Havana, Cuba 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Old Havana

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of the local paladares (family-owned restaurants). Try “El Aguacate” for some delicious Cuban dishes.
  • Head to Plaza de Armas, the oldest city square in Havana, where you can find the second-oldest book fair in the world. Take a leisurely stroll through the square and explore the surrounding buildings.
  • Visit the Museum of the Revolution (Museo de la Revolución) to learn about Cuba’s rich history.

Afternoon:

  • Wander around El Malecon, the iconic sea wall that stretches for 5 miles along the coast. Enjoy the ocean view and take some great photos.
  • Visit the nearby Christopher Columbus Cemetery (Cementerio de Cristóbal Colón), a fascinating place filled with elaborate tombs and mausoleums.

Evening:

  • For dinner, head to La Guarida, one of Havana’s most famous restaurants. Be prepared for an unforgettable dining experience in a stunning colonial mansion.
  • End your day with a live music performance at the Fabrica de Arte Cubano (FAC). This multi-arts venue hosts some of Cuba’s best artists and performers.

Day 2: Beyond Old Havana

Morning:

  • Start your day early and head to Fusterlandia, a colorful mosaic-covered neighborhood created by Cuban artist José Fuster.
  • Visit the Museum of Fine Arts (Museo de Bellas Artes) to see an impressive collection of Cuban and international art.

Afternoon:

  • Take a classic car tour around Vedado, Centro Habana, and Habana Vieja. This is a great way to see more of the city while enjoying the iconic Cuban cars.
  • Visit the nearby Morro-Cabana battery complex for stunning views of Havana’s skyline.

Evening:

  • For dinner, try “San Cristobal” in Vedado, known for its rooftop dining with great city views.
  • End your day at La Bodeguita del Medio, the famous bar where Hemingway used to drink his mojitos. Try a traditional Cuban cocktail and enjoy some live music.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Nacional de Cuba: A historic luxury hotel with beautiful ocean views and a rich history.
  • Casa particulars (private homes): An affordable option for travelers who prefer a more local experience.

Transportation:

  • Taxi Collectivos: Shared taxis that operate on fixed routes for a small fee.
  • Coco Taxis: Three-wheeled bicycle taxis that are a fun and eco-friendly way to get around the city.
  • Vintage Cars: A classic experience, but more expensive than other options.

Tips:

  • Cuban currency can be confusing. Bring both Cuban Convertible Pesos (CUC) for tourist areas and Cuban Moneda Nacional (CUP) for local areas.
  • Wi-Fi is limited in Cuba. You can buy internet cards at ETECSA offices or hotels to access Wi-Fi hotspots.
  • Remember that Cubans are friendly and welcoming, so don’t hesitate to start a conversation!

Things to Know:

  • English is not widely spoken, so it’s helpful to learn some basic Spanish phrases.
  • Always carry small denominations of CUC as change can be hard to come by.
  • Embrace the slow pace of life and enjoy the unique Cuban culture.