Ernest Hemingway once wrote, “In Cuba, you get everything—scenery, people, history, revolution, rum, cigars, and music.” Nowhere is that truer than in Havana. This city hums with a rhythm all its own, where classic cars rumble down cobblestone streets, waves crash along the Malecón, and salsa music spills from vibrant plazas. Havana is a place that feels both frozen in time and bursting with life. From its grand colonial architecture to its lively street culture, there’s something magical about every corner. In this Havana travel guide, we, at VayCay Couple, will take you through the best things to do in Havana, top travel tips, and everything you need to know before visiting.
Why Visit Havana? A City Like No Other
Havana is unlike any other city in the world. It’s a place where old-world charm meets Caribbean energy. Here, you can wander through cobblestone streets lined with colourful Spanish colonial buildings, sip mojitos in Hemingway’s favourite bars, and watch the sunset over the Malecón as classic cars drive by. The city’s energy is contagious, with locals dancing in the streets and live music echoing from every corner. Whether you’re drawn by history, culture, food, or adventure, Havana offers a truly unique travel experience.
The city also offers a deep revolutionary history, with monuments and museums dedicated to figures like Che Guevara and Fidel Castro. From colonial fortresses to thriving art scenes, Havana is a blend of past and present that you won’t find anywhere else.
Best Things to Do in Havana
Below we will explore the best things to do in Havana:
1. Explore Old Havana (La Habana Vieja)
Start your trip in Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with historic plazas, grand cathedrals, and charming cafes. This area is the heart of the city, where every corner tells a story of its Spanish colonial past. Must-see spots include:
- Plaza de la Catedral – Home to Havana’s stunning baroque cathedral, a masterpiece of Cuban architecture.
- Plaza Vieja – A lively square with colourful colonial buildings, vibrant restaurants, and a fascinating history.
- El Capitolio – Havana’s iconic capitol building, resembling the U.S. Capitol, and a must-visit for architecture lovers.
- Plaza de Armas – The oldest square in Havana, where you can find secondhand book markets and historic sites like the Palacio de los Capitanes Generales.
- Castillo de la Real Fuerza – One of the oldest forts in the Americas, offering great views and a look at Cuba’s colonial military history.
2. Walk Along the Malecón
One of the best free things to do in Havana is strolling along the Malecón, a scenic 8-kilometer seawall where locals gather to socialize, play music, and watch the sunset. It’s the perfect place to experience the heartbeat of Havana.
At night, the Malecón turns into an open-air party, where locals and tourists mingle with bottles of Havana Club rum, enjoying the sea breeze and live music. It’s a great place to meet friendly locals and immerse yourself in the Cuban lifestyle.
3. Take a Ride in a Classic American Car
No trip to Havana is complete without a ride in a vintage convertible. Book a classic car tour and cruise through the city, passing landmarks like the Hotel Nacional, Revolution Square, and Vedado. Prices usually range from $30 to $50 per hour, depending on the route and the car’s condition.
These iconic cars, relics from pre-revolution Cuba, have been kept alive by resourceful locals and skilled mechanics. Taking a ride isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about experiencing a piece of Cuban history firsthand.
4. Visit Revolution Square
History buffs will love Plaza de la Revolución, famous for its massive Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos murals. This is where Fidel Castro gave some of his longest speeches, making it one of the most significant political spots in Cuba.
Visit during the day for photos, but also consider coming at night when the murals are dramatically lit. If you want to dive deeper into Cuba’s revolutionary past, the nearby Museum of the Revolution is a must-visit.
5. Enjoy Live Music & Salsa Dancing
Havana is alive with music, dance, and nightlife. Head to Casa de la Música, Fábrica de Arte Cubano, or Buena Vista Social Club for an unforgettable night of salsa, jazz, and Cuban rhythms. Don’t be shy – locals love to teach visitors how to dance!
For a more intimate experience, visit La Zorra y el Cuervo, a famous underground jazz club where some of Cuba’s best musicians perform.
6. Visit a Cigar Factory
Cuba is known for its cigars, and a cigar factory tour gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how these world-famous smokes are made. The Partagás Factory, La Corona Factory, and Romeo y Julieta Factory are great places to learn about the craftsmanship behind Cuban cigars.
7. Take a Day Trip to Playas del Este
If you need a break from the city, Playas del Este offers beautiful white-sand beaches just 30 minutes from Havana. The easiest way to get there is by taking the T3 beach bus from Parque Central, or hiring a taxi for about $10-$15 one way.
This stretch of beaches includes Santa María del Mar, Guanabo, and Bacuranao, all with turquoise waters and a relaxed vibe.
Travel Tips for Visiting Havana
To make the most of your trip, here are some essential Havana travel tips:
Money & Currency
- Cash is king in Cuba. Credit cards (especially U.S. cards) do not work.
- Bring Euros or Canadian dollars to exchange at CADECA booths (better rates than USD).
- The local currency is Cuban Pesos (CUP), and most places only accept cash.
Internet & WiFi
- WiFi is limited in Havana. You can buy prepaid ETECSA WiFi cards to use at public hotspots and hotels.
- Consider downloading offline maps and travel guides before you go.
Drinking Water & Safety
- Do not drink tap water. Always buy bottled water.
- Havana is generally safe for tourists, but watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Avoid street hustlers (jineteros) who try to overcharge for tours or restaurants.
Local Transportation
- Classic car taxis are the most fun way to get around; always agree on the fare first.
- Shared taxis (almendrones) are cheap and common among locals.
- Bici-taxis and coco-taxis are great for short distances.
- The hop-on-hop-off tourist bus is a convenient way to see Havana.
Entry Requirements (Visa)
- Most travellers need a Cuban Tourist Card (visa) before arrival.
- U.S. travellers must declare a travel category (usually “Support for the Cuban People”).
- Travel insurance is required; bring proof of coverage.
Why You’ll Love Havana
Havana is a city that stays with you long after you leave. Whether it’s the music, history, culture, or friendly locals, there’s something magical about this place. We hope this Havana travel guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip. If you’ve been to Havana, let us know your favourite spots in the comments below!
