The Best Honeymoon Ideas in Havana, Cuba  Copy The Best Honeymoon Ideas in Havana, Cuba  Copy

The Best Honeymoon Ideas in Havana, Cuba Copy

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Why go? Havana is an enigma for many. A truly unique spot, the Cuban capital is perfect for an adventurous couple looking for a honeymoon full of excitement. Expect the unexpected; that’s part of the fun.

Best ideas: Cruise with the top down along Havana’s seafront in a colorful classic car, wander past the crumbling yet hauntingly beautiful architecture, and dance to the salsa music that envelopes the entire city.

Good to know: Havana has its fair share of problems — things like brief power or water outages, lower hotel and food standards, and getting there legally can present issues.

If you decide to visit Havana for your honeymoon, you may get a few blank stares from friends and family. And it’s true, Havana isn’t the easiest or most obvious destination for a romantic post-wedding getaway. But a special type of couple will have the trip of a lifetime in Cuba’s capital city — assuming you can handle just about anything. The trip from the U.S. isn’t far, as the island of Cuba is just 90 miles from Key West, Florida, but it does take organization and planning and is best for more experienced travelers — especially those who have already been to other Caribbean or Spanish-speaking countries.

Havana, though, marches to the beat of its own drum. The glorious, colorful city is still beautiful even though many of its colonial buildings, European-style mansions, and historical landmarks are in a state of despair. The city’s coastal location means you can be at beautiful beaches in no time, and if you want to escape the hectic urban pace for something more relaxing, the green wonders of the countryside are also just a quick drive away. 

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Traveling & Getting Around in Havana, Cuba

The U.S. government currently allows its citizens to travel to Cuba under these 12 specific categories:

  1. Family visits
  2. Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations
  3. Journalistic activity
  4. Professional research and professional meetings
  5. Educational activities 
  6. Religious activities 
  7. Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions
  8. Support for the Cuban people 
  9. Humanitarian projects 
  10. Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes 
  11. Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or informational materials
  12. Certain authorized export transactions

Tips on how to classify your trip: Note that while the “People-to-People” tour option has recently been eliminated, you can still visit the country under the “support of the Cuban people” category on your own or via a tour. Just remember that you must save your receipts and document all activity for whichever category you choose. If it’s under support of the Cuban people, for example, you may have to take a Cuban cooking class or show proof of interactions, tours, and experiences that result in true interactions with the Cuban people — in other words, not lazy romantic beach days holed up alone as newlyweds. Hey, we said this type of honeymoon would be unique! 

Tips on where to stay: Remember, the U.S. government also insists that you not spend money at any businesses owned or run by the Cuban military, which may include many of the country’s hotels or restaurants. Staying at Airbnbs or home rentals, called casa particulares, and dining at paladares, or privately owned restaurants, can help you follow this regulation. Although we’ll include some popular Havana hotels, if you’re choosing to visit under the support of Cuban people category, you may want to avoid hotels altogether, opting for a casa particular instead (more on this in the accommodation section). If you do your homework and properly document your trip, you shouldn’t run into any issues on the U.S. side, but plan to hang on to any documentation of your trip for up to five years. It’s unlikely the government will request to see it, but you should follow the rules just in case. 

A workaround (The Plunge does not advocate this). You can travel to Cuba via a gateway city, meaning you’d fly to a spot like Cancun, Grand Cayman, or Toronto, then fly into Cuba. This way, you won’t be held to the aforementioned requirements since the U.S. technically won’t ever know you went there. Just remember to make sure to ask the Cuban immigration officer not to stamp your passport, and be aware that the U.S. government has been known to station its own officers in foreign airports specifically to catch Americans returning from Cuba who are trying to skirt American laws by connecting through third countries.

Airlines and hub cities: Although the U.S. has recently suspended charter flights from the U.S. to many cities in Cuba, you can still fly to Havana on airlines like Delta, JetBlue, American, and United from cities such as Miami, Houston, Fort Lauderdale, Newark, New York, and Atlanta. New regulations, however, state that U.S. cruises are no longer permitted to stop in Cuba.

In order to enter the country, prepare to show the following documents upon arrival (you may also be asked for your visa/tourist card upon boarding): 

  1. A return-trip airline ticket
  2. Evidence of sufficient funds for your trip (e.g., cold hard cash, but more on that below)
  3. A valid visa, also known as the Cuban Tourist Card. You’ll definitely be asked for this, and some airlines may not let you board the plane without it.
  4. Proof of travel health insurance. The travel medical insurance plan must include coverage for medical evacuation by air, medical emergencies, and repatriation. Although you may not be asked for it, you should consider purchasing a health insurance policy ahead of time. If you can’t buy this ahead of time, you can purchase a policy at the Havana airport for the duration of your stay. Some plane ticket purchases include health insurance, so double-check with your airline.
  5. Ensure your passport is valid for at least a month beyond your expected date of departure, otherwise you could be rejected from entering Cuba.

Tips about the visa: You’ll need to purchase a Cuban Tourist card (the visa) before entering the country. Although the card costs $20 when purchased at non-U.S. gateway airports like Cancun or Grand Cayman at the airline desk, if you want to purchase it from the U.S. (either in advance or at the airport), you’ll spend at least $50 and more if you send away for it via mail. Sometimes if you fly from Canada, the price of your card is included in your plane ticket. The best thing to do is check directly with the airline your flying on if the card is included and if you can purchase it ahead of time or at the airport, as each airline has its own policy and pricing. It’s also worth noting that you can ask Cuban immigration to not stamp your passport — they will usually honor your request and stamp your tourist card instead.

Tips on how to pay: Note that U.S. credit cards are not accepted on the island, though some hotels and larger businesses will accept credit cards from countries in Europe, Canada, and beyond. It’s best to be prepared with cash. If you’ve prepaid for your accommodation, a good plan is to have $100 to $200 per person per day, though this can greatly vary by budget and travel style. Although you may not spend it, it’s better to have more on you just in case.

The currency you’ll want to change most of your money into is CUC (aka Cuban convertible pesos, pronounced “kook”), meant for foreigners. Although the rate is officially 1:1 with the U.S. dollar, you’ll be charged 10% to convert your dollars. Note that this additional fee doesn’t apply to euros or British pounds, so you may want to consider changing those currencies to CUC if you have any. CUP (Cuban pesos) is the currency the locals use, and the rate is 25:1 to the CUC (and thus to the U.S. dollar). You can’t change U.S. dollars directly to CUP, but that’s OK, because you won’t need much of it anyway. If you want to buy some fruit at the market or candy or snacks from street vendors, it is handy to have a small amount of CUP. 

Once you’ve figured out how to go, what can you expect during a honeymoon in Havana? Well, first off, visiting a place that many U.S. citizens won’t ever get a chance to see is pretty awesome in itself. Not to mention the vibrant Cuban culture, gorgeous landscape, and the fact that you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time for most of the trip.

Dancing trumps web surfing: A Havana honeymoon is also great for couples who really want to focus on each other. Although you may be busier salsa dancing, touring, and enjoying the Cuban culture surrounded by Cuban people, there isn’t much internet access so you’ll be wholly focused on what’s going on around you — and your brand-new partner.

If you do need to connect, you’ll have to buy an internet card, which, once you scratch off your connection codes, will give you a few hours of internet access from points like city parks or hotel lobbies. The best place to buy these is at hotels, at the ETECSA stores (though knowing Spanish is helpful if purchasing here) or you may stumble upon someone reselling these cards in parks for a markup. Keep in mind that you’re usually limited to purchasing just a few cards, and hotels and businesses often run out of cards to sell. Even after you’ve bought some, don’t expect the comparatively blazing-fast connections you’re used to in the U.S., Europe, Tokyo, or Seoul. Your best bet for a relatively fast and stable Wi-Fi connection is at Hotel Ingleterra on Paseo de Marti near the Capitolio.

The seasons: Be aware that Cuba follows the Atlantic hurricane season schedule, meaning you can expect some rain from June 1 to Nov. 30. Most hurricanes tend to strike between August and October, so visiting toward the beginning or end of the season is usually fine. The rest of the year is sunny, hot, and humid. Bring bug repellent and use it, especially during the rainy season.

¿Hablas español? Brushing up on your Spanish, especially if you plan to travel outside Havana, is a good plan, though most locals working in the tourist industry will speak English. Cuban people actually love Americans, welcoming their northern neighbors with open arms, so don’t be afraid to connect with them. 

Once you’re there, the island is relatively safe, as the government imposes hefty punishments on those caught committing crimes, especially against tourists. That said, you’ll be carrying a lot of cash, so be very aware of your belongings and surroundings at all times. Follow these rules for a safe and successful trip:

  1. Don’t buy cigars on the street, as many scammers sell fake ones in lieu of expensive, high-end brands.
  2. Avoid the Centro Habana neighborhood late at night.
  3. Be careful of females in salsa clubs “working” the night.
  4. Carefully read reviews of your host or casa particular before booking to avoid disappointment and scams.
  5. Securely guard your belongings to avoid being the target of pickpockets.
  6. Leave the fancy jewelry or flashy items at home.
  7. Exchange money at official spots, like the airport.
  8. Don’t drink the tap water.
  9. Split up your cash — keep some with you, some in the hotel safe, and some hidden away in your luggage, especially if your lodgings don’t have a safe. 

Honeymooning in Havana: Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Havana is truly one of a kind.
  • The trip is an adventure, a real escape, and a great digital detox.
  • Many U.S. citizens will never have the chance to experience Cuba.

Cons:

  • Legal travel is difficult and requires paperwork and saving all your documentation.
  • Internet access is slow and scarce.
  • “Luxury” experiences may not be as high-end as you’d expect.
  • Expect occasional power outages and other infrastructure setbacks.
  • Though not extremely expensive, the country isn’t always cheap. 

Havana Neighborhoods

  • Old Havana

    Old Havana, Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of lvrecordscuba)

    Havana’s city center is full of both historic charm and busy locals going about their daily routines. From the vintage cars lined up outside of the famed Capitolio building, colorful plazas, and revered churches to noisy, crowded streets lined with crumbling apartment buildings, you’ll get a taste of what Havana is all about. 

  • Centro Havana

    Malecon, La Habana, Cuba
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    (Photo by izosinka_sochi)

    Less touristy than Old Havana, this is the perfect place to get a real feel for urban Havana living. The area closer to the city’s Malecón, the city’s famed seafront, is perfect for long, sunset strolls. It’s best to avoid this neighborhood late at night, though, as it can get shifty. 

  • Chinatown

    Chinatown, Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo by osulyanov)

    Havana’s Chinatown is small, situated in Centro Havana. Today, it doesn’t have nearly as many Chinese residents as it once had — your servers in the “authentic” Chinese restaurants there likely won’t have a drop of Chinese blood in them nowadays. But the area is having a resurgence, with restaurants and shops moving in, creating a distinct Chinese-Caribbean cultural vibe worth checking out.

  • Vedado

    Vedado, Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo by hiphavana)

    Less hectic than Old Havana, Vedado shows visitors a more local side of Cuban living, as well as featuring a few special landmarks like Hotel Nacional and the U.S. embassy. The streets are numbered and lettered, making it an easy place for outsiders, particularly those with a very low level of Spanish, to explore without getting lost. 

  • Miramar

    Miramar, La Habana, Cuba
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    (Photo by elbuenojo)

    Miramar’s tree-lined avenues are home to colorful mansions, embassies and many of Havana’s posh restaurants and shops. The area is quiet and serene, perfect for some time away from the hustle and bustle of Old Havana.

  • Jaimanitas

    Playa de Jaimanitas, Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo by chrismcheadle)

    Further out past Miramar, Jaimanitas is a small fishing area known for its famous Fusterlandia, where artist José Rodriguez Fuster created some of his famous, eclectic street art. It’s also where popular seafood chef Santy whips up underwater delights at Restaurante Santy Pescador.

  • Casablanca and Regla

    Casablanca, Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo by giorgia_pietroiaco)

    Situated across the bay from Old Havana, the neighborhoods of Casablanca and Regla are quiet and calm, home to attractions like the castle, fortress and Christ of Havana statue. Its hills are the ideal place to view Old Havana’s rooftops from afar. 

  • Playas del Este

    Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo by Casa_Particular_Habana)

    For a little beach escape, Playas del Este are a series of eastern beaches about 12 miles east of Havana. Each beach has its own vibe — one is best for divers, another for families, another for LGBTQ honeymooners. Keep in mind that the hotels, restaurants, and facilities here are not designed for tourists and more for locals, so these beaches are perfect for those wanting to get off the beaten path, but for a more refined, luxurious experience, it’s best to head to the tourist resorts of Varadero. 

  • Best Attractions & Activities in Havana

  • Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour

    458 Paseo de Martí, La Habana 10600, Cuba
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    (Photo of Habana Bus Tour by sandrosebelin)

    Roll past all the sights of Havana, hopping on and off wherever and whenever you please with a double-decker bus tour. This affordable activity costs $10 per day, with three different routes and over 60 stops available. 

  • Walking Tour

    Old Havana, Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo of Plaza Vieja, Havana, by Peter)

    Seeing the sites with or without a guide is one of the best ways to explore Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and, if you walk around on your own, it’s free! Make sure to see (read: drink at) all of Hemingway’s hangouts, like the famous Bodeguita del Medio and La Floridita bars, as well as admire Havana landmarks like the Capitolio building and Plaza Vieja. 

  • Fusterlandia

    Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo by JoLynee Martinez)

    A street art-style exhibit reminiscent of Antoni Gaudí’s whimsical, detailed tile work, Fusterlandia is a collection of statues, murals, and colorful street art worth wandering around. It’s located in the Jaimanitas neighborhood further inland from the beach. Sort of an Instagram Holy Grail.

  • Classic Car Ride

    Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo by Havana Car)

    While you can organize a classic car ride through your hotel or a tour agency like Havana Car, part of the fun is heading across from the Capitolio building in Old Havana where all the classic cars are lined up. Select your favorite and bargain with the driver for a ride. Expect to pay $150 to $175 (total) for a few hours.

  • Visit the Beach

    Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo by Dannielty)

    The nearby Playas de Este are a group of different beaches best for day trips from Havana. For a white sand, all-inclusive beach getaway where you’d prefer to stay overnight, it’s best to hire a driver to take you to Varadero, which is a few hours away. 

  • See the Castle

    Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of The Carol M. Highsmith Archive, Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division./Wikipedia)

    Head across the bay by car or ferry to the Casablanca neighborhood, home of El Morro castle defense complex and the famous Christ statue, similar to the famous one in Rio de Janeiro. This area is quiet and peaceful for an afternoon of relaxed exploring, with expansive views of Havana’s city center and the sea. 

  • Plaza de la Revolución

    Plaza de la Revolucion, Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo by Anja Disseldorp)

    Revolution Square is home to the 358-foot-tower in the José Martí Memorial (one of the highest spots in the city), as well as the National Library, many government ministries, and other important buildings. The steel profiles of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos are also emblematic additions to the square. 

  • Walk Along the Malecón

    Malecón, La Habana, Cuba
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    (Photo by Cuzco84)

    Best done at sunset, there’s nothing more romantic than strolling along the seafront hand in hand as the waves crash and salsa tunes waft by. You won’t be alone, as many Cuban couples, groups of friends, and families will also be enjoying the seafront at dusk. 

  • Tour the Hotel Nacional de Cuba

    Calle 21 y O, Vedado, Plaza La Habana, La Habana 10400, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of Hotel Nacional de Cuba)

    If you don’t stay at the famous Hotel Nacional de Cuba but still want to enjoy the property’s history, which includes visits from famous guests like Frank Sinatra and Ava Gardner, you can head over for a drink or get a free tour of the property most days at 10 a.m. Just call ahead to confirm before you head over. 

  • Bacardi Building Rooftop

    Avenida de Bélgica No. 261 entre Empedrado y San Juan de Dios, Edificio Bacardí, 261 Avenida Bélgica, La Habana, Cuba
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    (Photo by Francis Mariani)

    Pay $1 to take the elevator up to the rooftop of the former Bacardi headquarters. It’s the perfect space to take in the glowing Havana skyline at twilight. 

  • Bike Tour

    23°07'47.7"N 82°24'18., 6, La Habana, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of Rutabikes)

    Take a guided bike tour — the classic city tour, the bay tour or the sunset tour — with Rutabikes. A 3.5-hour tour includes an English-speaking guide, bike helmet, bicycle, and water for $28. Private tours are available, and if you prefer to bike on your own, you can also rent them for about $7 for two hours.

  • Best Hotels, Resorts & Airbnbs in Havana

    If you’re taking your trip under the category of supporting the Cuban people, it’s best to consider staying in a casa particular. A home or room rental on Airbnb may be the most straightforward option, but there are a few hotels included, as well. Just remember, luxury hotels may not be at the same caliber as you’d expect in other places. As it’s hard to find certain items in Cuba, replacing easy things like bathroom fixtures, furniture, or doing simple renovations can prove to be difficult.

  • Hotel Saratoga

    Best Views Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of Hotel Saratoga)

    Vibe: One of Old Havana’s most sophisticated properties, this 96-room hotel has spacious rooms, a spa, and a rooftop with gorgeous views of Havana.

    Price: Rates at Hotel Saratoga start at $250 per night. 

  • Meliá Cohiba

    Best for Lovers of Modern Luxury Calle 1ra, La Habana, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of Meliá Cohiba)

    Vibe: A favorite among business travelers, the Meliá Cohiba is located in downtown Vedado. Many of the rooms have beautiful sea views, and this hotel is known as one of the most updated and luxurious in the city, especially the more modern LEVEL rooms and suites. They also have a pool, fitness center, spa, sauna, a business center and free wi-fi throughout.

    Price: Rates start at $160 per night. 

  • Hotel Nacional de Cuba

    Best for History and Movie Buffs Calle 21 y O, Vedado, Plaza La Habana, La Habana 10400, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of Hotel Nacional de Cuba)

    Vibe: Although the rooms of this Vedado landmark hotel may seem dated, the fun of staying at the Hotel Nacional de Cuba is the history of the iconic spot. The hotel once hosted mafia poker games and famous guests like Winston Churchill and Rita Hayworth. The pool is huge and a great place for a break after a day of sightseeing.

    Price: Rates start at $150 per night. 

  • Colonial House

    Most Affordable Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of Airbnb)

    Vibe: Choose from one of four different bedrooms in this colonial mansion between Old Havana and Vedado, selected by Vogue as one of the most charming homes in Havana. Special touches like breakfast on the rooftop will make your stay here magical.

    Price: Rates start at $65 per night.

  • Airbnb: Apartamento Chacón

    Best for Those Who Want to Live Like a Local Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of Airbnb)

    Vibe: This quaint private apartment’s bright blue walls and wraparound balconies will make you feel like you’re living your best colorful Cuban life. Apartamento Chacón has a small kitchen and living space, too.

    Price: Rates start at $120 per night.

  • Airbnb: Casa Blanca

    Best Value Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of Airbnb)

    Vibe: This boho-chic all-white apartment overlooks the seafront, offering guests plenty of indoor and outdoor space with a deck and balconies with views.

    Price: Rates start at $100 per night. 

  • Airbnb: Mr. Martinez

    Best if You Want to Stay Connected Vedado, Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of Airbnb)

    Vibe: This apartment may have you doubting whether you’re in Brooklyn or Havana, with its exposed brick and hipster warehouse design aesthetic. Located in Vedado across from a park with wi-fi, Mr. Martinez is ideal for those wanting to stay connected during their honeymoon.

    Price: Rates start at $60 per night. 

  • Honeymoon Packages, Tours and All-Inclusives

    Although U.S. cruise ships are banned from docking in Havana, there are still some options available if you’d prefer to have an all-inclusive experience, guided tour or romantic getaway outside Havana.

  • Trinidad

    Trinidad, Cuba
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    (Photo by iddavanmunster)

    The colorful, cobblestone streets of the Cuban city of Trinidad (a four-hour drive from Havana) make for a romantic honeymoon that feels like you’ve stepped into an entirely different area. Salsa dance in the main square each evening alongside the locals or photograph the city’s bright, bold hues. 

  • Varadero All-Inclusive

    Varadero, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of Meliá Las Américas)

    For an all-inclusive, adults-only beach break, spend a few days in Varadero, a two-hour drive from Havana. Melia has a number of all inclusive hotels starting at $200 per night. 

  • Viñales

    Vinales, Cuba
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    (Photo by Gorupdebesanez/Wikipedia)

    Home to tobacco fields, the Sierra de los Organos mountains and the Viñales Valley, this place (a two-hour drive from Havana) is for couples wanting an adventure in the countryside and to get out into nature. 

    Hire a driver: The best way to arrive at the aforementioned destinations is by car. For a reliable driver to take you to spots like Varadero, Trinidad, Viñales, and beyond, contact Ivan: [email protected] +53 5290074.

  • Espíritu Travel Honeymoon Tour

    Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of Espíritu Travel)

    For a carefree trip where someone else handles the logistics, Espíritu Travel will prepare special private tours of Havana and beyond, curating activities and destinations based on your preferences. An example honeymoon itinerary includes the following: 

    • A private photo session, utilizing Havana’s captivating light and contrasting Old Havana scenery, creating the perfect memory for your honeymoon.
    • One-on-one private salsa classes.
    • Private mojito mixology classes on a rooftop bar in Old Havana.
    • Private visits to working art studios and galleries, and meeting some of the artists.
    • Interactive cooking classes from a renowned Cuban chef in his private home-based restaurant. 
    • Trips to the Cuban countryside to areas with hiking trails, coffee plantations and natural pools.
  • Best Restaurants & Bars in Havana

    When dining in Cuba, you have two choices: government-owned restaurants and privately-owned restaurants known as paladares. If you’re traveling within the support of the Cuban people category, it’s best to stick to paladares.

  • El Cocinero

    Trendiest Paladar Restaurant Calle 26, La Habana, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of El Cocinero)

    Known as one of the trendiest paladar restaurants in Havana, this Vedado hub is set in what was once an old cooking-oil factory. Try and get a reservation to dine at El Cocinero’s outdoor patio, and hang out on the rooftop for drinks afterward. Daily lunch fixed-price menus start at just $12, and include items like gazpacho, ropa vieja, bread, dessert, and a drink. 

  • Fabrica del Arte Cubano

    Artsiest Dining Atmosphere Calle 26, La Habana, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of Fábrica de Arte Cubano)

    An art gallery, bar, restaurant, and nightclub all in one, this modern addition to Havana’s cultural scene opens at 8 p.m. and closes around 2 a.m. Thursday to Sunday. At Fábrica de Arte Cubano, or FAC, you can enjoy the art exhibits alongside live music, dancing, fashion, and cocktails. Expect to spend just a few dollars for a local beer. 

  • La Moneda Cubana

    Best Rooftop Restaurant Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of Cuba Turismo Lazaro)

    One of the best paladares in Old Havana, La Moneda Cubana has a rooftop that overlooks the city and sea. Prices for its seafood are reasonable, and you can expect to spend about $20 a person. 

  • La Guarida

    Best for Super-Classy Couples 418 Concordia, La Habana, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of La Guarida)

    Known as one of Havana’s swankiest paladares, simply entering the restaurant itself is an adventure. The broken-down colonial mansion doesn’t look like much from the outside, but the sweeping staircase is impressive and the restaurant, cigar lounge, and rooftop are as chic as can be. Expect to spend $50 to $70 per person for dinner at La Guarida and reserve your table ahead of time online. 

  • Casa Miglis

    Best Swedish-Cuban Fusion Cuisine Lealtad, La Habana, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of Casa Miglis)

    While Swedish-Cuban fusion may seem strange, this combination makes for some seriously unique flavors. From entrées like Grandma’s Swedish meatballs to tropical ceviche, Casa Miglis will surprise and delight you. Plan to spend between $25 to $45 per person on dinner. 

  • Tropicana

    Best Place for Dinner and a Show Havana, Cuba
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    (Photo courtesy of Tropicana)

    No trip to Havana is complete without seeing Tropicana’s famous cabaret show. It’s best to dine elsewhere for dinner, then head to the venue for the show and Cuban rum. The dancers are some of the best in the country, and the colorful costumes and upbeat music make the experience even more fun. Tickets start at $80 per person and include a drink. 

  • Coppelia Ice Cream Parlour

    Best Place to Eat Among the Locals Cuba, Cienfuegos, Calle 7, 22°08'38. 80°26'55.3"W
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    (Photo courtesy of Havana Cultura)

    This Vedado ice cream shop dates back to 1966 and is still one of the city’s iconic culinary spots. Pop in for a scoop of strawberry or chocolate, but expect long lines during a heatwave. 

  • Topoly

    Best Middle Eastern Food 669 Avenida 23, La Habana, Cuba
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    (Photo by shahink612)

    If you’re getting tired of Cuban food, Topoly‘s exotic Middle Eastern delights will be a welcome change. Sip fruit juice on the patio or enjoy a hearty Persian breakfast, lunch, or dinner there. 

  • Bottom Line

    While a honeymoon in Havana may not be as straightforward as other Latin Caribbean getaways, it will certainly be memorable. Cuban culture and warmth, combined with the crumbling beauty of Havana and beyond, will make for an unforgettable, romantic escape with possibly the best Instagram shots you’ll ever post.