Havana 6 Day Itinerary

Havana Itinerary: 6 Days of Cuban Charm

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Old Havana

• Morning: Arrive at José Martí International Airport (HAV) and take a taxi to your accommodation in Old Havana (approx. 20-30 CUC).
• Accommodation: Stay at a casa particular (homestay) like Casa Elisa or Hostal La Habana Vieja, both centrally located and offering a authentic Cuban experience.
• Afternoon: Explore Old Havana’s cobblestone streets, visiting famous landmarks like the Plaza de la Catedral, Capitolio building, and the Malecón seaside promenade.
• Evening: Enjoy traditional Cuban cuisine at Paladar Doña Eulalia or La Guarida, both highly recommended for their delicious food and lively atmosphere.

Day 2: Art, Music, and Culture

• Morning: Visit the Museo de la Revolución to learn about Cuba’s history and revolution.
• Afternoon: Explore the vibrant street art scene in the Callejón de Hamel alleyway, featuring Afro-Cuban murals and live music performances.
• Evening: Enjoy a live jazz performance at Jazz Café or La Zorra y El Cuervo, both institutions of Havana’s jazz scene.

Day 3: Beach Day and Sunset

• Morning: Take a taxi or bus (approx. 10-20 CUC) to the picturesque beach town of Santa María del Mar.
• Afternoon: Relax on the beach, enjoy water sports, or take a leisurely stroll along the coastal promenade.
• Evening: Return to Havana and watch the sunset at the Malecón seaside promenade, accompanied by live music and street performers.

Day 4: Tobacco Plantations and Rum Tastings

• Morning: Visit a tobacco plantation in Pinar del Río, learning about Cuba’s famous cigar-making tradition (approx. 50-70 CUC, including transportation).
• Afternoon: Return to Havana and visit the Museo del Ron for a rum tasting experience.
• Evening: Dine at El Aljibe, known for its mouth-watering Cuban cuisine and lively atmosphere.

Day 5: Modern Havana and Shopping

• Morning: Explore modern Havana, visiting the trendy neighborhood of Vedado, featuring iconic buildings like the Coppelia Ice Cream Parlor and the Hotel Nacional de Cuba.
• Afternoon: Shop for souvenirs at the Mercado de San José, offering a wide range of local handicrafts, art, and music.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at La Moraleja, serving contemporary Cuban cuisine.

Day 6: Departure

• Morning: Spend the morning relaxing at your accommodation or exploring nearby attractions.
• Afternoon: Depart for José Martí International Airport (HAV) and head back home.

Things to Know

• Cuba has two currencies: CUC (Cuban Convertible Peso) and CUP (Cuban Peso). Tourists typically use CUC.
• Credit cards are not widely accepted, so bring cash or exchange money upon arrival.
• Wi-Fi is limited in Cuba; purchase a prepaid internet card at ETECSA offices or major hotels.

Transportation

• Taxis: readily available and affordable (approx. 5-10 CUC per ride).
• Buses: an economical option for longer trips (approx. 1-5 CUC per ride).
• Walking: Old Havana is pedestrian-friendly, but be mindful of cobblestone streets and occasional construction.

Tips

• Learn basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience.
• Be prepared for occasional power outages and internet disruptions.
• Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting tobacco plantations or rum distilleries.

Other Things of Interest

• Visit the Hemingway Museum in Cojímar, featuring the legendary author’s former home.
• Take a day trip to the scenic Viñales Valley, known for its tobacco plantations and stunning natural beauty.

Enjoy your time in Havana!