Havana, Cuba: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Havana, Cuba? If you're planning to go to Havana, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Havana, Cuba

Based on the climate and weather in Havana, Cuba, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Havana, Cuba

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Havana, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Havana, Cuba by month

January

January in this region is a perfect temperature and extremely hazy. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cuba has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Havana. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and L. Ensure that you choose the right kind. Most adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

February in Havana is warm and extremely hazy. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cuba has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Havana. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and L. Check that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

March

If you vacation in Havana during March, you will probably see that it is pretty consistently hot and extremely hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cuba has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Havana. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and L. Be sure to find the right type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

If you vacation in Havana during April, you are likely to find that it is pretty consistently hot and extremely hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally around 60 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cuba has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Havana. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and L. Ensure that you pick the right type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

May

May in Havana is extremely hot and extremely hazy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cuba has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Havana. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and L. Make sure to find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

June

June here can be sweltering, somewhat rainy, somewhat stormy and extremely hazy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cuba has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Havana. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and L. Make sure to get the right type. Many adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

July

In July, Havana can be very hot, somewhat rainy, somewhat stormy and extremely hazy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Havana, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cuba has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Havana. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and L. Take care to find the right kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

August

If you vacation in Havana during August, you might notice that it is really hot, somewhat rainy, somewhat stormy and extremely hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cuba has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Havana. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and L. It's important that you get the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

September

If you are traveling to Havana in September, you will notice that it is consistently hot, somewhat rainy, somewhat stormy and extremely hazy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cuba has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Havana. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and L. Be careful to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

October

If you are traveling to Havana in October, you will notice that it is hot, somewhat rainy and extremely hazy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cuba has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Havana. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and L. Be careful to pick the correct type. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

November

If you visit Havana during November, you will probably find that it is extremely warm and extremely hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally around 70 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cuba has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Havana. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and L. It's important that you find the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

If you vacation in Havana during December, you might find that it is warm and extremely hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cuba has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Havana. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and L. Take care to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

What to do in Havana, Cuba

Havana, the capital city of Cuba, is a city that has been preserved in time, with its beautiful architecture, vintage cars, and a rich culture that is rooted deep in history. The city offers a myriad of tourist attractions that will leave you breathless.

Here are the top tourist attractions in Havana, Cuba:

1. Old Havana

Old Havana is the heart of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cobblestone streets and historic buildings take visitors back in time to Havana’s colonial era. The Plaza Vieja is a breathtaking plaza surrounded by colorful buildings that date back to the 18th century. The Plaza de Armas is another popular square in Old Havana with its lovely gardens and a statue of Carlos Manuel de Cespedes, a revolutionary hero.

2. El Malecon

El Malecon is the seawall promenade in Havana that stretches over 5 miles along the coastline. The wall was constructed in the early 1900s and offers a great spot for a leisurely stroll or to watch the sunset. It is also a popular gathering spot for locals and the perfect place to take a ride in a vintage convertible.

3. Revolution Museum

The Revolution Museum is one of Havana’s top tourist attractions with its collection of items from the Cuban Revolution. The museum houses artifacts, documents, and photographs that document the history of the revolution. Visitors can also see the Granma, the boat that carried Fidel Castro and his comrades to Cuba in 1956.

4. Castillo del Morro

Castillo del Morro is a fortress that guards Havana Bay and offers stunning views of the city. It was built in the 16th century to repel pirates and is a popular attraction for tourists. Visitors can explore the walls, battlements, and underground tunnels of the fortress, which offers a glimpse into Havana’s rich history.

5. National Museum of Fine Arts

The National Museum of Fine Arts in Havana is a showcase of Cuban art and culture. The museum houses an extensive collection of Cuban art that spans from colonial times to the present day. The museum is divided into two buildings, one displaying modern art, and the other displaying contemporary art. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and photographs by renowned Cuban artists.

6. Hemingway House

The Hemingway House in Havana is the former residence of Ernest Hemingway, the famous writer. The house was turned into a museum in 1962 and now showcases the author’s life and work. Visitors can explore Hemingway’s writing room, library, and gardens where he spent much of his time writing.

Conclusion

Havana is a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and beauty. It is a city that has been preserved with its vintage cars and colonial architecture. The above-mentioned tourist attractions will offer a glimpse into the city's rich past and present, making it an unforgettable destination for tourists.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Gorham, New Hampshire, United States of America, Biysk, Russia, Severn Beach, England, United Kingdom, Blandford, Massachusetts, United States of America, Boston, Philippines, Seborga, Italy, Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, Philippines, Shelburne, Nova Scotia, Canada, Chaco, Argentina, Popoyo, Nicaragua, and Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia, Canada.