A Week in Havana, Cuba: From Vintage Taxis to Fort Adventures

Back in 2019 I got a chance to spend a week in Havana, Cuba with my now husband. Cuba was interesting to me because only one of my friends had been, and the rules were becoming relaxed about going. I had to declare my “reason” for going, because going on vacation isn’t a valid reason. But Cuba was always a mystery to me, and I’ve been waiting for my chance to go there even when I was a little girl.

I only spent a week In Havana, and I had budgeted myself $100/person/night. This was more than enough, because my AirBnb ended up being $40/night for the 2 of us (the place could have accommodated 5 people. At $40 USD/night that would have been $8USD/person/night). Food averaged us about $25/day each (that included 3 meals and drinks).

I had to first convert my money into Canadian currency before leaving JFK airport. You don’t have to convert before you leave the USA, but be prepared to spend more converting at the airport USD to CUC then if you converted any other currency into CUC. The rates change, but at the time of this post the exchange rate was 2% for most currencies and 10% for USD. Also remember, NO CARDS ISSUED BY THE US INSTITUTION WILL WORK IN CUBA.

So now that I’ve given you the basics, read what you can do for a week in Havana, Cuba see how great this island country is.

Exploring the Streets:

Wander through Havana’s colorful neighborhoods, where every turn reveals a piece of its rich history. Explore Old Havana’s cobbled streets, admiring its colonial architecture, and don’t miss the lively Malecón, where locals and visitors mingle along the seafront.

I really loved doing this because I got to talk to the locals and experience the culture. Everyone was really friendly, and happy to help me and talk to me.

Vintage Taxi Adventures:

Hop into a classic car, Havana’s time machine, and cruise down the Malecón or venture to

iconic spots like Revolution Square. These rides are not just transport; they’re experiences, often priced at a reasonable $50 USD per hour.

My husband’s tour and I lasted around 3 hours, and out guide was amazing. Him and my husband smoked cigars in the open top taxi ride, and he took us to places he said most tour guide won’t go too. He suggested places that had amazing food. These restaurants are called paladars, and they’re privately owned restaurants.

Fortress Exploration:

Visit the majestic Morro Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its storied past and breathtaking views of the city make it a must-see. Entry tickets cost approximately $10 USD.

I came here on Valentine’s Day. It was cute to see all the couples spending their time together on the large lawn of the El Morro or inside the gate looking out to see. Many vendors were selling balloons and flowers for suitors to give their dates.

Afterwards, my husband and I went to eat at La Guarida. It’s a well-known palador that many people go to eat at, including American and international celebrities. Their pictures line the walls which you can see while eating. Reservations can be made via e-mail online, and the prices cre compared to that of NYC. But the food was amazing, I had one of the best chocolate tres leches I’ve ever had. Our bill came out the 151 USD which included drinks, appetizers, mains, sides, and dessert. Not bad considering.

Cuban Cuisine:

Savor Cuban flavors at local paladares or street stalls. A meal at a paladar might set you back

$10-20 USD, while street food offers budget-friendly options for $3-5 USD.

Most palador will cost slightly more than government run restaurants, and it’s not hard to pick out which is which. Palador’s tend to be in front of people’s homes, and the food comes from their kitchen. Except for a few of the more famous ones.

I went to El Floridita in Havana, Cuba. Most famous for being one of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite haunts. The bar is known for its daiquiris. They’re so good I had about 5 of them. His statue sits at the bar, and it felt like I was able to sit and have a drink with Hemingway, or maybe listen to him rant about writing his next great work.

Lodging:

Accommodations in Havana vary from budget hostels to boutique hotels. On average, expect to pay around $40-80 USD per night for a comfortable stay.

I suggest staying at an AirBnb vs. a hotel. The homes belong to Cuban locals, and all proceeds from the stay go to these people, and not the government. It’s one of the ways many Cubans have earned extra money. These hosts will also come in and make breakfast for $5/person. It’s so filling you could probably skip lunch.

A week in Havana promises a captivating blend of history, culture, and cuisine. With reasonable prices and unforgettable experiences, this Cuban gem is a traveler’s dream come true.

Happy Travels