I spent six months living in Havana, and it completely changed how I travel. I’m a 31-year-old guy from the Netherlands, and when I first landed in Cuba, I planned to stay only a few weeks. But Havana has a strange way of pulling you in. The city is chaotic, colorful, unpredictable, and full of energy — it’s impossible not to get caught up in it.
Learning Salsa and Finding My Place in the City
I didn’t know anyone when I arrived, so I signed up for salsa lessons. It turned out to be one of the best decisions I made. The classes were full of laughter and life, and my teachers were patient and fun. Dancing helped me connect with locals, make friends, and understand Cuban culture beyond the surface. In Havana, music isn’t just something you listen to — it’s part of everyday life.
Staying in Casa Particulares: The Real Cuban Experience
During my stay, I tried every kind of accommodation — from small hotels to casa particulares, which are private guesthouses run by local families. The casas were by far my favorite. You get to share breakfast with your hosts, learn about local life, and sometimes even join them for dinner or music in the evening. It’s the best way to experience Havana beyond the tourist side.
I moved between neighborhoods to get a real sense of the city, and each one has its own character.
Habana Vieja
This is where most visitors start. The streets are full of color, colonial buildings, and music everywhere. It’s busy and touristy, but walking through Plaza Vieja, Plaza de Armas, and along the Malecón never gets old.
Centro Habana
More local and a bit rougher, but full of life. You’ll see people chatting on balconies, kids playing baseball, and food vendors on every corner. It’s authentic and loud in the best possible way.
Vedado
This became my favorite neighborhood. It’s calmer, greener, and has a mix of old mansions, cafés, and music clubs. It feels more residential and is perfect for longer stays. Many salsa schools are based here too.
Miramar
Miramar is more upscale, with embassies, large houses, and modern restaurants. It’s quieter and less central, but a good option if you want more comfort.
My quick advice:
- For first-time visitors, stay in Habana Vieja.
- For longer stays, choose Vedado.
- For a truly local feel, try Centro Habana.
- For quiet and comfort, Miramar is best.
My 3-Day Havana Itinerary
If you only have three days in Havana, here’s how I’d do it:
Day 1: Habana Vieja and the Malecón
Start with coffee at El Café or Café Bohemia, then explore Plaza Vieja, Plaza de Armas, and El Capitolio. Have lunch at La Guarida or El Chanchullero. Walk the Malecón at sunset — it’s where locals gather to talk, fish, and play music. End the night at El Floridita or a small live-music bar nearby.
Day 2: Vedado and Art
Have breakfast at El Biky or Café Laurent. Walk along Calle 23, visit Hotel Nacional, and relax in John Lennon Park. In the evening, go to Fábrica de Arte Cubano. It’s part art gallery, part nightclub, and one of the best places in Havana.
Day 3: Centro Habana and Local Life
Explore the markets in Centro Habana and grab some street food. Visit Callejón de Hamel to see murals and hear rumba music. Take a salsa class or go to Casa de la Música to dance with locals. For your last night, have dinner near the sea and take one final walk along the Malecón.
What Living in Havana Taught Me
Havana teaches you patience. Things move slowly, plans change often, and Wi-Fi rarely works. But people are friendly, curious, and always ready to help. I learned to appreciate small things — sitting on a balcony, sharing a drink with neighbors, listening to music that drifts through the streets.
The city isn’t perfect, but it’s real. It has rhythm, personality, and warmth that stays with you long after you leave.
Need Help Finding a Casa Particular or Planning a Local Tour?
After six months living across Havana, I’ve stayed in dozens of casa particulares and met incredible hosts. If you’re planning a trip and want recommendations for where to stay, which areas are best, or help reserving a casa or arranging a local tour, I’m happy to share what I know.
You can reach me directly here:
👉 Contact me on Wandering Pulse
I answer every message personally and love helping travelers experience Havana the way locals live it.
