Havana 10 days

Havana's main international airport, serving as the gateway to the city. It's a hub for both domestic and international flights, with several terminals handling different airlines.

• Ensure you have your Cuban tourist card and immigration forms ready.
• Currency exchange is available, but rates can be better in the city.

Arrange for a taxi or pre-booked transfer from the airport to your accommodation in Old Havana. Classic American cars are a common sight, but modern taxis are also available.

• Agree on the fare before starting your journey.
• Have small bills in USD or EUR for payment.

A beautifully restored square in Old Havana, vibrant with cafes, restaurants, and art galleries. It's a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy live music.

• Look for the restored pharmaceutical museum.
• Enjoy a drink at one of the rooftop bars for a great view.

Dine at one of the many paladar (private restaurants) or state-run establishments around Plaza Vieja, offering a range of Cuban and international cuisine.

• Try Ropa Vieja, a classic Cuban shredded beef dish.
• Reservations are recommended for popular spots.

The smallest of Havana's main squares, dominated by the Baroque Havana Cathedral. The square is surrounded by colorful colonial buildings and art studios.

• Admire the intricate facade of the cathedral.
• Visit the Museo de Arte Colonial located here.

A stunning 18th-century Baroque cathedral with asymmetrical towers, dedicated to Christopher Columbus. The interior features impressive artwork and a serene atmosphere.

• Dress respectfully when visiting.
• Photography may be restricted inside.

The oldest square in Havana, once the site of military parades and public ceremonies. Today, it's a charming spot with book stalls, street performers, and historic buildings.

• Browse the antique books and maps for unique souvenirs.
• See the statue of Carlos Manuel de Céspedes.

One of the oldest stone fortresses in the Americas, offering historical exhibits and panoramic views of the harbor. It was built to defend the city from pirate attacks.

• Climb to the top of the tower for excellent photo opportunities.
• The museum inside details Havana's maritime history.

A legendary bar and restaurant famous for its mojitos and as a former hangout of Ernest Hemingway. The walls are covered in graffiti from visitors worldwide.

• Try their signature mojito.
• Be prepared for crowds; it's a very popular spot.

Havana's most famous pedestrian street, bustling with shops, cafes, souvenir vendors, and street musicians. It's a lively artery connecting several key plazas.

• Keep an eye out for the Edificio Bacardí.
• Enjoy street performances and local interactions.

Housed in the former Presidential Palace, this museum chronicles Cuba's revolutionary history, focusing on the struggle against Batista and the early years of the revolution. The exhibits are extensive and often dramatic.

• The former palace itself is a stunning piece of architecture.
• Don't miss the 'Granma' yacht exhibition outside.

A magnificent building resembling the US Capitol, housing the Cuban Academy of Sciences and the National Library of Science and Technology. It's a symbol of Havana's grandeur.

• Tours are available and highly recommended to understand its history.
• The 'Dona' statue inside the dome is Cuba's third-tallest statue.

Walk through the less-touristed streets of Central Havana to experience daily Cuban life. Observe the architecture, local markets, and the rhythm of the city away from the main tourist hubs.

• Be respectful of residents' privacy.
• Look for unique local businesses and street art.

One of Havana's most famous and celebrated paladares, set in a beautiful old mansion. It offers exquisite Cuban cuisine and a sophisticated dining experience.

• Reservations are essential, often weeks in advance.
• The building's architecture and ambiance are as much a draw as the food.

This museum showcases a comprehensive collection of Cuban art from the colonial period to contemporary works. It's divided into two main buildings: Arte Cubano and Arte Universal.

• Focus on the Arte Cubano building for a deep dive into local art.
• Look for works by Wilfredo Lam and Amelia Peláez.

Located near the port and scattered throughout Old Havana, these markets offer a wide array of handicrafts, paintings, and souvenirs. It's a great place to find unique Cuban art.

• Bargaining is expected, but do so respectfully.
• Look for local artists selling their own work.

A vibrant alleyway in Central Havana famous for its colorful murals, Afro-Cuban art, and lively atmosphere. On Sundays, it hosts Rumba music and dance performances.

• Visit on a Sunday afternoon for the full experience.
• Support local artists by purchasing small pieces or donations.

Havana's iconic seawall promenade, stretching for 8 kilometers along the coast. It's a popular spot for locals to socialize, fish, and enjoy the sea breeze, especially at sunset.

• Best experienced at sunset or in the evening.
• Consider hiring a classic car for a scenic drive along its length.

Famous venues for live Cuban music and dancing. Experience the infectious rhythms of salsa, son, and other genres played by talented local bands.

• Check schedules for specific bands or dance nights.
• Be ready to dance!

Rent a classic American convertible for a guided tour of Havana. Explore areas beyond Old Havana, like Vedado and Miramar, in style and comfort.

• Book in advance, especially for longer tours.
• Request a driver who speaks English if needed.

An iconic, historic hotel renowned for its architecture, beautiful gardens, and the famous "Complot de la Sierra Maestra" bar. It has hosted countless celebrities and dignitaries.

• Enjoy a drink at the bar or explore the gardens.
• Visit the historical exhibits within the hotel.

A major avenue in Vedado, known for its lively atmosphere, cinemas, theaters, and the Coppelia ice cream parlor. It leads down to the Malecón.

• Try the famous Coppelia ice cream (be prepared for queues).
• Explore the surrounding streets for interesting architecture.

A stylish restaurant located in a former gas plant in Vedado, offering contemporary Cuban cuisine. It's known for its ambiance and rooftop seating.

• The rooftop terrace offers lovely views.
• Reservations are recommended.

Ernest Hemingway's former home in San Francisco de Paula, where he lived for over 20 years and wrote 'For Whom the Bell Tolls' and 'The Old Man and the Sea'. The house is preserved as it was when he lived there.

• You can only view the house from the outside through the windows.
• Allow time for travel to and from the location (approx. 45 mins each way).

Enjoy a local lunch at a modest restaurant near Finca Vigía, experiencing authentic Cuban flavors away from the tourist center.

• Ask locals for recommendations.
• Try a 'plato fuerte' for a hearty meal.

A famous, large ice cream parlor in Vedado, known for its unique architecture and social gatherings. It's a popular spot for locals to enjoy affordable ice cream.

• Be prepared for queues, especially on weekends.
• Experience it as a cultural phenomenon.

A small park in Vedado featuring a statue of John Lennon, often surrounded by locals playing chess. It's a quirky and relaxed spot for a short visit.

• Take a photo with the statue.
• Observe the local life around the park.

A cozy paladar in Vedado offering home-style Cuban cooking in a relaxed setting. Known for its friendly service and authentic flavors.

• Try their seafood dishes.
• Good for a more intimate dining experience.

Take a 'colectivo' (shared taxi) from Havana to Viñales, a scenic town in Pinar del Río province known for its tobacco farms and stunning karst landscapes.

• Arrange through your accommodation or a local taxi stand.
• The journey offers glimpses of the Cuban countryside.

Explore the iconic Viñales Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit a tobacco farm, learn about cigar making, see the 'Mural de la Prehistoria', and enjoy the views from a 'mirador'.

• A horseback riding tour is a popular way to see the valley.
• Visit Cueva del Indio for a boat ride through a cave.

Enjoy a traditional Cuban lunch at a local paladar in Viñales, often featuring fresh produce from the valley.

• Try the 'Pollo a la Plancha' (grilled chicken).
• Most paladares offer beautiful garden settings.

Return to Havana by shared taxi after a day of exploring the beautiful Viñales countryside.

• Coordinate departure time with your driver.
• Book your return trip when you arrange the outward journey.

A formidable 16th-century fortress guarding the entrance to Havana Bay. It offers stunning views of the city and the sea, and houses a maritime museum.

• Climb to the top for panoramic photo opportunities.
• The lighthouse provides a great vantage point.

A massive 18th-century Spanish fortress complex, offering expansive views and historical exhibits. It's famous for its nightly cannon firing ceremony.

• Visit in the late afternoon to see the cannon ceremony at 9 PM.
• Explore the different bastions and historical displays.

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant overlooking Havana Bay, offering fresh seafood and classic Cuban dishes with a spectacular backdrop.

• Look for restaurants on the eastern side of the bay.
• Try the grilled fish specialties.

A highly-rated paladar in the El Vedado district known for its authentic Cuban cuisine and charming atmosphere. It's a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

• Reservations are strongly recommended.
• Enjoy the traditional music often played here.

A large artisan market located in a converted warehouse near the port. It offers a vast selection of Cuban crafts, art, music, and souvenirs.

• Great place to find unique gifts.
• Bargain respectfully for better prices.

Seek out a less touristy paladar in a residential area for an authentic taste of home-cooked Cuban food.

• Ask your accommodation for recommendations of local favorites.
• Look for places busy with Cuban families.

A dynamic cultural complex housed in a former cooking oil factory. It features art exhibitions, live music, performances, and bars, buzzing with creativity.

• Best visited in the evening when it truly comes alive.
• Check their schedule for specific events.

Dine within the vibrant Fabrica de Arte Cubano or at one of the nearby restaurants in Vedado, enjoying the lively atmosphere.

• Food options inside FAC can be casual; for a more formal meal, explore nearby.
• The energy of FAC makes it a memorable dining experience.

Grab any last-minute souvenirs or gifts from local shops near your accommodation.

• Focus on items you might have missed.
• Local rum or coffee make great gifts.

Enjoy a final Cuban breakfast at a charming cafe, savoring local coffee and pastries.

• Try a 'café con leche' and a 'pastelito'.
• Reflect on your Havana experiences.

Arrange a taxi for your transfer to the airport, allowing ample time for check-in and security.

• Confirm your flight details and departure time.
• Ensure you have enough time for the journey and airport procedures.