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Santiago de Cuba, Santiago de Cuba Province to Havana, Ciudad de La Habana Province from $1: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santiago de Cuba, Cuba
to
Havana, Cuba

How to Get from Santiago de Cuba to Havana: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$1 by trainBest price
766 kmDistance
1h 56m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santiago de Cuba to Havana with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
1h  56m
Estimated price
$275-1130
Recommended
Company
Ferrocarriles de Cuba
Train
Average Duration
17h  25m
Estimated price
$1-4
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 766 km
Duration: 1h 56m

See more options

Company
Viazul
Bus
Average Duration
17h 
Estimated price
$9-45
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
11h  52m
Estimated price
$95-150
Company
Cubanacan Conectando
Drive
Average Duration
15h  25m
Estimated price
$140-330

Traveling From Santiago de Cuba to Havana

Traveling from Santiago de Cuba to Havana offers you a chance to experience two vibrant cities: Santiago, with its rich Afro-Cuban heritage and bustling local life, contrasts sharply with Havana's historic architecture and lively nightlife.

Best Neighborhoods in Havana

Havana features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct cultural experiences.

Old Havana (Habana Vieja)
• Home to iconic landmarks like El Capitolio.
• Cobblestone streets filled with vibrant street art.
Vedado
• Known for its modernist architecture and nightlife.
• Great restaurants and cultural venues abound.
Cerro
• Offers an authentic local Cuban experience.
• Close to the famous Colón Cemetery.

Best Times To Visit Havana's Attractions

Planning your visits around peak times helps enhance your Cuban experience.

Old Havana (Habana Vieja)
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid large tour groups.
Malecón
Late evenings provide a cooler atmosphere and a chance to enjoy local music.
Revolution Square
Weekdays are quieter, allowing deeper appreciation of its monumental significance.

Havana Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Havana enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and humidity year-round, with peak tourist seasons from December to April. Be mindful of the rainy season from May to October, as it can affect outdoor plans, but warm showers often clear quickly, making space for sun-filled afternoons.

Dining Recommendation in Havana

In Havana, savor the iconic Ropa Vieja at La Bodeguita del Medio, where the vibrant atmosphere and lively music create a dining experience that's distinct from the more traditional fare in Santiago de Cuba. The fusion of spices and tender, shredded beef reflects Havana's diverse influences, inviting you to explore a rich tapestry of flavors.

Santiago de Cuba - Havana operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santiago de Cuba and Havana, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
cubana.cu

Plane from Santiago (SCU) to Havana (HAV)

Average Duration
1h 32m
Estimated price
$270-2750

Plane from Santiago (SCU) to Havana (HAV)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$2751-2752
Train
Website
en.wikipedia.org

Train from Santiago de Cuba to Habana - Estación Central

Average Duration
17h 25m
Estimated price
$1-4
Bus
Contact phone
+53 59 89 0616
Website
viazul.wetransp.com

Bus from Santiago de Cuba to La Habana

Average Duration
17h
Estimated price
$50-75
Contact phone
+53 7873 7373
Website
facebook.com

Bus from Santiago de Cuba to La Habana

Average Duration
15h 20m
Estimated price
$9-45
Shuttle
Contact phone
+(537) 206 9590
Website
ecured.cu

Shuttle from Melia Santiago de Cuba to La Habana

Average Duration
15h 25m
Estimated price
$140-330
Drive

Drive from Santiago de Cuba to Havana

Average Duration
11h 52m
Estimated price
$95-150

Santiago de Cuba to Havana: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Santiago de Cuba and Havana offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

Average price
$95 - $150
Departure Point
Santiago de Cuba station
Arrival Point
Habana - Estación Central station
Departure Point
Santiago Airport
Arrival Point
Havana Airport
Departure Point
Santiago de Cuba station
Arrival Point
La Habana station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider booking your ticket in advance through Viazul (viazul.com) to secure your preferred departure time, as the buses can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Pack snacks and water for the long 17-hour bus journey, as although there are breaks during the trip, options for food may be limited in rural areas along the route.
• Upon arriving at La Habana station, look for the designated areas for taxi and transfer services; it's best to pre-arrange your transport to avoid confusion, or download local ride-sharing apps like Yutong or Taxi Habana before your arrival for easier navigation.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santiago de Cuba to Havana.

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The distance between Santiago de Cuba and Havana is 476 miles. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: it takes approximately 543 miles to drive, which would take around 11 hours and 52 minutes by car. By train, it takes 17 hours and 25 minutes. By flying to Havana and then taking a bus, it would take around 4 hours and 8 minutes. Lastly, by ferry, it takes 15 hours and 25 minutes to reach Havana from Santiago de Cuba.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santiago de Cuba to Havana is by taking the train, which costs between $1 and $4. However, it is the slowest option, taking 17 hours and 25 minutes for the journey. If time is a priority, the quickest and most time-efficient option is to fly to Havana and then take a bus, with a duration of 4 hours and 8 minutes. However, this option is more expensive, costing between $250 and $1200.
The prices of travel options between Santiago de Cuba and Havana vary depending on the mode of transportation. A train ticket can cost anywhere between $1 and $4. Taking a bus from Santiago de Cuba to Havana typically costs around $10. If you choose to travel by ferry, prices can range from $50 to $270. It is important to note that these prices are approximate and may vary.
To get from Santiago de Cuba to Havana without using public transportation, you can consider renting a car and driving. The driving distance is approximately 543 miles, and it takes around 11 hours and 52 minutes to complete the journey. Rental car prices in Cuba typically range from $95 to $150, depending on the duration of rental and the type of car.
The best way to travel from Santiago de Cuba to Havana without a car is by taking a bus. The journey takes approximately 17 hours and the fare is around $10. The bus is a convenient and affordable option for traveling between the two cities, allowing you to sit back and relax while enjoying the scenery along the way.
Yes, there is a direct link between Santiago de Cuba and Havana. You can take a train operated by Ferrocarriles de Cuba, which departs twice a week and takes approximately 17 hours and 25 minutes. Alternatively, there is a direct bus operated by Viazul, which departs four times a day and takes around 17 hours. Both options provide convenient transportation between Santiago de Cuba and Havana.
The flight between Santiago de Cuba and Havana typically takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, but it typically ranges from $100 to $200. It is recommended to check with different airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.