3 Days in Havana: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Havana isn’t just a city — it’s a living, breathing postcard from another time. With pastel-coloured buildings peeling under Caribbean sun, vintage cars cruising past grand colonial facades, and music spilling from every café and corner, this Cuban capital has a way of pulling you in and not letting go.
Whether you're sipping your first mojito in a tucked-away paladar or wandering cobbled streets that have seen centuries of revolution, rebellion and rhythm, Havana is the kind of place that stays with you. It’s chaotic and charming, romantic and raw — and in just three days, you can see the best of what it has to offer.
This itinerary is crafted for first-time visitors who want a little bit of everything: historical highlights, cultural experiences, good food, and those unforgettable local moments that make you feel like you’ve really travelled. You’ll cover the iconic sights, soak up the city’s creative spirit, and still have time to sit back and watch the world go by with a cold cerveza in hand.
Ready to explore Havana’s heart and soul? Let’s dive in.
Havana, Cuba.
The History of Havana, Cuba: What Every Traveller Should Know
To really understand Havana, you’ve got to peel back the layers. This city has been shaped by pirates and colonisers, revolutionaries and dreamers — and the result is one of the most fascinating places in the Americas.
The Colonial Heartbeat
Havana was founded in 1519 by the Spanish, who quickly realised its strategic value as a port linking the Old World to the New. The city became a crucial refuelling point for ships heading to Spain laden with gold and goods from the Americas — which also made it a target for pirates and foreign powers. Cue the need for massive fortresses like Castillo del Morro and La Cabaña, which still guard the bay today.
This colonial past lives on in Habana Vieja, the historic heart of the city, where colourful facades, baroque churches and leafy plazas offer a glimpse of 16th-century splendour. It’s no surprise the area is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Revolution, Resilience & Rhythm
Fast forward to the 20th century and Havana takes centre stage again — this time as a hotbed of political change. The Cuban Revolution, led by Fidel Castro and Che Guevara, swept through the island in 1959, overthrowing the Batista regime and launching Cuba into a new socialist era. The effects are still visible everywhere: from propaganda murals and revolutionary monuments to the dual-currency system and economic challenges that followed.
But far from being frozen in time, Havana has adapted in its own creative ways. Despite trade embargoes and decades of hardship, the city pulses with resilience and pride. From ration queues to rooftop salsa parties, Havana thrives in the in-between — always colourful, always alive.
Afro-Cuban Roots & Cultural Riches
Much of what gives Havana its unique identity comes from its Afro-Cuban heritage. Enslaved Africans brought to the island during colonial times left a lasting legacy in music, dance, religion, and language. Today, you’ll hear their rhythms in the rumba beats echoing through alleyways, see their influence in the white-clad practitioners of Santería, and taste their flavour in hearty Cuban home cooking.
It’s this cultural blend — European elegance, revolutionary grit, and Afro-Caribbean soul — that gives Havana its unmistakable edge.
So before you start snapping photos of classic cars and sipping on daiquiris, remember: every plaza, every crumbling wall, every trumpet riff tells a story. And trust me — Havana has plenty to say.
26 July mural, the revolution led by Cuban Fidel Castro.
Day 1: Old Havana & Classic Cuban Firsts
There’s no better way to start your Havana adventure than by getting lost (intentionally) in Habana Vieja — the beating heart of the city. This is where centuries of history meet the rhythm of everyday life. You’ll find crumbling baroque churches standing next to bright street art, vintage Buicks cruising past sun-faded balconies, and the smell of cigars drifting out of open windows.
Today’s all about soaking in the old-world charm, seeing some Havana icons, and diving straight into Cuba’s café culture and rooftop views.
Morning: Wander Habana Vieja Like a Local (Camera in Hand)
Start your day early while the streets are quiet and the golden morning light hits just right. Head to Plaza Vieja, one of Havana’s most photogenic squares. It’s surrounded by pastel buildings, art galleries, and coffee shops with breezy courtyards. From there, slowly make your way through Habana Vieja’s maze of cobbled alleys and historic plazas:
Plaza de la Catedral – Home to the stunning Catedral de la Habana, built in the 18th century and full of Spanish baroque drama.
Plaza de Armas – Havana’s oldest square, lined with antique booksellers and leafy palms.
Obispo Street – Bustling, lively, and lined with little shops, music bars, and great people-watching.
Travel tip: Bring cash (euros or CUP), wear comfy shoes, and keep hydrated — Havana heat is real, even in the morning.
Afternoon: Iconic Sights & Laid-Back Lunching
By now, you’ve earned a break — and Havana does lunch like nowhere else. Head to one of the city’s beloved paladares (privately owned restaurants) like:
La Guarida – Havana’s most iconic paladar, set in a crumbling yet glamorous mansion (reservations needed).
Doña Eutimia – Right off Plaza de la Catedral, famous for its ropa vieja and traditional vibes.
El Chanchullero – A casual spot with big portions and big flavour.
After lunch, walk off the mojitos with a visit to:
El Capitolio – Cuba’s answer to the US Capitol Building (with an even taller dome).
Gran Teatro de La Habana – A stunning opera house next door — peek inside if you can.
Optional: Museum of the Revolution for a deeper dive into Cuba’s recent past.
Travel tip: Don’t miss a snap in front of El Floridita, Hemingway’s favourite daiquiri bar — even if you don’t go in.
Evening: Sunset Cruising & Rooftop Views
As the sun starts to dip, it’s time to tick off a Havana must-do: a ride in a classic car. You’ll find drivers offering tours near Parque Central or the Malecón — just agree on a price beforehand (expect around €30–40 for an hour).
Cruise through Vedado, past Revolution Square, and finish with golden hour along the Malecón — Havana’s famous sea wall and social hangout.
For dinner and drinks, head to one of the city’s dreamy rooftops:
El del Frente – Cool cocktails, a buzzing atmosphere, and string lights for the win.
La Guarida’s rooftop – Fancy but unforgettable, with sweeping city views.
Cap off the night with live music at Café París or head to Casa de la Música if you want to dance the night away with locals.
El Capitolio & Gran Teatro de La Habana.
Day 2: Art, History & Hidden Havana
After soaking up the colonial charm of Habana Vieja, it’s time to explore the broader brushstrokes of Havana — from revolutionary landmarks and local neighbourhoods to the city’s vibrant creative scene. Day 2 is all about contrasts: monumental plazas and underground art, gritty street corners and elegant rooftop cocktails.
Morning: Vedado Vibes & Cultural Curiosities
Start the day in Vedado, Havana’s leafy, laid-back district where modernism meets nostalgia. This part of the city is more spread out, less touristy, and packed with mid-century architecture, local cafés, and street art.
Begin with a walk through Calle 23 (La Rampa), once a buzzing artery in pre-revolutionary Havana. If you’re into unusual sites, make a quick stop at Cementerio de Colón — one of Latin America’s most grand and elaborate cemeteries, with beautifully sculpted mausoleums and stories etched in marble.
Then swing by Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC) — a multi-level art space housed in a former cooking oil factory. If it’s open during your visit (usually Thurs–Sun evenings), make plans to return later for the full experience. Even in the daytime, the area around it has a buzz of creativity — murals, design stores, and hidden cafés.
Travel tip: Grab a strong Cuban coffee or tropical juice from a local kiosk or café. Vedado’s got a slower rhythm — take your time with it.
Afternoon: Revolution Square & National Art
After a chill morning, head over to Plaza de la Revolución — Cuba’s symbolic seat of power. This vast, open space is home to:
The towering José Martí Memorial, which you can actually go up for panoramic city views.
Giant steel portraits of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos — probably two of the most Instagrammed walls in Cuba.
Government buildings that once echoed with fiery speeches and Cold War tension.
If you’re still riding that history wave, swing by the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (Museo de Arte Cubano) next. It’s a great spot to dig into Cuban visual culture — from colonial-era portraits to edgy contemporary installations.
Hungry? You’ve earned lunch. Try one of these nearby favourites:
Café Laurent – A sleek penthouse spot with great city views and a modern Cuban menu.
El Cocinero – Right next to FAC, stylish with a buzzy rooftop — a great warm-up for the evening if you’re looping back here.
Evening: Rooftop Sips & Havana After Dark
As the sun starts to dip again, settle into Hotel Nacional de Cuba — not just for a cocktail, but for the atmosphere. The terrace overlooks the Malecón and the sea, and the place oozes old-world glamour. This is where Sinatra, Churchill and Hemingway sipped their drinks.
If it’s a night when Fábrica de Arte Cubano is open — go. It’s a full-on cultural experience: live music, fashion, film, photography, and Cuban nightlife all under one roof. Locals and visitors alike flock here, and the vibe is electric without trying too hard.
Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for something more low-key, check out a local jazz bar or a tucked-away music venue — Havana never runs out of rhythm.
Che Guevara.
Day 3: Local Life & Chill
By your third day in Havana, you’ve ticked off the big hitters — now it’s time to let the city show you its everyday magic. This is the day to dive into real neighbourhoods, chat with locals, sample street snacks, or even catch some sun on a beach just 30 minutes away. It’s slower, softer, and maybe the most rewarding day of all.
Morning: Centro Habana & Markets
Start the morning in Centro Habana, the raw, real heart of the city. It’s a little more worn than Old Havana, but no less beautiful — laundry lines criss-cross over balconies, kids play baseball in the street, and neighbours shout greetings between windows.
Wander through the backstreets between Neptuno and San Rafael, and pop into a panadería (bakery) for fresh pastries or empanadas. If you’re on the hunt for souvenirs, head over to the Almacenes San José Artisans’ Market — a huge warehouse full of local crafts, artwork, and trinkets (haggling is welcome).
Local tip: Look out for handmade guayabera shirts, cigar box art, and wood carvings — better quality than the tourist shops.
Afternoon: Cooking, Rum & Relaxation
For a deeper dive into Cuban culture, book a cooking class or rum tasting session. Lots of locals now run small-group experiences out of their homes or rooftops, and it’s a brilliant way to learn, eat, and connect. You'll learn how to cook dishes like ropa vieja, tostones, or moros y cristianos — and of course, how to shake the perfect mojito.
Not into cooking? You’ve earned a chill afternoon. Head to the beach!
Playas del Este (about 30 mins by taxi) are a string of white-sand beaches just outside the city. Santa María del Mar is the most popular — lively but not too packed, with crystal-clear water and icy cocktails on tap.
Beach tip: Bring your own towel, cash for snacks, and keep an eye on your belongings — locals are friendly, but it’s always good to be cautious.
Evening: One Last Havana Night
For your final night, revisit your favourite neighbourhood — whether that’s the atmospheric streets of Old Havana or the leafy rooftop bars of Vedado.
A few perfect dinner spots to end your trip in style:
Antojos – Cozy, friendly, and tucked down a side street in Habana Vieja.
Paladar Vistamar – A more upscale seaside spot with a poolside terrace.
El Dandy – Great food, creative cocktails, and a cool local vibe.
After dinner, go for a final Malecón stroll. This is where Havana says goodnight — lovers whisper over rum, musicians improvise on the sea wall, and the whole city seems to breathe a little slower.
Let it all sink in. Because the Havana that lingers in your memory won’t just be the big moments — it’ll be the in-between ones: the laughter, the warmth, the rhythm that never really stops.
Habana Vieja, Cuba.
What to Pack for Havana
Light, breathable clothes (it’s hot all year round)
Comfortable shoes for cobbled streets
Reusable water bottle (tap water isn’t safe to drink)
Cash (euros are preferred; cards aren’t widely accepted)
Sunscreen, sunglasses & a hat
Plug adapter (Cuba uses the same sockets as Europe — 220V)
A Spanish phrasebook or app — English isn’t always spoken
Travel tip: Bring any medicine or toiletries you might need — things like painkillers, sunscreen, and bug spray can be hard to find locally.
Getting Around Havana
Havana isn’t huge, but getting around can be its own adventure.
On foot: The best way to explore Habana Vieja and Centro is by walking — every corner holds a surprise.
Classic cars: Fun for a tour, but not the cheapest daily ride. Always agree on the price up front.
Taxis: There are state-run yellow taxis (more expensive) and private taxis (usually cheaper, often older Ladas). Negotiate before getting in.
Bici-taxis & Coco-taxis: Great for short trips or just for fun — but always confirm your fare.
💡 Budget tip: Download maps.me before arriving — it works offline and shows landmarks, ATMs, and restaurants, which is super handy.
Money, Safety & Local Know-How
Currency:
Cuba no longer uses the CUC. Tourists now pay in Cuban pesos (CUP) — and it’s mostly a cash economy. Bring euros or Canadian dollars to exchange (USD is still not ideal due to bank restrictions).
Internet:
It’s limited. You’ll need to buy ETECSA Wi-Fi cards and find a hotspot (usually hotel lobbies or public parks). Or book a casa with home Wi-Fi access.
Safety:
Havana is one of the safer cities in the region. Petty theft is rare but keep your bag close and avoid flashing valuables. Scams are more common — especially friendly strangers offering cigars or tours. Just smile, say no thanks, and move on.
Etiquette:
Cubans are warm, proud, and curious. A little Spanish goes a long way. Be patient with the pace of things — Cuba runs on its own clock.
One of Havana’s classic cars.
Three days in Havana isn’t just a trip — it’s a full sensory experience. The crumbling colonial mansions, the rhythms of salsa floating through the air, the taste of a mojito made just right, the warmth of locals who turn a simple conversation into a memory — Havana has a way of leaving its mark.
Sure, it’s imperfect. Internet’s slow, the power might flicker, and things don’t always go to plan. But that’s part of its charm. Havana doesn’t try to be polished — it’s raw, real, and full of soul. The kind of place that teaches you to slow down, embrace the moment, and live a little more off-script.
You might come for the history, the music, the architecture, or simply for the feeling of being somewhere truly different — this city gives you something to carry home.
If you’ve made it this far, thanks for reading! Got questions about Havana or tips of your own? Drop them in the comments — or share this itinerary with a travel buddy who's ready to experience the magic of Cuba.
And if Havana has sparked your curiosity, stick around — we’ll be heading out to explore Viñales, Trinidad, and the rest of this incredible island soon.
