The airport is 15 km south of central Havana. The drive passes through Havana suburbs and along the Rancho Boyeros avenue into the city.

About Havana City Center (Habana Vieja)

Habana Vieja (Old Havana) is one of the most atmospheric city centers in the Americas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where 16th-century Spanish colonial palaces, baroque churches, and art deco buildings line cobblestone streets patrolled by 1950s American classic cars. The four main plazas—Plaza de la Catedral, Plaza de Armas, Plaza Vieja, and Plaza de San Francisco—anchor the old city.

The Malecón, Havana's iconic 8-km seawall esplanade, stretches from Habana Vieja westward through Centro Habana to Vedado. At sunset, it fills with fishermen, musicians, lovers, and families—a nightly social gathering that defines the city. The Museo de la Revolución (former presidential palace), El Capitolio (modeled after the U.S. Capitol), and the Gran Teatro de La Habana line the nearby Paseo del Prado.

Centro Habana and Vedado offer additional attractions: the Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC) is Havana's cutting-edge art and nightlife space, while Vedado's mid-century hotels along the Rampa recall Havana's pre-revolution glamour. Live music—son, salsa, jazz—is everywhere, from intimate bars to the legendary Buena Vista Social Club.

Nearby Landmarks

El Capitolio Cathedral of Havana Plaza Vieja Malecón Museo de la Revolución

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $25-30 (fixed rate)
Time 25-40 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

Infrequent public buses run along Rancho Boyeros avenue but are unreliable and crowded. Not recommended for tourists.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $25-30 (fixed rate) 25-40 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Official state taxis operate 24/7 from José Martí Airport. A nighttime taxi to Habana Vieja costs CUP 25-35 (or $25-35 equivalent). There are no buses from the airport at night. Havana's nightlife in Habana Vieja and Vedado runs until 2-3 AM. Always confirm the fare before departure.

Luggage Tips

Airport taxis are typically vintage American cars or modern Chinese-made sedans. Trunk space varies—vintage cars may have limited boot space. Habana Vieja has narrow cobblestone streets; taxis may need to drop you at the edge of pedestrian zones. Carry bags the final meters to your casa particular.

Accessibility

José Martí Airport has basic wheelchair assistance. Modern taxis (not vintage cars) can accommodate wheelchairs more easily—request specifically. Habana Vieja's cobblestone streets are challenging for wheelchairs, though main plazas are paved. The Malecón promenade is mostly accessible with some curb challenges.