Exploring Cuba’s Iconic Havana
Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean, and Havana is its beating heart, a city where vintage cars glide past colourful colonial buildings, and music spills into the streets. Walking through Havana feels like you’re stepping back in time, filled with history, energy, and unmistakable character.
Whether you’re visiting Cuba for its culture, beaches, or historic activities, Havana offers a timeless travel experience. I’ve been to Cuba before, but recently my mum and I spent three days in Havana during a multi-country Caribbean trip (including Panama and Jamaica), and it quickly became one of the highlights of our journey. It’s perfect for a short city break, but rich enough to reward a longer stay.
In this Havana travel guide, I’ll share the things I wish I’d known before visiting Cuba, essential tips for first-time travellers, and the best things to do during your time in the city.
Havana, Cuba, in its classic cars
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All You Need To Know About Havana
Language: Spanish is Cuba’s official language, shaped by African and Taino influences and known for its lively accent and slang. While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Spanish phrases will make interacting with locals easier and more rewarding.
Currency: Pay attention to this one. The currency situation can be somewhat confusing. As of January 1, 2021, the country has been moving toward unifying its currency system, using the Cuban Peso (CUP) exclusively, replacing the previous CUC. However, you can use Euros, British Pounds, and US Dollars (the latter is stronger than the former). We used US Dollars during our July 2024 visit and found it easier that way.
Getting Around: Taxis (official and shared), classic cars, and private drivers are the primary means of transportation for tourists. Buses connect major cities, but can be slow. Within cities, walking is easy and often the best way to explore.
Best Time To Visit: November to April is ideal, with warm, sunny, and less humid conditions, making it better for activities. May–October is hotter, with a higher risk of rain and hurricanes, but prices may be lower. 3 days exploring Havana was perfect, but 4 days, if you want a little extra time, is better.
Local Culture & Norms: Cuban culture is social, expressive, and music-filled. Expect friendly conversation and relaxed pacing. Dress modestly outside beach areas, tip for good service, and ask before photographing people. Patience is important; things don’t always run to a strict schedule.
Travel Essentials: Ensure you have all the required documents for your trip before departure. I always check the GOV.UK site, as it is government-owned and provides all the info for every country. If you travel from the UK, you’ll need a Green Card Visa and must complete the tourist form 48 hours before arrival.
Make sure you apply for all the necessary documents
Good-To-Know Tips For Exploring Havana
This country oozes rich architecture, but the economy is not so great
Best Places To Stay In Havana
Old Havana (Habana Vieja): The heart of the city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, brimming with colonial architecture, historic landmarks, and vibrant street life. Staying here puts you within walking distance of key attractions and activities, including the Plaza de la Catedral, the Malecon, and the iconic El Capitolio. The area is full of charming cafes, lively bars, and traditional restaurants, making it perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in Havana’s culture and history.
Miramar: An upscale neighbourhood known for its embassies, luxury hotels, and seaside mansions. It’s a quieter, more residential area than Old Havana and Vedado, making it perfect for a more relaxed stay. The area features attractions such as the Maqueta de La Habana and the National Aquarium, as well as a range of fine-dining options. Miramar is ideal for travellers seeking a more tranquil environment close to the city’s main attractions.
Vedado: A bustling district known for its modern vibe and dynamic nightlife. It’s home to many of Havana’s hotels, cultural institutions, and nightlife hotspots, including the legendary Hotel Nacional de Cuba and the famous Malecon promenade. Vedado offers a mix of residential and commercial areas, with numerous restaurants, theatres, and clubs, making it ideal for travellers seeking a vibrant, contemporary experience.
🩵 Recommends: We stayed in a presidential suite room in Napper by Rottenburgh (currently unavailable to book) in Vedado. Although the website photos were from when the hotel was new (so I was slightly disappointed by the exterior on arrival, expecting more modern aesthetics), the hotel turned out to be a real gem. The room was antique and stunning in design. Also, it was away from touristy spots, so it had a nice local feel. Just a heads-up: if you plan to stay here, grab some drinks and snacks for the fridge, since the shops are a little further out and only serve breakfast.
Click the image to expand
Best Tours In Havana
If you are booking from the UK, you won’t be able to book Cuban tours on standard tour operator sites such as our popular version, GetYourGuide. You can book through the alternative app, Civitatis.com (there may be other operators, but this is one I used and trust).
You’ll find a range of fantastic activities in Havana, from seeing tobacco fields in Vinales Valley on a day tour to booking an epic experience at the Tropicana Cabaret Show. If you want to get some sexy professional photos for Instagram whilst in Havana with the Cuban Cars, opt for a professional Photography Tour. Alternatively, you can take many free tours, such as walking tours (day and night) and free bike tours.
Civitatis is the perfect way to book tours in Havana
HOHO Bus Tour
The HOHO Bus (Hop-on, Hop-off) tour costs just $10 per person and can only be paid on board by card (not contactless) or in cash. Route 1 is a 2.5-hour loop with 27 stops, while Route 3 takes you to a beach. Popular stops on Route 1 include the Plaza de la Revolucion and Central Park. It’s a great way to see parts of Havana and a cheaper alternative to taxis. Personally, it wasn’t my favourite HOHO Bus trip (I didn’t want to jump off at every stop, as I usually do elsewhere). But for just 10$, I have to recommend it!
The image on the right is the newer HOHO bus route from the left
Salsa Class
We booked the Salsa Class through Civitatis, which was very enjoyable. No Cuban trip is complete without busting some dance moves! The salsa class lasts 60-90 minutes and is nothing but pure fun! You’ll learn the basics of the popular Cuban Salsa, ideal for beginners.
We learned around twelve different moves and then practised with our fabulous dance instructor, Devorah. Be prepared for a full workout! I was drenched and impressed with how much exercise this was – but it was fun! My mum loved it as she got into the groove and picked up the moves naturally.
You can find Devorah on Instagram at @devy.rojas (she’ll earn more if you book directly through her).
Such an amazing Salsa Class with Devorah
Cuban Classic Cars
Cuban Classic Cars are among the country’s most recognisable features. They are fancy, colourful, old-school models that live in ore. Whether you are into cars or not, you will fall in love with the ones in Havana. They add so much character and personality to the country; it is hard to resist taking a ride and a picture in one of those.
You’ll be approached by hustlers through the centre, asking if you want a tour in one of the cars. Many offer one-hour rides for $60. However, if you arrive a little later and speak with the right person, they will negotiate a price.
We were approached for a ride for $30 with no haggling, which we accepted. Given that their average monthly wage is $40, a $30 or $40 offer is unlikely to be declined. That being said, always be respectful of their hustle; if they don’t budge, move on. Plenty of people around offer rides.
Classic Cars is a must-experience in Havana!
Cuban Cigars
Imagine lighting up a Cuban cigar, the superstar of the cigar world, hand-rolled with love and care. These cigars come from the sunny fields of Cuba, where the magical soil makes them taste amazing with hints of earth, spice, and wood.
My favourite is the Cohiba, although I’m not big on cigars, to be honest. But in Cuba, you have to live up to it. No trip to Cuba is complete without a cigar in your hand! Each puff transports you to the vibrant streets of Havana, blending tradition and luxury into a smoky masterpiece. It’s also a great gift for a loved one back home.
Make sure to check your cigars are authentic. Authentic Cuban cigars come in boxes with a holographic seal and a Cuban government warranty seal. Look for a hologram in the top-right corner of the box.
Cigars are a popular gift item in Havana
Shop For Rum
A famous rum you can shop for in Cuba is Havana Club. I’m not a massive rum drinker, but I like this one. This iconic brand is renowned for its rich history and exceptional quality, producing a range of rums enjoyed internationally and a speciality of the Caribbean.
Havana Club offers a range of aged rums, from the light, versatile Havana Club 3 Anos, perfect for cocktails like the classic Mojito and Daiquiri, to the more complex, premium Havana Club 7 Anos, often sipped neat or on the rocks. The rum brand embodies the spirit of Cuban culture and tradition, making it a staple for rum enthusiasts worldwide seeking an authentic Caribbean experience.
Popular Cuban rum, a staple in the Caribbean
More Cool Activities In Havana
Plaza de la Revolucion
Is Cuba Safe For Female Solo Travellers?
Cuba is generally considered one of the safer destinations in the Caribbean for solo female travellers, with low levels of violent crime and a strong visible police presence in tourist areas, but like anywhere, you’ll still want to use common sense. Expect occasional catcalling; keep valuables secure, avoid walking alone on empty streets late at night, and use licensed taxis and official accommodation.
Cuban culture is social, and people may be curious or chatty, which can feel intense but is usually harmless; a confident, polite ‘no’ goes a long way. Most women report feeling comfortable walking around Havana and other cities during the day, especially in busy areas, and many say the biggest risk is petty scams aimed at tourists rather than personal safety.
Although I did not travel to Cuba alone, I know whether I would feel safe doing so. This Caribbean destination is fun, with a good range of activities, so I would travel to Havana alone, as I did not feel unsafe. However, I did have many men approach me, even though I was with my mum. This would certainly unsettle any inexperienced traveller not used to being approached like this, so I wouldn’t recommend Cuba as a destination for a first-time solo traveller.
Travelling alone but feeling nervous? The How To Travel Ebook has tips for planning a safe, confident, and unforgettable adventure.
That’s A Wrap!
Havana is one of those Caribbean cities that stays with you long after you leave, not because it’s polished or predictable, but because it’s alive in a way few places are. The music, the colour, the conversations with strangers, and the faded beauty of the buildings create an atmosphere that feels completely unique. Visiting Cuba isn’t about ticking off sights and activities; it’s about slowing down, observing, and letting the rhythm of the city pull you in.
Whether you come for a few days or longer, Havana rewards curiosity and patience. In the heart of the Caribbean, it offers a travel experience that feels raw, soulful, and unforgettable. Go with an open mind, embrace the unexpected, and you’ll leave with stories you couldn’t have planned; the kind that make Cuba impossible to forget. So, what are you waiting for? GO!
