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3 Days in Havana Things to Do and Must Sees, Hotels and Where to Stay

Travel Tips in Havana:

Havana, the vibrant capital city of Cuba, is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the rich culture and history of the Caribbean. To make the most of your trip to Havana, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:

  1. Currency: The currency used in Cuba is the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC). It is recommended to exchange your money to CUC upon arrival at the airport or at your hotel.
  2. Transportation: Getting around Havana is easy with various options including classic American cars, taxis, and coco-taxis. You can also explore the city on foot or rent a bike.
  3. Safety: Havana is generally a safe city for travelers, but it’s always advisable to be cautious of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  4. Language: Spanish is the official language in Cuba, so it would be helpful to learn a few basic phrases to communicate with locals.
  5. Weather: The best time to visit Havana is during the dry season from November to April when the weather is pleasant and sunny.

Things to do in Havana / Top 20 sites and monuments to visit in Havana:

  1. The Malecon – A scenic promenade that stretches along the coast of Havana.
    Reference: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/cuba/havana/attractions/malecon/a/poi-sig/1285291/358018 Pricing: Free How to get there: Easily accessible by foot or taxi
  2. Capitolio Nacional – An iconic building in Havana that resembles the US Capitol.
    Reference: https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions-/havana-cu-ha-ha.htm Pricing: Entrance fee varies How to get there: Located in the heart of the city, can be reached by walking or taxi
  3. Old Havana (Habana Vieja) – The historic district of Havana with colorful buildings and cobblestone streets.
    Reference: https://theculturetrip.com/caribbean/cuba/articles/12-must-visit-attractions-in-havana-cuba/ Pricing: Free to walk around, entrance fees for museums How to get there: Easily accessible by foot or taxi
  4. El Morro Castle – A historic fortress dating back to the 16th century with stunning views of the city.
    Reference: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/cuba/havana/attractions/castillo-de-los-tres-reyes-del-morro/a/poi-sig/1235146/358018 Pricing: Entrance fee applies How to get there: Taxi or public transportation
  5. Revolution Square (Plaza de la Revolución) – A large square known for its iconic monuments and historic significance.
    Reference: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/cuba/havana/attractions/plaza-de-la-revolucion/a/poi-sig/1294716/358018 Pricing: Free How to get there: Taxi or public transportation
  6. Museum of the Revolution – A museum housed in the former Presidential Palace, showcasing Cuba’s revolutionary history.
    Reference: https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions-/havana-cu-ha-mr.htm Pricing: Entrance fee applies How to get there: Taxi or public transportation
  7. Gran Teatro de La Habana – A grand theater and cultural landmark in Havana known for its architecture and performances.
    Reference: https://theculturetrip.com/caribbean/cuba/articles/12-must-visit-attractions-in-havana-cuba/ Pricing: Entrance fee for shows How to get there: Taxi or public transportation
  8. La Bodeguita del Medio – A famous bar and restaurant known for its mojitos and connection to Ernest Hemingway. Reference: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/cuba/havana/nightlife/la-bodeguita-del-medio/a/poi-dri/418232/358018 Pricing: Prices vary How to get there: Located in Old Havana, accessible by foot or taxi
  9. Plaza Vieja – A historic square in Old Havana surrounded by colorful buildings and cafes.
    Reference: https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions-/havana-cu-ha-pv.htm Pricing: Free How to get there: Easily accessible by foot or taxi
  10. Jose Marti Memorial – A towering monument dedicated to Cuban national hero Jose Marti.
    Reference: https://theculturetrip.com/caribbean/cuba/articles/12-must-visit-attractions-in-havana-cuba/ Pricing: Entrance fee applies How to get there: Taxi or public transportation
  11. Fusterlandia – A vibrant neighborhood in Havana decorated with mosaic art by artist Jose Fuster.
    Reference: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/cuba/havana/attractions/fusterlandia/a/poi-sig/1277106/358018 Pricing: Free How to get there: Taxi or public transportation
  12. Partagas Cigar Factory – A historic cigar factory offering tours and demonstrations of the cigar-making process.
    Reference: https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions-/havana-cu-ha-partagas-cigar-factory.htm Pricing: Tour fees apply How to get there: Taxi or public transportation
  13. Vedado – A neighborhood in Havana known for its Art Deco architecture and vibrant nightlife.
    Reference: https://theculturetrip.com/caribbean/cuba/articles/12-must-visit-attractions-in-havana-cuba/ Pricing: Free to explore How to get there: Taxi or public transportation
  14. Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Museum of Fine Arts) – A museum showcasing Cuban art from the colonial period to contemporary works.
    Reference: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/cuba/havana/attractions/museo-nacional-de-bellas-artes/a/poi-sig/1270647/358018 Pricing: Entrance fee applies How to get there: Taxi or public transportation
  15. John Lennon Park – A park with a statue of John Lennon, a tribute to the Beatles and peace activism. Reference: https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions-/havana-cu-ha-jl.htm Pricing: Free How to get there: Taxi or public transportation
  16. El Maleconazo – A famous seawall and boulevard where locals go to socialize and enjoy the sunset.
    Reference: https://theculturetrip.com/caribbean/cuba/articles/12-must-visit-attractions-in-havana-cuba/ Pricing: Free How to get there: Easily accessible by foot or taxi
  17. Castillo de la Real Fuerza – A historic fortress and former military stronghold in Havana.
    Reference: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/cuba/havana/attractions/castillo-de-la-real-fuerza/a/poi-sig/1285406/358018 Pricing: Entrance fee applies How to get there: Taxi or public transportation
  18. Fabrica de Arte Cubano (FAC) – An art gallery, club, and performance space showcasing contemporary Cuban art and culture.
    Reference: https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions-/havana-cu-ha-fabrica-de-arte-cubano.htm Pricing: Entrance fee applies How to get there: Taxi or public transportation
  19. Hotel Nacional de Cuba – An iconic hotel with a rich history and stunning views of the city and ocean.
    Reference: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/cuba/havana/attractions/hotel-nacional-de-cuba/a/poi-sig/1282434/358018 Pricing: Tours available How to get there: Taxi or public transportation
  20. Necropolis Cristobal Colon – A historic cemetery with elaborate mausoleums and sculptures.
    Reference: https://theculturetrip.com/caribbean/cuba/articles/12-must-visit-attractions-in-havana-cuba/ Pricing: Entrance fee applies How to get there: Taxi or public transportation

Don’t forget to get Travel Insurance Before You Travel

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Day by Day Itinerary for 3 Days in Havana:

Day 1:

  1. Visit Old Havana and explore the colorful streets and historic buildings
  2. Have lunch at La Bodeguita del Medio and try their famous mojitos
  3. Visit the Museum of the Revolution to learn about Cuban history
  4. Walk along the Malecon and watch the sunset
  5. Dinner at a local paladar for authentic Cuban cuisine

Day 2:

  1. Take a tour of El Morro Castle for panoramic views of the city
  2. Explore Vedado neighborhood and visit the National Museum of Fine Arts
  3. Have lunch at a local cafe in Vedado
  4. Visit the John Lennon Park and take a photo with the statue
  5. Dinner at a rooftop restaurant in Vedado with views of the city

Day 3:

  1. Take a morning tour of the Partagas Cigar Factory and learn about Cuban cigar-making
  2. Visit the Jose Marti Memorial and learn about the Cuban national hero
  3. Explore Fusterlandia to see the vibrant mosaic art
  4. Lunch at a local paladar in the neighborhood
  5. Relax at the beach or enjoy a salsa lesson in the evening

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Top Rated Hotels and Accommodation in Havana / Where to Stay in Havana

Best Havana Hotels priced over $200 per night:

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Top Rated Havana Hotels priced between $100 to $200 per night:

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Best Reviewed Hotels in Havana priced between $50 to $100 per night:

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Recommended Hotels in Havana priced between $20 to $50 per night:

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Best Budget Hotels in Havana priced below $20 per night:

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Enjoy your stay in Havana!

For more about Cuba and Havana, read the travel tips and see all travel stories, videos, photos and writing on Rolling Coconut’s Travel section.

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