Getting from Jose Marti Airport to Havana City

Jose Marti International Airport (HAV) is about 18 km south of central Havana. The ride takes 25-40 minutes depending on traffic. There is no train or metro connection. Your options are taxis — often classic American cars — private transfers, or the irregular local bus.

A state taxi costs roughly CUP 2,500-3,500 or USD 25-35. A pre-booked private transfer typically runs USD 25-40. Cuba operates on a dual-currency reality where US dollars and Cuban pesos (CUP) are both used, though USD is increasingly preferred for tourist services. There is no Uber or any ride-hailing app available in Cuba.

International flights arrive at Terminal 3, the main international terminal. Immigration can be slow — 30-60 minutes is normal, sometimes longer. Have your passport, tourist card (visa), and health insurance proof ready. Customs inspection follows, where officers may check bags.

Once through, you enter a small arrivals hall with a currency exchange booth (CADECA), a few shops, and not much else. ATMs exist but are unreliable — many international cards do not work in Cuba. Bring enough cash for your transfer and first day.

Free Wi-Fi is not available. Cuba's internet requires ETECSA cards purchased separately. The airport has a basic feel — do not expect the facilities of a European or North American hub.

| Option | Price (USD) | Price (EUR) | Time | Notes | |--------|-------------|-------------|------|-------| | State taxi (yellow/modern) | 25-35 | ~23-32 | 25-40 min | Official, negotiate price | | Classic car taxi | 25-40 | ~23-37 | 25-40 min | 1950s American cars, agree price first | | Private transfer | 25-45 | ~23-41 | 25-40 min | Pre-booked, fixed price | | Colectivo (shared taxi) | 2-5 | ~2-5 | 40-60 min | Irregular, crowded, not tourist-friendly | | Local bus P12 | CUP 5 (~0.05) | ~0.05 | 60-90 min | Very crowded, no luggage space |

The classic car taxis are part of the Havana experience. These 1950s Chevrolets, Buicks, and Fords are real working vehicles, not museum pieces. They are charming but often lack air conditioning, seatbelts, and sometimes shock absorbers. If you want reliability and comfort, a modern state taxi or pre-booked transfer is the safer bet.

The local bus and colectivo are extremely cheap but impractical for arriving tourists with luggage.

Cuba pricing is unusual. The official currency is the Cuban Peso (CUP), but US dollars have become the de facto tourist currency. Most taxi drivers at the airport quote in USD.

A state taxi to central Havana (Old Havana, Vedado, Centro Habana) should cost USD 25-35. Drivers sometimes try to charge USD 40-50, especially late at night or when they sense you have just arrived. Negotiate politely but firmly.

Classic car taxis are never metered. Always agree on the price before getting in. USD 30-40 to Old Havana is fair. To Vedado, expect USD 25-35.

| Destination | Taxi (USD) | Transfer (USD) | |------------|-----------|----------------| | Old Havana (Habana Vieja) | 30-40 | 30-45 | | Vedado | 25-35 | 25-40 | | Centro Habana | 25-35 | 25-40 | | Miramar | 20-30 | 20-35 | | Playas del Este | 35-50 | 35-55 |

HAV receives international flights at all hours, with many charter and scheduled flights arriving in the evening. Taxis are available for late arrivals, but the selection thins out after the last flights. Classic car taxis may not be around at midnight.

Late-night taxi drivers are more likely to quote higher prices. If possible, pre-book a transfer for any arrival after 21:00. A modern state taxi at the rank is your fallback.

Havana streets are poorly lit at night but the main route from the airport to the city is a highway and reasonably safe. The city itself is very safe by Latin American standards.

Classic car taxis are fun but not practical for families. Boot space is limited, there are no child seats, and seatbelts may not exist in the back seat.

For families with children, a pre-booked modern transfer vehicle is the way to go. Request a child seat at booking — availability is not guaranteed but transfer companies try to accommodate. If your child absolutely needs a seat, consider bringing a portable travel seat.

Luggage is another factor. If you are carrying more than two large bags, a classic car's boot may not fit everything. A modern taxi or minivan transfer handles luggage better.

One Cuba-specific tip: bring any supplies you need for children. Nappies, formula, and specific medications can be scarce or unavailable in Havana.

Classic car taxis: Often parked in the general parking area. Walk past the state taxi line and you will see them. Some drivers approach you inside the terminal — this is normal in Cuba but confirm the price before committing.

Pre-booked transfers: Drivers wait inside the arrivals hall with a name sign. This is the most organised option. Some use the parking lot — your confirmation will specify.

Important: Terminal 3 is for international flights. Terminal 2 handles some Caribbean and charter flights. Terminal 1 is for domestic flights. Make sure your driver knows which terminal.

Want comfort and reliability? Pre-book a modern private transfer for USD 25-40.

On a budget? A state taxi at USD 25-30 after some polite negotiation.

Travelling with kids? Pre-book a transfer with a child seat request.

Arriving late? Pre-book. Do not count on classic cars or good prices after midnight.

First time in Cuba? A pre-booked transfer removes the stress of negotiating in a new country with unreliable internet and no working ATMs.