Cruise Havana in Cuba’s Classic Cars

Need I explain why Cuba’s classic cars are so cool? I’m not even a traditional “car person” and I could sit in a street-side bar for hours, mojito in hand, watching this living museum of automobiles parade by. For those fortunate enough to be travelling to the Caribbean island, you’ll find these cars used as taxis and touring vehicles. This makes it easy for you to experience Cuba’s classic cars among the many things to do in Havana.

Pink, 1955 Chevy Bel Air convertible in a classic car line up on the street — 1955 Chevy Bel Air convertible in a classic car line up

Aqua and white classic car driving through intersection

Yellow and white Ford, classic convertible viewed from the rear — A classic Ford, ready to take travellers on a ride

Aqua, vintage Ford Fairlane stopped at an intersection, with monument in background — Ford Fairlane

Cuba's Classic Cars | Duende by Madam ZoZo — Classic cars and the coolest mid-century petrol station architecture!

A line up of Classic American cars parked in Havana street — Classic American cars in Havana, Cuba

Aqua Chevrolet Styleline parked in a Havana street — Chevrolet Styleline

Blue classic car parked in front of blue building

Taurus in beige and white parked infront of a pink building — Ford Taurus

White Mercury and red Chevrolet convertibles parked in lush, green park — A Mercury and a Chevy in Almendares Natural Park, a common tour stop

Pink and white Ford convertible pulling away from curb with waving driver — The Ford Victoria that took us around Havana, outside Hotel Nacional

Notes on taking a Havana tour in one of Cuba’s classic cars

Generally, the drivers do not speak Spanish, so unless you also can confidently communicate in Spanish it may be better to pre-book a tour with a guide. That way you will get some commentary about the places you are visiting and seeing along the way.
If you are flagging down a car on the street, note that some classic cars are taxis or even private cars.
Routes vary depending on how much time you have and are willing to pay for. Official drivers carry a standard map which shows the routes and stops for 1, 2 and 3-hour tours with pricing. You will also need to pay in cash.
Pre-paid tours are usually 2-hours and CUC50-55 (USD50-55) per person. These generally include an English speaking guide and a sunset cocktail at the Hotel Nacional to conclude the tour. If you want to select a particular vehicle, expect to pay more.

A line up of classic cars beginning with a purple Ford — Ford and more

Cuba is a living museum of vintage cars. One can’t imagine how much time and sweat has been spent keeping these beauties on the road. Bring on those pastel-hued, dream-mobiles!

Peace, love & inspiring travel,

Madam ZoZo