (EUR or CAD preferred over USD which incurs 10% penalty). Exchange at official CADECAs, not street vendors. Budget 50-80 CUC daily for mid-range travel including meals and transport.

Cultural Respect: Ask permission before photographing locals, tip musicians 1-2 CUC for photos, dress modestly when visiting churches, and learn basic Spanish greetings—Cubans appreciate the effort and respond warmly.

Food Safety: Eat at busy paladares and state restaurants, avoid street food initially until acclimatized. Drink bottled water, order well-cooked meat, and try local specialties like ropa vieja and moros y cristianos safely.

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.