Where to Stay in Havana
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Central Havana (adjacent to Old Havana)
While not explicitly listed as a primary neighborhood, areas bordering Old Havana offer more affordable 'casas particulares' and local eateries.
See full Havana neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Havana
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Old Havana (Habana Vieja)
A living museum of colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and historic plazas.
Our top picks in Old Havana (Habana Vieja)
Iconic luxury hotel with a rooftop pool and bar overlooking El Paseo del Prado.
Book NowBeautifully restored colonial mansion offering a charming and historic stay.
Book NowAuthentic local experience with friendly hosts, often with great value.
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Vedado
A more modern and spacious district known for its art deco architecture, lively nightlife, and cultural institutions.
Our top picks in Vedado
A legendary landmark hotel with beautiful gardens, historic significance, and famous cabaret shows.
Book NowA classic Havana hotel with a history tied to the revolution, offering good views and amenities.
Book NowNumerous well-maintained casas offering a comfortable stay and local interaction.
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Miramar
An upscale, leafy residential area with grand mansions, embassies, and a more tranquil atmosphere.
Our top picks in Miramar
A large resort-style hotel with pools and various amenities, offering a comfortable stay.
Book NowA modern hotel known for its extensive facilities, including a large pool and business services.
Book NowMany large, beautiful homes available for rent, offering a private and luxurious feel.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Old Havana (Habana Vieja) | Mid-range | A living museum of colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and historic plazas. | first-timersculture |
Vedado | Mid-range | A more modern and spacious district known for its art deco architecture, lively nightlife, and cultural institutions. | nightlifedigital nomads |
Miramar | Luxury | An upscale, leafy residential area with grand mansions, embassies, and a more tranquil atmosphere. | luxurycouples |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Havana
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Havana
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Havana. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Havana
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Havana
Old Havana (Habana Vieja)
Mid-rangeA living museum of colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and historic plazas.
- +Immersive historical experience
- +Abundance of restaurants and bars
- +Walkable to major sights
- -Can be crowded and noisy
- -Infrastructure can be run-down in places
Vedado
Mid-rangeA more modern and spacious district known for its art deco architecture, lively nightlife, and cultural institutions.
- +Great nightlife and music scene
- +Wider streets and more green spaces
- +Good access to restaurants and cafes
- -Further from the main historical sites
- -Can feel less 'authentic' than Old Havana for some
Miramar
LuxuryAn upscale, leafy residential area with grand mansions, embassies, and a more tranquil atmosphere.
- +Quiet and peaceful environment
- +Spacious accommodations
- +Close to some good restaurants and bars
- -Far from historical center
- -Limited public transport access
- -Can feel isolated
Daily Budget (Budget)
CUP 50/day
Hidden Gems in Havana
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Fusterlandia
FREEWander through a vibrant, whimsical neighborhood transformed by artist Jose Fuster into a mosaic wonderland. It's an explosion of color and creativity, with every surface adorned in intricate tilework.
Paladar Doña Eutimia
Tucked away in a quiet corner, this paladar serves up authentic Cuban home cooking in a charming courtyard setting. It's known for its delicious ropa vieja and friendly atmosphere, a true taste of local life.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Havana
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Havana Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Havana on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
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Havana Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Havana with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Havana: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Havana's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Havana: Scenic Excursion
Escape Havana for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Havana Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Havana's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Havana
Backpackers in Havana: FAQ
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