About Havana, Cuba:
Havana is the vibrant capital and largest city of Cuba, home to over 2 million people. It’s a historic coastal city famous for its rich colonial architecture, lively culture, music (especially salsa and son), and iconic vintage American cars from the mid-20th century that still cruise its streets.
The grand former capitol building, El Capitolio, is modeled after the U.S. Capitol but with its own Cuban flair (now a science academy and library).
Malecón is the famous waterfront promenade, perfect for people-watching, music, and views of the sea. 1950″s-era American cars (often used as taxis) are a symbol of Cuba’s unique history due to the long-standing U.S. embargo.
As of late January 2026, Havana (and Cuba overall) is facing severe economic challenges and shortages. Prolonged power blackouts, fuel scarcity, rising food and transport prices, and long lines for basics are common, driven by tightened U.S. sanctions and pressure (including recent executive actions targeting oil supplies from other countries), reduced tourism, and external factors like disruptions in Venezuelan and Mexican oil shipments.
The city has been described in reports as quieter and more strained, with tourism significantly down compared to pre-pandemic levels. Daily life feels tougher for residents, though tourist areas remain relatively welcoming and safe for visitors who come prepared. Cuba remains open to international visitors (including Americans under specific U.S. OFAC categories like “Support for the Cuban People” although pure tourism is still restricted for U.S. citizens.
Catholic places of interest in Havana, Cuba:
Basilica Menor de San Francisco de Asís (Basilica of St Francis of Assisi) (historic church with a tall bell tower).
Church of Jesus of Miramar (Iglesia de Jesús de Miramar): In Havana’s Miramar neighborhood, it’s reportedly the second-largest church in Cuba, a significant modern Catholic site.
Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Iglesia del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús): In Havana’s Vedado district, this early 20th-century Gothic Revival church is one of the largest in Cuba, known for its towering spires and stained-glass windows. Temporarily closed.
Havana Cathedral (Catedral de San Cristóbal or Catedral de la Virgen María de la Inmaculada Concepción): Baroque style (with coral stone), open to visitors, and hosts Sunday Mass.
Traveling to Havana, Cuba:
Most visitors to Cuba come from Canada, making up more than one-third of total arrivals. Russia, Spain, Germany, and Italy are major European sources.The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 2 advisory: Exercise Increased Caution, mainly due to crime and unreliable power. Bring plenty of cash (USD/EUR, as cards often don’t work), expect power outages (book accommodations with backup power if possible). Visiting supports local families during hard times, but go with realistic expectations about infrastructure and supplies.
For U.S. citizens, as is the case with all of Cuba, tourist travel is prohibited; however U.S. citizens can still travel to Cuba if their trip falls under one of 12 specific categories, requiring engagement with private Cuban businesses like casas particulares (guesthouses) and paladares (private restaurants) and documentation to prove compliance. No doubt, this a great boost to the local economy.
Travelers from any country need a valid passport, a Cuban Tourist Card (visa), and health insurance. U.S. travelers should use cash, as U.S. cards often don’t work.
Note: The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 2 advisory: Exercise Increased Caution, mainly due to crime and unreliable power. Bring plenty of cash (USD/EUR, as cards often don’t work), expect power outages (book accommodations with backup power if possible). Visiting supports local families during hard times, but go with realistic expectations about infrastructure and supplies.