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Picture of Havana, Cuba

Travel Guide for
Havana

Cuba

Tropical, wet and dry seasons

Introduction

Havana, Cuba’s vibrant capital, sits along the Caribbean coast, blending colorful colonial architecture with lively street music and classic vintage cars. Its rich history is visible in Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where cobblestone streets tell stories of Spanish and revolutionary influences.

From October 10–14, expect warm, humid weather with occasional rain—perfect for enjoying outdoor cafés and exploring covered markets between storms. For digital nomads, Havana offers welcoming casas particulares with Wi-Fi, creative coworking cafés, and a thriving local arts scene, making it ideal for mixing work and leisure. Enjoy affordable local cuisine and lively evenings along the Malecón waterfront.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleDigital nomad

Dates10-14 October 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel, homestay

Interests and Activities:

arts and culturefestivals and eventsgastronomynightlife and entertainmentoutdoor adventuressightseeing and tours

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Picture of Havana, Cuba

Key Facts

Location

Caribbean, northwestern Cuba

Currency

Cuban Peso (CUP)

Religion

Roman Catholicism

Population

2,201,000

Language

Spanish

Electricity

110V/220V, 60Hz, types A, B, C, L

Time zone

UTCCuba Standard Time (UTC-5)

Country code

+53

Internet access

Limited, slow, public Wi-Fi hotspots, costly

Climate

Tropical, wet and dry seasons

See More Cuba Facts

Language:

Spanish

  • hello

    hola (oh-lah)
  • goodbye

    adiós (ah-dee-ohs)
  • yes

    (see)
  • no

    no (noh)
  • how much

    ¿cuánto cuesta? (kwan-to kwes-tah)
  • please

    por favor (por fa-bor)
  • thank you

    gracias (grah-see-ahs)
  • excuse me

    perdón (pehr-dohn)

Map

Logistics

Most digital nomads reach Havana by flying into José Martí International Airport (HAV), which offers frequent flights from major cities in the Americas and Europe. Budget-friendly airlines and flexible booking can help keep costs down. Taxis and rideshares are available for the 30-minute ride to downtown Havana; public buses are less convenient and slower.

Traveling to Havana by boat is rare but possible from other Caribbean islands, though schedules can be infrequent. There are no international trains, and overland bus routes connect mainly to other Cuban cities. October weather can be unpredictable, as it’s hurricane season, so monitor forecasts and pack for rain; disruptions are rare but possible.

Weather

Havana has a tropical climate, so you can expect warm temperatures and high humidity year-round. The city’s dry season runs from November to April, with pleasant breezes and lots of sunshine, while the wet season from May to October brings heavier rain and some thunderstorms.

From October 10 to October 14, Havana remains warm, with average highs near 29°C (84°F) and increased humidity. Rain showers are likely, as this is the tail end of the rainy season and also hurricane season, so occasional storms or heavy rainfall are possible. Extreme weather is rare but not impossible during this period, so staying updated on forecasts is wise.

Food & Drink

Havana’s local cuisine features hearty staples like ropa vieja (shredded beef), picadillo (spiced ground beef), arroz congri (rice and black beans), and tostones (fried plantains). Popular drinks include Cuban coffee and mojitos. For vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions, options are limited but growing—Paladar El Café and Cafe Bohemia in Old Havana often have veggie-friendly dishes.

Great affordable spots include El Chanchullero for tapas, Los Nardos for generous Cuban meals, and El Dandy for creative cocktails and people-watching. For digital nomads, Café Arcangel and Cuba Libro offer reliable Wi-Fi and coffee. Tipping is customary; 10% is standard if not already included. Do note, some places may have inconsistent opening hours—always double-check before heading out!

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Ropa Vieja

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Moros y Cristianos

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Cuban Sandwich

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Yuca con Mojo

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A picture of Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo, which translates to “rice with chicken,” is a classic Cuban dish featuring tender chicken pieces...

Accommodation

For a digital nomad visiting Havana, consider staying in the neighborhoods of Vedado or Old Havana. Vedado offers reliable Wi-Fi in modern hotels like Hotel Capri and NH Capri La Habana, while Old Havana has boutique hotels and charming casas particulares (homestays) that blend local flavor with comfort.

Homestays in private casas are an affordable, authentic option, often bookable via Airbnb or Hostelworld. These accommodations usually include hearty breakfasts and opportunities to connect with locals. October is shoulder season, so prices are reasonable, but book early due to occasional Cuban national holidays that may cause increased demand.

Look for accommodations that advertise Wi-Fi, as internet access can vary. For longer stays, many casas and boutique hotels offer weekly or monthly rates—ideal for working remotely and exploring Havana’s vibrant culture.

Itinerary

Dive into Havana’s vibrant past and colonial heritage, exploring cobbled streets, iconic plazas, and rich cultural landmarks for a true sense of the city’s character.

Stroll Through Old Havana (Habana Vieja)

Begin your adventure walking the cobblestone streets of Habana Vieja. Discover centuries-old architecture, vibrant murals, and lively street performances. Take time to visit local shops and enjoy the colorful ambiance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visit Plaza de la Catedral

Explore Plaza de la Catedral, famed for its stunning baroque cathedral and surrounding colonial buildings. Snap photos of the beautiful facade and visit nearby cafes for a quick Cuban coffee break.

Tour Castillo de la Real Fuerza

Take a guided tour of this historic fortress, considered the oldest stone fort in the Americas. Learn about Spanish colonial defense, see the maritime museum exhibits, and enjoy views of the harbor.

FAQ

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