Getting Around Havana: Transportation Options

In a city where few people own cars, the residents of Havana are accustomed to getting around on public transportation. However, it’s a little trickier for visitors who are new to the city – poor signage and idiosyncratic rules can make navigating Havana’s transport system difficult for unversed tourists.

Unusually for a city of its size, Havana has no metro train system. Instead, the urban area relies mostly on buses and taxis. The best way to get around is on foot, although there’s a reasonably-priced tourist bus, and taxis are a viable option if you’re heading out to the suburbs or have mobility issues. Here’s the lowdown on Havana’s transport options.

Chat with Locals on a Metro Bus

Havana’s articulated metro buses, known locally as guas-guas (pronounced “wah-wahs”), run along 17 routes connecting central Havana with the suburbs. They’re hot, crowded, and used mainly by locals, but curious budget-conscious tourists can give them a try. The hub for many of the routes is Parque de la Fraternidad in Centro Habana. Fares cost roughly the equivalent of US$0.40 – pay when you board and watch your bags.

Smaller minibuses (taxis ruteros) run along additional routes in central Havana, charging slightly higher fares.

Get a Tour as You Travel on the Sightseeing Bus

Like many big cities, Havana has its own hop-on, hop-off double-decker bus service called the Havana Bus Tour that runs on two main routes throughout the day. The open-topped T1 takes in most of the tourist sights in Centro Habana, Vedado, and Miramar. The single-story T3 runs to the beaches of Playas del Este via the city’s historic forts. Both have their main terminus in Parque Central and depart every 20 to 30 minutes.

If You’re Near the Hotel Zones, You Can Hop on the Airport Bus

State-run company Transtur Havana has introduced a shuttle bus to and from Havana’s José Martí International Airport. If you’re in a hurry or just want an easy arrival, pre-book a private transfer online. If you’d prefer to save cash, you can join a group heading to the hotel zone, although you’ll need to wait for enough passengers. The trip costs the equivalent of US$10 and must be paid for onboard.

Private Taxis Are Cheaper but Often Lack Amenities

Private taxis – invariably Russian Ladas – roam the streets looking for fares or wait at spots away from the official taxi ranks. They’re generally cheaper than state-operated taxis but are less luxurious. Foreign currency (ideally euros) is the preferred method of payment – these taxis are cash only. Agree on a fare before you get in.

Cubataxis Are Quick and Comfy

The state-owned taxis operated under the Cubataxi umbrella are usually modern yellow cars with air conditioning. They pick up outside hotels and at taxi ranks and cost more than Lada taxis. The bonus? They’re faster and more comfortable than private taxis.

Sightsee from the Antique Seats of a GranCar

GranCar is a state-run company that offers private city tours in meticulously restored vintage American cars. The eye-catching autos, which range from bright pink Chevrolet Bel Air convertibles to 1940s-era Fords, charge the equivalent of US$30 for an hour-long trip around Havana’s main sights. The drivers double up as guides, although their commentary skills can be hit or miss. Longer excursions and custom trips can be negotiated with the driver.

Old American almendrones Take Locals on Set Routes

Primarily used by locals, almendrones are shared taxis that motor along fixed routes. They’re usually wheezing old American cars that squeeze in five or six passengers. Almendrones will stop anywhere along their route to pick up or drop off passengers if they have space. Habaneros use a series of complicated hand signals to indicate to drivers where they want to go.

Skip the Yellow Coco Taxis

These three-wheeled taxis shaped like coconuts and painted yellow were originally designed for the tourist market in the 1990s. More recently, they’ve suffered criticism for their poor safety record. You’re better off walking or hailing a real taxi.

Reach the Narrow Streets of Habana Vieja in a Bici-Taxi

Three-wheeled bicycle rickshaws ply short inner-city routes too narrow for cars, primarily in Habana Vieja. They charge the equivalent of US$1 to $2 per ride. Agree on rates before you get in, and expect a bumpy journey.

Head to Havana’s Forts on a Boat

Havana’s only boat service shuttles passengers across the city’s harbor to Regla or Casablanca, leaving every 15 or 20 minutes from the Emboque de Luz on the southeastern side of Habana Vieja. The fare costs the equivalent of around US$0.40. A quick bag search is conducted before you get in.

Ride Through the Capital by Bicycle

Several reputable companies rent bikes that are good for getting around town. In 2018, Havana inaugurated a pilot bike-sharing scheme called Ha’Bici. Aimed primarily at locals, it currently operates in Habana Vieja with a limited number of bikes.

Stroll the Sea Drive and Walk Havana’s Historic Core

Havana is a good walking city. Strolling along the 7km-long Malecón sea drive is an obligatory city diversion, and much of Habana Vieja’s historic core is pedestrian only. Centro Habana’s tight grid of streets is also best explored on foot. However, beware of rutted pavements and blistering heat.

Don’t Count on Driving a Rental Car in Havana

Renting a car in Havana is not worth the expense or hassle. State-run rental agency Cubacar regularly runs out of vehicles in peak periods, and the paperwork involved can be long-winded. Moreover, driving in Havana is not easy, as roads can be frequently potholed.

Accessible Transportation in Havana

In comparison to the US or Europe, Havana is not an easy city for wheelchairs or strollers. However, plenty of Cubans live with disabilities, so getting around is not impossible – just more difficult than you might be used to. Because most buses are crowded, your best transport option is to organize a modern taxi with enough room for mobility aids.

Fortunately, recent improvements have made the pedestrianized section of the old town much smoother. Making up for the unreliable infrastructure, Habaneros are extremely courteous and friendly, and they will assist in making your stay smooth and enjoyable.