How to Plan a Trip to Havana
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to Cuba needs.
Your 4-step Havana plan
Step 1 — Book flights to HAV
José Martí International Airport (HAV) is the main gateway to Havana. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to HAVStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in Malecón + El Vedado for the best first-time visit — Iconic seaside promenade + former upscale district.
Where to stay in HavanaStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Habana Vieja (Old Havana) + Plaza Vieja, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Havana.
Things to do in HavanaStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Bus P-12 (public bus) is CUP 1 (~USD 0.04) and takes 75-105 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
HAV arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
REQUIRES Cuban Tourist Card (Tarjeta de Turista) — buy at check-in from airline for CUC 25-100 (varies by carrier) OR at HAV airport on arrival CUC 20 cash only. US citizens: OFAC-authorized categories only (not tourism per US law — support for the Cuban people is the common workaround). Bring cash — Cuban banking accepts limited international cards.