Havana Hotel Guide 2026

Havana, the capital of Cuba, is a city that seamlessly blends rich history, stunning architecture, and a unique cultural identity. With its colorful buildings, lively music scene, and friendly locals, Havana is a destination that has been captivating travelers for decades. From the moment you step foot in this enchanting city, you'll be surrounded by the sounds of salsa music, the smell of delicious Cuban cuisine, and the sight of vintage American cars cruising down the streets.

Where to Stay in Havana

When it comes to choosing where to stay in Havana, there are several neighborhoods to consider, each catering to different types of travelers. For budget backpackers, the neighborhood of Vedado is an excellent choice, offering affordable accommodation options, including hostels and guesthouses, and a lively atmosphere with plenty of bars, restaurants, and nightlife. Business travelers, on the other hand, may prefer to stay in the neighborhood of Miramar, which is home to many high-end hotels and is conveniently located near the city's main business district.

Families and couples may enjoy staying in the historic neighborhood of Old Havana, which offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury boutique hotels, and is surrounded by stunning colonial architecture, historic landmarks, and a variety of restaurants and shops. Another neighborhood worth considering is Playa, which is located along the coast and offers stunning ocean views, beautiful beaches, and a range of water sports and activities.

Getting There and Around

The main airport in Havana is José Martí International Airport (HAV), which is located approximately 15 kilometers southwest of the city center. Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal and cost around 20-25 CUC (Cuban Convertible Pesos) to get to the city center, while buses cost around 5-10 CUC. Once in the city, there are several transportation options available, including a metro system, buses, and trams, as well as ride-hailing apps such as Taxi Cuba and Cuba Taxi.

Best Time to Visit Havana

The best time to visit Havana depends on your preferences and what you want to do. The dry season, which runs from December to April, is the coolest and driest time of year, with average temperatures ranging from 22-25°C (72-77°F), making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The wet season, which runs from May to November, is hotter and more humid, with average temperatures ranging from 28-30°C (82-86°F), but is also the best time to see the city's beautiful gardens and parks in full bloom. Hotel prices tend to be higher during the peak season, which runs from December to March, while the low season, which runs from April to November, offers better deals and discounts.

Top Things to Do in Havana

There are plenty of things to see and do in Havana, from visiting historic landmarks and museums to enjoying the city's lively music and art scene. Some of the top attractions include the Capitolio Nacional, a stunning example of neoclassical architecture, the Museo de la Revolución, which tells the story of Cuba's revolution, and the Plaza Vieja, a beautiful square surrounded by stunning colonial buildings. Other must-visit spots include the Malecón, a scenic seawall that runs along the coast, the Fábrica de Arte Cubano, a unique art and cultural center, and the Jardín Botánico, a beautiful botanical garden.

Hotels in Havana

Havana offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxury boutique hotels and resorts. Boutique hotels, such as the Hotel Ambos Mundos and the Hotel Raquel, offer a unique and personalized experience, with prices starting from around 100-150 CUC per night. Chain hotels, such as the Hotel Meliá Cohiba and the Hotel NH Capri, offer a more traditional hotel experience, with prices starting from around 150-250 CUC per night. Budget hostels, such as the Hostal Peregrino and the Hostal La Moraleja, offer affordable accommodation options, with prices starting from around 20-30 CUC per night. Luxury resorts, such as the Hotel Gran Caribe and the Hotel Barceló, offer a range of amenities and services, with prices starting from around 300-500 CUC per night. You can find and book 59+ hotels in Havana on HOTEVI with free cancellation and instant confirmation.

Practical Travel Tips

• The local currency in Cuba is the Cuban Peso (CUP), although the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC) is also widely accepted. It's customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants and bars.
• While many Cubans speak some English, it's still a good idea to learn some basic Spanish phrases, such as "gracias" (thank you) and "¿dónde está...?" (where is...?).
• Havana is generally a safe city, but as with any major city, it's still important to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings, such as avoiding walking alone in dimly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
• When interacting with locals, it's customary to greet them with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, and to use formal titles such as "señor" or "señora".
• One thing that many tourists get wrong about Havana is assuming that it's a city that's stuck in the past, when in fact it's a lively and dynamic city that's constantly evolving and changing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Havana good for first-time visitors?

Havana is a great destination for first-time visitors, with its friendly locals, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. The city has a well-developed tourist infrastructure, with many hotels, restaurants, and attractions catering specifically to tourists, and English is widely spoken, making it easy for visitors to get around and communicate with locals.

How many days do you need in Havana?

3-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in Havana, allowing you to see the city's main attractions, such as the Capitolio Nacional, the Museo de la Revolución, and the Plaza Vieja, as well as explore some of the city's lesser-known neighborhoods and experience the local culture.

What is the cheapest way to get around Havana?

The cheapest way to get around Havana is by bus, with a single ticket costing around 1-2 CUC. You can also buy a rechargeable bus card, known as a "tarjeta de transporte", which can be used on buses and trains throughout the city.