Havana, Cuba 5 Day Itinerary

Havana, Cuba 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Old Havana (Habana Vieja)

  • Morning: Check-in at your hotel in Old Havana. Familiarize yourself with the neighborhood and grab breakfast at El Cocinero (Calle 26 esquina 11B).
  • Afternoon: Visit the iconic Plaza de Armas, Plaza Vieja, and Plaza San Francisco de Asís. Don’t forget to explore the nearby Museum of the Revolution (Museo de la Revolución) or the Museum of Fine Arts (Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes).
  • Evening: Savor delicious Cuban cuisine at Paladar La Guarida, located on the second floor of a beautiful building in Concepción. After dinner, catch a live music performance at Fabrica de Arte Cubano.
  • Tips: Bring Cuban Convertible Pesos (CUC) for most transactions. Internet access may be limited, consider buying a local SIM card or using public WiFi spots.

Day 2: Exploring Modern Havana & Malecón

  • Morning: Visit the modern neighborhoods of Vedado and Nuevo Vedado. Don’t miss the José Martí Memorial and the impressive University of Havana. Grab lunch at La Lonja, a popular seafood paladar on 23rd Street.
  • Afternoon: Stroll along the iconic Malecón seawall, taking in stunning ocean views and capturing memorable photos. Continue to explore the nearby neighborhoods of Centro Habana and Habana Centro.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at El Templete, a charming restaurant offering traditional Cuban dishes. Afterward, take a stroll through the vibrant nightlife scene in Vedado or head back to your hotel for rest.

Day 3: Day Trip to Fusterlandia & Playas del Este

  • Morning: Take a taxi (approximately $25 CUC one way) to Jaimanitas, the home of artist José Fuster, and explore his colorful mosaic-filled neighborhood, Fusterlandia.
  • Afternoon: Head to Playas del Este for relaxing beach time. Popular beaches include Santa María del Mar, Guanabo, and Boca Ciega. Pack a picnic lunch or grab food from nearby street vendors.
  • Evening: Return to Havana, have dinner at San Cristóbal Paladar in Old Havana, then spend the evening exploring local salsa clubs like La Cabaña Salsa Club.

Day 4: Artisans & Music

  • Morning: Visit the San Alejandro Art School and Artisan Market in Miramar for purchasing locally made art, music instruments, and souvenirs. Grab lunch at Paladar La Fontana nearby.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Almacenes San José artisans market in Old Havana or attend a live music performance at the Casa de la Música. Take a salsa class if you’re feeling adventurous!
  • Evening: Dine at O’Reilly 304, a popular paladar located near Plaza Vieja, offering both Cuban and international dishes. Spend the evening wandering through Old Havana’s lively nightlife scene.

Day 5: Departure & Last-Minute Exploring

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or at a nearby café, then pack and check out. If time allows, visit any sights missed during the previous days.
  • Afternoon: Take a taxi to the airport, ensuring you arrive with plenty of time before your flight. Fare is approximately $25 CUC depending on location. Bid farewell to beautiful Havana as you prepare for your journey home.

Additional Tips:

  • Bring Cuban Convertible Pesos (CUC) in cash, as credit and debit cards can be limiting.
  • Consider purchasing a local SIM card or using public WiFi spots for internet access.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, and always ask permission before taking photos of people.
  • Embrace the laid-back Cuban pace of life and enjoy your unforgettable adventure in Havana!