Things to Do in Havana in October
October weather, activities, events & insider tips
October Weather in Havana
Is October Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak dry season conditions - virtually zero rainfall at 0.0 mm (0.0 inches) means reliable weather for walking tours and outdoor photography with predictable 29°C (84°F) highs
- Optimal comfort zone temperatures between 23-29°C (73-84°F) perfect for extended walking through Old Havana's cobblestone streets without the exhausting heat of summer months
- Hurricane season officially ends October 31st, making this the most reliable month for flight schedules and outdoor activities without weather-related cancellations
- Cultural peak season begins - October marks the start of Havana's most vibrant period with outdoor concerts, street festivals, and locals spending more time in plazas and malecóns as heat subsides
Considerations
- Early high season pricing kicks in - accommodation costs increase 25-40% compared to September, and popular casa particulares require 3-4 weeks advance booking
- Tourist crowds return as European visitors arrive for winter escapes, making popular spots like Plaza de Armas and Floridita significantly busier between 10am-4pm
- Humidity remains at 70% creating that sticky tropical feel - cotton clothes will feel damp within 30 minutes of outdoor activities, especially midday
Best Activities in October
Classic Car Tours Through Historic Districts
October's perfect 23-29°C (73-84°F) temperatures make open-top convertible rides comfortable throughout the day. The virtually zero rainfall means reliable scheduling, and the post-hurricane season clarity offers exceptional photography conditions. Locals are out enjoying the pleasant weather, creating more authentic street scenes.
Malecón Sunset Walking and Photography
October's lower humidity (70% vs 85% in summer) and stable weather create ideal conditions for golden hour photography along Havana's famous seawall. The 6:30pm sunset timing coincides perfectly with comfortable 25°C (77°F) evening temperatures. This is when locals emerge for their evening paseo (stroll).
Hemingway Trail Literary Tours
Cool October mornings averaging 23°C (73°F) are perfect for exploring Hemingway's haunts including Finca Vigía and his favorite bars. The dry conditions ensure reliable access to his former residence museum, and comfortable walking weather for the literary bar crawl covering 3-4 locations.
Salsa Dancing in Open-Air Venues
October's pleasant evening temperatures around 25°C (77°F) make outdoor dance venues comfortable for extended dancing sessions. The low rainfall means venues like Casa de la Música's outdoor patio operate reliably. This is peak season for local dancers who avoid the summer heat.
Cuban Cooking Classes in Private Homes
October's moderate humidity makes kitchen activities more comfortable than summer months. The seasonal transition brings access to both summer fruits and early winter vegetables, offering diverse ingredient options. Comfortable temperatures mean outdoor terraces can be used for dining.
Vintage Motorcycle Sidecar Tours
October's stable weather and zero rainfall days make motorcycle touring reliable and safe. The 29°C (84°F) highs with breeze from riding create perfect comfort levels. Clear post-hurricane season skies provide excellent visibility for coastal and countryside routes.
October Events & Festivals
Festival Internacional del Nuevo Cine Latinoamericano (Preparation Season)
While the main festival occurs in December, October sees pre-festival screenings and cultural events throughout the city. Independent cinemas show Latin American films with English subtitles, and filmmakers begin arriving for preliminary events.
Día de la Cultura Cubana Celebrations
October 20th marks Cuban Culture Day with special museum exhibitions, street performances in Old Havana, and extended hours at cultural sites. Many normally closed colonial buildings open for special tours.