How to Get to Havana. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Havana

Major Airport & Airlines

José Martí International Airport (HAV) is Havana's main international airport, situated about 15-20 km southwest of the city center.

Air Carriers

International carriers include Air Canada, France's National airline, Iberia, KLM, COPA Airlines, Viva Aerobus, Turkish Airlines.
Some US-based airlines (e.g., American, Southwest) offer flights, subject to US travel regulations.
Direct flights from Toronto, Montreal, Madrid, Paris, Amsterdam, Panama City, Mexico City, and select US cities.

Seasonal Prices & Facilities

Flight prices typically peak during high season (November-March) and major holidays. Lower fares are often on offer during low season (June-September), coinciding with hurricane season.

Airport Services

Facilities: Currency exchange (CADECA), car rental desks, duty-free shops, cafes, limited Wi-Fi.
Booking flights well in advance, especially for high season, is advised.
For flight deals, check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Taxi Transfers

Most common and convenient option. Official yellow taxis available. Fares to Old Havana/Vedado: $25-35 USD equivalent. Agree on price beforehand.

Pre-arranged Pick-ups

Casa givenes or hotels can arrange airport pick-up services. Similar price to taxis, with the convenience of a waiting driver.

Bus Options

Viazul buses are for inter-city travel, not typically airport transfers to central Havana. City buses are not recommended for tourists with luggage.

Land Transportation

Train & Bus Travel

Cuba has a national rail system, but it is generally slow and unreliable for tourists.
Viazul Buses are the main and most reliable option for inter-city travel for tourists (e.g., to Viñales, Trinidad).
Book Viazul tickets on the internet or at the terminal in Havana (well in advance).
What you need to know to cross the border is not directly applicable for Havana as an island nation.

Self-Driving & Car Rental

Hiring a car is available from state-run agencies (Cubacar, REX, Havanautos) but is expensive.
A valid national driver's license (AN idp is advised) and a major non-US credit card for deposit are needed.
Roads outside major cities can be poorly maintained and lack signage. Night driving is discouraged.
Fuel stations can be scarce; map out routes with care. Book car rentals via DiscoverCars.com.

Road Conditions & Safety

Within Havana

Roads can have potholes, especially in older areas. Traffic lights and signs may be missing or ignored. Drive with caution.

Inter-city Routes

The principal highways are generally better, but side roads are often in poor condition. Animals and people on foot are frequent on roads.

Night Driving

Discouraged due to a lack of lighting, unlit vehicles, and animals on the road. Parking can be difficult and insecure in Havana.

Sea & River Arrivals

Cruise Ports

Havana has a cruise terminal (Terminal de Cruceros de La Habana). Cruise ship calls, especially from the United States, have faced severe restrictions or bans.

Cruise Travel Notes

Verify current regulations with cruise operators, as rules can change.
Immigration procedures at seaports are similar to air travel: present passport and Tourist Card.
The cruise the station is in Old Havana, offering easy access to taxis and walking to nearby attractions.

River Transportation

No significant river transportation system exists for tourist travel within Havana. A small ferry crosses the harbor to Casablanca (location of the Christ statue).

Water Travel Options

The Casablanca ferry is a local option for a short scenic crossing.
It connects Old Havana to the areas across the bay.
No extensive river excursions or water taxis for general city transport.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures & Timing

Historically, Cuba imposed an exit fee, but this fee is now typically part of your flight ticket price. Confirm this with your airline at the time of reservation.

Departure Checklist

Arrive at José Martí International Airport at least 3 hours before your international flight.
Check-in at your airline counter.
Present the one after one half of your Tourist Card to immigration officials upon departure.

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

The departures area at HAV offers basic amenities for travelers awaiting their flights.

Available Services

Duty-free shops for last-minute purchases.
A few snack bars for refreshments.
Wi-Fi is available for purchase.

Currency Exchange at Departure

Banking Services

Banking services might be available for last-minute currency exchange (CUP to foreign currency).

Exchange Rates

Rates at the airport may be unfavorable compared to the informal marketplace within the city.

Recommendation

It is best to exchange any remaining CUP before arriving at the airport if possible.

Final Departure Advice

Guarantee all your travel documents are in order and readily accessible. Allow ample time at the airport for check-in and security to avoid stress. Double-check your belongings for any forgotten items.

How to Get to Havana