Visiting Havana, or La Habana, offers a deep dive into the rich tapestry of colonial history, vibrant culture, and the indomitable spirit of its people. For a 3-day itinerary, we’ll blend historical sites, cultural experiences, and a bit of relaxation to ensure you capture the essence of this iconic city.
Day 1: Old Havana and Historical Insights
Morning:
- Start at 9:00 AM: Plaza de la Revolución. Begin your day at this massive square, known for its political significance and monumental sculptures of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos. Spend about 30 minutes here.
- Cost: Free.
Late Morning:
- Explore Old Havana (Habana Vieja) starting at 9:30 AM. Dedicate the morning to wandering through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Old Havana. Start with the four main plazas: Plaza Vieja, Plaza de Armas, Plaza de San Francisco de Asís, and Plaza de la Catedral. Allocate about 2 hours to explore these areas and their surrounding attractions.
- Cost: Free, though museums and certain attractions may have entrance fees.
Afternoon:
- Lunch at a local paladar at 12:00 PM. Enjoy authentic Cuban cuisine in one of the family-run restaurants in Old Havana. Time Allocation: 1 hour.
- Visit the Castillo de la Real Fuerza and the Museo de la Revolución starting at 1:30 PM. After lunch, explore these historical sites to learn about Cuba’s colonial past and revolutionary history. Spend about 1.5 hours at each location.
- Cost: Approximately $5 USD per person for each museum.
Evening:
- Dinner and live music in Old Havana at 7:00 PM. End your day with a meal in Old Havana and enjoy live Cuban music, which can be found in many restaurants and bars in the area.
- Time Allocation: 2-3 hours.
Day 2: Art, Culture, and Relaxation
Morning:
- Fusterlandia visit at 9:00 AM. Start your day with a trip to this unique public art project by Cuban artist José Fuster, often described as the ‘Gaudi of Cuba’. Spend about 1 hour exploring this vibrant and whimsical neighborhood.
- Cost: Free.
Late Morning:
- Hemingway Museum at Finca Vigía starting at 11:00 AM. Visit Ernest Hemingway’s former home, preserved as he left it, to gain insights into the author’s life in Cuba. Spend about 1.5 hours.
- Cost: $5 USD.
Afternoon:
- Lunch at 1:00 PM. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant near Cojímar, the fishing village that inspired “The Old Man and the Sea”.
- Time Allocation: 1 hour.
- Relax at Playa del Este starting at 2:30 PM. Spend your afternoon at one of Havana’s local beaches, a perfect way to relax and enjoy the Caribbean vibe.
- Time Allocation: 3-4 hours.
Evening:
- Dinner in Vedado at 7:30 PM. Explore the modern part of Havana and enjoy dinner at one of Vedado’s renowned restaurants, followed by a nightcap at a jazz club or bar.
- Time Allocation: 2-3 hours.
Day 3: Modern Havana and Leisure
Morning:
- El Malecón walk starting at 9:00 AM. Begin your day with a stroll along Havana’s famous seafront promenade, enjoying the ocean views and architectural diversity. Spend about 1 hour.
- Cost: Free.
Late Morning:
- Visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes at 10:30 AM. Explore Cuba’s premier art museum, housing an impressive collection of Cuban art. Spend about 2 hours.
- Cost: $5 USD.
Afternoon:
- Lunch in Centro Habana at 1:00 PM. Enjoy traditional Cuban dishes in the bustling area of Centro Habana.
- Time Allocation: 1 hour.
- Callejón de Hamel at 2:30 PM. Visit this alleyway for a unique insight into Afro-Cuban culture, street art, and music. Spend about 1 hour.
- Cost: Free.
- Fabrica de Arte Cubano (FAC) at 4:00 PM. End your exploration with a visit to this cutting-edge art and music venue, where you can experience contemporary Cuban culture. Note: Check the schedule as it may open later.
- Time Allocation: 2-3 hours depending on interest and opening hours.
- Cost: $2 USD entry, with additional costs for drinks and food.
Additional Tips:
- Currency: Cuba has a dual currency system; make sure to have Cuban Convertible Pesos (CUC) for tourists.
- Transportation: Taxis are a convenient way to get around, but agree on the fare before starting your trip. For a unique experience, try a ride in a classic American car.
- Safety: Havana is generally safe, but as in any large city, be mindful of your belongings and avoid unlit areas at night.
This itinerary offers a mix of cultural, historical, and leisure activities, designed to give you a comprehensive and enjoyable experience of Havana in 3 days.
