Havana, Cuba-6-day-itinerary

Havana, Cuba 6-Day Itinerary

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 Ana or Casa 1932
• Lunch: Try some delicious Cuban cuisine at Paladar Doña Eulalia, a local favorite
• Afternoon:
  • Visit the famous Plaza de la Revolución and take in the vibrant atmosphere
  • Explore the cobblestone streets of Old Havana, admiring the colonial architecture and visiting the Catedral de San Cristóbal
• Evening: Enjoy live music at Jazz Café or take a stroll along the Malecón seaside promenade

Day 2: Havana’s Beaches and Markets

• Morning: Head to Playa Santa María del Mar, one of Havana’s most popular beaches (approx. $5-10 CUC taxi ride)
• Lunch: Try some fresh seafood at Restaurante La Marina
• Afternoon:
  • Visit the bustling Mercado de San José, a great place to find souvenirs and local handicrafts
  • Stop by the Fábrica de Arte Cubano, a former peanut oil factory turned art space
• Evening: Experience the famous Cuban nightlife at Tropicana Cabaret (approx. $50-70 CUC)

Day 3: Museums and Culture

• Morning: Visit the Museo de la Revolución, a must-see for history buffs
• Lunch: Enjoy some international cuisine at Restaurante La Moraleja
• Afternoon:
  • Explore the impressive collections at the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
  • Stop by the Teatro Principal de la Habana, a stunning example of neoclassical architecture
• Evening: Catch a performance at the Gran Teatro de La Habana

Day 4: Hemingway’s Havana

• Morning: Visit Finca Vigía, Ernest Hemingway’s former home, now a museum (approx. $5-10 CUC taxi ride)
• Lunch: Head to Restaurante El Aljibe, known for its delicious chicken dishes
• Afternoon:
  • Stop by the Hemingway Marina, a popular spot for fishing and boat tours
  • Visit the iconic El Floridita Bar, one of Hemingway’s favorite watering holes
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Paladar La Guarida, a cozy spot with great views

Day 5: Day Trip to Viñales Valley

• Morning: Take a guided tour (approx. $60-80 CUC) or rent a car (approx. $40-60 CUC) and drive to Viñales Valley, a scenic 2-hour journey
• Lunch: Try some local specialties at a paladar in Viñales, such as Paladar El Olivo
• Afternoon:
  • Explore the stunning landscapes and tobacco plantations of Viñales Valley
  • Visit the Cueva del Indio, an ancient cave system
• Evening: Return to Havana and enjoy a farewell dinner at Restaurante La Azotea

Day 6: Departure

• Morning: Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market
• Departure: Head back to José Martí International Airport (HAV) for your departure flight

Things to Know

• Currency: Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC), pegged to the US dollar. You can exchange currency at airports, banks, or cadecas.
• Language: Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas.
• Safety: Havana is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
• Transportation: Taxis are widely available, but you can also use ride-hailing apps like Bicitaxi or rent a car.

Tips

• Learn some Spanish phrases: It will help you navigate the city and interact with locals.
• Bring sunscreen and insect repellent: Havana can be hot and humid, and mosquitoes may be present.
• Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting churches or museums, and avoid public displays of affection.
• Be prepared for occasional power outages: They are not frequent, but it’s a good idea to have a portable charger handy.

Other Interests

• Cigar factory tours: Visit the famous Partagás Cigar Factory or H. Upmann Cigar Factory
• Salsa dancing: Take a class or watch a performance at a local dance studio or club
• Baseball games: Catch a game at the Estadio Latinoamericano, a popular pastime in Cuba