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Havana Classic Car Tour, Cuba; How To Organise It!

On my journey to every country in the world, I found visiting the Caribbean countries a little boring (I know, I’m sorry). That was, at least, until I reached Cuba. Wow, what a destination! If you can set down the rum and cigars for a couple of hours, which is pretty difficult believe me, then the one “must-do” travel bucket list activity in Cuba is to take a Havana classic car tour.

Riding around Havana in the old-school American cars was perhaps the highlight of my whole 3 months in the Caribbean. But how do you organize a Havana Class Car tour when you’re in Havana? Don’t worry, it’s easy….

Visiting Havana, Cuba and Doing It Right. Resort or Local?

There are 2 ways you can experience Cuba. One is in an all-inclusive American-style holiday resort. This blends Cuba in with all the other resorts dotted around the Caribbean. Beautiful beaches, Western standards of service, and luxury. Great. But you sacrifice the flavor of Cuba that way.

The other way to visit Havana, and Cuba, is by staying in a ‘Casa Particular’ in Havana and beyond, and traveling independently. These Casa Particulars are like AirBnB 20 years before AirBnB was invented. You pay a local family to stay in their house, they include breakfast, you get a key and you’re free to explore. I stayed in THIS ONE if you want to check it out, lovely family. 

Currency In Cuba

Remember when you’re exploring In Cuba, they have 2 currencies. Convertible Peso (CUC) and the Cuban Peso (CUP). Essentially, as a foreigner, you only get access to CUC (1 to 1 with the dollar). Where the locals use CUP, which is 25 times less valuable.

This structure means these Casa Particulars allow local families to make real money and help them survive in a tough economy. So that’s another reason to use them.

Organising your classic Car tour in Havana; TOP-TIP

When you explore Havana, you’ll see that it’s not quite as elegant as blogs and Instagram suggest. It’s quite run-down. But with a distinct faded charm. And the classic car tour will highlight that further.

When it comes to organizing your Havana Classic Car Tour, you can head down to the Capitol Building and negotiate with the drivers. That is a tough experience. Most of these guys don’t own the cars. And they’re on the hard sell. Expect crazy price quotes and aggressive sales techniques.

A better option is to organize it online (about $55). You can book the Havana classic car tour here, it just takes 2 minutes. And avoid all the stress!

Havana Classic Car Tour; How it works

You can chat with the guy directly about where you meet, normally it’s around Hotel Angleterre in the city centre. Once there, your guide will introduce you to your driver, and you’ll be ready for your 2-hour tour. 

You’ll hop in a 1950s American convertible (before you ask, no you can’t drive it!), and up to 4 tourists can fit in one car. I went with just my buddy and 1, and 2 people in the back, with the driver up front alone, was perfect. If there was 4 of us, personally, I’d choose to book 2 cars to make sure you get the best experience, and don’t feel too cramped. If there was just 3 people, I’d take just the one car though, they’re quite spacious.

2 hour tour

The 2 hour tour breaks down into a 90-minute drive through Havana. You’ll check out ‘real’ Havana through Centro Habana, Miramar, and Vedado. And then onto the more famous spots like the Malecon, the glamorous 5th Avenue of Miramar, the American “Special Interests” building, Anti-Imperialist Square and finally you’ll get to Revolution Square. Home to the huge Che Guevara art piece. Epic.

HOW THE CLASSIC CAR TOUR FELT

Driving down Malecon Street with people looking at us, honking the old-school horn, I felt like an Irish travel blogging James Dean. Seriously though, soaking up the moment, like fifty years back in time. This was EXACTLY what I hoped Cuba was going to be like.

Our actual drive lasted between an hour and an hour and a half. Through the Plaza de la Revolucion where you get out to take pics, around the old city, where the guide explains about the history of the place.

Also, our guide was a bit of a superstar so we got quite deep into politics. Something I had been dying to chat to a Cuban about. Frankly, it was absolutely fascinating.

COCKTAILS TO FINISH OFF OUR CLASSIC CAR HAVANA TOUR

As our Havana classic car tour came to an end, and you shed a tear that your James Dean moment has ended, the tour isn’t over just yet.

You get dropped off at the famous Hotel Nacional. The hotel where all the various left-leaning celebrities over the last hundred years have stayed. They have a hall of fame where all their PHOTOS are listed.From the peak of society to the depths, it’s captivating.

After you’ve had your cultural fill though, it’s off outside with the high society, sitting in the plaza, overlooking the Caribbean sea drinking a cocktail of your choice (all included in the tour if you book directly online).

I actually really wanted a beer but I thought I’d hang on to the last remnants of my classy day and ordered one of Cuba’s beloved son’s, Ernest Hemmingway’s, favorite drink – a mojito, with no sugar of course.

Well played Ernie. Our guide had a frozen daiquiri which in all honesty was more delicious than my choice, but I didn’t tell anyone. Cuba backpacking, it’s been fun!

FAQs about Havana classic car tour in Cuba

1. What is a Havana classic car tour?

A Havana classic car tour is a guided sightseeing experience in which tourists ride in vintage American cars from the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s. These tours typically take you around Havana’s most iconic landmarks, neighborhoods, and cultural sites.

2. How long do the tours usually last?

Tours can vary in duration, typically ranging from 1 hour to half a day (4-5 hours). Some companies also offer customizable tours, where you can choose the duration and specific places you’d like to visit.

3. What are the most popular sights included in the tour?

Common stops on a Havana classic car tour include:

• El Capitolio (The National Capitol Building)

• Plaza de la Revolución

• Malecón (the famous seaside promenade)

• Old Havana (Habana Vieja)

• Fusterlandia (an artsy neighborhood)

• Morro Castle (overlooking Havana Bay)

4. Can I choose the car I want for the tour?

Yes, many tour operators allow you to choose from a selection of classic cars. Options typically include colorful convertibles and hardtops from brands like Chevrolet, Ford, Pontiac, and Cadillac.

5. Are the tours guided?

Most classic car tours in Havana include a guide who can provide commentary on the history, culture, and significance of the landmarks you visit. The guide often doubles as the driver, but some tours might have a separate driver and guide.

6. How much does a classic car tour in Havana cost?

Prices vary depending on the length of the tour and the type of car chosen. A typical 1-hour tour might cost around $30-50 USD, while a longer tour of 3-4 hours could range from $100-150 USD.

7. Do I need to book in advance?

While it is possible to book a tour on the spot, especially in popular tourist areas, it is advisable to book in advance, particularly if you have specific preferences for the car or tour duration. Booking in advance also ensures availability during peak tourist seasons.

8. Is it safe to take a classic car tour in Havana?

Yes, it is generally safe. The classic cars are well-maintained, and the drivers are experienced. However, it’s always good to check reviews and book with a reputable tour operator.

9. What should I bring on the tour?

• Camera/Phone: To capture the unique experience.

• Sunscreen/Hat: The Cuban sun can be strong, especially in convertibles.

• Water: Staying hydrated is important, especially on longer tours.

• Comfortable Clothing: Dress appropriately for the weather.

10. Are there any additional experiences included in the tour?

Some tours may offer extras like a stop at a local restaurant, a visit to a cigar factory, or even a brief walking tour of certain neighborhoods. It’s best to inquire about these when booking.

11. Can I take the tour if it rains?

Yes, you can still take the tour if it rains, though it might not be as enjoyable, especially if you’re in a convertible. Some tour operators offer the option to reschedule if the weather is poor.

12. What languages are the tours offered in?

Tours are often available in multiple languages, including Spanish, English, and sometimes French, German, or Italian, depending on the guide’s capabilities.