Havana, Cuba-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Old Havana

Morning

  • Accommodation: Stay at Casa Particular in the heart of Old Havana for a authentic Cuban experience.
  • Breakfast: Enjoy a traditional Cuban breakfast at Café El Louvre with coffee, toast, and eggs.

Afternoon

  • Visit: Explore the historic center of Old Havana (Habana Vieja), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the cobblestone streets and admire the colonial architecture.
  • Stop by: The famous Plaza de la Revolución, where you can see the iconic Che Guevara monument.

Evening

  • Dinner: Head to La Guarida for a delicious Cuban meal in a charming setting.
  • Nightlife: Experience the vibrant music scene at Jazz Café, featuring live performances by local musicians.

Day 2: Discovering Vedado and Miramar

Morning

  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bus to Vedado, a more modern area of Havana.
  • Visit: Stop at the John Lennon Park to see the iconic statue of the Beatles’ legend.

Afternoon

Evening

  • Dinner: Dine at Paladar Doña Eulalia, a highly-recommended restaurant serving traditional Cuban cuisine.
  • Nightlife: End the night with a stroll along the scenic Malecón seaside promenade.

Day 3: Relaxation and Beach Time

Morning

  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bus to Santa María del Mar, a beautiful beach east of Havana.
  • Beach time: Spend the morning relaxing on the beach and enjoying the crystal-clear waters.

Afternoon

  • Lunch: Grab some seafood at La Terraza, a beachside restaurant with stunning views.
  • Water sports: Try your hand at kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkeling in the calm waters.

Evening

  • Dinner: Head back to Havana and dine at El Aljibe, known for its roasted chicken and rustic atmosphere.
  • Nightlife: Catch a live music performance at Casa de la Música, featuring traditional Cuban rhythms.

Day 4: Exploring the Countryside

Morning

  • Transportation: Take a guided tour or rent a car to explore the countryside.
  • Visit: Stop at the picturesque town of Viñales, surrounded by lush tobacco plantations and scenic valleys.

Afternoon

  • Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Cuban meal at Finca El Pinar, a rustic farm-to-table restaurant.
  • Outdoor activities: Take a hike, horseback ride, or go birdwatching in the beautiful Viñales Valley.

Evening

  • Dinner: Return to Havana and dine at La Fontana, serving contemporary Cuban cuisine.
  • Nightlife: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Havana at Calle Obispo, lined with bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Day 5: Last Day in Havana

Morning

  • Market visit: Explore the bustling San José Market, where you can find unique souvenirs and handicrafts.
  • Last-minute shopping: Pick up any last-minute gifts or essentials at local shops.

Afternoon

  • Lunch: Enjoy a farewell lunch at Café La Habana Vieja, a cozy spot with delicious sandwiches and coffee.
  • Relaxation time: Take some time to relax at your accommodation or explore the nearby area.

Evening

  • Farewell dinner: Celebrate your last night in Havana with a memorable dinner at El Cocinero, offering creative Cuban cuisine.
  • Nightlife: End your trip with a bang at Tropicana Cabaret, an iconic nightclub featuring live music and dance performances.

Things to Know

  • Currency: The Cuban Peso (CUP) is the local currency, but you can also use USD or EUR.
  • Language: Spanish is the official language, but many Cubans speak some English.
  • Safety: Havana is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Tips: Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated (5-10% in restaurants and bars).
  • Internet: Internet access can be limited, so plan ahead and stay connected at your accommodation or internet cafes.

Transportation

  • Taxis: Official taxis are yellow and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.
  • Buses: The Havana Bus Tour offers a convenient way to explore the city.
  • Walking: Havana is a walkable city, but be mindful of pedestrian safety.

Other Tips

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting churches or attending cultural events.
  • Learn some Spanish: While many Cubans speak some English, learning basic Spanish phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience.
  • Be prepared for power outages: Havana occasionally experiences power outages, so be prepared with flashlights and portable chargers.

Enjoy your trip to Havana!