Summary:
Havana is one of the world’s most intriguing secret cities. Having remained largely unexplored during the significant global travel surge of the past 20 years, Havana serves as an extraordinary time capsule awaiting exploration.
Devoid of the modern conveniences and ostentation found in many capital cities, Havana embodies a rustic charm, making it a true pleasure to navigate. From the vintage automobiles in Old Havana to the tranquil fishing community of Jaimanitas; from the historic Plaza de la Revolución to the lesser-known Chinatown, Havana seemingly harbors a hidden treasure at every turn.
While it is natural for travelers to approach Cuba with caution, there is no need for concern; this city warmly welcomes visitors and you will surely be impressed by the hospitality of the inhabitants.
Exploring Havana revolves around engaging with authentic Cuban culture. Absent are the flashy commercial tourist attractions and gimmicky excursions – this is the authentic experience. If you are willing to delve deeper and embrace the unique Caribbean ambience, you will find yourself introduced to a completely new world.
Let’s explore the various accommodation options in Havana, both within and outside of the typical tourist route.
Old Havana
Also known as La Habana Vieja, Old Havana constitutes the very heart and essence of this enigmatic city. Havana once existed as a fortified city, and remnants of this history can still be discerned throughout the neighborhood.
Following the dissolution of the USSR in 1991, Cuba opened its gates to the world, which resulted in significant benefits. This development facilitated the restoration and refurbishment of many of the magnificent structures found in Old Havana.
One of the most favored activities in Old Havana is to rent a classic Cadillac for a tour around the city streets. Should you prefer not to drive or anticipate being too busy capturing photographs, you can consider hiring a vehicle complete with a tour guide and driver.
It is worth mentioning that some of the finest Cuba Libre cocktails are available in Old Havana.
Ideal for: Enthusiasts of History, Cultural Explorers, Families, Couples, Backpackers, Mature Travelers, Luxury Seekers: A Wide Range of Travelers
Neighborhood Highlights: Cathedral de San Cristóbal, Plaza Vieja, Museo de la Ciudad, Castillo de la Real Fuerza, Plaza de Armas, National Museum of Fine Arts
Hotel Recommendations:
- Estancia Bohemia – This establishment offers a sun terrace with splendid city views, with rooms typical of those found in Havana, and is regarded as one of the higher quality hotels. All accommodations feature air conditioning and ensuite bathrooms, along with a complimentary breakfast and quality coffee.
- B&B Old Havana – This quaint and cozy boutique hotel, located in the heart of the neighborhood, is merely a two-minute stroll from Old Square. Rooms include ensuite bathrooms and air conditioning, and the attentive staff will readily assist you with directions to the city’s must-visit sights.
- Hotel Inglaterra – Ideal for families or groups, this hotel provides spacious double and triple rooms, all equipped with private ensuite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and air conditioning. A complimentary breakfast is included in the rate, and WiFi is accessible – a rarity in Havana.
Centro Habana
A bit more ornate and polished than the rustic Old Havana, Centro Habana provides another excellent neighborhood option for travelers to the Cuban capital. This area is home to the Gran Teatro de La Habana and the El Capitolio building, offering an abundance of architectural and cultural exploration.
Centro Habana is bustling with numerous retail shops, lively bars, and engaging locals to converse with. This neighborhood is perfect for those wishing to experience the vibrant pulse of Havana.
Moreover, one of Centro Habana’s highlights is the coastal promenade along Malecón. This attractive walkway extends from La Habana Vieja all the way to Vedado, providing a fantastic venue for an enjoyable stroll post-visit to local cultural landmarks.
As Cuba continues to open up for tourism, much of the available accommodations within the city are ‘casas particulares’, offering a unique homestay experience.
Ideal for: Enthusiasts of History, Cultural Explorers, Families, Couples, Backpackers, Mature Travelers, Luxury Seekers: A Wide Range of Travelers
Neighborhood Highlights: Gran Teatro de La Habana, El Capitolio Building, Museum of the Revolution, Callejón de Hamel, Palacio de los Matrimonios, San Lázaro Tower
Hotel Recommendations:
- Casa Floridita – More like a home away from home managed by a local family, this entire apartment features a kitchen and living room area. On-site parking is available, and it accommodates up to four guests, making it perfect for families or traveling groups.
- The Lovers Place – This boutique private apartment includes a kitchen and living area. Its spacious and neat living room features a cozy sofa and flat-screen TV. The kitchen is stocked with an oven, microwave, and toaster. The apartment is fully air-conditioned.
- Casa Amistad – Located close to the beach and major attractions, Casa Amistad is just a four-minute walk from the coast, situated in a safe district. With a traditional homestay atmosphere, rooms each come with a terrace, TV, and private bathroom. A homemade breakfast is offered for an additional fee. Note that there is no WiFi.
Miramar
Miramar ranks among Havana’s more functional neighborhoods, situated across the city from Old Havana and Centro Habana.
As one of the city’s more affluent districts, Miramar provides visitors with a glimpse of contemporary Cuba at its finest. It is home to embassies, diplomatic venues, and affluent Cuban residents, making it ideal for luxury travelers. However, there is also a commendable selection of ‘casas particulares’ in this neighborhood.
Surprisingly, there is much to engage in while in Miramar. Quinta Avenida is an excellent destination for shopping enthusiasts seeking boutique bargains, while the iconic clock at the intersection of 5th and 10th Street serves as a neighborhood landmark.
The National Aquarium offers an enjoyable venue for a day out, particularly for families. Coney Island, located at the western end of the neighborhood, features a variety of toddler-friendly rides and attractions, boasting affordably priced admission fees.
Ideal for: Luxury Travelers, Families, Shopaholics, Mature Travelers, Seasoned Explorers
Neighborhood Highlights: Quinta Avenida, The National Aquarium, Coney Island, Museo Orgánico de Romerillo, Iglesia de Jesús de Miramar, Playita del Tritón, Parque Diversiones
Hotel Recommendations:
- BR & Martha White – This popular homestay experience in central Miramar includes a scrumptious home-cooked breakfast that shouldn’t be missed. Guests have access to the kitchen and laundry facilities, as well as a sun terrace. While rooms are simple, they are spacious and feature air conditioning and a private bathroom.
- Casa Eduardo y Raquel – This vibrant and colorful establishment is a highly recommended ‘casa particulares’ in central Miramar. Rooms are basic yet homely, equipped with all necessities such as bed, pillows, wardrobe, and private bathroom. Select from a double room or private apartment, which includes a kitchen and small lounge.
- Tere Hostel House – Despite the name, Tere Hostel operates much like a hotel. It offers private rooms with private bathrooms just behind 5th Avenue, within walking distance of the sea. Guest rooms feature a fridge, mini bar, and coffee machine. Breakfast is included in the room rate, though WiFi is not available.
Barrio Chino de La Habana (Chinatown)
It may astonish some to learn that Havana hosts its own Chinatown, which thrives within the larger district of Centro Habana. This vibrant community is delightful to explore.
Within the relaxed streets of Chinatown, visitors will discover some of the finest Chinese cuisine, not only in Cuba but across the Caribbean. Despite facing historical challenges, the remaining Chinese community has fostered a beautiful neighborhood atmosphere while maintaining their multicultural identity.
There was a significant influx of Chinese immigrants in the mid-1880s; however, many returned home after the upheaval of the Cuban Revolution in the 1950s. Those who stayed became proud Cuban citizens, dedicated to preserving this unique cultural enclave.
For those who savor new experiences, Chinatown will provide a rich cultural immersion. Enjoy dining in one of the inviting Chinese restaurants while watching vintage Cadillacs cruise by.
Ideal for: Cultural Enthusiasts, Food Lovers, Relaxed Travelers, Backpackers, Locally-Inclined Travelers
Neighborhood Highlights: Sociedad Yee Fung Toy Tong, Iglesia Nuestra Señora de La Caridad, Galleria Continua, Family-run Chinese Restaurants
Hotel Recommendations:
- Casa Dominguez – A new lodging option in the heart of Chinatown, this establishment includes breakfast in the room rate, and an airport shuttle is available upon request. Accommodations can cater to up to three guests per room. Casa Dominguez is a 600-meter walk from Capitolio Nacional. Please note that WiFi is not available.
- BR& Tu Casita en Campanario – This whole apartment rental accommodates up to three guests and features a kitchen equipped with essential cooking facilities, including a fridge, gas cooker, and microwave. Nestled on a quiet street in Chinatown, the house also has a private sun-trapped courtyard. Bed linen is provided, though there is no WiFi or air conditioning.
- Rafa House – In this cozy ‘casa particulares’, guests have access to a kitchen and a comfortable lounge area. A hearty breakfast is served each morning, and hosts are happy to arrange an airport shuttle. The bedroom is inviting, featuring traditional Cuban furnishings and decor. Staying here keeps you only 500 meters from Capitolio Nacional in central Chinatown.
El Vedado
If Havana possessed a ‘hipster’ neighborhood, it would undoubtedly be El Vedado. This area is among the most modern and progressive in the city. For a place that seems anchored in the past, Vedado represents the forefront of contemporary culture.
Though it may not feature the polish of upscale Miramar or the historical significance of Old Havana, Vedado presents a distinct micro-culture to uncover. The streets, resembling narrow alleys, are lined with quaint and rustic buildings now repurposed into bars, clubs, and trendy cafes.
Despite the challenge of being a digital nomad in Havana due to limited internet access, Vedado stands out as the prime neighborhood for modern travelers.
For those eager to delve into Havana’s unique nightlife, Vedado offers the perfect foundation. Jazz clubs such as La Zorra y El Cuervo embody the essence of Cuba, and venues like La Gruta always provide ample supplies of rum for guests.
Ideal for: Backpackers, Long-Term Visitors, Digital Nomads, Cultural Enthusiasts, Food Lovers, Party Seekers
Neighborhood Highlights: Fronton Jai Alai o Ponce Carrasco, Quinta de los Molinos, Museo Napoleónico, Pabellón Cuba, San Lazaro Tower, Monumento a José Miguel Gómez, Museo de Artes Decorativas
Hotel Recommendations:
- Hotel Nacional de Cuba – One of the more upscale hotels in Havana, it features luxurious suites and private rooms. Free WiFi is accessible throughout the hotel, and a complimentary breakfast is provided each morning at the restaurant. All accommodations have ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries, with some including bathtubs.
- BR & Corazon de la Habana – This excellent mid-range hotel is perfectly suited for travelers who require WiFi access during their stay in Havana. Each room is equipped with tea and coffee-making facilities, air conditioning, and access to an on-site bar and outdoor terrace. The breakfast offered here is among the finest in Havana.
- NH Collection Victoria – This highly-rated hotel features both indoor and outdoor swimming pools and fitness centers. All accommodations include complimentary toiletries and ensuite bathrooms. Premium rooms provide a balcony or terrace with city vistas. Rooms are modern, spacious, and bright. WiFi is available.
Habana del Este
Habana del Este is ideal for travelers looking to spend more time in Havana and experience local life. This area, located across the port east of Centro Habana, features some of the finest beaches close to the capital.
One of the most appealing beachside communities in the Habana del Este area is Guanabo. Regardless of whether you’re in Havana for a few days or longer, visiting Guanabo is highly recommended. It is a favored escape for urban Cubans seeking a weekend getaway, and it offers a family-friendly atmosphere that provides travelers with a glimpse of authentic Cuba.
Closer to inner-city Havana, historical treasures await, such as Castillo De Los Tres Reyes Del Morro. This 16th-century fortification has endured the test of time and the trials of Cuba’s past.
Ideal for: Adventurous Travelers, Active Individuals, Families, Beach Enthusiasts, Locally-Focused Travelers
Neighborhood Highlights: Castillo De Los Tres Reyes Del Morro, Guanabo, Playas de las Hermanitas, Playa Bacuranao, Playa Tarara, Playa de El Rincón
Hotel Recommendations:
- Mahelis Mas – This classic Havana ‘casa particulares’ offers a selection of two apartments, each featuring a basic kitchen equipped with a fridge and microwave. Guests can enjoy a charming outdoor seating area. The accommodations are homely, bright, and hygienic, catering to up to three occupants. Please note that there is no WiFi or air conditioning.
- Te Quedaras – This spacious apartment rental can accommodate up to seven people across three bedrooms. It includes WiFi, a flat-screen TV, and air conditioning. Guests have access to a fully-equipped private kitchen with a gas stove, fridge, and microwave. Breakfast can be provided for an additional charge of $8 per person.
- Guanabo, Elba Gonzales – A holiday apartment located in beachside Guanabo, it can accommodate up to four guests with two double beds. This apartment features basic kitchen amenities, including a fridge and stove top. Additionally, it boasts an outdoor terrace complete with a hammock. Air conditioning is available, but WiFi is not provided.
Jaimanitas
Characterized by its rustic authenticity and a feeling of temporal suspension, Jaimanitas is a charming fishing village nestled within Havana’s city limits.
Gradually experiencing a renaissance, it is anticipated that Jaimanitas will become a top-tier neighborhood in Havana in the next two decades. This delightful area is adorned with vibrant mosaics and street art, creating a living, breathing masterpiece that appeals to cultural enthusiasts.
The artistic vibe of the region was significantly influenced by José Fuster, who established his studio in Jaimanitas during the mid-1970s. His inspiration led locals to embellish their homes, resulting in Jaimanitas becoming a colorful and lively locale to explore. It is often likened to a miniature version of Gaudí’s Park Güell in Barcelona.
The most prominent installations and murals in the neighborhood can be found at Fusterlandia, the home of the pioneering artist himself. The artwork encapsulates the narrative of Cuba with pride.
Ideal for: Art Aficionados, Cultural Explorers, Adventurous Travelers, Families, Backpackers, Couples, Locally-Focused Travelers: A Diverse Range of Visitors
Neighborhood Highlights: Fusterlandia, Playa de Jaimanitas, Marina Hemingway, Mosaics and Murals throughout the neighborhood
Hotel Recommendations:
- El Retiro – Offering splendid sea views and located a 12-minute walk from the sandy beach, El Retiro is set in one of Jaimanitas’s most picturesque locales. The residence includes a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and a kitchen. Daily breakfast delivery is also available, featuring modern decor and new furnishings.
- House by the Sea in Havana – This spacious family-friendly holiday home in the heart of Jaimanitas accommodates up to 10 guests. Ideal for families wishing to visit Havana while avoiding direct city center crowds, it features a large outdoor pool and terrace, with four bedrooms and a sofa bed in the living room. WiFi is included.
- Casa de Lester – This apartment with ocean views can accommodate four guests in two bedrooms. Casa de Lester boasts an outdoor terrace and a small, fenced garden, with air conditioning throughout the house, including the bedrooms. Basic kitchen facilities, including a gas stove, fridge, and microwave, are also provided.
