3-Day Havana Itinerary: The Perfect Weekend Trip

Got a long weekend? Havana is one of those rare destinations where three days is enough to experience the highlights, discover a couple of hidden corners, and still feel like you had a real vacation — not a sprint.

This itinerary balances iconic sights with local flavor so you leave feeling satisfied, not exhausted.

Before You Go: Quick Facts

Detail	Info
Best time to visit	November to April (dry season with mild temperatures)
Currency	Cuban Peso (CUP)
Language	Spanish
3-day budget (mid-range)	$210
Climate	Tropical savanna with a wet season from May to October and dry season from November to April

Day 1: Arrive, Settle In & First Impressions

Morning

Arrive in Havana and head to your accommodation in the Habana Vieja — colonial plazas, cathedrals, and restored mansions neighborhood — the best base for a short trip thanks to its central location and walkability. Drop your bags and grab a quick breakfast or brunch at a local cafe.

Afternoon

Start with Old Havana (Habana Vieja) UNESCO district, Havana's most iconic landmark. Arriving in the early afternoon means you avoid the morning rush while the light is still excellent for photography. Budget about 2 hours here to explore fully.

After that, walk to Capitolio building — it is close enough to reach on foot and offers a completely different experience. The contrast between these two sites captures the essence of Havana.

Evening

Head to the Vedado — 1950s mansions, Hotel Nacional, and Malecón nightlife district for dinner. This is where locals go, and the prices reflect it. Order Ropa Vieja — shredded beef in tomato sauce with peppers and onions — it is the signature dish of Havana and the perfect way to begin your culinary journey.

Day 1 budget estimate: $63

Day 2: Deep Dive Into Havana

Morning

Rise early and head to Fusterlandia mosaic village before the crowds arrive. The first hour after opening is golden — fewer visitors, better light, and a more contemplative atmosphere.

Grab a mid-morning coffee in the Regla — Afro-Cuban religious culture across the harbor by ferry area and people-watch for a while. Sometimes the best travel moments are unplanned.

Afternoon

After lunch, explore Malecón seafront boulevard. This is one of Havana's cultural gems and deserves at least 90 minutes of your time. If you are feeling adventurous, detour to Fusterlandia — neighborhood mosaic art project by José Fuster in Jaimanitas nearby — most tourists walk right past it.

Next, stroll through the Miramar — diplomatic quarter with paladares and quiet avenues neighborhood. Try Moros y Cristianos — black beans and rice, the Cuban staple side dish from a street vendor — it costs a fraction of what restaurants charge and tastes just as good (arguably better).

Evening

Tonight is your splurge dinner. Find a well-reviewed restaurant in the Habana Vieja — colonial plazas, cathedrals, and restored mansions area and order Tostones — twice-fried green plantain discs served with garlic mojo. A mid-range dinner with drinks will run about $21 per person.

After dinner, take an evening walk — Havana has a completely different energy after dark. Fábrica de Arte Cubano — art gallery, club, and live performance space

Day 2 budget estimate: $77

Day 3: Hidden Gems & Farewell

Morning

Use your final morning to see what most tourists miss. Head to El Cocinero — rooftop bar in a converted cooking oil factory chimney in Vedado — a spot that rewards early risers with quiet beauty and authentic Havana charm.

Pick up souvenirs at San José Craft Market — artwork, woodcarvings, and souvenirs on the waterfront. Skip the airport gift shops — the markup is brutal and the selection is generic.

Late Morning / Early Afternoon

End your trip with a leisurely brunch featuring Cuban Sandwich — roast pork, ham, mustard, pickles, and Swiss cheese on pressed bread and a final coffee. Take a last photo from Classic American cars along the Malecón at sunset before heading to the airport.

Day 3 budget estimate: $56

3-Day Budget Summary

Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation (3 nights)	$32	$74	$216
Food (3 days)	$27	$63	$162
Activities	$18	$42	$108
Transport	$14	$32	$54
Total	$90	$210	$540

Pro Tips for a 3-Day Trip

1. Stay central. With only three days, commuting from the outskirts wastes precious hours. Habana Vieja — colonial plazas, cathedrals, and restored mansions is your best bet.
2. Pack light. A carry-on means no baggage claim wait — you gain 30–45 minutes on arrival.
3. Pre-book the big attractions. Skip-the-line tickets for Old Havana (Habana Vieja) UNESCO district can save you an hour of queuing.
4. Eat one meal at a market. Faster, cheaper, and more authentic than a sit-down restaurant.
5. Do not over-schedule. Two or three activities per day is plenty. Leave room for serendipity.

Is 3 Days Enough for Havana?

Three days will not cover everything, but it will cover enough to give you a genuine feel for the city. You will hit the highlights, eat the essential dishes, and — if you follow this itinerary — discover at least one spot that makes you feel like a local. For most travelers, that is the sweet spot.

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