Optimal times to visit Havana

Havana's vibrant cultural scene is alive with events every month, particularly notable festivals occurring from October to April.

Jazz or ballet? Spiritual processions or lively festivals? Budget-friendly hotel rates or pleasant temperatures? You’ll discover options to suit your preferences and budget year-round.

Situated along the rough waters of the Straits of Florida, Havana enjoys warm weather year-round, but reaches its climatic peak during the northern winter, when conditions are dry and pleasantly cool. This seasonal guide will assist you in choosing the perfect time for your visit to Havana.

The prime beach months are November to March and July to August

Havana’s peak tourist season runs from November to March, when many travelers from Europe and Canada escape the cold and head to Cuba. While numerous visitors choose all-inclusive resorts along the northern coast, many also dedicate some time to exploring Havana.

Over a quarter of Havana’s winter visitors hail from Canada, arriving in early to mid-November. During this time, prices for flights, accommodations, and packages begin to rise, peaking around Christmas and New Year when costs can increase by as much as 25%, marking this as the priciest period to visit.

As the rainy season wraps up, temperatures become more manageable in November, and seasoned runners gather for Havana’s annual marathon.

December features one of Havana's largest international events, the Festival Internacional del Nuevo Cine Latinoamericano, focused on film, alongside its most significant religious procession honoring San Lázaro.

In the past two decades, Christmas festivities have seen a revival after nearly disappearing during the early years of the Revolution.

January sees the highest influx of tourists, followed by February and March, when the climate remains dry and pleasantly warm, occasionally cooled by a frente frio (cold front). With average daily temperatures around 22ºC (72ºF), January is the coolest month in Havana.

During this bustling season, be prepared for some shortages, especially concerning rental cars. Observant travelers visiting in March might spot migratory birds that gather in several of the city’s large green spaces, such as Parque Lenin and the Jardín Botánico Nacional.

Despite the crowds, the period from January to March is ideal for enjoying the beaches of Playas del Este and engaging in various water sports. This timeframe also marks the end of Cuba's National Series in baseball, providing an exciting experience for fans of Havana’s Industriales team.

The mini peak season of July and August coincides with when Cubans take their vacations. This summer surge impacts the country’s budget hotels and rural campismos (affordable rustic lodgings), but Havana remains less affected, except during the city’s vibrant carnival in August. Expect scorching temperatures, as August is the hottest month in the city.

April and October are considered shoulder season months, featuring fewer visitors.

Visitor numbers start to decline in April, and prices begin to decrease following Easter. Even with fewer tourists, the weather stays pleasant; April is the second-driest, sunniest, and least humid month.

Thanks to the pleasant weather and less crowded beaches, April is an excellent month for fishing in the Gulf Stream and kitesurfing at Tarará.

On the other hand, October can be quite stormy, with heavy humidity and constant rain potentially reducing tourist visits. However, early fall does bring some fantastic annual cultural events.

Both the internationally renowned theater and ballet festivals – the Festival de Teatro de la Habana and the Festival Internacional de Ballet de la Habana – are events worth planning your visit around.

For budget travelers, May, June, and September are the ideal months.

The low season is a perfect time for budget-conscious travelers, those avoiding crowds, and anyone who doesn’t mind getting a bit wet. Remember, Havana’s showers – even during the rainy season from June to November – tend to be brief and intense, rarely lasting all day.

May is one of the most affordable months to visit, striking a balance between the busy winter season and the influx of domestic travelers in the summer. It also provides a chance for pleasant weather.

June marks the beginning of hurricane season, but keep in mind that the Caribbean hurricane season often starts quietly rather than with significant storms.

While big storms are exceptions in June, it is the month with the highest overall rainfall. Additionally, it coincides with the peak of mango season – a great reason to visit! September represents the height of hurricane season in Cuba, where the possibility of a significant storm (typically every four to five years) keeps many tourists away.

Although there aren't many quirky festivals to enjoy during the off-season, Havana is always vibrant, with all the top museums and attractions open throughout the year.

In terms of accommodations, you’ll find lower rates and improved availability during the low season. Plus, travelers can expect shorter wait times, less crowded beaches, and a more relaxed airport experience.