Havana 2 Day Itinerary

Havana, Cuba: A 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Morning

  • Accommodation: Stay at a casa particular (homestay) in the heart of Old Havana, such as Casa 1932 or La Moraleja. These family-run B&Bs offer a authentic Cuban experience and are reasonably priced.
  • Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Cuban breakfast at Café El Louvre (Calle Obispo 154). Try their famous coffee and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Afternoon

  • Plaza de la Revolución: Visit this iconic square, surrounded by impressive government buildings, including the Capitolio. Take a stroll around the square and snap some photos.
  • Museo de la Revolución: Learn about Cuba’s rich history at this museum, located in the former Presidential Palace (Avenida de las Misiones 1).
  • Lunch: Head to El Aljibe (Avenida 19 de Mayo 164) for a delicious Cuban meal. Try their famous roasted chicken and enjoy the cozy atmosphere.

Evening

  • Malecón Seafront: Take a romantic stroll along this scenic promenade, offering breathtaking views of the ocean.
  • Dinner: Experience Havana’s vibrant nightlife at La Bodeguita del Medio (Calle Obispo 163). This popular restaurant serves tasty Cuban cuisine and features live music performances.
  • Drinks: Visit El Floridita (Obispo 557) for a refreshing mojito or daiquiri. This legendary bar is said to be Hemingway’s favorite watering hole.

Day 2

Morning

  • Havana Vieja: Explore the colorful streets of Old Havana, discovering hidden gems and taking in the lively atmosphere.
  • Calle Obispo: Wander along this famous street, lined with shops, cafes, and historic landmarks like the Plaza de San Francisco.
  • Mercado de San José: Visit this bustling marketplace (Calle Cuba 156) for a glimpse into local life. Find unique souvenirs, try some street food, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

Afternoon

  • Castillo de la Real Fuerza: Explore this impressive fortress (Avenida del Puerto), offering stunning views of the harbor.
  • Lunch: Enjoy seafood at La Paella (Calle Teniente Rey 12). This cozy restaurant serves mouth-watering dishes in a charming setting.

Evening

  • Fusterlandia: Visit this surreal neighborhood, created by artist José Fuster. Marvel at the colorful mosaics and sculptures adorning the streets and buildings.
  • Dinner: Treat yourself to an exquisite meal at Paladar Doña Eulalia (Calle 8 115). This elegant restaurant serves contemporary Cuban cuisine in a beautifully restored mansion.

Things to Know

  • Currency: The Cuban peso (CUP) is the local currency. You can exchange your money at aCADEMI or use an ATM.
  • Language: Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English. Consider bringing a phrasebook or downloading a translation app.
  • Safety: Havana is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Transportation

  • Airport Transfer: Book a private transfer or taxi from José Martí International Airport (HAV) to your accommodation.
  • Getting Around: Walk, take a classic American car taxi, or use the local bus system ( Metrobus).

Tips

  • Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the strong sun.
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the culture.
  • Be prepared for occasional power outages and internet connectivity issues.

This itinerary provides a mix of history, culture, delicious food, and lively entertainment. With this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the enchanting city of Havana like a local. ¡Disfruta tu viaje!