Havana, Cuba: 20 Essential Things You Absolutely MUST Know Before You Go!
Havana, Cuba! Picture classic American cars, gleaming like jewels from a bygone era, purring past buildings that could tell a thousand tales of colonial drama. The air itself? It practically hums with the rich scent of strong coffee and even stronger cigars. And that’s where we, your trusty mates at The Travel Tinker, come in. We’re here to give you the genuine lowdown, the real nitty-gritty, to make your Cuban escapade as smooth and delightful as a freshly muddled mojito. Let’s get you prepped and ready, shall we? 🇨🇺
1. Bring proof of travel insurance
Okay, rule number one, and it’s a biggie: heading to Havana, Cuba, without travel insurance… just not a good idea, and frankly, not allowed! Cuban immigration can, and sometimes do, ask to see proof you’re covered when you land. Your policy absolutely must cover medical expenses, so give it a good once-over. Keep a paper copy or a digital version somewhere super easy to find. Nobody fancies starting their holiday with a paperwork palaver, do they? Get Travel Insurance!
🔹 Tinker’s Tip: Just a heads-up, your insurance provider ideally shouldn’t be an American company, as they might not be accepted due to the ongoing embargo. Best to double-check with your insurer that they’re all good with covering you in Cuba.
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2. Fill in an online immigration form in advance
Remember those fiddly paper forms you used to fill out on the plane, usually while balancing a lukewarm drink? Well, wave goodbye to those! Cuba’s gone digital with its “D’Viajeros” online portal. You’ll need to get this sorted within 48 hours before you fly. It’s a one-stop-shop for your customs, health, and immigration details. Once you’ve done your bit, you’ll get a nifty QR code, screenshot it, print it out, maybe even laminate it if you’re feeling fancy! It genuinely makes breezing through arrivals feel fantatstic. A tiny bit of prep that saves a whole load of airport faff, winner!
3. Different rules apply for US citizens vs Rest of the world
Now, here’s where things get a little… specific. For most of us jetting in from the UK, Europe, Canada, and so on, a trip to Cuba for a spot of tourism is pretty straightforward. However, for our pals across the pond in the US, it’s a different kettle of fish thanks to OFAC regulations. Technically, tourism as you might know it isn’t on the cards. Instead, US travellers need to fit into one of 12 authorised travel categories. The most common one? “Support for the Cuban People.” This means planning an itinerary that’s packed with activities that genuinely benefit private Cuban businesses. Think local, act local!
💡 Fact: No matter where you’re flying from, it’s always a cracking idea to check your own country’s current travel advice for Cuba before you hit that ‘book’ button. Better safe than sorry!
4. Double-check you have a tourist card
Right, let’s talk entry passes. Unless you’re a Cuban national or one of a tiny handful of other exceptions, you’re going to need a Tourist Card (which is essentially your visa) to step onto Cuban soil. It’s usually a pink or green slip of paper, and the colour can depend on where you’re flying from (it’s often pink if you’re hopping over directly from the US). Most airlines that fly to Cuba can sort you out with one, or you can grab it from your travel agent or the Cuban embassy in your home country. Whatever you do, don’t leave this until the eleventh hour; without it, you won’t even get past the check-in desk! It’s a crucial bit of your Cuba visa homework.
🗺️ Things to do in Havana?: 10 Best Things To Do In Havana, Cuba
5. It's better to book accommodations in advance
While there’s a certain romance to landing somewhere and seeing where the wind takes you, showing up in Havana without a bed booked, particularly if it’s high season (think November to March, or July and August), could leave you feeling a bit like a lost sock. Casas particulares – those wonderful private homestays, are hands-down the best way to get an authentic feel for the place, and the really lovely ones get snapped up quicker than free mojitos. Nailing down your accommodation, at least for your first few nights, brings such peace of mind and can often bag you a better deal. Imagine it: stepping off that plane into the warm, buzzing Havana air, knowing a comfy room and a friendly face are waiting. Pure bliss!
6. Wise up on the new money situation
Okay, let’s tackle the moolah. That old dual currency system (CUC and CUP) you might have read about? It’s ancient history now. The official currency is simply the Cuban Peso (CUP). Now, here’s where it gets a tad… interesting. Getting your hands on CUP and using it can be a learning curve.
Bring Cash, and Plenty of It: Forget relying on your bank cards, especially if they’re US-issued, they likely won’t work. You’ll need to bring a good stash of cash. Euros, Pounds Sterling, or Canadian Dollars are generally the golden children for exchange; US Dollars can sometimes get hit with an extra fee, so bear that in mind.
Official Exchange Only, Please: Only swap your cash at official CADECA exchange houses, banks, or sometimes at your hotel. Those chaps on the street offering “amazing” rates? Avoid them like a dodgy prawn sandwich.
The MLC Phenomenon: You might stumble upon “MLC stores” (Moneda Libremente Convertible). Prices here are in a sort of digital currency pegged to the US dollar, and you can only pay with certain foreign bank cards (non-US ones, naturally). It’s a bit baffling, but as a tourist primarily dealing in CUP, you’ll mostly be using good old-fashioned cash.
🔹 Pro Tip: Having smaller denominations of CUP is incredibly handy for everyday bits and bobs, and for tipping. The whole Cuban currency scene can be a bit of a moving target, so definitely check for the very latest advice just before you pack your bags.
7. Pack the right clothes to fit with your plans
Havana, bless its heart, is pretty much hot and sticky all year round. So, think light, breezy fabrics, cotton and linen will be your absolute best mates. For those glorious days spent wandering through the historical tapestry of Old Havana, shorts, t-shirts, and floaty sundresses are your uniform. And comfy shoes? Non-negotiable. Those charming cobblestones have a knack for catching out the unprepared! If you’re planning on soaking up Havana’s electric nightlife, perhaps a swanky restaurant or a dazzling show at the Tropicana, then pack something a little more spruced up. A light jacket or a cardigan can also be a lifesaver for unexpectedly cool evenings or those moments when the air-con is feeling particularly enthusiastic. And, naturally, swimwear is an absolute must! 👙 You never know when a dip might call.
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8. Learn Havana's colloquial greetings
Sure, “Hola” (Hello) and “Gracias” (Thank you) will get you through the door, but if you really want to see faces light up, try sprinkling a few local phrases into your chats. Cubans are some of the friendliest, most welcoming people you’ll ever meet!
“¿Qué bolá?” (you say it like ‘keh-boh-LAH’) is the ultimate Cuban greeting. It’s their “What’s up?” or “How’s it hanging?”
“Asere” or “Acere” is a super informal, friendly way to say “mate” or “buddy.”
“Dale” is a wonderfully versatile word – it can mean “go ahead,” “come on,” “let’s do it,” or simply “okay.”
Whipping out a few of these shows you’re making an effort to connect with the Cuban culture, and believe me, it goes a long, long way. ¡Dale! Give it a whirl!
9. Consider investing in some quality earplugs
Havana is gloriously, unapologetically ALIVE! And that, my friends, means it can be wonderfully, vibrantly noisy. From the infectious salsa rhythms that seem to pour out of every doorway and window, to the deep rumble of those magnificent vintage cars, the lively chatter of neighbours catching up, and yes, even the occasional rooster who hasn’t quite checked his alarm clock. The city has a soundtrack, and it plays 24/7. 🎶 If you’re a bit of a light sleeper, or if your casa particular is right in the heart of the action, a decent pair of earplugs will be your nighttime champions. They’ll make sure you’re bright-eyed and bushy-tailed for another day of Cuban adventures.
10. The streets often have two names
Finding your way around Havana can sometimes feel like a fun little linguistic puzzle. You see, many streets boast an official, more modern name, and an older, colonial-era name that the locals still use with gusto. Take the famous Avenida de Italia, for example, pretty much everyone still calls it by its old name, Galiano. So, don’t be thrown if your map is telling you one thing and a friendly local is confidently pointing you down a street with a completely different moniker! It’s all part of the city’s quirky charm.
🔹 Tinker’s Top Tip: Before you go, download an offline map app like Maps.me. They often list both street names, which is a godsend in my opinion! And never, ever be afraid to ask for directions, just be ready for wonderfully descriptive, landmark-based instructions rather than “third on the left”!
🗺️ More Guides to Cuba, sure!
11. Learn the unusual rules for waiting in Cuban lines
Queueing in Cuba? It’s less of a straight line and more of a community art form, complete with its own unwritten (but very important) rules. Forget those neat, orderly lines you might be used to. Here’s how it works: you rock up to a shop, bank, or bus stop, and you call out, “¿El último?” (Who’s last?). The person who is, indeed, last will pipe up. Boom! Now you know who you’re after. You can then mill about, find some shade, have a chat, as long as you keep half an eye on “your” person. It’s a surprisingly civilised and efficient system once you crack the code!
12. Ask questions more than once
When you’re trying to get information, whether it’s about bus schedules, museum opening times, or where to find the most heavenly ropa vieja (a delicious shredded beef dish), it’s a smart move to ask a couple of different people. You might find that information can sometimes be a little contradictory, or perhaps based on slightly out-of-date knowledge. This isn’t about anyone being deliberately unhelpful; it’s just the way things can sometimes roll. Getting a second, or even a third, opinion helps you build a more complete and accurate picture. Think of it as crowdsourcing your Havana travel tips in real-time! 😉 It’s all part of the fun.
13. Work out the difference between state-run and private businesse
Getting your head around this distinction is pretty key to really getting under the skin of Cuba (and making sure your tourist pennies support the local folks directly!).
State-run places: These are often the larger, more formal establishments. Think some of the big hotels, certain larger restaurants, and official government shops. Service and offerings can sometimes be a tad… variable, shall we say.
Paladares: Now these are the gems! They’re privately-owned restaurants, often charmingly run out of family homes. You’ll usually find much tastier food, more personal service, and a genuinely authentic slice of Cuban culture.
Casas Particulares: These are the private homestays we mentioned earlier, absolutely your best bet for accommodation.
By choosing private businesses, you’re often putting your money directly into the pockets of Cuban families. Good for them, great for your experience!
Book Your Cuban Trip with the Best! Trip.com
14. Avoid attracting pickpockets
Let’s be clear: Havana is generally a very safe city, especially when you stack it up against many other Latin American capitals. Serious crime against tourists is pretty rare. However, just like any buzzing tourist hotspot, petty theft and pickpocketing can happen, particularly in those super crowded areas like Calle Obispo in Old Havana or on packed local buses. Keep your valuables tucked away securely (a money belt or a zipped bag is your friend), try not to flash wads of cash or expensive bling, and just keep your wits about you. It’s really just your standard travel common sense, nothing to lose sleep over!
Must-read article: Don’t Get Done! 20 Crafty Travel Scams and How to Dodge Them
15. Don’t change money in the street
You might well get approached by someone whispering about “better” exchange rates for your Euros or Pounds. Smile politely, say “No, gracias,” and walk on by. These unofficial street exchangers are notorious for pulling a fast one, short-changing you, or even slipping you some dodgy counterfeit notes. Plus, it’s actually illegal. Play it safe and stick to the official CADECA exchange offices, banks, or reputable hotels when you need to swap your cash for Cuban currency. The peace of mind is worth way more than a few supposedly “extra” pesos. Trust me on this one.
16. Bring your own medicines
This one’s a biggie, folks. Pharmacies in Cuba often have surprisingly limited stock, and even everyday basics like painkillers, plasters, or antihistamines can be as rare as hen’s teeth. Do yourself a massive favour and pack a small, well-stocked medical kit. Include all your usual essentials, any prescription medications you need (pop a doctor’s note in too, just to be on the safe side), plus things like antiseptic wipes, something for dodgy tummies, and a good insect repellent. It’s always, always better to have it and not need it, than to desperately need it and not have it!
🔥 Want to find all the best places to eat, shop, and explore? Use our Google Maps Legend! Everything you need all on the google maps app!
17. Avoid sketchy cigars and other scams
Ah, the legendary Cuban cigar! 💨 You’ll almost certainly want to bring a few of these beauties home. But, a word to the wise: be very wary of street vendors offering you “genuine” Cohibas at prices that seem too good to be true. Because, spoiler alert, they almost certainly are fakes. If you want the real deal, buy from official Casa del Habano shops or the stores in reputable hotels. That way, you know you’re getting authentic quality. Other little scams to watch out for include the “milk scam” (where someone asks you to buy milk for a baby, which is then sneakily returned to the shop for cash) or being overcharged by jineteros (local hustlers). A firm but polite “No, gracias” usually sends them on their way.
18. Beware of sidewalk obstacles
Strolling around Havana, especially in the older, more characterful neighbourhoods, is an adventure for your feet as much as it is for your eyes! Pavements can be a bit of a lottery, wonderfully uneven, with surprise potholes just waiting to say hello, raised tree roots creating natural trip hazards, or even the odd missing grate. It’s all part of the city’s wonderfully worn-in fabric. Just keep an eye on where you’re putting your feet, particularly after dark, to avoid an unscheduled “Havana hop” (or, less gracefully, a trip!). Those sturdy, comfortable shoes we mentioned earlier? They’re about to become your very best friends.
19. Pack toilet paper
Now, this might sound a tad unusual, but please, trust us on this. Toilet paper can often be a bit of a precious, and sometimes absent, commodity in public loos, and that can include some restaurants or even museums. It’s a genuinely brilliant idea to carry a small roll or a little packet of tissues with you wherever you venture. The same goes for hand sanitiser. These tiny bits of preparation can make a surprisingly big difference to your comfort levels when you’re out and about exploring. Small things, big impact! You’ll thank us later.
20. Don’t drink the water
To sidestep any potential “Montezuma’s Revenge” (or perhaps we should call it “Fidel’s Fury”?), it’s best to stick religiously to bottled or properly purified water. The tap water in Havana, Cuba, isn’t generally considered safe for us tourists to drink. This golden rule also extends to ice in your drinks. In most reputable hotels and paladares, the ice is usually fine as it’s made from purified water, but if you’re ever in doubt, just ask for your drink sin hielo (that’s “without ice”). Better to be a little cautious than to have a grumpy tummy ruin a day of your fantastic trip! 💧
What to know How to Plan or Save for a Trip? Here are our best:
DONE! Your essential Travel Tinker guide to unlocking the magic of Havana, Cuba! This city is a dazzling, dizzying, kaleidoscope of colour, sound, and unforgettable moments. Yes, it comes with its own unique set of quirks and challenges, from getting your head around the currency to watching your step on those characterful pavements, but that is all part of its irresistible charm. I loved Cuba, enjoy! 🌍 ✨
Your turn, travellers…
Right, your turn! Have you danced through the streets of Havana? What is your advice or your most cherished memories? We’re all ears! Share your experiences, tips, or even just your Havana dreams in the comments below👇🗣️
Adventure on,
The Travel Tinker Crew 🌍✨
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FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered (Hopefully!)
What is the best time to visit Havana, Cuba?
Honestly, if you’re looking for that sweet spot, the dry season – which generally runs from November through to April – is pretty fantastic for visiting Havana. You’ll usually be treated to lovely warm (but not too scorching) temperatures and much less rain, making it ideal for exploring. The flip side is that this is also peak tourist season, so you can expect things to be a bit busier and prices for flights and accommodation might be a tad higher. If you’re after a good balance, the shoulder seasons (think May, June, or September and October) can be a really great shout – often a bit quieter, potentially a little more humid, but still very pleasant.
Is internet access readily available in Havana?
Ah, the internet in Havana! It’s definitely improved heaps in recent years, which is great news, but it’s probably not as widespread, as lightning-fast, or as consistently reliable as you’re used to back home. The usual way to get online is to buy NAUTA Wi-Fi cards (you can typically get these from ETECSA telecom offices or sometimes at hotels). You then use these cards (they have a scratch-off username and password) to log in at public Wi-Fi hotspots, which you’ll often find in parks and the lobbies of larger hotels – look for a crowd of people staring intently at their phones! Some casas particulares are now offering Wi-Fi too, which is a massive bonus. Just be prepared for potentially slower speeds than you’re used to, and maybe see it as a golden opportunity to disconnect a bit and really soak up the vibrant atmosphere around you!
Is Havana safe for solo female travellers?
Generally speaking, yes, Havana is considered quite safe for solo female travellers, which is reassuring. You’ll almost certainly encounter “piropos” (which are essentially catcalls or verbal compliments from men). These are very common in Cuban culture and are usually intended to be harmless, more admiring or flirtatious than aggressive or threatening. Of course, all the standard safety precautions that you’d take anywhere else in the world as a solo traveller still apply: be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark, trust your intuition, and perhaps stick to well-lit, busier areas if you’re out and about late on your own.
Should I haggle when shopping in Havana?
That’s a good question! It really depends on where you are. In state-run shops, the prices are generally fixed, so there’s no room (or expectation) for haggling there. However, if you’re browsing in the craft markets, chatting with street vendors selling souvenirs, or negotiating a fare with a taxi driver (especially for private taxis or those fun bicitaxis – the bicycle rickshaws), then a bit of friendly, light-hearted haggling is often part of the dance and can even be expected. The golden rule is always to agree on a price before you commit to buying something or taking a service. Keep it good-natured, and you might save yourself a few pesos!
What is the tipping etiquette in Cuba?
Tipping is hugely, hugely appreciated in Cuba, as wages for many jobs are generally quite low. Your tips can make a real difference to people’s income. For good service in restaurants, a tip of around 10% of the bill is pretty standard and well-received. It’s also customary, and a lovely gesture, to tip porters who help with your bags at hotels or your casa, bathroom attendants (if there’s one, they often have a small dish for change), talented street musicians who’ve serenaded you, and of course, your tour guides if you’ve had a good experience. A small amount, say the equivalent of 1-5 USD in CUP (depending on the service), is usually fine. Even a little something shows your appreciation and will be gratefully received.
Travel Planning Resources
Ready to book your next trip? These trusted resources have been personally vetted to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Book Your Flights: Kick off your travel planning by finding the best flight deals on Trip.com. Our years of experience with them confirm they offer the most competitive prices.
Book Your Hotel: For the best hotel rates, use Booking.com . For the best and safest hostels, HostelWorld.com is your go-to resource.
Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check out VRBO. They consistently offer the best prices.
Car Rentals: For affordable car rentals, check out RentalCars.com. They offer the best cars, mostly brand new.
Travel Insurance: Never travel without insurance. Here are our top recommendations:
- EKTA for Travel Insurance for all areas!
- Use AirHelp for compensation claims against flight delays etc.
Book Your Activities: Discover walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more on Get Your Guide. They have a vast selection of activities to enhance your trip. There is also Tiqets.com for instant mobile tickets.
Book The Best Trains: Use Trainline to find the most affordable trains or Rail Europe for rail passes!
Need More Help Planning Your Trip? Visit our Resources Page to see all the companies we trust and use for our travels.
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Nick Harvey
Hi, I am Nick! Thank you for reading! I created The Travel Tinker as a resource designed to help you navigate the beauty of travel, allowing you to tinker your own travels! Let's explore!
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