City scores
Practical info
Start your Havana journey at Callejón de Hamel, an alleyway where Afro-Cuban culture thrives with colorful murals and weekly rumba performances. This narrow street offers an insight into the heart of Cuba's Santería and its artistic expressions. For a taste of local life, head to the lively Mercado de Cuatro Caminos, a newly renovated market where locals shop for fresh produce and meats, offering a slice of everyday Cuban life. Havana's culinary scene is undergoing a quiet renaissance. Visit Paladar La Guarida, set in a crumbling mansion, for a taste of modern Cuban cuisine with dishes like lamb risotto and honey-glazed duck. This restaurant also holds a cinematic history as it was featured in the film "Fresa y Chocolate." For a quieter moment, explore the Cementerio de Cristóbal Colón, a vast necropolis known for its elaborate marble statues and the legend of La Milagrosa, a woman believed to perform miracles from beyond the grave.
Best time to visit
November through April — cooler, drier weather ideal for exploring the city and avoiding hurricane season.
Month by month
Ideal for exploring with cooler temperatures and cultural events like the Havana Jazz Festival.
Comfortable weather with the International Book Fair enlivening the city.
Dry and pleasant, perfect for walking tours and outdoor activities.
End of the dry season; warmer days lead up to the Easter celebrations.
Beginning of the rainy season; expect afternoon showers.
Warm and humid, marking the start of hurricane season.
Hot and humid; Santiago de Cuba Carnival draws visitors despite the heat.
Peak of summer heat; quieter as locals take vacations.
Hurricane season peaks; travel with caution due to potential storms.
Rainy and humid, but the Bienal de La Habana draws art enthusiasts.
Cooler weather returns, perfect for sightseeing and cultural events.
Festive atmosphere with cooler temperatures and holiday celebrations.
Highlights
- ✦Callejón de Hamel — Afro-Cuban culture with colorful murals and weekly rumba performances.
- ✦Mercado de Cuatro Caminos — A lively local market offering fresh produce and a slice of everyday life.
- ✦Paladar La Guarida — Modern Cuban cuisine in a historic mansion, featured in 'Fresa y Chocolate'.
- ✦Cementerio de Cristóbal Colón — Elaborate marble statues and the legend of La Milagrosa.
- ✦Fábrica de Arte Cubano — A cultural hub with contemporary art, live music, and film screenings housed in a former factory.
Hidden gems
Practical tips
- ·Use 'CUP' for local purchases; 'CUC' is no longer in circulation.
- ·Wi-Fi is scarce; purchase a local SIM card for better connectivity.
- ·Taxis are negotiable; agree on a fare before starting your journey.
- ·Avoid tap water; opt for bottled water instead.
Budget estimate
$80–120 CUP / day (mid-range)
