Photos: Unsplash
Havana captivates with the colonial architecture of Habana Vieja, the seafront Malecón and its iconic classic American cars.
Top things to do in Havana
- →Explore Habana Vieja
- →Walk the Malecón at sunset
- →Tour the city in a classic car
- →Discover the Vedado neighborhood
Getting around Havana
José Martí Airport (HAV) is about 15 km from the center; a taxi is most practical, taking 25 to 40 minutes. Around the city you can use taxis, the classic cocotaxis or shared vintage cars that run fixed routes.
How much does it cost?
Budget 50 to 100 USD a day; casas particulares are cheaper than hotels. Bring enough cash in USD or EUR, as cards from US banks don’t work and ATMs are limited.
Where to stay in Havana
- Habana Vieja — The UNESCO-listed old town, with colonial squares, museums and streets full of life.
- Vedado — A modern district with wide avenues, hotels, cinemas and lively nightlife.
- Centro Habana — A dense, authentic zone between Habana Vieja and Vedado, with the Malecón nearby.
- Miramar — A residential area to the west with embassies, mansions and a calmer atmosphere.
Is it safe?
Havana is relatively safe for tourists, with little violent crime, though pickpocketing and scams occur; note that internet is limited, so buy a data plan or eSIM, and US travelers must visit under one of the authorized categories.
Flights to Havana from these cities
Frequently asked questions about Havana
When is the best time to visit Havana and how much does it cost?
November to April is the dry, most pleasant season; budget 50 to 100 USD a day, less if you stay in casas particulares.
How long is the flight to Havana?
It is about 2.5 hours from Mexico City and also around 2.5 hours from Panama.
Can I use credit cards in Cuba?
Cards issued by US banks don’t work and ATMs are limited, so bring enough cash in USD or EUR.
How do I find cheap flights to Havana?
Compare hundreds of airlines and agencies on Volar and pick the cheapest month to fly to Havana. We send you to book on the official site, with no hidden fees.