Havana City Guide

Try ropa vieja, moros y cristianos, and tostones. Paladares offer growing international choices. Vegetarian and vegan options exist but need advance asking. Some late-night food spots in Vedado and Old Havana.

Nightlife is lively with salsa clubs, jazz bars, and rooftop venues mainly in Vedado and Old Havana.

Strong local coffee culture with many street cafés serving Cuban coffee. Specialty shops are rare.

Tipping is common and appreciated. Around 10% in restaurants, small tips to drivers and guides.

Buy SIM cards only at official ETECSA stores. Cubacel is main provider. You need your passport to register. eSIMs are not common.

Street cleanliness varies; tourist areas are cleaner. Waste services are developing but inconsistent.

Few 24/7 services. Night pharmacies are rare. Food options at night mostly in tourist zones or hotels.

Groceries can be limited and vary day to day. State supermarkets have basic items; local markets offer fresh produce. Stores open around 9 AM to 5 or 6 PM but close Sundays and holidays.

Cash is king here. Credit cards work only in big hotels and some government places. Mostly, you'll need pesos or foreign cash for food, transport, and markets.

ATMs exist but often run out of cash or have high fees. Bring euros or Canadian dollars to exchange, since US dollars get a penalty.

Local schools follow Cuba’s public system. The International School of Havana offers English curriculum for expats. Check directly for availability.

Very small digital nomad scene due to poor internet and visas. Few meetups or coworking spots.

Main parks like Parque Metropolitano are good for walks and relaxation. Smaller plazas scattered around.

Malecón and Parque Metropolitano are popular running spots, safe during the day.

Gyms range from hotel facilities to local spots, generally basic but usable.

Tennis courts exist in sports clubs and hotels but booking and rentals are informal.

Padel is uncommon in Havana.

A few yoga studios run by locals. Options are limited but improving.

Boxing, judo, and karate are practiced locally. Facilities are community-based with limited English instruction.

No skiing; Cuba is tropical.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing available mainly near marinas in resort areas.

Surf spots are rare and not well developed. Warm water year-round; best in winter.

Diving is good around Playas del Este with clear waters and coral reefs. Certified centers are a short drive away.

Healthcare is public but tourists mostly use private clinics that charge fees. Cira García Clinic has English-speaking staff. Bring your meds as local pharmacies can lack stock.

Don't drink tap water. Bottled water is easy to find and recommended.

Some playgrounds and parks for kids. Baby supplies may be hard to find. Family attractions include the National Aquarium and Havana Zoo.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is growing, with some safe spaces mostly in Vedado.

Pet-friendly places and supplies are limited. Vet services exist but with few resources.