Best areas to stay in Havana
1. Old Havana (Habana Vieja)
Old Havana is the liveliest of the three main areas where travellers base themselves, and some visitors find it hectic and dirty. It is the historic core, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it puts you within walking distance of the cathedral squares, the colonial streets and the waterfront. It suits first-time visitors who want the sights on their doorstep and do not mind the noise and bustle.
You will find casas particulares in colonial buildings here, including restored places with roof terraces, alongside hotels. Because it is the most central and most visited part of the city, expect the highest level of activity and the least quiet.
2. Central Havana (Centro Habana)
Central Havana sits between Old Havana and Vedado and is slightly quieter than the old town, though parts of it can feel a bit seedy. It is a practical base for travellers who want to be close to the Capitolio, Parque Central and the Prado without paying old-town prices, and it is within easy reach of the Malecón.
Accommodation here is mostly casas particulares, often family homes renting one or two rooms, some with balconies and views. The area around the Casa de la Música is one option if you want to be near live music in the evening.
3. Vedado
Vedado is the quietest of the three main areas, with more greenery, and it is where you find the large hotels and the nicer casas particulares. It suits travellers who prefer calm, space and a residential feel, and it is also where several backpacker hostels are located, including ones near the University of Havana.
Vedado is a good base if you do not need to be inside the old town, and it connects to the centre along the Malecón and the main avenues. Casas here are often in apartment buildings, some with sea views and roof terraces.
4. Playa
Playa lies further west and is more residential, with casas particulares renting rooms or small apartments. It suits travellers staying longer, or those who want a quieter neighbourhood away from the centre and are happy to travel in for the sights.
5. Plaza de la Revolución
This area is inland from Vedado and includes Nuevo Vedado, where you find casas particulares with roof terraces and family hosts. It is a quieter, more local base, better suited to travellers who do not mind being a short ride from the historic centre.
6. Near the airport
There are places to stay within about fifteen minutes' walk of the airport, which is practical if you have a very early flight. This is a functional choice rather than a sightseeing base, and it puts you well away from the main visitor areas.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: dorm beds in backpacker hostels, mostly in Vedado and near the University of Havana, and simple rooms in family casas particulares in Central Havana and Old Havana.
- Mid-range: private rooms and whole apartments in casas particulares across Old Havana, Central Havana, Vedado and Playa, often with air conditioning, a balcony or terrace, and breakfast available.
- Splurge: the large hotels of Vedado, and upmarket, stylish casas particulares in Old Havana with a choice of room category and roof terraces.
Best area for a first visit
Old Havana is the best base for a first visit, because it is the liveliest of the three main areas and puts the historic centre, the squares and the waterfront within walking distance. You trade quiet for convenience, so light sleepers may prefer Central Havana or Vedado and travel in. If you want the large hotels and more greenery, Vedado is the alternative.
Frequently asked questions
Which areas do travellers usually stay in?
There are three main areas: Old Havana, Central Havana and Vedado. Old Havana is the liveliest, Central Havana is slightly quieter, and Vedado is the quietest with more greenery.
Where are the large hotels found?
Vedado is where you find the large hotels, along with the nicer casas particulares.
What should I expect from hotels in Havana?
Hotels vary. Do not be surprised if you have no hot water and poor TV reception in a hotel that still has an in-hotel doctor and puts on extravagant shows.
Is there anywhere to stay close to the airport?
Yes. Several places are within about fifteen minutes' walking distance of the airport, which is practical for very early flights.
Compare live prices for the areas above with the booking tools on this page before you decide.