If you are a new cigar smoker or just curious, you might wonder: how long does it take to smoke a cigar? The short answer is: it depends. On average, a cigar can take 15 minutes to over 2 hours to enjoy. This depends on its size, shape, tobacco blend, and your smoking style.
This guide is here to give you a complete understanding of cigar smoking times, so you can plan your next cigar break confidently. You’ll learn how long different types of cigars take to smoke, what affects smoking time, and how to choose the right cigar for the time you have.
Understanding the Basics: Cigar Size and Time
Cigars come in many shapes and sizes. Generally speaking, the bigger and thicker the cigar, the longer it takes to smoke. Here’s a breakdown of popular cigar types and their average smoking times:
| Cigar Type | Length | Ring Gauge | Estimated Smoking Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cigarillo / Mini | 3 to 4 inches | 20 to 30 | 10 to 20 minutes |
| Petit Corona | 4.5 inches | 40 to 42 | 25 to 35 minutes |
| Robusto | 5 inches | 50 | 45 minutes to 1 hour |
| Toro | 6 inches | 50 to 52 | 1 to 1.25 hours |
| Churchill | 7 inches | 47 | 1.5 to 2 hours |
| Torpedo / Belicoso | Varies | Tapered | 1 to 1.5 hours |
| Double Corona | 7.5 inches | 49 | 1.5 to 2+ hours |
As you can see, if you only have 20 minutes, you’ll want to go with a smaller cigar like a mini or petit corona. If you’re settling in for a long evening with friends or a book, a Churchill or Double Corona would be a better fit.
What Affects Cigar Smoking Time?
Smoking time isn’t just about the size. Here are the key factors that affect how long a cigar will last:
1. Size and Shape
- Bigger cigars last longer.
- Thicker cigars (with a larger ring gauge) burn slower.
- Uniquely shaped cigars like Torpedoes may burn differently but usually take more time.
2. Your Smoking Pace
- Cigar smoking is not like cigarette smoking. You should not inhale.
- Taking a puff every 30 to 60 seconds is ideal.
- Rushing leads to overheating, which spoils the taste and shortens the experience.
3. Construction and Tobacco Blend
- Well-constructed cigars burn more evenly and slowly.
- Tightly packed cigars often burn slower than loose-packed ones.
- Darker, stronger wrappers (like Maduro) can slow down the burn.
4. Storage Conditions
- Properly stored cigars (around 65–70% humidity) smoke better and last longer.
- A dry cigar burns too quickly and harshly.
- A wet cigar can burn unevenly and go out more often.
How to Smoke a Cigar the Right Way
Cigars are meant to be savored, not rushed. Here are some best practices:
- Cut the cap with a proper cigar cutter for a clean draw.
- Light the cigar evenly with a butane lighter or wooden match.
- Take gentle puffs every 30 to 60 seconds.
- Don’t inhale; let the smoke rest on your palate.
- Let the ash build up a bit—it keeps the burn cooler.
- If the cigar goes out, just relight it.
If you follow these tips, you’ll enjoy a more flavorful, longer-lasting smoke.
How to Pick a Cigar Based on Time
Knowing how much time you have can help you pick the right cigar. Here’s a helpful guide:
| Time Available | Ideal Cigar Type | Why It Works |
| 15–20 mins | Cigarillo or Mini | Quick, satisfying, easy for beginners |
| 30–45 mins | Petit Corona | Compact, flavorful, not too short |
| 45–60 mins | Robusto or Small Toro | Balanced for evening or social setting |
| 60–90 mins | Toro or Torpedo | Great for events or relaxed afternoons |
| 90+ mins | Churchill or Double Corona | Full experience, for serious unwind time |
How to Make a Cigar Last Longer (Without Rushing)
- Store cigars properly in a humidor.
- Keep your draw slow and steady.
- Avoid constant puffing, which burns the cigar faster.
- Let the cigar rest between puffs.
- Don’t overlight or touch up too often.
Remember, cigars are all about the experience. If you’re watching the clock, you’re probably not fully enjoying the smoke.
Common Cigar Myths About Smoking Time
“Bigger cigars are always better”
Not necessarily. If you don’t have the time to enjoy it, you’ll waste both the cigar and the experience.
“Faster smoking means more flavor”
Wrong. Rushing a cigar makes it taste hot and bitter.
“All cigars last over an hour”
Many cigars are designed for short, quality smoking sessions. There’s a cigar for every schedule.
Shop Cigars by Smoking Time
Whether you want a quick 20-minute break or a 2-hour relaxation session, we have a cigar for you. At Cuban Cigars Ireland, we offer:
- Cigarillos and minis for short smoke breaks
- Robustos and Toros for medium sessions
- Churchills and Limited Editions for full, luxurious experiences
- Beginner-friendly options and full-bodied blends for experienced smokers
All cigars are 100% authentic. We ship across Ireland and worldwide. Customs and duties? We handle them.
Browse now and find your perfect smoke: Shop Now
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I smoke half a cigar and save it for later?
Yes, but the taste may change. If you do this, let the cigar cool, cut the burnt end off, and store it in a humidor. Relight gently later.
Q: Do bigger cigars always last longer?
Usually, yes. But how you smoke it and how you make it also play a significant role.
Q: Is it okay if my cigar goes out?
Absolutely. People meant to savor cigars. Just relight and continue.
Q: What cigar should I choose if I only have 30 minutes?
A Petit Corona or a Robusto would be ideal. They offer good flavor in a shorter time frame.
Q: Do I need to smoke a cigar in one sitting?
Ideally, yes. Cigars provide a full experience. If you must pause, store it properly and relight later.