Weekend in Havana
Cuba Travel Itinerary & Guide
Guest Post From:
4 Days in Havana, Cuba
Just came back from a short trip in Havana, Cuba. Contrary to what others say, going to Cuba is hassle-free. The flights are affordable, the people are friendly, getting around is easy. So much amazing architecture, and vintage cars to see! Hope this itinerary I had will help you plan your Cuba trip.
Day 1:
Arrive in Jose Marti International Airport. Make sure you bring enough cash with you, and have it exchange in the airport. It is difficult to find a money exchange place outside the airport, aside from major hotels, some of them ask for service charge. Taxi to airport to city center is approx 25-30 CUC. I suggest to pack lightly, to avoid the long wait for the luggage.
La Guarida
First Cuban meal of the trip is in this amazing restaurant. It is located in a more residential area, but plenty of cabs outside. Reservations are recommended at least 2 days prior. You can make reservation in their website. They are quick to respond. The interior design in this place is definitely instagram-worthy! A pictures in their 2 grand staircase is a must. Food is very tasty, portions small. If going for dinner, you can request to sit by the terrace. There’s no dress code, but I suggest to avoid shorts, flip flops. Must try: lobster, oxtail, suckling pig, chocolate tres leches!
Cuban Sunset
Close to La Guarida, take a 15 minute walk to El Malecon. This boardwalk has the best view of sunset. Enjoy the fresh breeze, the sound of waves, passing vintage cars and old buildings! You can also get a good glimpse of the Castillo de los tres Reyes del Morro from here. Walk towards Monumento al general Antonio Maceo.
Day 2:
Explore the old town, experience riding in the vintage car, and enjoy good food. Tip: wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring a light sweater as it gets a little cold at night.
Car Ride in the City Center
By Parque Central, there are several vintage cars parked infront of the park. They will approach you, and let you choose which car you want to ride. For 1 hour, they will take you around historical spots, and stop in selected areas. This cost 40 CUC.
Walking Tours
You can take a short walk, and enjoy the Grand Teatro de la Habana, Capitolio, Paseo del Prado. They are all close to each other. Take pictures of the colorful buildings in Paseo del Prado, right in front of Capitolio.
El Floridita Bar
Enjoy some cocktails in this iconic bar, a favorite of Ernest Hemingway. Amazing daiquiris!
Museum of Revolution
Take a Coco taxi (3 people max), to Museum of Revolution. Amazing architecture, and so much history inside. There is a park infront of the museum. Best to just sit, and take rest.
Walking Tour
Head towards Plaza de la Cathedral. This square has several souvenir shops, restaurants, and amazing buildings. Make sure to climb the cathedral tower to get the best view of the city. Explore around, and head towards San Francisco de Asis Square, and Plaza de armas. Lots of photo-ops, restaurants, shops. We stop by for some street food- churros, coconut ice cream, peanuts, toasted chips. All cheap, and delicious.
Havana 61
Amazing food, and drinks! Excellent service, and good food portions! Must try: Taro soup, Ropa vieja, octopus, coconut pudding in curry sauce.
Day 3:
Beach trip, and the Fort!
Playas Del Este
Take a taxi to Playas del Este beach. This will take you 25 minutes. Beach is not crowded at all. Make sure to bring sunblock, as there are no stores in the beach. Also, watch out for a type of jellyfish called “Portuguese man o war”, their painful sting can sometimes be fatal. Taxi cost roundtrip is 40 CUC.
Castillo De Los Tres Reyes Del Morro
This Morro Castle has an amazing view of Havana. Explore around, learn some history, enjoy some fresh breeze. There are some street food, souvenir stores around. Tip: They do not accept CUC, only their local currency. We exchange money with some locals. Entrance fee is very cheap. Make sure you negotiate price in the souvenir shops.
La Concordia
Food here is really good. Probably the best we had during the trip! They have a rooftop area, where you can admire the sunset, or view of the houses. Must try: fish in aromatic sauce, chicken soup, octopus, frozen mojitos
Day 4:
Cigar and Rum shopping.
Havana Club Foundation
Learn about Havana rum history. They have a cozy bar inside, patio, and a store which sells different kinds of Havana club, and cuban cigars. Good price.
San Cristobal Paladar
An old house, this place has amazing well-preserved interiors. Lots of paintings, original wall decors, old clocks. They have enormous bathroom, complete with bath tub, shower, chair, sewing machine. Food is very tasty, but service is quite slow.
Tips and Tricks:
Flights are inexpensive. Make sure you download a map beforehand, as there is limited WIFI hotspots. Internet card cost 1 CUC for 1 hour. Avoid drinking tap water. Wear comfortable shoes, and bring extra sweater, as nights can be a little chilly on months of December – February. Negotiate prices for taxis, souvenir shops. 10% tip is very much appreciated. People are very friendly, and easy to get along. Many will offer you to buy cigars on the side. Be careful, buy only from trusted stores. Enjoy, and take lots of pictures!