José Martí International Airport (HAV)

Official Cuban taxis are the most practical way to reach central Havana from the airport. The journey to Old Havana or Vedado takes around 30–40 minutes and costs approximately $25–30 USD. It’s important to agree on the fare before starting the ride, as meters are often not used. Some drivers accept payment in EUR or USD. 

Car rental desks from CubaCAR, Via and Rex are located in Terminals 2, 3 and 5. Availability is limited and vehicles should be reserved well in advance. Talk to your Travel Expert about organising car hire for your trip or book it yourself online before you leave. 

Cuba Airport’s terminals are spread across the airfield and a few kilometres apart. There is no formal inter-terminal shuttle bus, so if you need to move between terminals, a short taxi ride of 5–10 minutes is the easiest option. 

Many hotels and tour agencies provide pre-arranged shuttle buses or private transfers. If you’re on a package tour, your representative will usually meet you at arrivals. Private classic car transfers can also be booked in advance for a uniquely Cuban arrival experience. 

Short-term and long-term parking lots are available in front of each terminal. Fees are payable in Cuban pesos. 

A number of airlines fly into and out of Cuba Airport, including Cubana de Aviación, Copa Airlines, Iberia, Air France, Air Canada, Avianca, Aeroméxico, American Airlines, WestJet, Turkish Airlines and more. Havana connects to over 60 international destinations across the Americas, Europe and the Caribbean. 

As a general rule, you should aim to arrive at Cuba Airport at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. Processing times at Havana can be longer than at many other airports, so that extra buffer is always a good call. Check with the airport, airline or your Travel Expert directly for more information on recommended arrival times. 

The most practical way to reach central Havana from Cuba Airport is by official taxi, which takes around 30–40 minutes and costs approximately $25–30 USD. Hotel shuttles and pre-arranged private transfers are also available. There is no convenient direct public bus service from the terminal into the city. Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Lyft do not operate in Cuba. 

Yes, Cuba Airport has a Salón VIP in Terminal 3’s international departures area, offering complimentary drinks, light snacks and a quieter space away from the busy gate areas. Access can be purchased at the door for approximately $25 USD and is included with some business-class tickets or tour packages. A smaller VIP lounge is also available in Terminal 2. Check with the lounge directly or talk to your Travel Expert for more information. 

There are no hotels or dedicated sleeping facilities within the airport terminals. The Salón VIP in Terminal 3 offers a more comfortable space during operating hours. There are hotels located in the surrounding area for overnight stays. If you’ve got time between flights, a taxi into Havana for a few hours of exploring is always an option – and honestly, the old town is worth every minute. 

You may be able to earn loyalty points or rewards on eligible flights to or from Cuba Airport booked with us. When booking online, you’ll see a place to add your loyalty program or frequent flyer membership details if this is available, or you can ask your Travel Expert for help when booking in-store. If the booking meets your program’s requirements, you’ll earn points! For more information, check with your specific loyalty program and see our Booking Terms and Conditions. Keen for even more travel perks? Subscribe to our email list for birthday surprises, competition entries, exclusive deals and VIP pre-sale access to the hottest holiday savings around. 

Check-in times and baggage rules for flights departing from Cuba Airport will vary depending on your ticket, so make sure you confirm with your airline in advance. Remember, it’s often possible to check in online or via your airline’s app where available, which can help save time at the airport. For more information or help finding your check-in times and baggage limits, talk to your Travel Expert. 

Cuba Airport has multiple terminals. Terminal 3 is the main international terminal used by most foreign airlines. Terminal 2 handles some US charter flights, Terminal 1 serves domestic routes, and Terminal 5 covers Caribbean regional services. Always check your airline’s designated terminal before heading to the airport, and note that the terminals are a few kilometres apart with no formal shuttle between them. 

Yes, parking lots are available in front of each terminal at Cuba Airport. Fees are payable in Cuban pesos. Check with the airport for current rates. 

Cuba Airport has a small children’s play area near Gate 8 in Terminal 3. Basic restroom facilities are available throughout the terminals. It’s worth noting that facilities at Havana’s airport are more basic than many international airports, so packing essentials for little ones in your carry-on is a smart move. 

Keen to pick up some Cuban rum, cigars or coffee before you head home? The duty-free shops in Terminal 3’s departure area have you covered. Dining options are fairly basic – a few cafeterias and bars – so it’s worth grabbing a bite before you arrive or bringing snacks along. 

While last-minute sale fares to and from Cuba Airport may become available, you’ll generally find it pays to plan ahead, especially if you’re booking international flights. As a rough guide, we recommend booking domestic flights three to six months in advance and international flights six to nine months before you plan to fly. When it comes to balancing flexible travel dates with the biggest savings, this should give you the best of both worlds!