Havana Hostels

Why stay in Havana?

Havana City is the capital of Cuba. Once a popular Caribbean tourist destination for people from all over the world, it was effectively closed to tourism for about 40 years. Tourists are back - in droves - as of the 1990s, but it's still technically off-limits to residents of the United States. US passport holders can get to Cuba, it just takes a little more work. (And don't worry, US residents, we won't tell anyone you're going.)

There is plenty to see in Havana, including the Museum of the Revolution and the Capital building, the Havana Club rum factory and any one of the city's many cigar factories. You can enjoy a stroll along Prado Street in the evenings (to see and be seen) or the Malecon on weekends (it's the sea wall, and is a hotspot for hanging out) and people-watching in the Plaza de la Revolucion (though it often gets too crowded). Classic American cars are everywhere you look, and it can feel a bit like stepping back in time.

Don't be surprised if the properties listed here don't include the word "hostel" in them - the term "casa particular" might be thrown around, and that's essentially a private home which has rooms for rent. Another common budget accommodation is just the budget hotel. And keep in mind that "hostels" aren't just for young backpackers anymore - they're perfect for budget-conscious people who want to meet fellow travelers. A few Havana hostels worth noting are highlighted here.

Lido is a short walk from Old Havana and has 65 air-conditioned rooms. Telegrafo is a five-minute walk to Old Havana's sights and some rooms have a view of the city's Central Park.

Casa Ana Morales is a one-bedroom apartment available for rent in downtown Havana, fully furnished and including air-conditioning. Occidental Miramar is in the Miramar neighborhood near the water, and boasts four swimming pools. There is also free daily bus service to Old Havana.

Don't worry if none of those descriptions sounded exactly perfect for you - there are plenty more Havana hostels where those came from. Keep browsing the listings until one of them strikes your fancy.

If you're coming from the United States, you'll need to book your flight in a more creative way than just flying directly to Havana. There are plenty of countries surrounding Cuba, however, so put your thinking cap on and use our international airfare finder to get on your way. And don't forget to read more about the city before you go in the Havana Travel Guide.