Best Bars in Havana Cuba 2025 (& Map)
A helpful guide to the coolest bars in Havana, Cuba.
Havana, Cuba, is a city that’s buzzing with unique and original bars. Whether your ideal place to grab a refreshing cocktail involves an arty alternative vibe, a historic building, or a rooftop bar, Havana, Cuba has got you covered. However, it can be difficult to know where to find the best bars and Havana nightlife. With this in mind, strictly in the name of research of course, I took on the enviable task of checking out some of the best bars in Havana.
A visit to Havana is a popular choice right now, with Cuba having been named number one Trip Advisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Destination for 2023. My husband’s family lives in Havana and I’ve visited many times over the last 10-plus years. So you can be assured that you’re getting my authentic personal experience of the best bars in Havana, Cuba.
Some posts on this site contain affiliate links to products or services I’ve found useful. If you make a purchase through these links I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). This helps keep the travel blog running, so thank you.
Things to Know Before You Visit Bars in Havana Cuba
Money in Cuba
The official currency of Cuba is the Cuban Peso (CUP). However, in many Cuba bars you’ll also find that you can pay in US dollars. Check before you order if you need to. If you pay by card you’ll have to pay using the official exchange rate which is much lower than the unofficial cash exchange rate. Ask at your accommodation if you want to find out the latest difference between the official and street exchange rates.
Scarcity of Resources
The lack of access to some basic resources in Cuba might impact the food and drink options available or might even mean that a venue is shut at short notice. If you do find that your favourite bar in Havana is closed on a particular day, try to go with the flow and head to one of the other places on the list. I’ve included a map to help you with this.
Internet Access
Unlike many bars in the UK, Europe and America, Wi-Fi is not usually available for free in Cuba bars. Instead, you’ll need to either buy a tourist SIM which will give you internet access on your device (6GB), or purchase WiFi cards (officially via ETECSA, also available unofficially on the street). Cuba isn’t typically included in UK data roaming plans so this should be cheaper than using your regular mobile phone provider’s data, which is likely to be very expensive to use in Cuba (check your specific contract details first). Whichever option you choose, in order to keep your data safe, you can set up a Virtual Private Network before you go.
Keep your information safe whilst using the internet in Cuba by getting a good Virtual Private Network (VPN). I use NordVPN to protect my data whilst travelling. It’s quick to set up and super easy to use. A few clicks and you’re ready to connect securely when using public Wi-Fi.
Security
Havana and Cuba in general has previously been one of the safest places I’ve visited, in part due to the large security presence. However, in the last couple of years, as the economic situation has deteriorated, there has been an increase in need and, as reported to me by various Cuban contacts, an increase in theft and other crime.
Thankfully, on my trip, I didn’t experience a difference. It would be wise though to take the usual travel precautions of being careful with your phone/camera, sticking to well-lit streets and not flashing around expensive jewellery etc. If you do encounter any problems, make a noise about it, if safe to do so, as others will come to your aid quickly in Cuba.
Transport
To get around the bars in Havana, you can either hail a cab on the street or download the Cuban version of Uber – La Nave. Order a taxi on the app and pay in cash only. You’ll need a Cuban tourist SIM in order to connect. Although you can download the app before you leave you may need to wait until you get to Cuba to activate your account once you have your Cuban phone number
Map of the Best Bars in Havana Cuba
I’ve created a map that shows all the bars listed in this guide to the best Havana bars. Click the arrow icon to the left of the map heading to view the name of each bar.
List of the Best Bars in Havana Cuba
This list of bars in Havana covers bars in several key locations and categories. If there’s somewhere you’ve found that you love that’s not on the list, drop me a note in the comments.
Best Bars in Vedado, Havana
Vedado is an area of Havana where you’ll find wide tree-lined avenues, like Paseo and Aveñida de los Presidentes, well-kept embassy buildings and the dilapidated facades of once-grand residential homes.
It’s a good area to head to if you want to explore a more authentically Cuban barrio than the beautiful but touristy Habana Vieja (Havana’s Old Town).
El Madrigal Bar
Calle 17 #809 (altos) e/ 2 y 4, Vedado
Beautifully decorated, someone has clearly taken their time with the cool interior design and artwork of El Madrigal. I’ve found that the drinks here are cheaper than in the bars in Habana Vieja and the atmosphere is less hectic. Don’t miss the fabulous balcony, where you can take a cocktail and look out across the avenue below. If you’re in Havana on a Friday or Saturday head here to enjoy the regular live music sessions and a taste of the Havana nightlife. This bar is a great find.
Note that, unlike most options on this list of bars in Havana, El Madrigal is not open during the day, instead it opens at 6 pm (closed Mondays).
Bar Too Much
Corner of Calle L y Calle 19, Vedado
Chilled-out arty vibes are the order of the day at the recently opened Bar Too Much in Vedado. Get yourself a daiquiri and relax in one of the hammocks in the garden. Touches like an old-fashioned type writer, antique sewing machine and the odd mannequin hanging from the ceiling give Bar Too Much its individual identity. Some of the artwork might be a little risqué for some tastes but the spacious terrace is so delightful it’s worth a visit.
I love the lemonade with hierbabuena (a type of mint), frappe style. It’s delicious and refreshing, just what you need on a hot Havana day. The music is laid back, making this a great bar in Havana for enjoying daytime refreshments. If you’re visiting the bar at night, the vibe moves in to more of a party mode and you can usually catch music or other events on Tuesdays and weekends. Food is available, including tacos, croquettes and quesadillas. It’s a little on the pricey side for Havana but hey, you’re on holiday, treat yourself.
Alternative Options for Bars Near Vedado, Havana
- Michifú, Calle Concordia y Escobar, Centro Habana
- RYLAC, Calle 17 #358, Calle G y H, Vedado
Best Bars in Habana Vieja
Bohemia Habana Bar LibrerÃa
Calle Cuba #160 e/ Tejadillo y Empedrado, Habana Vieja
A minuscule, blink-and-you-miss-it kind of bar. Bohemia Habana Bar LibrerÃa has an intimate atmosphere downstairs, whilst there are a few more tables and more space upstairs. Decorated with second-hand books and all sorts of ephemera, this Havana bar is located close to the main drag through Habana Vieja, parallel to O’Reilly. Books and a bar, a brilliant combination. Head here for a literary refreshment break.
El Dandy
Teniente Rey #401, corner of Villegas y Parque Cristo, Habana Vieja
For another intimate and charming bar, check out El Dandy. There’s an extensive range of cocktails and the interior is decorated with gorgeous photos taken by the bar owner’s family. Offering decent food, generous cocktails and a friendly atmosphere, this bar is also close to other good options in Habana Vieja, so you could make a bar crawl of it if that’s your vibe.
Kilometro Zero
Monserrate #437, corner of Teniente Rey, Habana Vieja
A couple of blocks over from El Dandy, head to Kilometro Zero if El Dandy is too full. The food is tasty and the interior is modern with a nod to the past. Seating is split over two levels. I recommend asking to sit in the upstairs area, as you can gaze down at the collection of memorabilia, including old cameras, records and aeronautical-themed adornments. A great place to fill up when you’re hungry, if a little more expensive than some other options.
Siá Kará
Calle Industria #502, corner of Calle Barcelona y Industria, Habana Vieja
Located a little further away from the main area of Habana Vieja, this chilled-out bar is hidden away behind the Capitolio. The street may seem a little run down but this bar is definitely not. Vibrant décor and an open plan space encourage you in.
It’s a good option if you’re looking for somewhere a little away from the madding crowd in the centre of Habana Vieja. The interior is split over two levels and there’s plenty of fun ephemera scattered around the place to keep you entertained as you sip on an ice-cold mojito or two.
Bar Bigote Gato
Teniente Rey, corner of Aguacate, Habana Vieja
Bar Bigote Gato re-opened in early 2023. Food and drinks are a little expensive for Havana prices but the location is right in the centre of Habana Vieja and the speciality cocktails with dried fruit adornments are the main draw here. They’ll look great on your Insta. This bar and restaurant is based on the original Cuban building which closed in 1959. Amusingly moustachioed waiters will explain the history of the venue to you if you want, or just recommend a darn good cocktail if you prefer.
The house cocktail is made from their special sauce, with a plethora of ingredients giving it its unique taste. Non-alcoholic cocktails are available, which also come beautifully presented.
Alternative Options for Bars in Habana Vieja
- Bar Melodrama, ObrapÃa #511 between Bernaza y, Villegas, Habana Vieja
Rooftop Bars in Havana
Habana 5
Calle Habana #5 e/ Avenida de las Misiones y Peña Pobre, Habana Vieja
Bar Habana 5 is one of the newer options on the Havana rooftop bars scene. Opened in late 2022, it has an enviable location, looking out across the Malecón and towards El Morro. Head here if you’re searching for a chilled-out rooftop bar in Havana. Service is good and you access the menus via QR codes on the tables.
The house cocktail has a lovely bitter-sweet taste to it and the white sangria is an interesting twist on a classic. Be warned though, after entering through the unassuming entrance door, the wonderful outlook requires that you first climb multiple sets of stairs, so you’ll have earnt that mojito by the time you reach the bar. Once you get to the top there are actually a further two levels to explore, one of which is a sometime VIP area. Service is quick and friendly and there’s a good selection of food alongside the drinks.
Fajoma
Compostela #313 e/ Obispo y Obrapia, Habana Vieja
This Havana bar has a lovely rooftop area and distinctive black and white flooring. Head straight up the stairs at Fajoma and sit amongst the surrounding greenery. In contrast to the fresh tropical vibe of the palm leaves, there are the crumbling buildings all around.
The time I spent in this Havana rooftop bar provoked a sense of history and wonder at what these streets have seen over the years. The drinks are delicious, in particular, the daiquiri has a zesty zing that will put a spring back in your step if you find yourself flagging in the Cuban heat. Fajoma is a great rooftop bar right in the centre of Havana.
Alternative Rooftop Bars, havana
- Malecón 663, Malecón 663 e/ Belascoain Y Gervasio
- La Guarida, Concordia #418 e/ Gervasio y Escobar, Centro Habana
Best Bar in Havana for a Creative Night Out
Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC)
Calle 26, corner of calle 11, Vedado
A huge cavern of a place, FAC, is housed in an old oil factory and is more than just a bar, it’s a whole art complex and is a key part of the best nightlife in Havana. It houses art galleries, dance floors, live music, DJs and bars and is a totally fantastic venue. It deserves its reputation as one of the best nightclubs in Havana. FAC should be top of your list of bars in Havana.
With such a wide-ranging programme of activities, FAC is popular with Cuban’s wanting to party. To avoid the long queues, arrive early, around 8 pm, when you should be able to enter without queuing. If you get here after 10 pm be prepared to queue around the block. A visit to FAC is a wonderful way to spend a night in Havana, check out the modern art, grab a drink and then dance the night away.
Alternative Bars and Nightclubs in Havana
- Salsa Club 1830, Aveñida Malecón #22, Vedado
- Casa de la Música (Miramar), Calle 20 #3308, corner Aveñida 35, Miramar
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for live music concerts at Casa de La Musica, check to see if there’s a matinee on. These concerts start at around 5 pm and have a more local crowd.
Historic and Iconic Bars in Havana
Hotel Nacional de Cuba
Calle 21 y O, Vedado
The Hotel Nacional oozes old-time glamour and wears its history on its sleeve. The great and the good have been staying at this classic Cuban hotel for years. Imbibe the history as you sweep through the huge lobby area and head out onto the terrace to take a drink accompanied by fabulous views of the glistening waters of the Malecón. Check out the wartime tunnels in the garden for a bit of history whilst you’re here. Or get tickets to the Cabaret Parisien for a night time show of incredible Cuban music and dancing.
El Floridita and La Bodeguita del Medio
Obispo #557, corner of Monserrate, Habana Vieja (El Floridita bar)
Empedrado #207, Habana Vieja (La Bodeguita del Medio bar)
The author Ernest Hemingway took his mojitos in Havana’s La Bodeguita del Medio and hit up the bar El Floridita for daiquiris, or so the possibly apocryphal tale goes. Whether or not that’s 100% how it went down, it’s fun to take a drink in these two iconic Havana bars all the same. Sure, both bars are tourist traps and as such will be busier than some of the other options in this guide to Havana bars. However, they have a charming old-time atmosphere and they’re iconic spots to take a drink in Cuba.
At La Bodeguita, the mojitos are prepared in great long lines of glasses which is entertaining to watch. There’s usually music in or around the bar, adding to its allure. If it’s your first time in Cuba, you’ll want to tick these two famous bars in Havana off your to-do list.
Best Pavement Bars
Antojos and Chacon 162
Callejón Espada e/ Cuarteles y Chacón
Down a little street near the Museum of the Revolution, there’s a lovely hidden corner of Havana that plays host to a cluster of pavement bars. There’s a strangely European feel to this area, with tables stretched out in front of the bars and fairy lights strung across the pedestrian road. It can feel like a little oasis of calm in hectic Havana and as such is one of my favourite secret spots in the city. The mix of bars and restaurants here makes for a great lunch spot.
Looking for more information about Havana? Discover the beaches in Havana.
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