Things To Do in Cuba: Colonial Cities & Classic Cars

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1. Classic American Car Ride, Havana: Cruise The City In A ’50s Icon

Colorful vintage cars driving through the streets of Old Havana, Cuba, with vibrant colonial buildings in the background.

Climb aboard a fully restored classic American convertible or sedan—Chevrolet Bel Air, Cadillac DeVille, Buick, or Ford—cruise along the Malecón, glide through Old Havana’s colonial streets, and feel the retro spirit of Cuba alive. These privately owned cars, maintained through resourceful repairs since the 1962 embargo, provide both transportation and storytelling—each ride accompanied by friendly local drivers who double as guides. It’s a timeless way to explore Havana in style.

What to Expect

Choose from a variety of tours: a short hop around Old Havana and Capitolo, a 2–3âhour city tour through Miramar, Vedado, and Revolución Square, or a ...

📘 Cuba Visitors Travel Information

Time Zone: Cuba operates on Cuba Standard Time (CST), which is UTC -5. Daylight Saving Time is observed, shifting to UTC -4 during the summer months.

Weather: Cuba has a tropical climate, with two main seasons: a dry season from November to April and a rainy season from May to October. Average temperatures range between 24°C to 29°C (75°F to 84°F) year-round, with high humidity and frequent sunshine. Hurricanes are possible between June and November.

Population: Cuba has a population of approximately 11 million people. The majority reside in urban centers such as Havana, Santiago de Cuba, and Camagüey. The population is ethnically diverse, with a rich cultural blend of African, Spanish, and Indigenous roots.

Size: Cuba covers an area of about 109,884 square kilometers (42,426 square miles), making it the largest island in the Caribbean. It includes more than 4,000 smaller islands and cays, with a varied landscape of mountains, plains, and coastline.

Language: Spanish is the official language of Cuba. While English is taught in schools and may be spoken in tourist areas, it is not widely used in rural parts of the country.

Currency: The official currency is the Cuban Peso (CUP), although the U.S. dollar and Euro are commonly used in tourism. It is recommended to bring cash, as foreign credit and debit cards often do not work due to financial restrictions.

Safety: Cuba is generally a safe country for visitors. Violent crime is rare, though petty theft and scams can occur in tourist areas. It is advised to remain alert and secure valuables while exploring.

Tipping: Tipping is customary and appreciated in Cuba. In restaurants, a 10% tip is common if service is not included. Small tips are also expected for hotel staff, guides, and taxi drivers.

Electricity and Plugs: Cuba uses both 110V and 220V electricity, with a frequency of 60Hz. Plug types A, B, and C are commonly found. It is advisable to bring a universal adapter and check your devices for voltage compatibility.

Water: Tap water in Cuba is not recommended for drinking. Travelers should rely on bottled or purified water, even for brushing teeth, to avoid digestive issues.

Annual Visitors: Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Cuba received approximately 4 million international visitors annually, drawn by its beaches, colonial architecture, music, and cultural heritage. Numbers have fluctuated in recent years due to travel restrictions and global events.

Visa Requirements: Most travelers to Cuba need a tourist card (visa) to enter, which can often be arranged through airlines or travel agencies. U.S. citizens face specific restrictions and must meet one of 12 approved travel categories to visit legally.

Health & Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required for entry into Cuba. However, travelers are encouraged to be up to date on routine immunizations, and consider hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid vaccines, especially if venturing outside resort areas.

Transportation: Cuba has a well-developed intercity bus system and a limited number of rental cars. Taxis and shared taxis (called “almendrones”) are common in cities. Bicycle rentals are also available. Public transportation can be unreliable outside major hubs.

Food: Cuban cuisine features rice, beans, pork, chicken, and tropical fruits. Popular dishes include ropa vieja (shredded beef), moros y cristianos (black beans and rice), and yuca con mojo. Food shortages may impact availability, but private restaurants (paladares) offer authentic meals.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms: Cuban culture values warmth, friendliness, and music. Greeting people with a handshake or cheek kiss is common. Locals appreciate politeness, and travelers should dress modestly and avoid overly loud or boisterous behavior in public.

Telecommunications & Connectivity: Internet access in Cuba is limited and often slow. Public Wi-Fi zones are available in major cities via prepaid cards, and some hotels offer access. Mobile data is available for local SIM users, but can be expensive and unreliable.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is strongly recommended for visiting Cuba. Proof of medical insurance is required on arrival. Visitors may be asked to purchase local coverage if proof is not provided.

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1. Classic American Car Ride, Havana: Cruise The City In A ’50s Icon