Updated 12/09/2025
Vintage Cadillacs cruising pastel streets, salsa rhythms floating from every corner, and sunsets over the Malecón that feel straight out of a movie. Havana isn’t just a city — it’s a mood.
This Cuban capital is equal parts history, culture, music, and mojitos. Whether you’re here for the revolutionary sites, the nightlife, or just to soak up the energy, Havana will sweep you off your feet (probably onto a dance floor).
Start your trip in Old Havana (Habana Vieja), a UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobbled lanes, colourful plazas, and colonial architecture. Wander through Plaza de la Catedral, step inside the stunning cathedral, and explore the Castillo de la Real Fuerza, one of the oldest stone forts in the Americas. Every corner reveals another piece of Havana’s vibrant history.
Dive into Cuba’s revolutionary spirit at Plaza de la Revolución, home to the iconic José Martí Memorial and the building adorned with Che Guevara’s mural. For the full story, head to the Museum of the Revolution, set in the former Presidential Palace, where the exhibits bring Cuba’s independence struggles to life.
As evening falls, nothing beats a stroll along the Malecón — Havana’s famous seafront promenade. By day, it’s peaceful with sea views, but by night it comes alive with street musicians, dancers, and artists. Grab a seat on the wall, sip a drink, and soak in the atmosphere as locals chat and laugh late into the night.
No visit to Havana is complete without diving into its music. Whether you’re keen to learn salsa in a dance class or just throw yourself into the rhythm at clubs like Casa de la Musica or La Cecilia, you’ll quickly understand why Havana is called the soul of salsa. For a more relaxed night, catch live performances at Buena Vista Social Club or head underground to La Zorra y El Cuervo, the city’s famous jazz bar.
Foodies will be just as happy here. Traditional dishes like Ropa Vieja (shredded beef stew), Lechón Asado (roast pork), and tostones (fried plantains) are staples of Cuban dining. Wash it all down with cocktails at their birthplace — the Mojito at La Bodeguita del Medio or the Daiquiri at El Floridita, Ernest Hemingway’s old haunt.
If you fancy a change of scenery, take a day trip to the Viñales Valley, where tobacco farms and limestone mogotes create stunning scenery. Guided tours often include farm visits, horse riding, and a taste of rural Cuban life. Alternatively, escape to the beach for a day at Varadero, with its powdery white sands and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply unwinding after Havana’s buzz.
Your Holiday Cheat Sheet
Flight Time
Direct flights from London to Havana José Martí International Airport (HAV) take around 9h 45m. Some flights may include a stopover depending on your departure airport.
Getting from the Airport to Havana
The airport is about 30 minutes from Old Havana (approx. 25km).
- Taxi/Private Transfer – The easiest option. Taxis cost around $25–30 USD one way and take about half an hour.
- Shared Shuttle – Often included in holiday packages, this is cheaper than a taxi but may take longer with multiple stops.
- Car Hire – Available at the airport if you want to road trip to places like Varadero or Viñales, but roads can be a little chaotic if you’re not used to them!
- Public Transport – Not tourist-friendly from the airport. Stick with taxis or pre-booked transfers.
Tip: Pre-book a transfer with your hotel or eDreams package to avoid haggling with taxis after a long flight.
Why Book with eDreams?
Booking your Havana holiday with eDreams means you can lock in your flight + hotel together, saving time and often snagging better prices than booking separately. You’ll also get:
- Flexible payment options – spread the cost of your trip.
- ATOL protection – peace of mind while you plan.
- Wide hotel choice – from classic colonial stays in Old Havana to all-inclusive resorts in Miramar or by the beach.
- Tailored packages – whether you’re after city buzz, laid-back luxury, or a mix of both, you can bundle flights with the perfect hotel.
With eDreams, everything’s in one place, so you can focus on mojitos, salsa, and sunshine instead of juggling multiple bookings.
Top Tips
🚕 Getting Around – Explore Old Havana on foot, but for the full experience, ride in a classic American car or hop in a bici-taxi. Taxis are also easy to find for longer trips.
💸 Money – Bring cash. Cuban pesos (CUP) are the local currency, and international bank cards often don’t work.
🗣️ Language – Spanish is the main language, but English works in tourist areas. A friendly “Gracias” or “Hola” goes a long way.
🎶 Vibe Check – Havana is loud, colourful, and alive with energy. Embrace the chaos — it’s part of the charm.
☀️ Best Time to Go – Visit between November and April for dry, sunny weather. Summer months are hotter and more humid, but festivals and street parties are everywhere.
📱 Connectivity – Wi-Fi is improving, but it’s still limited compared to Europe. Most hotels sell Wi-Fi cards, and some public squares have hotspots.
Havana isn’t polished — it’s raw, vibrant, and unforgettable. From revolutionary landmarks to nights of salsa and mojitos under the stars, it’s a city that lives and breathes rhythm. Pack your dancing shoes, bring your appetite, and get ready to feel Havana’s magic.
