Havana Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Havana rewards slow wandering, with history, architecture and music packed into a compact centre.

• Old Havana (Habana Vieja) — Explore the UNESCO-listed old town and its four main squares, including Plaza de Armas and Plaza Vieja.
• Plaza de la Catedral — Admire the baroque façade of Havana Cathedral, one of the city’s most photographed buildings.
• The Malecón — Walk the famous seafront boulevard at sunset, when locals gather along the sea wall.
• El Capitolio — See the grand domed former parliament building that dominates Centro Habana.
• Museum of the Revolution — Learn about modern Cuban history in the former presidential palace.
• Fortresses of El Morro and La Cabaña — Cross the bay to the colonial forts guarding the harbour entrance for sweeping city views.
• Classic car tour — Ride in a vintage 1950s convertible along the waterfront and through Vedado.

Havana has a tropical climate that is warm all year. The dry season, from roughly November to April, brings sunny days, lower humidity and pleasant evenings, making it the most comfortable time for sightseeing on foot. December to March is the busiest period for visitors.

From May to October the weather becomes hotter and more humid, with frequent afternoon showers. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November, with the highest risk usually between August and October, so keep an eye on forecasts if you travel then. Shoulder months such as November and April often offer a good balance of weather and fewer crowds.

José Martí International Airport lies about 15 kilometres south-west of central Havana, and the drive to Old Havana or Vedado usually takes around 30 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. There is no rail link to the city.

Most visitors travel into town by official taxi, which can be found outside the arrivals halls, or by a transfer arranged in advance through their accommodation. Agree on the fare before setting off if the taxi has no meter. Public buses exist but are infrequent and not practical with luggage.

Many visitors stay in hotels or in casas particulares, private homes that rent out rooms, which offer a close look at daily life.

• Old Havana (Habana Vieja) — Ideal for first-time visitors who want museums, squares and restaurants on the doorstep.
• Centro Habana — Suits travellers looking for an authentic, lively neighbourhood between the old town and Vedado.
• Vedado — Good for those who prefer leafy streets, larger hotels, nightlife and easy access to the Malecón.
• Miramar — Quieter and more residential, suiting families and business travellers.

• Money: Cuba is largely cash-based and many foreign bank cards, especially those issued by US banks, do not work; bring enough cash and check the current situation before you go.
• Getting around: Old Havana is best explored on foot; use official taxis or classic cars for longer journeys and agree prices in advance.
• Etiquette: Greetings are warm and friendly; tipping musicians and service staff is customary.
• Health: Drink bottled water, use sun protection and carry insect repellent, especially in the wet season.
• Connectivity: Internet access is more limited and slower than in many countries, so download maps and key information before arrival.