tour of havana cuba

THE 10 BEST Havana Tours & Excursions

Havana tours.

• Private Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Havana Jewish Tour

2. Cubaoutings

3. Free Walking Tour Havana

4. Old Cars Havana

5. Strawberry Tours

6. VC Tours

7. Havana Journeys - Day Tours

8. Locally Sourced Havana Tours

9. Taxi Drivers Cuba

10. Havana Vintage Car Tours

11. Hc tours Havana

12. Bike Rental & Tours Havana

13. I Love Cuba Photo Tours

14. OldCarTours

15. RutaBikes

16. Legendarios del Guajirito

17. Rebellecuba

18. Nosotros Cubaneamos

19. Dive Adventure

20. Photo Touring Cuba

21. Cuban Adventures

23. Havana Tours With Blexie

24. A Friend in Havana

25. Fertours

26. Food Tours Havana

27. Cuba 360

28. Italian Tourist Guide to Cuba

29. Vivez Cuba

30. Havana Music Tours

What travelers are saying

• Hershey Train
• Free Walking Tour Havana
• Cubaoutings
• Old Cars Havana
• A Friend in Havana
• Bike Rental & Tours Havana
• Gardner Tours
• I Love Cuba Photo Tours
• Urban Adventures
• Dive Adventure
• Hc tours Havana

Top Tours in Havana, Cuba

Havana tours.

• Private Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Havana Jewish Tour

2. Cubaoutings

3. Free Walking Tour Havana

4. Old Cars Havana

5. Strawberry Tours

6. VC Tours

7. Havana Journeys - Day Tours

8. Locally Sourced Havana Tours

9. Taxi Drivers Cuba

10. Havana Vintage Car Tours

11. Hc tours Havana

12. Bike Rental & Tours Havana

13. I Love Cuba Photo Tours

14. OldCarTours

15. RutaBikes

16. Legendarios del Guajirito

17. Rebellecuba

18. Nosotros Cubaneamos

19. Dive Adventure

20. Photo Touring Cuba

21. Cuban Adventures

23. Havana Tours With Blexie

24. A Friend in Havana

25. Fertours

26. Food Tours Havana

27. Cuba 360

28. Italian Tourist Guide to Cuba

29. Vivez Cuba

30. Havana Music Tours

What travellers are saying

• Hershey Train
• Free Walking Tour Havana
• Cubaoutings
• Old Cars Havana
• A Friend in Havana
• Bike Rental & Tours Havana
• Gardner Tours
• I Love Cuba Photo Tours
• Urban Adventures
• Dive Adventure
• Hc tours Havana

Top Tours in Havana, Cuba

Havana tours.

• Private Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Havana Jewish Tour

2. Cubaoutings

3. Free Walking Tour Havana

4. Old Cars Havana

5. Strawberry Tours

6. VC Tours

7. Havana Journeys - Day Tours

8. Locally Sourced Havana Tours

9. Taxi Drivers Cuba

10. Havana Vintage Car Tours

11. Hc tours Havana

12. Bike Rental & Tours Havana

13. I Love Cuba Photo Tours

14. OldCarTours

15. RutaBikes

16. Legendarios del Guajirito

17. Rebellecuba

18. Nosotros Cubaneamos

19. Dive Adventure

20. Photo Touring Cuba

21. Cuban Adventures

23. Havana Tours With Blexie

24. A Friend in Havana

25. Fertours

26. Food Tours Havana

27. Cuba 360

28. Italian Tourist Guide to Cuba

29. Vivez Cuba

30. Havana Music Tours

What travellers are saying

• Hershey Train
• Free Walking Tour Havana
• Cubaoutings
• Old Cars Havana
• A Friend in Havana
• Bike Rental & Tours Havana
• Gardner Tours
• I Love Cuba Photo Tours
• Urban Adventures
• Dive Adventure
• Hc tours Havana

Cuba Tours & Vacations

Behind the hum of vintage cars, pastel hues of 16th-century buildings and wafts of cigar smoke, the real Cuba shines bright.

A country caught in a cultural time warp,   Cuba   is a bright snapshot of the mid-20th century; a true feast for the senses. Watch as Cadillacs roll down the coastal boulevards, walk through traditional tobacco plantations in Vinales and see cigar production in full swing, laze on the shores of the   Caribbean   on some of the world’s whitest sands, and feel the sultry and spicy vibes of salsa as you dance the night away in Havana. With all of this on offer in one of the world’s best climates, what’s stopping you from checking out Cuba’s kaleidoscope of color and charisma?

Our Cuba trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

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Cuba at a glance

Capital city.

Havana (population 2.1 million)

11.3 million

(GMT-05:00) Bogota, Lima, Quito, Rio Branco

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Cuba

Culture and customs.

With   Spanish ,   African   , and Creole influences, modern Cuba is home to so many cultural components – some of which don’t feel super ‘modern’ at all!

You won’t be surprised that Cubans love music and dancing – with everything from Afro-Cuban rhythms to classic melodies filling the air in clubs, bars, restaurants, and on street corners. The modern arts are also alive here, with ballet, contemporary dance, and film rising in popularity – so much so, Havana is now home to internationally recognized film, literature, and music festivals.

Living in a Communist country means Cubans sometimes go without the luxury items that many Westerners take for granted, with certain foods and consumer goods not available. Despite this, events like birthdays, holidays, and marriages are celebrated with gusto, with special meals, music, and dance featuring. This love of life is also evident in the street parties, festivals, and fiestas that are celebrated throughout the year. Coffee, cigars, and rum flow freely, and people dance to the sound of trumpets and guitars in city streets.

Life in the cities and life in rural areas can be quite different, but the pace of living is consistently Cuban – you’re on local time now, so go with the flow. Experience Cuban culture on our 8 day Beautiful Cuba trip.

History and government

Ancient history.

Before the arrival of the Spanish in 1492, Cuba was home to Mesoamerican cultures, including the indigenous Guanajatabey and Taino people. The Guanajatabey were hunter-gatherers and fishers, and Taino communities also harvested yuca, cotton, and tobacco. Spanish colonialist Bartolome de las Casas estimated that Taino populations in Cuba had reached 350,000 by the end of the 15th century.

By then, Christopher Columbus had landed in Cuba and claimed the land for   Spain, naming it Isla Juana. In 1511, Diego Velazquez de Cuellar founded Baracoa, the first Spanish settlement in Cuba, and three years later what’s now known as Havana was built.

20th century

In 1902, after periods under Spanish, British, and United States rule and involvement in the Spanish–American war, Cuba got its independence. Despite the economy booming, leaders at this time ruled through corruption and control. This was until revolutionary Fidel Castro led a 9000-strong guerrilla army into Havana in 1959, forcing military dictator Fulgencio Batista to flee. Castro became the leader and his brother, Raul, his deputy. What followed was an attempt by the United States to overthrow Castro’s communist rule at the Bay of Pigs, and tension and trade embargoes following the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.

Standing alongside Castro as an equally prominent political figure, Che Guevara (although Argentinean) holds a very important place in Cuban history. A revolutionary, author, doctor, and military leader, Guevara played a pivotal role in the guerrilla campaign leading up to the Cuban Revolution and the defense of the Bay of Pigs, as well as in diplomatic relations, up until his death in 1967. It’s impossible not to notice the reverence for Guevara when visiting Cuba, with street art, statues, and museums dedicated to the man Cubans simply call ‘El Che’ found all over the country.

In April 2011 Fidel Castro was succeeded as the First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba by his brother Raul Castro. Cuba’s political relationship with other countries, including its close neighbors, is ever-evolving, with the US recently beginning to ease restrictions on trade, tourism, and other industries. But a snapshot of 50 years of isolation remains in the cars, architecture, and culture that is a contemporary Cuban street. Learn about Cuba's fascinating past on our 15 day Best of Cuba adventure.

Eating and drinking

Cuba may not have culinary fame compared to some of its neighbors, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be missing out on some great food during your time here. Cuba typically doesn’t have access to a wide range of ingredients, so your dining experience may not be as varied as you’d expect from some other   nearby destinations. Regardless, there are some Central American favorites that are definitely worth trying. Try out the local cuisine on our 8 day Cuba Highlights tour.

What to eat in Cuba

Pastelitos These small pastries can be either sweet or savory. Cream cheese, guava, and beef are the most popular fillings and make for a cheap, tasty meal on the run. Think empanadas, Cuban style.

Cuban sandwich Otherwise known as a mixto, this sandwich is a simple snack that has made its way north into Florida and has become one of the quintessential images of Cuban food beyond its borders. Ham, pork, cheese, mustard, and sometimes salami layered between bread and grilled – what’s not to like?

Ropa vieja Not only is this one of the national dishes of Cuba, but it’s also found all over the Caribbean, in Spain, and even the Philippines! It may literally translate to ‘old clothes’, but that’s definitely not what it tastes like – slow-cooked pulled beef with vegetables, usually served with maduros (fried plantains), black beans, and rice.

Fritura de maiz These deep-fried cheese and cornmeal fritters are popular street food snacks in Cuba. A great choice for vegetarians; throw a couple of these back and you’ll be feeling the Cuban spirit.

Moros y cristianos

Rice and beans is ot just rice and beans. Black beans and white rice are added to a base of peppers, garlic, and onion and simmered with herbs, creating a flavorful addition to any meal and served up at virtually every Cuban restaurant you'll come across.

If you're a little bit peckish and are on the go, seek out some tostones. These twice-fried plantain chips are very popular in a lot of Latin America countries and are an easy (and often cheap) snack.

Although flan is known all around Central and South America as an essential dessert, Cuban flan has a slightly different spin. It's made with evaporated and sweetened condensed milk, giving it a thicker and creamier caramel custard finish than fresh milk varities. Get ready for a seriously delicious sugar high.

Coppelia ice cream Line up with locals to savor a sweet scoop from Coppelia ice cream parlor. This Cuban institution serves tried and true flavors like chocolate and vanilla as well as exotic favorites like mango and coconut.

What to drink in Cuba

Rum The tipple of choice in Cuba is rum, obviously. Savour some Havana Club straight up, have it mixed in a minty mojito, or sip on a Cuba Libre – rum, cola, and lime.

Coffee Cuban coffee is of legendary quality, so be sure to get your caffeine hit with a small but rich cup of liquid gold. Drink it like the locals do, as a cafecito or Cafe Cubano. This type of espresso-style coffee is usually sweetened with raw cane sugar and stirred in with the first drips of espresso to get the best result.

Geography and environment

This island nation sitting in the Caribbean Sea is home to a diverse range of environments: rolling hills to tobacco plantations, beaches, and coral reefs to tropical rainforests. With more than 20% of the island covered with natural parks, there's incredible biodiversity, making it a great place for eco-adventures, hiking, snorkeling, and diving.

Large cities like Havana evoke a time gone by. Grand buildings dating back to the 1950s exude a fading beauty, which makes for great photographs but can also make daily life quite difficult. Due to a lack of building materials, new housing, and infrastructure are rare, making living conditions quite cramped for Cuban city dwellers. Rural life offers more space and a quieter pace, but reduced access to services. Regardless of where you holiday in Cuba, the people are generally kind and hospitable in both the big cities and small towns. Wander the magnificent landscapes, both natural and manmade, on our 8 day One Week in Cuba adventure.

Cuba may not be known for its shopping, but look closely and you’ll find lots of unique souvenirs to take home as a reminder of your holiday. Before heading home, check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to import some items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand, for example, have strict quarantine laws. The United States also has restrictions on the amount of tobacco and alcohol that can be brought back from Cuba.

What to buy

Art Cuba has a keen appreciation of the fine arts, so it’s not hard to find unique artworks by up-and-coming local artists being sold at galleries and markets. It also makes for a meaningful memento of your time away.

Cigars The cliche is unsurprisingly true – cigars are everywhere in Cuba. Be sure to buy cigars from authorized sellers, as fakes are common. Purchasing straight from the factory is usually best.

Coffee Cuban coffee is top quality, so stock up before you leave to enjoy a taste of Cuba in the comfort of your own home. Do check, however, if your country of origin allows plant-based materials to pass through quarantine.

Music With such a rich musical heritage, Cuba is a great place to pick up a hand-crafted instrument or, if traveling light, a CD or a local artist’s info to add to your playlist.

Do some serious souvenir shopping on our 8 day Premium Cuba tour.

Festivals and events

Havana international jazz festival.

Local and international artists head to Havana every January to become a part of the happening jazz scene. From the impressive Teatro Nacional de Cuba to the city streets, the sweet sounds of jazz fill the air of Havana for the duration of the festival.

Habanos Cigar Festival

In February, cigar connoisseurs gather to celebrate their love of the best cigar in the world – the Habano. With tastings, visits to plantations and factories, master classes, and cigar-rolling contests on offer, this festival will intrigue curious travelers and delight cigar enthusiasts.

Santiago de Cuba Carnival

Watch this historic city come alive in July with street parades full of vibrant costumes, drums, and dancing. This epic public celebrations date back to at least the 17th century and are held all around the country, but Santiago de Cuba hosts the biggest, brightest, and most traditional of them all.

Similar destinations

Thinking about a trip to Cuba but still browsing other destinations? Or, maybe you've already traveled to Central America and you're looking for somewhere similar? Check out tours to neighboring locations:

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your holiday in Cuba, check out these books:

• Our Man in Havana   – Graham Greene
• Before Night Falls   – Reinaldo Arenas
• Broken Paradise   – Cecilia Samartin
• Take Me with You   – Carlos Frias
• Adios, Havana   – Andrew J Rodriguez
• Blessed by Thunder: Memoir of a Cuban Girlhood   – Flor Fernandez Barrios
• Conversations with Cuba   – C Peter Ripley
• Havana Fever   – Leonardo Padura
• The Mambo Kings Play Songs of Love   – Oscar Hijuelos

Cuba travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Cuba?

Cuba's subtropical climate is ideal for exploration, with most places catching the cool trade winds that blow in from the coast, providing pleasant year-round temperatures. June, July and August are usually the hottest months – the dry season runs from November to April and the wet season from May to October. Even in the rainy season, downpours are short and shouldn't impede travel plans. Tropical storms and hurricanes are more prevalent in September and October but rarely cause problems for travelers.

Do I need a visa to travel to Cuba?

Tourists of most nationalities require a 'Tourist Card' which is similar to a tourist visa. These can be obtained through travel agents in your home country, or directly from Cuban embassies and consulates. Depending on the airline you are traveling with to Cuba, you may also be able to purchase the tourist card at the airport from the airline on the day of your departure – please check with your airline for more information. 

If you are a US citizen, American permanent resident, or hold any type of American Visa and are considering traveling to Cuba, please refer to the US Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs website –  travel.state.gov  – for the latest advice.  

We recommend traveling to Cuba via Canada, Europe, and South or Central America. Travelers who have been to Cuba are ineligible to participate in the ESTA Visa Wavier Program and must apply for a tourist visa to enter or transit via the United States.  

Remember to check the entry requirements for any destinations you will travel or transit through both to and from Cuba. 

The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 14/11/2023

Is tipping customary in Cuba?

As most Cubans live modest lifestyles, leaving a tip for good service is a great idea and welcomed.

There is almost always free entertainment in bars and restaurants; the musicians and singers are usually not paid by the venue, so we encourage you to tip when you have enjoyed the performance. Tour leaders, restaurant workers, hotel porters, cleaning staff and taxi drivers will appreciate a small sum – but be sure to tip in Cuban pesos as foreign currency isn’t easily exchanged in Cuba.

It’s important to carry around small denominations of currency to leave tips during your holiday, so you can tip an amount you feel comfortable with.

What is the internet access like in Cuba?

Internet access isn't widespread throughout Cuba, but availability is improving. The internet can sometimes be accessed from government departments and larger hotels, and main squares in many cities now have wi-fi accessibility. You will need to purchase an internet card from certain hotels and outlets to gain access in any location, including in public areas.

Please note that although connectivity is improving, the connection may still be slow, some websites may be censored, and the cost is typically quite high.

Can I use my cell phone while in Cuba?

Your cell phone may or may not work while in Cuba, depending on what type of phone you have. Before leaving your home country, ensure roaming is activated with your provider, but be aware that your phone may not get reception due to Cuba having the lowest cell phone network penetration in Latin America.

If you intend to activate global roaming while in Cuba, be sure to check with your service provider to find out about any fees you may incur when using this option, as sometimes this can be expensive.

What are the toilets like in Cuba?

Public toilets are rare in Cuba, but western-style flushable toilets are available in hotels, bars, and restaurants. Bringing your own toilet paper and hand soap or hand sanitizer is recommended as often these are not provided. Due to import restrictions, toilet seats can be considered a luxury and may be missing from some facilities.

What will it cost for a...?

Cuba's unit of currency is the peso (CUP). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

• Can of soft drink or bottle of water = 1-2 CUP
• Cup of coffee = 1.50 CUP
• Cocktail = 2-5 CUP
• Meal in a nice restaurant = 120+ CUP
• One hour of wi-fi = 25 CUP

Can I drink the water in Cuba?

It's not advisable to drink water from the tap in Cuba. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable bottle or canteen with filtered water if you can – your group leader will provide larger and less disposable water containers for refills on private transport days when they have the resources available. It's also best to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables rather than eating washed or unwashed produce.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Cuba?

Some credit cards are accepted in Cuba (Visa and Mastercard are usually more widely accepted), although some cards linked to US banking institutions won't be accepted. Debit cards (even Visa debit) generally have problems working. We recommend you bring multiple cards from different banks to be sure you have access to funds. Ensure you also have enough cash and other forms of payment, as credit card facilities may not always be available.

What is ATM access like in Cuba?

ATMs are accessible in large cities like Havana and Santiago de Cuba but are rare and almost non-existent in other parts of Cuba. Ensure you have other payment options available in case you cannot access an ATM while traveling.

What is the weather like in Cuba?

Cuba enjoys Caribbean vibes all year round, and sits below the Tropic of Cancer, so you’ll enjoy a tropical climate with north-easterly trade winds that blow year-round.

May to October is usually considered the wet season, with higher maximum temperatures each day (around 90°F) and more sunlight each day, averaging 10 hours. September and October is hurricane season in the region, and this time of year is usually hot and overcast, with a higher chance of rainfall.

November to April is usually the drier season in Cuba, with maximum temperatures sitting around 79°F and an average of 8 hours of sunlight each day. The winter months are clearer, slightly more humid, and more comfortable than summer.

What public holidays are celebrated in Cuba ?

• 1 Jan:   Liberation Day
• 2 Jan:   Victory of the Armed Forces
• 1 May:   Labour Day (International Workers' Day/May Day)
• 25–27 Jul:   National Revolutionary Festival
• 10 Oct:   Independence Day
• 25 Dec:   Christmas Day
• 31 Dec:   Year End Celebration

Other dates to look out for:

• 28 Jan:   Anniversary of Jose Marti’s birth
• 19 Apr:   Bay of Pigs Victory
• 8 Oct: Anniversary of Che Guevara’s death
• 28 Oct:   Anniversary of Camila Cienfuegos’s death
• 7 Dec:   Anniversary of Antonio Maceo’s death

Please note,   Cuba public holidays may vary.

Is Cuba safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Cuba has made some significant steps in recent years to ensure LGBTQIA+ rights in the country. Homosexuality is legal and accepted in Cuba, and there are some anti-discrimination laws in place for employment, service provisions, and gender identity. However, same-sex marriage recognition is still pending, and stigma still remains in some parts of society, especially in rural areas.

The Cuban National Center for Sex Education (CENESEX) works to support the LGBTQIA+ community in Cuba and hosts rallies to educate and advocate.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex   or   ILGA   before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Last edited: 14/11/2023

Is Cuba accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

As Cuba has not had the same infrastructure development as other countries, you may find some mobility challenges when traveling. Havana’s streets are often crowded, and sidewalks can at times be rugged or even nonexistent. This is the same with other cities and towns around the country. Also, a lot of public transportation isn’t geared toward travelers who use a wheelchair, so private travel may be the only option to get around.

If you do live with a visual, hearing, or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you, and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Havana Day Tours

Experience havana with the experts.

Let Locally Sourced Havana Tours show you the very best of Havana. Our Havana Day Tours are educational, fun and safe. We have a range of private and group Havana day tours to choose from.

Havana Group Tour Experiences

GROUP TOURS IN HAVANA

Explore havana with a private guide.

PRIVATE TOURS IN HAVANA

Get a taste of the real Cuba on a legal tour for Americans.

Legal Cuba Travel

We've the latest information you need as an American citizen on Cuba travel licenses, Cuba tourist visas, flights to Cuba, and advice to plan your Cuba trip, safely and legally.

Our Cuba Tours

Our Cuba tours are compliant with U.S. Government regulations. We offer 9, 11 & 15 day options, with groups limited to 12 travellers.      

Flights to Cuba

Choose your own flights to Cuba! All of our Cuba tours start and end in Havana. This gives you the freedom to choose the route to Cuba that is most convenient and economical for you

The Cuba Tourist Visa (or Tourist Card) is a document you need to enter Cuba. Read about what it is and how to obtain it!

" Our trip with Cuban Adventures exceeded all of our expectations. We normally do not travel on group tours but we are so glad we did. We learned so much from the guide about the history and the culture and the local hot spots to go to for food, drink and dancing. Thank you for making our trip to Cuba Amazing! We will definitely be back."

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An immersive discovery where you’ll witness Cuba's incredible people, budding entrepreneurial scene, and dynamic rhythm and color.

HAVANA | PLAYA LARGA | TRINIDAD | CIENFUEGOS

No more than 10 guests

This exciting, eight-day tour of journey to Cuba's most famous cities will add the brushstrokes to the unfinished canvas of your vision of Cuba.

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 Photos courtesy of Robin Thom.

* Advertised prices are per person, based on double occupancy; single occupancy rooms may be available for an additional charge. Advertised prices are the best available based on the least expensive travel dates, departure city, and other options, and do not include optional excursions or other optional items. Your total price will vary based upon options you select during the booking process. Prices and availability subject to change.

† The Carefree Booking policy is not travel insurance. With our Carefree Booking policy, if you book one of our scheduled departures and decide later not to travel for any reason, you can transfer all payments you've made excluding the cost of any issued flight tickets, towards another available departure date or package, with no change fees or penalties. Alternately, you can choose to receive a future travel credit for all payments made, excluding the cost of any issued flight tickets; or you can choose to receive a refund for that same amount, minus the deposit, per person future travel credit. You may use these credits anytime, however they must be used or transferred within 5 years of your bookings, and some restrictions apply. Travel protection premiums may be credited to your new tour provided: no claim is filed; (no vendor penalties such as Air, sea or rail etc have been incurred); and your new trip departs within 1 year of the cancellation of your original tour. Valid for bookings made on or after August 2, 2022. Changes or cancellations requested after final payment due date are subject to our regular change and cancellation fees & policies. For more information and some additional restrictions, see our terms & conditions .

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Best things to do and see in Havana

Havana is quite possibly one of the most special tourist destinations in the entire world. The Cuban capital receives thousands of tourists each year who are anxious to travel there to get to know the cuisine, the culture, and the local Cuban history which we are sure you’ll fall in love with. Its streets are a symphony of colors and scents of tropical fruit that will accompany tourists on their walks, while illustrating that its past is a relevant part of the future and is important to remember. 

To get to see the real Havana, it’s a great idea to uncover the hidden charms of this city with a local guide on a free walking tour. You can choose from several routes that will take you to discover some of the most iconic spots and interesting landmarks this city has to offer all while you get to immerse yourself in Cuban culture. Some free walking tours will take you by the Plaza de Armas, the National Hotel of Cuba, others allow you to walk along the Malecon or lose yourself in Old Town, and see the Cathedral that has some really unique views under its dome. There is also a Chinatown that is worth seeing, in addition to visiting the Castillo del Morro or the University.

The walkers (tourists on a guru walk) often leave their reviews and opinions about the free walking tours they have done. They evaluate the experience, from the route they chose to the guide and his or her tour and how well everything was explained. You can find other interesting cities with free walking tours lead by local guides on our page like Santiago de Cuba or Cartagena (Colombia).

Free walking tour near Havana

Others cities to visit after havana, find other guruwalks in havana, where are you traveling to.

OLD HAVANA WALKING TOUR – WITH MAP

An Old Havana walking tour – with a map – is the best way to see Havana, the capital of Cuba. The far eastern section of the city known as Habana Vieja or Old Havana is especially charming with its colonial architecture and bustling plazas.

Havana beguiles. It draws you in slowly with every soulful, mellow musical note, with every piece of baroque architecture, with every leafy, sunny square.

Here is a self-guided Old Havana walking tour map that will ensure you hit many of the main points of interest. There is so much more to see and do in this city but if your time is limited, this Old Havana self-guided walking tour is for you.

Table of Contents

OLD HAVANA MAP

El Capitolio: Start of the Old Havana walking tour

Start at El Capitolio, the capitol building, on Paseo del Prado which looks similar to the one in Washington DC. As impressive as the outside appears with its landscaped gardens and massive steps, the inside is equally impressive.

El Capitolio houses the third largest indoor statue in the world, the female representation of the Republic of Cuba. Also noteworthy are the art nouveau halls and chambers with their gilded lamps and polished marble floors.

The building has been restored to once again house the government of Cuba.

Guided tours are available through the week. Be sure to check the schedule first as the schedule changes.

Gran Teatro de La Habana Alicia Alonso

From El Capitolio, turn left and head towards the Gran Teatro de La Habana Alicia Alonso. This ornately decorated, blindingly white, beautiful theater has been described with adjectives such as magical, magnificent and stunning…both inside and out.

This is Havana’s performing arts center and home to Cuba’s internationally renowned National Ballet Company. It is named after Alicia Alonso, Cuba’s prima ballerina and founder of the National Ballet Company.

The artists that have performed here over the years read like a who’s who list of artistic luminaries: Enrico Caruso, Jinny Lind, Sarah Bernhard, Alicia Alonso, Anna Pavlova to mention a few. Several theaters have stood in this location from the 1830s to the present.

The current structure was built in the early 1900s and was renovated several times. It reopened in 2016 and now offers excellent tours.

Parque Central

This leafy plaza with its statue of Cuban patriot, Jose Marti has been completely restored. Have a rest on the stone benches and watch the classic American cars parade by. Or better still, hire one to tour Havana for an hour or two at about $50US an hour.

Cross Parque Central heading east and you find yourself at Plaza Albear. On your left is El Floridita , the world-famous bar where Ernest Hemingway sipped his daiquiris daily. In fact, many believe the classic Cuban cocktail was invented in El Floridita . Instead, it was invented in the small mining town on the far eastern side of the country in Santiago de Cuba province .

Plaza Albear is also the entrance to Obispo Street, a bustling, pedestrianized street full of shops, parks, restaurants and currency exchange houses, called CADECAS. Take Obispo Street all the way to where it empties out into Plaza de Armas, one of the most beautiful squares in Havana.

Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas is the site of the founding of Havana in 1519. The Plaza was originally called Plaza de Iglesias, or Church Square in honor of a church that stood here until 1741.

Today it is one of the most interesting sites in Havana. In the center is Cepedes Park named after Cuban patriot, Carlos Manuel de Cespedes who liberated his slaves and initiated the first Cuban war of independence against Spain.

The square is surrounded by a colonial military fortress on the left, the Museum of Natural History on the right and the Museum of the City of Havana at the entrance.

If you’re short on time and can only choose one museum to visit, definitely head for the museum of the City of Havana with its excellent collection of colonial artefacts. It also features a detailed history of the founding and development of Havana.

The building is a faithfully restored representation of what an upper class colonial home would have looked like in colonial times.

Plaza de San Francisco

Leave the plaza heading south on Oficios Street for four blocks and you will walk right into Plaza de San Francisco. Just as you enter the plaza, there is a currency exchange house or CADECA on the left.

This wide, cobblestone square is one of four plazas originally built in the early 1700s. The others are Plaza Vieja, or Old Plaza and Plaza de La Catedral or Cathedral Square. At its center looms the austere Church of San Francisco, originally connected to a convent.

Next to it sits a beautiful fountain made of pure white Carrera marble. The entire plaza creates such a pleasing impression that it is frequently used as a backdrop for weddings and sweet 15 photo shoots.

The plaza is surrounded by many high-end boutique hotels and restaurants. There is also a high concentration of art galleries in this area. To the east of the church in a shady little garden sits the elaborately decorated Greek Orthodox church of Havana.

Off the plaza on Amargura Street is the exposed section of the original colonial aqueduct, said to be the oldest in the Americas. Across the street from the aqueduct is the convent of Saint Brigida which today serves as a mid-range hotel run by nuns. See what it’s like to lodge in a modern-day convent in Havana .

Plaza Vieja

Continue south on Oficios Street for one block,  make a left on Teniente Rey Street and you will be in Plaza Vieja.

Plaza Vieja is where both locals and tourists go to sit in cafes and have snacks, sip drinks or coffee and listen to live music. On every side of the plaza are little cafes and restaurants with resident musicians.

The recently restored plaza is wide, cobblestoned and features interesting and unusual works of art throughout.

This is also where you can visit the local brewery serving particularly good beer. Plaza Vieja is the perfect spot for a quick drink, snack or a leisurely meal. It is also ideal for people watching before continuing on your Old Havana walking tour.

Mercaderes Street

From here head north, the opposite direction from where you came, on Mercaderes Street, one of the liveliest and most interesting streets in Havana.

Check out the open air restaurants on either side of the street, the little shops, parks and quirky museums. One particularly good paladar , or private enterprise restaurant, on this street is Paladar Mercaderes, a second floor location with authentic Cuban food at reasonable prices.

Try to get a balcony street so you can watch the action on the streets below as you savor your mojito and prepare for the next stop on your walking tour of Old Havana.

Plaza de la Catedral

Mercaderes Street opens up to Plaza de La Catedral, the last of the four classic colonial plazas. The first thing you notice is the majestic baroque style cathedral completed in 1777. Surrounding the cathedral are well-preserved 18th century homes with graceful arches, many of which have been transformed into restaurants. Looking at this colonial masterpiece of a plaza it’s hard to believe it was originally a swamp.

Right off Cathedral Square down a little side street called Callejon del Chorro is the private enterprise paladar, Dona Eutemia. This is a pleasant restaurant with authentic Cuban fare with indoor and outdoor seating. It’s a great place for lunch or dinner but be sure to reserve before hand or you might not get a table.

La Bodeguita del Medio

To the west of the cathedral on Empedrado Street is La Bodeguita del Medio bar, another one of Ernest Hemingway’s hangouts. Patrons write their names on the wall here and savor the mojito cocktails that Hemingway made famous. It’s all a bit touristy and the mojitos are about twice the price they’ll cost elsewhere but it’s still fun.

Gran Manzana de Kempinski

As you head back to the original point of departure, Central Park, you can stay on Empedrado Street but any street will provide you a interesting view of day-to-day Havana.

O’Reilley Street is the busiest street filled with restaurants, snack bars and shops. Continue west until you reach a large complex housing the new Hotel, Gran Manzana de Kempinski which takes up the entire block.

This is a new hotel reputed to be the most expensive on the island or at least the most luxurious. Be sure to visit the lobby to admire the design and head up to the top floor to visit the infinity pool. From this vantage point you will appreciate stunning views of Havana and the surrounding area.

Havana’s classic hotels at the end of the Old Havana self guided walking tour

At this point you have completed your Old Havana self-guided walking tour. You should be back at Parque Central in the center of Havana’s classic collection of hotels. Be sure to admire the architecture of these hotels such as Hotel Inglaterra, Plaza, Iberostar Parque Central and others. You will notice an eclectic mixture of architectural styles, art deco, faux baroque and modern.

Explore, engage, experience

There are dozens of ways to explore this exciting and unique city. Havana grows on you the more you experience it, the more you discover  Havana’s hidden charms . This is just one Old Havana self guided walking tour.

The city can be explored with all types of Cuban transportation ; bici-taxis, coco-taxis or classic American cars. But the best way is still on foot. And for some of the best Cuban food in town, check out these unique Havana paladar restaurants.

If you have more time, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the rest of this enchanting island with the perfect Cuba itinerary. 

Come well prepared with useful information to immerse yourself in Cuban culture. My book, “ Don’t Just Travel to Cuba, Experience Cuba. The Ultimate Cuba Travel Guide, ” will be a handy companion on your trip.

Updated May 2022

Which part of Havana would you most want to visit? What would you add to the Old Havana self-guided walking tour?

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Talek Nantes

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