Three Days of Rhythm & Revolution in Havana
Classic Cars, Colonial Charm & Caribbean Soul
Trip Overview
This long weekend in Havana immerses you in Cuba's captivating capital, where pastel-colored colonial architecture meets revolutionary history and infectious Afro-Cuban rhythms. Over three days, you'll explore the UNESCO-listed Old Havana with its baroque plazas and fortress walls, discover the artistic soul of the city from street murals to grand theaters, and experience the legendary Malecón waterfront. The itinerary balances iconic landmarks with authentic local experiences—from classic car rides to salsa clubs, from hemmed-in museums to open-air markets. Expect a moderate pace with plenty of walking through historic quarters, relaxed afternoon breaks to escape the Caribbean heat, and evenings alive with music and mojitos. This is Havana at its most authentic: romantic, revolutionary, and utterly unforgettable.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Colonial Havana & Revolutionary Spirits
Where to Stay Tonight
Old Havana (Habana Vieja) (Casa particular (private homestay) in a restored colonial building)
Staying in the historic center puts you within walking distance of Day 1 and Day 2 activities, with authentic atmosphere and local hosts who provide invaluable tips
Art, Culture & the Malecón
Where to Stay Tonight
Old Havana or Vedado (Casa particular with breakfast included)
Same location or nearby Vedado neighborhood offers easy access to both cultural venues and Day 3's western attractions
Artistic Whimsy & Western Havana
Where to Stay Tonight
Old Havana or near José Martí International Airport if departing early (Same casa particular or airport-convenient option)
Depending on departure time, either enjoy a final night in the historic center or position yourself for easy airport access
Practical Information
Getting Around
Havana is highly walkable in the historic center, where most Day 1 and 2 activities cluster. For longer distances, use classic car taxis (negotiate prices beforehand, typically $5-15 for cross-town trips), modern yellow taxis with meters, or coco-taxis (three-wheeled scooters) for short hops. Arrange transport to Fusterlandia through your casa particular. The hop-on-hop-off bus is useful for orientation but can be unreliable. Walking plus occasional taxis provides the best balance of economy, flexibility, and local interaction.
Book Ahead
Book casa particular accommodations 2-4 weeks ahead, especially during high season. Reserve Cuban Art Factory entry for weekends. Check Grand Theater performance schedules online and book tickets if interested. Most attractions don't require advance booking. Arrange airport transfer through your accommodation.
Packing Essentials
US dollars or Euros (credit cards mostly don't work), comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), light layers for air-conditioned spaces, rain jacket November-April, modest clothing for religious sites, camera with extra batteries/chargers, basic medications and toiletries (limited availability), Spanish phrasebook or translation app (download offline)
Total Budget
$270-365 for 3 days (excluding flights and accommodation)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in casas particulares with shared bathrooms ($15-25/night), eat at street food stalls and peso restaurants where locals dine ($3-5 per meal), use local buses and shared taxis, skip paid attractions in favor of free walking tours of plazas and the Malecón, bring snacks from home, and limit classic car rides to one short experience. Total budget: $50-70 per day including basic accommodation.
Luxury Upgrade
Book a restored colonial boutique hotel in Old Havana ($200-400/night), dine at top paladares like those featured in international guides, hire a private classic car with driver for full days ($150-200), book VIP seats at the Grand Theater, arrange private art tours with local curators, enjoy premium cigars and aged rum tastings, and add a day trip to Viñales Valley by private driver. Total budget: $300-500 per day.
Family-Friendly
Add interactive experiences like a classic car scavenger hunt, visit Fusterlandia early when it's less crowded (kids love the mosaics), spend more time at Central Park watching street performers, take a harbor ferry ride for novelty, reduce walking with coco-taxi rides kids enjoy, choose casas particulares with family rooms and courtyards, pack plenty of snacks as kid-friendly options are limited, and add beach time at Playas del Este for swimming and sandcastles.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Havana