Havana Travel Tips: 10 Things First-Time Visitors Need to Know

Visiting Havana for the first time is exciting, a little overwhelming, and absolutely worth it. Like any great destination, it helps to know a few things before you arrive. These ten tips will save you time, money, and the occasional awkward moment.

Consider this your pre-departure briefing — everything you need to hit the ground running in Havana, Cuba.

1. Get Your Timing Right

The best time to visit Havana is November to April (dry season with mild temperatures), when the weather is most favorable and conditions are ideal for sightseeing. Peak season runs during December to March high season — expect higher prices and bigger crowds. Shoulder season offers the best balance of weather and value.

2. Know the Money Situation

The local currency is Cuban Peso (CUP). A comfortable mid-range daily budget is around $70, while budget travelers can manage on $30 per day. Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels and larger restaurants, but carry cash for markets, street food, and small shops.

3. Learn Basic Local Phrases

The primary language is Spanish. While many people in tourist areas speak English, learning a few phrases goes a long way. Locals genuinely appreciate the effort, even if your pronunciation is imperfect. "Hello," "thank you," and "excuse me" are the essential three.

4. Master the Transport System

Getting around Havana is straightforward once you understand the options:

• Classic car taxis (almendrones) run along fixed routes cheaply
• Viazul tourist buses connect Havana to Viñales, Trinidad, and Varadero
• Walking is often the best way to explore central neighborhoods like Habana Vieja — colonial plazas, cathedrals, and restored mansions.
• Avoid unmarked taxis — use official taxi stands or ride-hailing apps.

5. Respect Local Customs

Havana has cultural norms that differ from what you may be used to. A few key points:

• Ask before photographing people — offer a small tip if they agree
• Cuban time is relaxed — expect delays and embrace the pace
• Learn basic Spanish — very little English is spoken outside tourist hotels

6. Stay Safe and Aware

Havana is generally safe for tourists, but common-sense precautions apply everywhere:

• Havana is very safe for tourists compared to other Caribbean capitals
• Streets are poorly lit at night — stick to main avenues in Centro and Vedado
• Watch for hustlers (jineteros) offering unsolicited tours, cigars, or restaurant tips
• Save your embassy's contact information in your phone before you arrive.

7. Pack Smart

Packing for Havana's Tropical savanna with a wet season from May to October and dry season from November to April climate requires a bit of thought:

• Bring all personal supplies — toiletries and medications are scarce in Cuba
• Carry enough cash for your entire trip — international cards often do not work
• Pack a power adapter — Cuba uses both US and European plug types

8. Eat Like a Local

Skip the tourist-trap restaurants near major attractions. Instead, explore neighborhoods like Vedado — 1950s mansions, Hotel Nacional, and Malecón nightlife for authentic food at local prices. Must-try dishes include Ropa Vieja — shredded beef in tomato sauce with peppers and onions and Moros y Cristianos — black beans and rice, the Cuban staple side dish — both are quintessentially Havana.

9. Do Not Over-Plan

One of the biggest mistakes first-timers make is cramming too many activities into each day. Havana rewards slow exploration. Leave room for wandering, unexpected discoveries, and the occasional lazy afternoon in a cafe.

10. Use Technology Wisely

• Download offline maps before you arrive.
• Bring cash in Euros or Canadian dollars — US dollars incur a 10 percent surcharge
• Use TripGenie to create a flexible itinerary that adapts to your pace.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Exchanging money at the airport — Rates are almost always worse. Use a local ATM or exchange office in the city.
• Only visiting the top-5 tourist sites — Havana's magic is in the quieter corners. Venture beyond the highlights.
• Forgetting travel insurance — Medical care abroad can be expensive. A basic policy costs less than a nice dinner.
• Over-tipping or under-tipping — Research local tipping customs before your first meal.

Pro Tips

• Wi-Fi is limited — buy ETECSA cards to connect in parks and hotel lobbies
• State restaurants are poor quality — eat at paladares (private restaurants) instead
• Book one "splurge experience" — whether it is a fancy dinner or a guided tour, one premium activity makes the trip feel special.
• Keep a small daily journal. You will thank yourself years from now.

You Are Ready

Havana is one of those places that exceeds expectations if you give it the chance. Armed with these tips, you are set for an incredible first visit.

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