New York City to Havana flights

Whether you are flying for family reasons or authorised cultural exchange, you can find a range of New York City to Havana flights departing from the city's major international hubs.

The most searched travel periods typically fall in September, August and October. When planning your trip, remember that the lowest fares are often found towards the end of November.

If you are departing from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), you will find five active terminals, including the recently renovated Terminal 8 and Terminal 4. The airport is currently undergoing a multi-billion dollar redevelopment. Reach JFK via the AirTrain JFK, which connects all terminals to the MTA subway and Long Island Rail Road. JetBlue and Delta operate frequent services here, usually from Terminals 4 and 5.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA) now features a consolidated three-terminal layout across Terminals A, B, and C. The LaGuardia Link Q70 SBS bus provides a direct subway connection. For those flying from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), the AirTrain Newark links the terminals to NJ Transit and Amtrak. All three hubs offer plenty of shops and restaurants to visit before your flight to Havana.

Flights from New York arrive at Jose Marti International Airport (HAV), Cuba's primary hub. Most international services land at Terminal 3, while regional flights use Terminal 2. To reach central Havana, take a taxi from the ranks outside the arrivals hall. Confirm the price with your driver before you set off. You can also book private hire vehicles in advance for a direct transfer.

Public buses do not serve the international terminals directly. For travel across the island, the Viazul bus station is in the Vedado district; you will need a taxi to reach it from the airport. Cuba uses the Cuban Peso (CUP), so keep some local currency handy for small expenses.

Entry requirements for Havana

Travel from the US to Cuba is regulated by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your stay. You also need a Cuban Tourist Card (visa), which airlines often provide.

US law prohibits travel for strictly 'tourism' purposes. When booking flights from New York to Havana, you must select one of the 12 authorised travel categories. 'Support for the Cuban People' is the most common choice for individuals. This requires a full-time schedule of activities that support local civil society and avoiding government-owned hotels.

Havana is defined by historic architecture and a soulful atmosphere. Explore the Old Havana (Habana Vieja) district, a UNESCO World Heritage site of colonial plazas and narrow streets. The Malecon, sea boulevard runs for 7km and is a local favourite at sunset. For art, the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes houses an extensive Cuban collection, while the bars in Vedado are the place to find the city’s famous music and dance culture.