Get to know Havana in Cuba

Get to know Havana in Cuba, a country overflowing with charm and soul with our Havana travel guide. Havana is Cuba‘s buzzing capital is  – a city with attitude. Culture, coast and Cuban beats add up to a fantastic destination ripe for discovery. The best way to get to know Havana in Cuba is to soak up the captivating atmosphere as you stroll the historic district of ‘Habana Vieja’ where life spills out into the streets and the pulse of music is never far away. Take a spin in a vintage car, dine with the locals and learn to dance the salsa before joining the habaneros on a sunset promenade along the Malecón. Havana is an intoxicating city, so allow plenty of time to immerse yourself in the culture.

Get to know Havana in Cuba

In a city of vibrant streets, one of the finest has to be Calle Obispo, a lively mix of shops, bars, community services, and the occasional tourist. One of the oldest streets in Havana, it’s perfect for a stroll, an ice cream, some window shopping, a coffee at a local café for people-watching, or a cocktail at El Floridita, the famous haunt of Ernest Hemingway. You’ll find Calle Obispo featured in any well-rounded Havana travel guide.

One of the most appealing and energetic squares in Old Havana is Plaza Vieja, framed by colorful, stylish buildings that blend colonial and Art Deco architecture. With ornate windows and porticos setting the scene for evening socializing, spontaneous soccer games, and live music, it’s a must-see. Bars and cafés spill onto the square, making it ideal for soaking up the atmosphere.

The Plaza de Armas is another gem of Old Havana, dating back nearly five centuries. It’s surrounded by some of the city’s most striking architecture, once palaces, now museums. At its center, a leafy park offers a shady escape from the heat and a peaceful place to rest.

Revolution Square is a key stop in New Havana and an iconic gathering place for major Cuban political events. This wide-open plaza is bordered by government buildings, the National Library, and the José Martí Memorial, a towering monument you can climb for panoramic city views after exploring the museum at its base.

The square is also a favorite meeting spot for classic vintage cars, making it one of the best places to start a stylish city tour. Walk this historic plaza, visit the memorial, and don’t forget the photo op with the oversized silhouettes of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos on nearby buildings, a highlight in any Havana travel guide.

Discover cuisine in Havana

In recent years, Cuban cuisine has undergone a remarkable transformation, and Havana’s dining scene is thriving like never before. Not long ago, most restaurants were state-run and not known for their culinary excellence. But today, the energy and pride of private enterprise have taken hold, with locals opening private dining rooms (called paladares) all over the city. The result is a wave of innovation, creativity, and elevated quality in the local food scene.

Cuban cuisine is now more flavorful and diverse than ever, reflecting rich influences from Spanish, Caribbean, and African culinary traditions. A longtime staple you’ll still find in casual cafés and homestays is moros y cristianos, a simple yet satisfying dish of black beans and rice. For a quick and popular street food option, try a classic Cuban pork sandwich, found on nearly every corner. If you’re looking for something heartier and more complex, don’t miss vaca frita, a savory dish of shredded beef and vegetables, seasoned to perfection with bold spices and layered flavors.

The best things to do in Havana

A visit to a cigar factory in Havana is a fascinating experience, even if you have no intention of smoking one. While smoking isn’t as popular as it once was, Cuba is still synonymous with cigars. As the locals say, cigars are an authentic, traditional Cuban product, and seeing the production process up close offers a unique cultural insight. The habaneros proudly claim Cuban cigars are the best in the world, and they remain a symbol of national pride and social connection.

Havana’s beaches are perfect for relaxing and observing everyday local life. Cubans love the beach, and you’ll see it all, pickup ball games, family picnics, couples enjoying the view, and sunbathers soaking up the rays. For sandy beaches, head to the eastern side of Havana. Prefer rocky coves? The western beaches are where you’ll want to go.

When the sun sets, Havana’s nightlife comes alive with something for everyone. From stylish salsa clubs and lively bars to quiet cafés and scenic evening strolls, the city doesn’t disappoint. One of the best places to soak it all in is the famous Malecón, Havana’s beloved waterfront. Known as the city’s “biggest sofa,” it’s where people come to unwind, flirt, fish, chat, and enjoy the sea breeze.

Be sure to try tamales while you’re in Cuba, these cornmeal bundles are steamed in corn husks and served with tasty sides like salsa and onion salad. You’ll also find many traditional Cuban dishes served with fried plantains, a sweet, crispy alternative to fries that’s as addictive as it is delicious.

Best time to visit Havana

Havana is a year-round destination, but the best weather typically falls between November and April. During these months, you can enjoy dry, warm, and comfortable conditions, perfect for sightseeing, beach days, and guided tours without the intense summer heat. You can expect sunny days and cooler evenings, which makes it an ideal time to explore. Alternatively, December to February brings peak crowds and higher prices.

Havana experiences its rainy season from May to October, with higher humidity and occasional heavy showers. Hurricane season spans June to November, with September and October seeing the biggest risk for storms. While the weather isn’t always ideal, this time of year sees fewer tourists and lower prices and offers a more relaxed, laid-back experience.

Havana also hosts an array of events year-round, including the Havana Jazz Festival (January and February), which draws music lovers worldwide, and the Havana Film Festival (December), which showcases Latin American cinema. Summer brings the Havana Carnival (July and August), a lively celebration with parades, music, and dancing. Since these festivals attract large crowds, making reservations in advance for your visit is highly recommended.

Discover our top Cuba itineraries

• The best of Havana in 5 days: Experience the best of Havana on this immersive 5-day tour, where you’ll cruise through the city streets in a classic 1950s convertible, stroll the colonial old town, and enjoy the lively rhythms of Cuban music at the world-famous Tropicana Cabaret.
• Discover the highlights of Cuba in 15 days: Highlights of this 15-day adventure include driving through Havana in a vintage car, tracing Hemingway’s footsteps, horseback riding in Viñales, and learning about Cuba’s famous cigars. You’ll also explore colonial Trinidad, learn something new in cultural workshops, and kick back on the pristine beaches of Cayo Santa María.
• A family trip to Cuba: Join a 12-day family-friendly adventure through Cuba designed with kids in mind. Explore Havana in a classic car, the lush Viñales Valley, dance with locals in Trinidad, and swim in the Caribbean Sea. Engaging workshops, nature excursions, and plenty of beach time in Varadero make this tour fun for the whole family.

Make it happen

Cuba is changing fast—so why not move it to the top of your travel wish list? Let our trusted local experts help you get to know Havana like a true insider. With the help of our Havana travel guide, you’ll uncover the best of the city’s culture, cuisine, and charm. Just send us your basic travel preferences using our inquiry form, and we’ll start crafting a personalized itinerary that you can adjust to fit your exact needs.