Getting around in Cuba
Once you’ve made it through immigration, and have a WiFi connection and some cash, it’s time to head into the city and start your adventure! Check out your options below to help you get into the City of Havana, and all around Cuba….
Airport Transfer
Contact your hotel directly to find out if they offer a transfer service into Havana.
You also have the option to use Havana Airport Transfer to book either a Van, Standard Car, or Classic Car to transport you to your accommodation.
State-run company Transtur Havana has introduced a shuttle bus to and from Havana’s José Martí International Airport. If you’re in a hurry or just want to be guaranteed an easy arrival to Havana, pre-book a private transfer online.
Taxi/ Ride Share
Cubataxi operates state-owned taxis that are modern, yellow, air-conditioned cars with leased meters driven by private drivers. These taxis are easily accessible outside hotels and taxi ranks, however, they cost more than Lada taxis.
On the other hand, private taxis roam the streets, mainly operating Russian Ladas, and are generally cheaper. However, they are less extravagant and do not usually have air conditioning or seat belts. It’s best to agree on a fare before entering.
If you’re interested in a city tour, Gran Car offers private tours around Havana’s main attractions in vintage American cars. The drivers double as tour guides, but their commentary skills may vary. Longer trips or custom packages can be arranged with the driver, as the cars can fit up to four passengers.
At this time, there is unfortunately no Uber or Ride Share service in Cuba.
Bus
The Havana Bus Tour, a convenient hop-on, hop-off double-decker bus service that runs on two main routes throughout the day. The T1 takes in most of the tourist hotspots in Centro Habana, Vedado, and Miramar, while the T3 heads to the beaches of Playas del Este via the some of the city’s historic forts. Both routes depart every 20 to 30 minutes from their main terminus in Parque Central opposite the Hotel Inglaterra.
Interprovincial Bus: For longer journeys, try the Viazul bus network for a hassle-free and reliable way to travel independently around mainland provincial capitals or smaller, touristy cities like Trinidad and Baracoa. Booking tickets can be complicated and the process often changes. It’s best to ask at a travel agent like Havanatur or Cubatur or the official tourist information centre, Infotur. Buses are equipped with air-conditioning, varying degrees of amenities like toilets and TVs, but can get cold. A word of advice: bring your own toilet paper to be on the safe side.
Boat
Havana’s single boat service offers transportation across the city’s harbor to Regla or Casablanca. Departures take place every 15 to 20 minutes from the Emboque de Luz on the southeastern side of Habana Vieja. The price of a ticket is approximately 10 pesos, or US$0.40, with a routine bag check being required before entering the vessel. The boats operate on a standing-room-only basis, providing a speedy trip that lasts less than 10 minutes. Cyclists are also welcome onboard with their bicycles.
Now that you have a full understanding of how to enter, exit, and navigate Cuba, you can focus on exploring and discovering! Keep checking my blog posts and Instagram Feed for the latest adventures, and more tips on finding beautiful architecture and design around the globe!
