Havana is Cuba’s most concentrated travel destination. The Old Town, Vedado, and the New City each have their own distinct character—4 days are enough for an in-depth experience, plus a half-day trip to a nearby beach for a change of pace. Transportation within the city mainly involves walking, taxis, and classic cars.
Walk around the heart of Havana’s Old Town: Plaza de Armas, Plaza de San Francisco, Plaza Vieja, and Plaza de la Catedral. Visit Havana Cathedral and the Governor’s Palace. In the evening, stroll along the Malecón seawall and watch locals fishing, chatting, and enjoying the sunset.
In the morning, visit the Museum of the Revolution and the former Presidential Palace to learn about Cuba’s revolutionary history. In the afternoon, head to the area around the Capitolio and Central Park to explore cigar and rum-themed exhibitions. End the day with a meal of roast pork and black beans at a Vedado restaurant.
In the morning, take a classic car ride along the Malecón and the Malecón coastal boulevard. Stop by Revolution Square, the José Martí Memorial, and the Che Guevara mural. In the afternoon, visit Hemingway’s former home in the suburbs. Return to the Old Town in the evening and enjoy a classic cocktail at El Floridita and La Bodeguita del Medio.
Go to Varadero in the east or Playa Santa María in the suburbs in the morning to relax on white sandy beaches. Return to Havana in the afternoon, shop for cigars, rum, and handicrafts, and head to the airport in the evening.
For a 4-day Havana-only trip, there’s no need to travel long distances. Spend one day each on the Old Town, Vedado, and the beach, and reserve the last half-day for a nearby beach. Get around mainly by walking, classic cars, and taxis. Classic car rides are often charged by the hour—agree on the route and price before getting in. For the half-day beach trip, consider booking a private car in advance and confirm the round-trip time. Carry cash and separate it for safety—many small restaurants only accept cash. If there’s live music, there may be a seating fee or minimum spend—check before you sit down.