Havana, Cuba-3-day-itinerary
Day 1: Exploring Old Havana
Morning
- 9:00 am - 10:30 am: Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Café El Louvre, a historic café in the heart of Old Havana. Try their famous Cuban coffee and indulge in some pastries.
- 11:00 am - 1:00 pm: Visit the Plaza de la Revolución, a iconic square surrounded by important buildings, including the Capitolio and the Museo de la Revolución.
Afternoon
- 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm: Wander through the cobblestone streets of Habana Vieja, exploring the colorful architecture, visiting famous landmarks like the Catedral de San Cristóbal and taking in the lively atmosphere.
- 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm: Enjoy a refreshing Mojito at El Floridita, Hemingway’s favorite bar.
Evening
- 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm: Dine at La Guarida, a trendy restaurant serving modern Cuban cuisine. Be sure to reserve in advance.
- 11:00 pm - late: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Havana by visiting the famous Malecón seaside promenade or enjoying live music at Casa de la Música.
Accommodation
- Stay at Hotel Plaza, a historic hotel in the heart of Old Havana, offering comfortable rooms and a beautiful rooftop pool.
Transportation
- Take a classic American car taxi or a modern Cuban peso (CUP) taxi to get around the city.
- Walking is also a great way to explore Old Havana’s narrow streets.
Things to Know
- Be prepared for crowds and heat in Old Havana.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting churches or museums.
- Learn some basic Spanish phrases to interact with locals.
Day 2: Discovering Modern Havana
Morning
- 9:00 am - 11:00 am: Visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, showcasing an impressive collection of Cuban and international art.
- 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm: Take a stroll along the Malecón seaside promenade, enjoying the ocean views and street performers.
Afternoon
- 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm: Explore the trendy neighborhood of Vedado, visiting the iconic Hotel Nacional and strolling through the picturesque streets.
- 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm: Relax at Parque Almendares, a peaceful park with walking trails and scenic views.
Evening
- 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm: Dine at El Cocinero, a modern restaurant offering creative Cuban dishes.
- 11:00 pm - late: Enjoy live music and cocktails at Bar Oveja Negra or Jazz Café.
Accommodation
- Stay at Hotel Meliá Habana, a luxurious hotel with comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, and stunning views of the Malecón.
Transportation
- Take a taxi or use public transportation to get around modern Havana.
- Walking is also an option in Vedado’s pedestrian-friendly streets.
Things to Know
- Be prepared for more laid-back atmosphere in modern Havana compared to Old Havana.
- Respect local traffic rules when walking or taking taxis.
- Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
Day 3: Beach Day and Local Experiences
Morning
- 9:00 am - 12:00 pm: Head to Playa Santa María, a beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters, just a short drive from Havana.
- 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm: Enjoy a seafood lunch at Restaurante El Chivo, located right on the beach.
Afternoon
- 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm: Visit a local market, such as Mercado de Cuatro Caminos, to experience Cuban daily life and shop for souvenirs.
- 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Take a Salsa lesson at Casa del Son, learning traditional Cuban dance moves.
Evening
- 9:00 pm - 11:00 pm: Farewell dinner at Paladar San Cristóbal, a cozy, family-run restaurant serving authentic Cuban cuisine.
- 12:00 am - late: End the trip with a visit to Tropicana, a legendary nightclub featuring live music and dancing.
Accommodation
- Return to Hotel Plaza or Hotel Meliá Habana for your final night in Havana.
Transportation
- Take a taxi or shuttle bus to get to Playa Santa María.
- Walking is also an option in the beach area.
Things to Know
- Be prepared for sun and heat at the beach; bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
- Respect local customs when visiting markets or taking Salsa lessons.
- Don’t exchange money on the street; use official currency exchange offices or banks.