With a smattering of candy-colored buildings, Colonial architecture and vintage cars lining its streets, Havana is a must-visit for any tourist headed to Cuba. Founded in the 16th century, the city’s deep roots are on display for the world to see through its plethora of fascinating attractions, from lofty cathedrals to historic squares.

Those wishing to delve deeper into this enchanting city can participate in a free walking tour in Havana and experience the Cuban hotspot through the eyes of a local.

Here's all you need to know about free walking tours, one of the most engaging sightseeing tours in Havana.

How do free walking tours work?

Free walking tours in Havana have become increasingly popular in recent years as they provide tourists with an affordable and authentic way of experiencing this incredible city.

These tours are completely free to book and participate in, but it is encouraged that you tip your tour guide at the end of the tour. The amount you decide to tip is completely up to you.

How much should you tip?

When deciding how much to tip, think about the effort that your guide put into the tour and how much you enjoyed the tour overall.

Most tour participants tend to tip between US$10 and US$15 per person, but some people tip as much as US$50 for outstanding tours.

What are the best free walking tours in Havana?

Old Havana free walking tour

Those wishing to dive into the history of Cuba’s vibrant capital can do so on this free walking tour in Old Havana that explores its colonial streets that were first constructed in the 16th century. Your passionate guide will fill you in on intriguing facts about each destination, ensuring that you’re a pro by the end of the tour.

You’ll discover the Plaza de Armas — the oldest of the city’s squares — named after the military exercises that took place here. Moving on, you’ll visit the Castillo de La Real Fuerza, which once served as a fortification to protect the city against pirate raids and is one of the oldest stone forts on the continent.

Admire the romantic arches and intricate sculptures of the Museo de la Ciudad, which is home to a collection of artifacts showcasing the colonial background of the city, before continuing on to La Plaza San Francisco, and El Convento de San Francisco de Asís.

This religious monument was defiled in the 18th century during the Seven Years’ War, which was fought across Europe, the Americas and the Asia-Pacific. Discover the colorful Plaza Vieja, as well as the fascinating planetarium where visitors can explore more than 13 million years of the universe’s history.

The final sights on this spectacular tour include La Iglesia de la Catedral de La Habana, which is supposed to have housed the remains of the famed explorer, Christopher Columbus, and its surrounding square.

Modern Havana free walking tour

If you wish to explore the newer side of Cuba, participate in this guided tour that leads you through some of the most modern buildings in Havana. You’ll discover street art created by the famed Salvador González Escalona, that celebrates the Afro-Cuban culture that runs through the streets.

Continuing on, you’ll see the Hotel Nacional de Cuba — a prime hangout for the Mafia during the 1940s and 1950s. Notorious mobsters including Lucky Luciano, Frank Costello and Vito Genovese were known to have attended meetings at the venue.

Make your way past Coppelia — the number one ice cream parlor in Havana that serves over 35,000 foodies every day — before admiring the European architecture of the University of Havana.

Pay your respects to the most revered Latin American leaders through the ages at the Avenida de los Presidentes and discover the Vevado neighborhood, once run by the Mafia. Wander the ornate gravestones of Colón Cemetery where over 500 citizens are honored with intricate carvings and sculptures upon their memorials.

Casablanca neighborhood free walking tour in Havana

See an alternative side of Havana on this walking tour through the Casablanca district, exploring fortifications, castles and everything in between. After meeting your guide at Aracelio Iglesias Park, you’ll stroll across to the Bay of Havana where you’ll board a vessel to transport you to the Regla neighborhood where you'll be awed by the 20-meter Christ of Havana sculpture, built entirely of white marble.

See the former presidential palace, now home to a museum dedicated to Ernesto Guevara de la Serna — best known as Che Guevera — who played an important part in the Cuban Revolution of 1953. Discover the military history of the country at an open-air museum that houses the remains of a United States fighter jet and amble along to the Fortress of San Carlos de la Cabaña, which sits on a picturesque hill overlooking the city, and has seen its fair share of battle since its construction in the 18th century.

Pay a visit to the neighboring Castillo del Morro before ending your excursion at the Faro Castillo del Morro lighthouse.

Cuban tobacco free walking tour in Havana

Cuba has been famed for its cigars since the first production factories opened at the turn of the 18th century. On this free walking tour in Havana, you’ll explore the world of tobacco, learning how these iconic smokes are created.

Your guide will inform you of the different brands and recommend the ones that suit your personal tastes.

Purchase a pack of your favorites and participate in a masterclass that teaches you how to smoke your cigar like a local.

Before heading back to your accommodation, you’ll learn how to care for your purchase, including ideal temperatures and where to store your cigars.

In which languages is it operated?

Typically, free tours in Havana operate in either English or Spanish. Some excursions have a multi-lingual guide and, in these cases, you’ll simply select the timeslot during which the walk takes place in your preferred language.

As the popularity of free walking tours grows, the variety of languages on offer may also increase, making them accessible to a wider range of international tourists.

Where does it start?

Free walking tours in Havana start in a range of destinations across the city, including Parque de los Los Mártires and Plaza 13 de Marco. While Havana’s public transportation system is not as developed as in other major destinations, the city does have a reliable network of buses and taxis to help you navigate the streets with ease.

You’ll be able to see the meeting point of each excursion before booking so that you can plan your route and arrange any necessary transportation in advance.

How long does it last?

Free walking tours in Havana typically last between 2 and 3 hours, making them easy to slot into any itinerary, no matter how much time you have to spare in the city.

While you won’t be able to explore the entire destination in this short stretch of time, you will gain an insight into its culture and history alongside an enthusiastic local. It will also help you to acquaint yourself with Havana so that you can revisit any attractions that pique your interest later on.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

The majority of free tours in Havana are suitable for wheelchair users. You will need to advise your tour guide of any mobility issues at the time of booking so that they can ensure your needs are met and that the excursion is enjoyable for you.

While most of these walks are accessible, some are unsuitable for persons with disabilities, which is why you should consult the booking page to see whether your selected tour is appropriate for every member of your party. If not, those with limited mobility can select from a wide range of tours and activities in Havana.

When is the best time to join a free walking tour in Havana?

The best time for a free walking tour in Havana is in the dry season between November and April. The weather is relatively cooler and there's less rainfall. Temperatures during this period range from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius.

Starting your walking tour early in the morning allows you to enjoy the cooler temperatures and the city as it wakes up.

Should you book tickets online?

While you can wait until you arrive in the city to seek out a city tour, it is advisable to book a free walking tour in Havana online ahead of time. This will secure your excursion at the time and date of your choosing, helping you to organize your itinerary. You’ll also save precious vacation time upon arrival in Cuba, which would otherwise be spent roaming the streets looking for a guide.

You’ll be able to see an overview of each tour and the destinations it visits, as well as reviews to ensure you’re selecting an excursion that suits your own personal interests. Finally, it is free to book your slot and takes just a couple of minutes, meaning you have nothing to lose by doing so.

Free Walking Tours in Havana