Havana, the capital of Cuba, is known for its vintage cars, colorful architecture, and cultural landmarks. With so many things to see and do, Havana is a traveler’s paradise. From exploring historic sites to indulging in local cuisine, Havana has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll cover the 19 best things to do in Havana, Cuba, so you can plan the perfect trip.
Introduction
Havana, the largest city in Cuba, is a vibrant and exciting destination. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and unique culture, Havana is a must-visit for any traveler. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Havana has something to offer.
Old Havana
Old Havana, also known as Habana Vieja, is the historic heart of the city. The area is filled with colonial-era buildings, cobblestone streets, and beautiful plazas. You can spend hours wandering the streets, admiring the architecture and soaking up the atmosphere. Some of the highlights of Old Havana include:
- Plaza de la Catedral: A beautiful square surrounded by colonial-era buildings, including the stunning Cathedral of Havana.
- Plaza de Armas: Another picturesque square, surrounded by historic buildings and home to a popular flea market.
- Castillo de la Real Fuerza: A historic fortress that now houses a museum of ceramics.
- El Templete: A neoclassical temple that marks the spot where Havana was founded in 1519.
Museums
Havana is home to a wide variety of museums, covering everything from art and history to science and technology. Some of the must-visit museums in Havana include:
- Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes: Cuba’s national museum of fine arts, featuring a collection of Cuban art from the colonial period to the present day.
- Museo de la Revolucion: A museum dedicated to the Cuban Revolution, housed in the former presidential palace.
- Museo Hemingway: The former home of American writer Ernest Hemingway, now a museum dedicated to his life and work.
Cigar factories
Cuban cigars are famous around the world, and Havana is the best place to see them being made. You can visit one of the city’s many cigar factories, where you’ll learn about the process of making cigars and have the chance to purchase some to take home. Some of the best cigar factories to visit in Havana include:
- Partagas Cigar Factory: One of the oldest and most famous cigar factories in Havana.
- Cohiba Cigar Factory: Known for producing some of the finest cigars in Cuba.
- Romeo y Julieta Cigar Factory: A popular factory with a wide variety of cigars on offer.
Live music
Music is an essential part of Cuban culture, and Havana is no exception. You can find live music playing throughout the city, from small bars to large concert venues. Some of the best places to catch live music in Havana include:
- Casa de la Musica: A popular music venue in the Miramar neighborhood, featuring live salsa music.
- Fabrica de Arte Cubano: A unique cultural center that hosts a variety of art exhibitions, concerts, and performances.
- La Zorra y el Cuervo: A popular jazz club in Havana’s Vedado neighborhood that features live jazz music every night.
- Buena Vista Social Club: A famous music venue in Havana that features live Cuban music performances.
- Tropicana Club: A historic nightclub that has been entertaining guests with music and dance shows since the 1930s.
Local cuisine
Cuban cuisine is a fusion of Spanish, African, and Caribbean flavors, making it unique and delicious. Havana is the perfect place to indulge in local cuisine, with a variety of restaurants and street vendors serving up traditional dishes. Some of the must-try dishes in Havana include:
- Ropa Vieja: Shredded beef cooked in a tomato-based sauce with peppers and onions.
- Moros y Cristianos: Rice and black beans cooked together with spices and sometimes topped with shredded pork.
- Tostones: Fried plantain slices, often served as a side dish or snack.
Vintage car tours
Havana is known for its vintage American cars, which are a popular attraction for visitors. You can take a tour of the city in a classic car, which is a fun and unique way to see the sights. Some of the most popular vintage car tours in Havana include:
- Havana Vintage Car Tours: A popular tour company offering a variety of vintage car tours, including a city tour and a sunset tour.
- Classic Cars Havana: Another popular tour company, with a range of vintage cars available for tours.
Beaches
Havana is located on the coast, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers. The city has several beautiful beaches within easy reach, including:
- Playa del Este: A series of beaches located to the east of Havana, with crystal-clear waters and white sand.
- Santa Maria del Mar: A popular beach with locals and visitors alike, located just 10 miles east of Havana.
Fusterlandia
Fusterlandia is a unique art installation in the Jaimanitas neighborhood of Havana. The area is filled with colorful mosaics and sculptures created by local artist Jose Fuster. You can wander through the streets and admire the art, or even visit Fuster’s studio.
Revolution Square
Revolution Square, or Plaza de la Revolucion, is a large public square in Havana. The square is surrounded by government buildings and features a monument to Cuban national hero Jose Marti. It’s a popular spot for rallies and events, and you can also take a guided tour of the area.
Morro Castle
Morro Castle is a historic fortress located on the west side of Havana Bay. The castle dates back to the 16th century and was built to protect the city from pirate attacks. You can visit the castle and explore the grounds, which offer stunning views of the bay.
El Capitolio
El Capitolio is a historic building located in the heart of Havana. It was built in the early 20th century as a seat of government and now houses the National Library of Cuba. You can take a guided tour of the building and admire the impressive architecture.
Malecon
The Malecon is a 5-mile long seafront promenade in Havana, offering stunning views of the ocean and the city. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, and you can find street performers, food vendors, and more along the way.
Hemingway’s House
Ernest Hemingway lived in Havana for many years, and his former home is now a museum dedicated to his life and work. You can visit the house and see Hemingway’s personal belongings, as well as the beautiful gardens and swimming pool.
Necropolis de Colon
Necropolis de Colon is a large cemetery in Havana, with beautiful mausoleums and memorials. The cemetery is the final resting place of many notable Cubans, including politicians, artists, and writers. You can take a guided tour of the cemetery and learn about its history.
Tropicana Cabaret
Tropicana Cabaret is a legendary nightclub in Havana that has been entertaining visitors since the 1930s. The cabaret features live music, dancing, and colorful costumes, making for a truly unforgettable night out.
Museum of the Revolution
The Museum of the Revolution is located in the former Presidential Palace in Havana. The museum tells the story of the Cuban Revolution, with exhibits on the history of the revolution and its leaders, including Fidel Castro and Che Guevara.
National Museum of Fine Arts
The National Museum of Fine Arts in Havana is home to an impressive collection of Cuban art, as well as works from other Latin American and European artists. The museum has two buildings, one dedicated to Cuban art and the other to international art.
Old Havana
Old Havana, or Habana Vieja, is the historic center of Havana and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is filled with beautiful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and lively plazas. You can spend hours wandering through the streets, admiring the colorful buildings and soaking up the atmosphere.
San Jose Craft Market
The San Jose Craft Market is a great place to shop for souvenirs and gifts. The market features stalls selling handmade crafts, artwork, and clothing, as well as food vendors and live music.
National Botanical Garden
The National Botanical Garden of Cuba is located just outside of Havana and is home to over 4,000 species of plants, including many rare and endangered species. You can take a guided tour of the gardens and learn about the plants and their conservation.
La Guarida
La Guarida is a popular restaurant in Havana, located in a beautiful old mansion in the Centro Habana neighborhood. The restaurant serves up delicious Cuban cuisine, with a focus on seafood, and has a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.
Cathedral of Havana
The Cathedral of Havana, or Catedral de San Cristobal, is a beautiful baroque-style cathedral located in Old Havana. The cathedral dates back to the 18th century and features stunning stained glass windows and a bell tower with panoramic views of the city.
Conclusion
Havana is a vibrant and exciting city, with plenty to see and do. From the delicious local cuisine to the vintage car tours and stunning beaches, there’s something for everyone in Havana. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or just soaking up the culture, Havana is a destination not to be missed.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Havana?
The best time to visit Havana is from December to May, when the weather is dry and temperatures are mild.
- Do I need a visa to visit Cuba?
Yes, visitors to Cuba are required to have a tourist visa, which can be obtained through a Cuban embassy or consulate.
- Can I use US dollars in Cuba?
No, US dollars are not accepted in Cuba. Visitors should bring cash in another currency, such as Euros or Canadian dollars, and exchange it for Cuban pesos.
- Is it safe to visit Havana?
Havana is generally a safe destination for visitors, but like any city, it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
- What should I wear in Havana?
Havana is a tropical destination, so lightweight clothing is recommended. Visitors should also bring comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets of Old Havana.
