Travel, Visas & Accommodation in Havana
Practical guidance for international patients and families planning their visit to CIREN in Havana, Cuba.
Getting to Havana
International flights via José Martí International Airport (HAV).
Visa & Entry
Tourist card or visa required depending on nationality.
Where to Stay
Hotels and guesthouses near CIREN in the Siboney/Playa area.
Getting to Havana
Most international patients arrive at José Martí International Airport (HAV), located approximately 20 km southwest of central Havana. The airport receives direct flights from major hubs in Europe, Latin America, and Canada, with connecting options from other regions.
CIREN is located in the Siboney neighborhood of the Playa municipality, roughly 25–30 minutes by car from the airport. Airport taxis and pre-arranged transfers are the most common way to reach the institution and nearby accommodation.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for Cuba depend on your nationality. Most visitors need a Tourist Card (tarjeta del turista) or a visa, valid for a stay of up to 90 days. The Tourist Card is typically obtained through your airline, a Cuban consulate, or an authorized travel provider before departure.
Valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your planned stay
Tourist Card or visa, obtained before travel (available from airlines, consulates, or travel agents)
Return or onward flight ticket
Travel insurance with health coverage (required for entry into Cuba)
Sufficient funds or documentation of arranged services for the duration of the stay
Visa by Nationality
U.S. citizens do not need a Tourist Card. They must apply for Cuba's electronic visa (e-Visa) online through the official Cuban government portal before travel. Travel must still comply with U.S. regulations under authorized travel categories (including medical treatment). Apply at least 2–3 weeks before departure.
Canadian citizens need a Tourist Card, available from airlines serving Cuba, Cuban consulates, or authorized travel agencies. No advance visa is required for tourist stays up to 90 days.
Citizens of EU member states and the UK need a Tourist Card, obtainable from airlines, Cuban consulates, or travel agents. No advance visa required for stays up to 90 days.
Citizens of several Middle Eastern countries may be eligible for Cuba's electronic visa (e-Visa) through the official Cuban e-Visa portal, or may apply at a Cuban consulate. Check eligibility and apply online at the official Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs e-Visa platform before travel.
Cuba e-Visa: Cuba has introduced an electronic visa (e-Visa) for eligible nationalities, replacing the physical Tourist Card for some travelers. The e-Visa is applied for online before travel through the official Cuban government portal. Check whether your nationality qualifies and apply at least 2–3 weeks before departure.
Visa requirements change and vary by country. Confirm current entry rules with the Cuban embassy or consulate in your country, or with your travel provider, well before your travel date. CIREN's International Patient Coordination Desk can provide a confirmation letter of your scheduled evaluation to support your visa application if needed.
Accommodation in Havana
International patients and their families typically stay in hotels or private guesthouses (casas particulares) during their treatment period. The Siboney and Playa areas near CIREN offer the closest options, while the wider Havana area provides a broader range of accommodations.
Rooms
Pool
Dining
Gardens
CIREN Patient Residence
CIREN offers on-site lodging within the institution's grounds for international patients and one accompanying companion. Rooms are designed for medical stays, with direct access to clinical areas, meal service, and 24-hour nursing support. This is the most convenient option for patients in active treatment programs.
- Walking distance to all clinical and rehabilitation areas
- Meal service and dietary supervision included
- 24-hour nursing and emergency access
- Accommodation for one companion included in most programs
Availability is limited and allocated based on the treatment program. Request this option through the Coordination Desk when scheduling your evaluation.
Nearby Hotels
Hotels within a short distance of CIREN in the Siboney and Playa districts.
Hotel Memories Miramar Havana
Full-service hotel in the Miramar district, approximately 10–15 minutes from CIREN by car. Restaurant, pool, and accessibility features.
Suitable for families wanting hotel amenities near the institution.
Hotel Occidental Miramar
Well-established hotel on the Miramar coastline, about 15 minutes from CIREN. Multiple restaurants, business center, and sea views.
Good option for companions who prefer a larger hotel environment.
Hotel Panorama Havana
Mid-range hotel in the Playa area, roughly 10 minutes from CIREN. Comfortable rooms with breakfast included.
Convenient proximity for daily visits to the institution.
Casas Particulares (Guesthouses)
Private Cuban guesthouses in Siboney and Playa offering rooms with breakfast and meal options. An affordable, home-like choice for families.
Confirm proximity to CIREN and accessibility needs with the host before booking.
Central Havana Hotels
Larger hotels in Vedado and Old Havana, about 20–30 minutes from CIREN by car.
Hotel Nacional de Cuba
Historic landmark hotel in Vedado with gardens, pool, and panoramic views of the Malecón. Approximately 25 minutes from CIREN.
Ideal for companions who wish to explore Havana's cultural sites.
Hotel Meliá Cohiba
Modern full-service hotel on the Havana Malecón, about 25 minutes from CIREN. Restaurants, spa, and business facilities.
Factor in daily travel time to and from the institution.
Treatment programs at CIREN can span several weeks. Some hotels offer reduced rates for extended stays — ask the Coordination Desk about partner accommodations or negotiated rates when planning your visit.
Practical Information
Cuba operates with the Cuban Peso (CUP). International visitors should bring sufficient cash (EUR or USD are widely exchanged) and a payment card not issued by a U.S. bank, as card acceptance for foreign cards is limited.
Mobile data and Wi-Fi are available but can be limited. Consider an international roaming plan or a local SIM card. CIREN's coordination team can be reached by phone or WhatsApp.
Havana has a tropical climate. Pack lightweight clothing, sun protection, and any personal medical supplies you may need, as specific brands may not be available locally.
Spanish is the official language. English-speaking coordination staff are available at CIREN to assist international patients. A companion or translator can help with day-to-day communication.
Bring all original medical records and imaging with you. Digital copies on a USB drive or CD are also recommended. See the inquiry page for the full document checklist.
Need help planning your visit?
The International Patient Coordination Desk can assist with travel logistics, accommodation recommendations, and visa support letters.
Contact the Coordination DeskReady to learn more?
Contact the International Patient Coordination Desk for assistance.