sites to visit in havana cuba

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Havana

Things to do in havana, explore popular experiences, top attractions in havana.

Other Top Attractions around Havana

What travellers are saying

• Fusterlandia
• Fabrica De Arte Cubano
• Old Square (Plaza Vieja)
• El Capitolio
• Central Park
• Santa Maria del Mar
• Playas de Este
• Parque John Lennon
• Havana Forest
• Free Walking Tour Havana
• Cubaoutings
• Old Cars Havana

45+ Best Things To Do in Havana: A Local’s Guide for Travelers [2024]

As you plan your bucket list trip to Havana, Cuba, make sure to get out of the well-worn tourist path in this one-of-a-kind Cuban city . Riding in a vintage car, drinking rum, and smoking cigars can all be great things to do in Havana, but there is so much more that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Havana, Cuba .

As locals, we’ve traversed every corner of Havana many times over and even served as tour guides for all our family and friends as they explored Cuba. Read on for our local advice on the best things to do in Havana, Cuba, from visiting the top tourist attractions in the city to all the hidden gems that Havana has to offer.

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Best Things To Do in Havana, Cuba

While the tourist path in Havana can be quite well-worn, perhaps more so than in most places, in the past decade or so, this has begun to change. It’s easier to experience authentic Cuba than ever before , making now a better time than ever to visit Havana.

Looking for our top recommendations for the most unmissable things to do in Havana? These are the things that you absolutely can’t miss while in Havana:

• Explore Old Havana
• Stroll Down the Malecón
• Visit Fábrica de Arte Cubano
• Take in the View from El Morro or Cristo de la Habana
• Tour Havana in a Vintage American Convertible

Of course, there are so many more things to do in Havana that we recommend, as well as a number of day trips from Havana that will introduce you to some of Cuba’s most beautiful destinations. Read on for all our top tips for enjoying the best of Havana and experiencing it like a local.

Plan a Trip to Havana

• Havana, Cuba: A Local’s Guide for Travelers
• Where To Stay in Havana, Cuba
• 3-Day Havana Itinerary

Things To Do in Havana, Cuba

1. explore old havana.

A visit to Old Havana is a must for any traveler visiting Havana; it’s easily one of the best things to do in Havana. This historic area of the city is an incredible mix of architectural styles, museums, plazas, cafes, bars, and restaurants.

While this neighborhood isn’t very large – you can walk from one end to another in about 25 minutes – there is a lot to see here, so plan to spend at least three to four hours exploring to see the best of the area.  Narrow streets make it best to explore on foot, and tall buildings block the heat of the sun for most of the day.

An easy way to explore is with a free walking tour of Old Havana or a private guided tour for a more personalized experience. You can also take a self-guided walking tour by tracing a route around Old Havana’s four main plazas and exploring from there.

These are the four most beautiful plazas in Havana, the foundation for a good self-guided walking tour of the neighborhood:

• Plaza Vieja
• Plaza de Armas
• Plaza de la Catedral
• Plaza de San Francisco de Asis

Other highlights of the neighborhood include cool galleries, cafes, and restaurants, as well as other historic monuments, churches, and theaters. Part of enjoying the charm of the neighborhood comes in just wandering the streets, so try not to stick to too much of an itinerary.

Read More: Ultimate Guide to Exploring Old Havana

Cuba Travel 101

• Currency in Cuba: A Local’s Guide for Travelers
• How to Get Wifi in Cuba [Updated!]
• Is Cuba Safe? Updated Cuba Safety Guide
• Ultimate Cuba Travel Guide – A Local’s Advice for Travelers

2. Walk on the Malecón

Havana’s Malecón oceanfront promenade is a vital part of the city, and strolling along the sidewalk by the ocean (ideally at sunset) is a great way to take in the city. It’s totally free and is one of the very best things to do in Havana.

No matter what time of year you’re visiting Cuba, taking your obligatory Malecón stroll is usually best saved for the late afternoon when the sun is starting to fall or at sunset. With no shade on the Malecón, it can get wickedly hot during the day.

The Malecón also transforms into a gathering place for locals in the evening, with vendors selling wine and rum, candies, and other treats as groups of friends gather and sit on the wall to enjoy the breeze. Spots feel like a party atmosphere, while others are just for relaxing and chatting with friends – no matter what you’re looking for, it’s a blast.

3. Visit La Fábrica de Arte Cubano

You can’t come to Havana without visiting Fábrica de Arte Cubano . In just a decade since its founding, this mixed-use arts space has become world-famous, hosting everyone from Questlove and CimaFunk to Michelle Obama and Anthony Bourdain. 

This former cooking oil factory turned hotspot has several bars, multiple event spaces, rotating art exhibition spaces, and even a small restaurant inside. Open Thursdays through Sundays, each night features a rotation of live music performances, DJs, fashion shows, film screenings, dance shows, and much more.

Whether you’re interested in partying the night away among Havana’s elite or just checking out the newest photography exhibit on display, there is something at Fábrica de Arte Cubano for everyone. Neighboring El Cocinero is one of the most popular restaurants in Havana , with a great rooftop space.

Entry is just a few dollars and gives you access to the entire space for the whole evening. It’s a must for any Havana itinerary , no matter how short , and one of my personal favorite things to do in Havana.

4. Take in the View at Cristo de La Habana

Located directly across the harbor from Old Havana , you’ll notice a prominent statue of Christ with his arms outstretched towards the city – this is the famous Cristo de la Habana statue. While you’ll get a good view of the statue from Old Havana, the real reason to cross the harbor and visit the statue itself is for the view of the city from the platform before the statue. 

With a stunning panorama of the ocean and the skyline of Havana, it’s one of the best things to do in Havana, particularly if you can time a visit with Havana’s epic sunsets.

You can get here by taking the Lanchita de Regla from Old Havana – a small ferry that continuously crosses the harbor and costs just a few pesos. Or, combine a visit with a trip to El Morro and take the bus or a taxi through the tunnel underneath the harbor. 

5. Ride in a Vintage American Car

What is a trip to Cuba without a ride through Havana in a vintage American convertible ? This iconic experience is one of the best things to do in Havana – one that we consider to be a must! 

We recommend  booking these vintage car rides ahead of time online before you even arrive in Cuba (or from Cuba using a  VPN ).  It’s less cash you need to carry to Cuba, and you’ll avoid the hassle of bargaining with drivers. 

If you haven’t planned ahead, you can find cars willing to take you on tours of the city  from a few key places: in front of Parque Central (near Hotel Inglaterra or Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski), or Parque La Maestranza at the entrance to the Havana harbor. Of course, your hotel or guesthouse host can arrange these tours for you as well.

Reviews and Bookings: Vintage American Convertible Ride + Havana City Tour

6. Eat Street Food

Havana has great street food if you know where to look. You’ll find everything from coconut and guava pastries to roasted peanuts, churros, guarapo (sugar cane juice with lime), and savory treats like roast pork and pizza. Look for tiny hole-in-the-wall cafes with tiny menus hung outside; many locals use the front rooms of their houses as makeshift cafes or grab-and-go spots.

Taste as you explore, or join a street food tour through Old Havana – food tours are some of my favorite experiences for travel, as they’ll help you decipher menus and order the best local food for the rest of your trip. This is one of my favorite things to do in Havana when visitors come to town.

Read More: 25 Best Havana Restaurants

Best Places To Stay in Havana

• Casa Giraldilla ($) 
• Casa Flamboyan ($ – $$) 
• Residencia Santa Clara ($$) 
• El Candil Boutique Hotel ($$ – $$$) 
• La Reserva Vedado ($$$) 

7. Take a Free Walking Tour

What could be better than a free walking tour around the city with a local guide? You’ll find several opportunities for free walking tours in Havana, and should consider adding at least one of these excellent tours to your Havana itinerary:

• Old Havana Free Walking Tour
• El Vedado Free Walking Tour
• Havana at Night: Free Walking Tour

Civitatis – a Spanish travel experience company – offers countless well-done experiences and tours for travelers in Cuba . They’re one of the only travel companies currently allowing for online bookings for experiences in Cuba. Make sure to book a free Havana tour and check out the rest of their excellent Cuba experiences while you’re at it.

8. Learn to Make a Mojito

Even if you’re not a fan of tours or group experiences when traveling, this might be an experience you can get behind! Taking a mixology class in Havana can be a great way to learn about Cuba as the birthplace of some of the world’s most famous drinks , like the daiquiri, mojito, and some of the planet’s best rum.

A favorite place for mixology classes in Havana is Cuban Spirits . These classes are also a great way to meet other travelers – and your local teacher! – which can help enhance your trip even more. Or, join a “cocktail tour” of Havana if you’d prefer to sip as you visit some of the city’s most popular bars in Old Havana.

9. Follow in Hemingway’s Footsteps

At the beginning of the 20th century, Havana was the second home to countless world-famous writers, artists, and creatives, among them Ernest Hemingway. Today, visitors to Havana can take a guided Hemingway tour or follow in Ernest Hemingway’s footsteps by visiting some of his favorite spots in Havana:

El Floridita

This world-famous bar and restaurant at the entrance to Calle Obispo is known as the “cradle of the daiquiri.” Hemingway was known to down several at a time in the corner of the bar, which memorializes him with a large bronze statue.

Today, El Floridita is packed with tourists – come to see the statue and walk through this historic space but head elsewhere for drinks and food. Your wallet (and local small business owners) will thank you.

Hotel Ambos Mundos

Hotel Ambos Mundos was Hemingway’s home away from home before he purchased his estate outside of Havana, Finca Vigía.

Today visitors can check out the small museum in this Old Havana hotel dedicated to the author located in room 511 – where Hemingway stayed – or enjoy one of Hemingway’s favorite drinks at the bar.  Many people don’t know about this, but I think it’s one of the best things to do in Havana, Cuba.

Finca Vigía

Hemingway’s home on the outskirts of Havana is a must for any visitor interested in the famous writer. The estate is lovely, kept in its original condition, with its original furnishings and many of his personal belongings. Whether you’re a Hemingway fan or not, a visit to Finca Vigía is one of the best things to do in Havana, Cuba.

La Bodeguita del Medio

Yet another bar in Havana that Hemingway helped make famous (he loved his drinks – clearly!), La Bodeguita del Medio is a Havana institution. Like El Floridita, I don’t recommend hanging around – unfortunately, it’s a bit of a tourist trap these days, though still worth visiting and taking a peek. You’ll often find street performers outside.

What to Pack for Cuba

Check out our  Ultimate Cuba Packing List   to help you pack for your trip – we’re sharing exactly what to bring to Cuba and what we never travel without.

10. Explore Havana By Bike

Exploring the city by bike is increasingly one of the most popular things to do in Havana. You’ll find plenty of bike tours that travel through every corner of Havana and help travelers see the city in a unique way with an experienced local guide. 

While parts of Havana can get congested, it’s generally a great city for biking, especially if you stick to the flatter neighborhoods like Old Havana and Vedado – venture further inland, and you’ll start to hit some wicked hills.

You can book a free Havana bike tour (though you’ll likely have to rent your own bike!), or a more comprehensive bike tour with Ruta Bikes, which has a variety of tour routes and lengths to choose from. 

11. Listen For El Cañonazo

To enjoy a long-standing Havana tradition, listen up at exactly 9:00 PM each night for the sound of the “cañonazo” – a canon shot firing from Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabaña – a fortress directly across the harbor from Old Havana. 

While you’ll be able to hear the booming sound of the cañonazo even in the neighborhoods of the city further from the fort, you’ll be able to experience it best – of course – by visiting the fort itself, which is one of the most popular things to do in Havana for visitors.

The cannon shot is fired as part of an elaborate changing of the guard ceremony, including guards with traditional uniforms and torches announcing the traditional closing of Havana’s harbor for the night. You can visit the fort any time of day, but it’s best saved for sunset.

Travel Insurance

Cuba requires that all travelers have proof of a comprehensive travel insurance policy in order to enter the country. Check out our guide to travel insurance for Cuba for more details. We recommend these brands for Cuba travel insurance:

• Visitors Coverage : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries, though not currently available to residents of New York and Maryland in the United States.
• Insubuy : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries and states of the United States.

12. Visit the Cemetery

Believe it or not, Havana’s historic Cementerio de Cristóbal Colón is a fantastic spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city while taking in the incredible architecture of the mausoleums and tombs of Havana’s elite . It’s secretly one of the best things to do in Havana.

It may not make it to the top of most Havana itineraries, but it’s a great way to spend an hour or two in Havana , enjoying some of the city’s impressive monuments, and visiting its long-gone historic residents. You can also plan for a free walking tour of the Cementerio de Cristóbal Colón – a great way to learn more about the history of this destination. 

13. Enjoy a Sunset Drink in a Swanky Hotel

Havana sunsets are something else; maybe it’s something about the light, the ocean, or just the way Cubans slow down and enjoy it, but Havana sunsets are truly extraordinary. Join the locals on the Malecón for a front-seat view, or grab a drink at the rooftop bar of one of the city’s luxury hotels for an unforgettable happy hour – this is easily one of the best things to do in Havana, Cuba.

You can’t go wrong with settling in for sunset at the Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski rooftop bar – facing west and overlooking the Parque Central, El Capitolio, and the Museo de Bellas Artes, the views are some of the best in Havana. Plus, make sure to hang around until the Gran Teatro de la Habana – Havana’s ornate theater – is lit up at dusk. It’s one of the city’s prettiest buildings. 

Another option is the rooftop bar at the Royalton Habana, facing the ocean and with an incredible view over El Vedado, a drink at sunset makes for an incredible view . Or, head to the Iberostar Grand Packard for a stunning view of El Morro across the harbor, though the positioning of the building doesn’t allow for the greatest sunset views.

Read More: 15+ Best Hotels in Havana

Travel Essential

Don’t think about traveling to Cuba without a good  VPN (Virtual Private Network) . Using a VPN while connecting to the internet is an easy way to keep your personal information safe from hackers and trackers.  We’ve used  NordVPN  for years and couldn’t recommend it more – it’s a must for safety online, especially in Cuba. 

14. Take a Spanish Lesson

Spanish classes in Havana are inexpensive and FUN. We know several language instructors in Havana, and they love to incorporate “field trips” around the city into their classes, which is the best way to learn! If you’re in Cuba for a while, this is one of the best things to do in Havana.

Estudio Sampere in the neighborhood of La Víbora is a great choice for a more local experience, or Corazón Cuba is a great option in Old Havana if you’re traveling on a shorter itinerary.  

Keep in mind that the Cuban accent is considered one of the most challenging to understand , as are the accents of Spanish speakers in the rest of the Caribbean . Combined with a ton of unique Cuban slang words – even advanced Spanish speakers can find communicating with Cubans sometimes challenging!

15. Hit the Beach

Cuba is well-known for having some of the best beaches in the world, so a trip to the country without visiting at least one pristine beach is almost sacrilegious. However, the beaches closest to Havana aren’t necessarily among the best in the country – you’ll need to travel a bit further to find that white sand and clear water you’re looking for.

The closest excellent beach to Havana is Varadero , and at just two hours from Havana, it’s a doable day trip from Havana ! You can find buses that depart several times a day from Havana’s central bus terminal near the Plaza de la Revolución or schedule a day trip to Varadero with private transportation. 

If you’d rather stay closer to Havana, visiting the Playas del Este, just east of Havana, is an easy trip, and you’ll still have a great beach experience. Transport by taxi is inexpensive, or take the T3 bus that departs from Parque Central in Old Havana.

Havana Beaches Guides

• 7 Best Beaches in Havana
• Playas del Este: A Guide to Havana’s Eastern Beaches

16. Eat Ice Cream at Coppelia

You can’t visit Havana without getting ice cream at Coppelia !  This world-famous ice cream parlor was built after the Revolution and had dozens of daily flavors in its heyday. Still just as popular as it has been for decades (with lines snaking around the park to prove it), you’ll find just a few flavors on the menu these days.

At the entrance to the park,  as a tourist, you’ll likely be ushered over to smaller ice cream stands around the sides of the park rather than directed to the main Coppelia building at the center of the park.  You’ll avoid waiting in long lines this way, and the ice cream is the same, though sometimes tourists get more flavor options. 

After eating, feel free to wander through the rest of the park and visit the main building.  The building has a beautiful retro style – make sure to see the ceiling on the inside!

17. Visit Museo de la Revolución

Cuba’s former presidential palace is now the Museo de la Revolución – the Museum of the Revolution, one of the most important museums in the country.

The bullet holes on the outside of the building remain from when the palace was taken during the revolution as dictator Fulgencio Batista fled the country with suitcases filled with cash. In addition to museum exhibits, you’ll see the lavish spaces like ballrooms and meeting rooms used to entertain dignitaries before the revolution.

Some of the most interesting details of the building are the paintings mocking U.S. political leaders (to the right of the staircase on the first floor) and the plaza in the back of the building, where you’ll find all manner of boats, cars, and tanks of historical importance.

Most exhibits are only in Spanish, so make sure you come prepared with Google Translate downloaded to make the most of them if you’re not fluent or come as part of a Havana city tour with a guide who can translate the most important details for you.

Read More: 10 Best Apps for Travel in Cuba

18. Try Cuban Coffee at the Best Cafes in Havana

Cuba is known for its delicious, one-of-a-kind coffee, and plenty of new cafes have popped up across Havana in recent years to showcase the best coffee you’ll find in the country. Stop by favorites like El Café in Old Havana – always my first stop in Havana! – or the cool HAV Coffee & Art for the city’s best cup of coffee and some delicious treats to go along with it. 

At the city’s best cafes, you’ll find different options for coffee, like café con leche, lattes, and everything in between. However, most Cubans get their coffee from the tiny “cafes” mostly industrious neighbors selling sweet espresso shots from thermoses from their front room windows . If you’re looking for the true Cuban coffee experience, keep your eyes peeled for a spot like this.

Read More: 10 Best Cafes in Havana, Cuba

19. Watch a Movie at the Yara

Located in the Vedado neighborhood just across from the Coppelia ice cream parlor, the Yara is one of Cuba’s most iconic theaters. Movie tickets are cheap – just a few pesos – and can be a great way to escape the late afternoon heat. Of course, you’ll likely need to speak Spanish to get the full experience – unless the theater is hosting a dubbed movie with subtitles or an international film festival.

Be on the lookout for international film festivals here! They draw quite a crowd and offer new international and Cuban favorites! Even if you don’t attend a screening, make sure to check out the lovely collection of vintage movie posters at the entrance.

20. Stay in a Casa Particular

There is no lack of great places to stay in Havana . From luxurious modern hotels to historic boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts, the city is filled with great options at all price ranges. However, choosing to stay at a casa particular guesthouse is an experience all its own.

A casa particular is a private property rented to travelers by a Cuban – these have been the preferred places to stay for visitors to Cuba long before Airbnb popularized the concept around the world! You can find all types and styles of casas particulares, ranging from rooms for rent to basic private apartments and even elegant, restored mansions.

These are our guides to the best casas particulares in Havana:

• 6 Best Casas Particulares in Old Havana
• 6 Best Casas Particulares in Vedado, Havana

21. Visit the Museo de Bellas Artes

Havana is home to two different Museo de Bellas Artes (Museum of Fine Arts) institutions, both fantastic and engaging to visit. The Museum of International Art is located across the street from the Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski , while the Museum of Cuban Art is located across the plaza from the Museo de la Revolución, both in Old Havana.  

For most visitors looking to choose just one museum to visit in Havana, I recommend choosing the Museum of Cuban Art. The more casual observer should head to the post-Revolutionary art area of the museum. You’ll find fascinating portraits of revolutionary leaders in interesting styles and tons of famous paintings by Cuban masters.

A must-see? Wifredo Lam’s The Jungle – it looks very much like Picasso’s Guernica .

22. Visit Havana’s Countryside

If you’re looking to see another side of Cuba, get out of the city! Havana is just one part of Cuba, and the Cuban countryside has so much to offer travelers as well. You’ll find plenty of options for excursions into the Havana countryside to visit local farms, eat delicious, homecooked meals, and more – most casa particular owners can arrange these!

A  day trip to Viñales  or a few days’ stay in Viñales is a convenient way to see this part of Cuba while taking in some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. Consider staying at Finca Media Luna – this farm-turned-ecohotel has great food, comfortable rooms, and excellent excursions throughout the stunning Viñales Valley. 

23. Go to the Ballet

Cuba’s National Ballet is one of the world’s best, and taking in a performance at the ornate Gran Teatro de La Habana is an excellent way to visit one of the city’s most beautiful buildings – and appreciate this art form all at once. Tickets are inexpensive compared to similar quality performances in other places, and it’s a great way to take in this vital part of Havana’s cultural scene. 

Even if you don’t want to attend a performance here, make sure to visit the building! It was recently renovated and is exceedingly impressive. Make sure to take in the illuminated exterior after sunset from the rooftop of the Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski !

24. Try The World’s Best Cigars

Cuba is well known for having the world’s best cigars, so would you even consider visiting Havana without trying one? Personally, this isn’t exactly our thing, but here’s how to enjoy it if you’d love to add this to your things to do in Havana :

Take a Day Trip to Viñales

With a day trip to Viñales , the region of Cuba that produces the best tobacco in Cuba, you’ll learn all about the production of tobacco and how cigars are made. Plus, you’ll get to purchase super-fresh cigars rolled right in front of you. It’s a must if you love cigars!

Visit the Cigar Bar in the Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski

Part of one of the lower floors of this grand Old Havana hotel is reserved for a large walk-in humidor and cigar bar. You can sample the country’s best cigars in style or check out the offerings in the walk-in humidor.

25. Sip Drinks at a Rooftop Bar

There is nothing like a good Havana sunset, though having a drink in hand to watch it might make it even better. Here are some of the best spots for a rooftop drink in Havana – whether its sunset or the wee hours of the morning:

• Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski in Old Havana
• El Del Frente restaurant in Old Havana
• La Guarida in Centro Habana
• Malecon 663 in Old Havana

Havana sunsets are legendary, so whether you have a drink in hand or not, this is one of the best things to do in Havana. Head to the Malecón if you’re looking for a free thing to do in Havana along these lines!

Read More: 25 Best Restaurants in Havana

26. Visit Art Galleries on Calle Obispo

Calle Obispo is an important pedestrian thoroughfare cutting through Old Havana – walking this street lined with restaurants, museums, shops, and galleries is a must when visiting Old Havana. While it is one of the most “touristy” streets in Old Havana, there is much to see and do here, including an artisan market, cafes, museums, and restaurants with live music.

While there is no lack of things to see and do along the way, make sure to stop in all the independent art galleries along the street. José’s friends own and work from Galeria 360 (at Calle Obispo #360) – their hyperrealistic work is truly unbelievable.

Make sure to stop by and tell them we sent you – maybe you’ll see us hanging around!

More Havana Guides

• Ultimate Guide to Exploring Old Havana
• Where to Stay in Havana + Havana Neighborhoods Guide
• 15+ Best Hotels in Havana

27. Eat the World-Famous La Guarida

La Guarida is Havana’s best restaurant and a fine dining staple in the city. Located in the Centro Habana neighborhood of the city, it has welcomed everyone from the Kardashians and Madonna to President Obama on his history-making trip to Cuba.

Serving up delicious and inventive takes on Cuban classics in its stunning dining room and on its gorgeous rooftop, it’s an absolute must while in Havana! If you want a table at this famous spot, make sure to make a reservation ahead of time , especially during the high season of travel. 

Read More: 25 Best Restaurants in Havana, Cuba

28. Snorkel Among A Shipwreck

Is there any decent snorkeling near Havana? Yes! Just outside of the city, you’ll find some great dive spots, including two shipwrecks in relatively shallow water in Playas del Este on the east side of the city.

Snorkeling guides can take you from the beach to the shallow wrecks of the SS Olivette, which sunk in 1918, or the City of Alexandria, which sunk in 1893.

While the snorkeling spots aren’t off-limits to swimmers without guides, it’s best to schedule a guide so you’ll have access to gear and clear directions about how to reach the wrecks – even many locals aren’t aware they’re just off the coast here! 

29. Visit the Plaza de la Revolución

Plaza de La Revolución is one of the most emblematic spots in Havana – this is where Fidel Castro gave his famously long speeches to the public. We’ve likely all seen photos of the square packed with Cubans waving flags and banners on the nation’s most important holidays.

Here, you’ll see the famous statue of José Martí and the buildings with images of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos, two of Cuba’s most well-known revolutionary heroes. 

If you’re planning on taking a  drive through Havana in a vintage American car , you’ll undoubtedly visit the Plaza de la Revolución as part of your trip around the city ;   book your tour  for early on in your time to Havana. 

30. Stay in a Mansion in El Vedado

While many travelers stay in Old Havana, I’m a big believer in finding accommodations in Havana’s more modern waterfront neighborhood: El Vedado. Packed with restaurants, bars, and cafes, this upscale neighborhood is a great choice for where to stay in Havana , especially if you’re looking for a historic spot.

Many of the area’s historic mansions have been converted to boutique hotels – check out La Reserva Vedado or Calis Habana for two excellent options, some of my favorite places to stay in all of Havana.

The neighborhood is walkable, and wide streets and stunning architecture make it a real treat. Even if you don’t stay in El Vedado, visiting this charming neighborhood is absolutely one of the best things to do in Havana, Cuba.

Read More: Best Places to Stay in El Vedado, Havana

31. Take In A Show at La Tropicana

La Tropicana is a long-standing concert venue and club on the outskirts of Havana, known around the world for being one of the most important destinations in launching Cuban rhythms like salsa onto the world scene. All the most important musical acts from Cuba have performed here, and the history of this spot is palpable.

Make sure to add La Tropicana to your itinerary to witness incredible local dances performed in extravagant costumes, plus unforgettable performances of salsa, bachata, rumba , and the other musical rhythms Cuba is known for. The shows are extraordinary!

Reviews and Bookings: La Tropicana Ticket + Transportation

32. Learn About Santería

Santería is Cuba’s homegrown religion, a fascinating mix of African religious traditions with the Catholicism imposed by Spanish colonizers. You’ll see signs of it wherever you travel in Cuba: beaded necklaces and bracelets (often green and yellow, red and black, or blue and white), dried palm leaves or straw hanging over doorways, and new adherents dressed from head to toe in white. 

You’ll also (sometimes!) see people making sacrifices on the Malecón (sometimes roosters, more often just coins or other personal items) or in front of the Catholic Church in the neighborhood of Regla. The best way to learn more about these fascinating traditions is with a  Yoruba Religion Tour  around Havana – you’ll see famous destinations in Havana and learn so much with a local guide. 

33. Learn to Salsa

If you’re looking for a great activity while in Havana, consider taking a salsa class!  Salsa classes in Havana are a fantastic way to learn about and master this important part of Cuban culture. With everything from beginner classes to workshops for advanced masters, dance schools in Havana make it easy to improve your skills.

Civitatis has excellent salsa classes  I recommend for travelers on a quick Havana itinerary . If you’ll end up spending a bit more time in Havana and want to get a little better at salsa (or bachata, rumba, or countless other dance styles!),  look into options for a series of classes at the much-loved  Salsabor dance school.

34. See Havana Harbor by Boat

Most cruise ships have paused visiting Cuba due to changing U.S. legislation, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the Havana harbor by boat! Take the Lanchita de Regla – a ferry from one side of the harbor to the other – for just a few pesos and get a view of Havana on the water.

Ferries take you across the bay to just below the Cristo de la Habana statue (called the Casa Blanca dock) or to Regla, another neighborhood across Havana’s bay. Taking in the view from below the statue is one of my favorite things to do in Havana, and taking the Lanchita de Regla is my favorite way to get there.

You can catch the ferry from the dock in Old Havana – the ferry dock is facing the Russian Orthodox church along the Avenida del Puerto – or from the docks at Casa Blanca and in the Regla neighborhood on the other side of the harbor. 

35. Spend an Afternoon by the Pool

Havana is hot year-round, so spending an afternoon by the pool is welcome. Many of the major hotels in Old Havana and Vedado have pools, including the Hotel Nacional, Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski, and the Iberostar Grand Packard.

If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path place to stay with a pool, check out the lovely La Rosa de Ortega bed and breakfast in the neighborhood of La Víbora. Just a 10-minute taxi ride from the center of town, its private pool and grounds feel like an oasis away from the city. It’s one of our favorite hotels in Havana .

Havana Accommodation Guides

• Where to Stay in Havana, Cuba: Ultimate Guide!
• 6 + Best Resorts in Havana
• Best Casas Particulares in Old Havana

36. Visit Havana’s Jardin Botánico

Another fantastic way to escape the heat in Havana is with a visit to the Jardin Botánico. These sprawling botanical gardens are home to a Japanese Garden, lakes, bridges, countless species of plants, and three glass houses with a wide variety of plants.

They are located somewhat outside of the city center, so plan for a 15-minute taxi ride to reach the area if you plan to visit. You won’t find this on many Havana itineraries, but it’s one of the best off-the-beaten-path things to do in Havana.

37. Learn About ( + Sample!) Cuba’s Best Rum

You won’t be hard-pressed to find a good place to try Cuba’s excellent, world-famous rum while you’re in Havana. However, if you want to learn more about rum and rum production, head to the  Museo del Ron , located along Havana’s harbor. Factory tours of the facility are extensive and include, of course, delicious taste tests.

Not in the mood for a museum? No worries – you’ll have endless opportunities to sample Cuban rum; just make sure to try the famous Havana Club brand at least once. It’s one of the best things to do in Havana (or one of the best things to do in Cuba ).

38. Shop At Clandestina

Clandestina  is a must-visit design store in Old Havana. As Cuba’s first independent clothing brand, launched in 2015, Clandestina has broken records, set trends, and overcome the challenges of simply existing as a small business in Cuba.

At their Old Havana storefront, you’ll find clothing, accessories, home goods, art, and much more, all with unique, tongue-in-cheek designs that are so very Cuba.  Anything from Clandestina will be a unique Cuban souvenir. 

Staff will also have the best recommendations for local concerts, parties, and the like (some of the best things to do in Havana if you’re lucky enough to be in town when they’re happening).

39. Relive Cuba’s History at Memorias

Memorias  is another excellent little shop in Old Havana that is well worth a visit.  This tiny shop is stuffed with antique trinkets, old posters, postcards, and so much more – it is easily one of my favorite shops in Havana. 

Visiting Memorias feels like making a stop at a museum of Havana’s history – but where you’re able to take some history home with you. You’ll find trinkets like antique cigar boxes, beautiful posters and postcards, banners, pins, and more. 

40. Visit Cuba Libro

Havana’s only English-language bookstore,  Cuba Libro  is much more than just books. This chill spot in El Vedado has delicious treats and pastries, excellent coffee, iced tea, and a shaded patio for escaping from the Havana sun. Leaf through books, grab one of their delicious hibiscus iced teas, and get chatting with locals and expats, or other savvy travelers who love this special spot.

Make sure to check out the poster board in Cuba Libro while you’re there. It’s always covered with fliers advertising local events, concerts, and small businesses advertising their services around the city. 

41. Take a Day Trip to Viñales

While the jaw-dropping Viñales Valley deserves as much time as you can make for it in your Cuba itinerary, even a day trip to Viñales will do – you don’t want to miss it! Known for its incredible limestone karsts, jutting up out of the valley to create a stunning landscape,

Viñales is also home to incredible caves to explore, the country’s best tobacco farms, and incredible sunsets. Plus, it’s just a short trip to Cayo Jutias, a natural island off the coast of Cuba – one of the most underrated Caribbean islands , and home to some of Cuba’s best beaches . 

Or, take a dedicated day trip from Havana straight to Cayo Jutias!

42. Debate Baseball With Cuba’s Baseball Superfans

On the southwest corner of Old Havana’s Plaza Central, you’ll find one of the city’s most unique and talked-about icons. It’s a group of baseball mega fans who have earned this corner of the plaza the nickname “Esquina Caliente,” or “hot corner” because arguments can, at times, get heated!

This group of usually older men seems to always be here, rain or shine, and always informed about the latest game or more recent stats on baseball – or, “pelota.” Trust me, even if you don’t speak Spanish, people-watching at La Esquina Caliente is a riot – one of the best free things to do in Havana!

Sometimes you’ll even see baseball stars head to the Esquina Caliente themselves, which is always a treat for the regulars and passersby alike. Once, we even spotted some MLB stars from the US visiting the corner, with a crowd of paparazzi close behind!

43. Stroll Down Parque G

Extending from the Malecón seawall through the heart of the Vedado neighborhood, Parque G is a long, skinny park – more like a wide, grassy walkway – but is among one of Havana’s most interesting parks. Lined with statues of former presidents and leaders, it’s one of this regal neighborhood’s most impressive spots for a stroll.

You’ll find an excellent selection of restaurants and cafes nearby, as well as some of the best places to stay in Vedado . It’s one of the best things to do in Havana outside of Old Havana and has a lot of gems that visitors end up missing.

Best Destinations in Cuba

• Baracoa, Cuba: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide
• Varadero, Cuba: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide
• Trinidad, Cuba: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide

44. Hike to a Waterfall

Just a short drive (60 km) west of Havana is Soroa, one of the most impressive destinations for hiking in Cuba and home to incredible waterfall hikes and mountain views. Take a half-day trip via bus or shared taxi, or plan on private transport with a guided excursion for a hassle-free trip! It’s one of our favorite things to do in Havana when we’re looking to escape the city.

While there are several great hiking trails in Soroa, the hike to the  Salto de Arco Iris  (Rainbow Falls, also known as the  Salto de Soroa ) is an easy one – less than a mile round trip from the main road – and ends with extremely impressive jungle waterfall views!

Hike to the waterfall and swimming hole, then visit the nearby historic coffee plantation – you’ll still have time to make it back for a night on the town in Havana.

Read More: 8 Best Day Trips From Havana

45. Visit Finca Vigía

Whether you’re an Ernest Hemingway fan or not, you can’t skip a visit to this historic Havana landmark while you’re in town!

Located in a more residential area of Havana, Finca Vigía is an impressive and peaceful spot, largely maintained exactly as the author left it , which makes a visit one of the best things to do in Havana.

While you can’t walk around the house freely, just step up to the doorways – in an effort to keep it as pristine as possible – you’ll see so much of the home and grounds. Favorite visitors to the property include the cats, who are descendants of Hemingway’s own cats from when he lived here.

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Home to Havana and Explorers Away. She is a serial expat and traveler, having visited 40+ countries and counting. Carley has written for publications like Travel + Leisure, MSN, Associated Press, Weather Channel, Wealth of Geeks, and more. Find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

Havana, Cuba   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Nikada | Getty Images

9 Best Things To Do in Havana, Cuba

Updated November 23, 2022

What may surprise travelers most about Havana is how well-rounded this city is. Art aficionados will enjoy the vast collection of Cuban art on display at the Museum of Fine Arts . History buffs may be left agape over the artifacts housed at Museo de

• All Things To Do

El Malecón El Malecón free

To tourists, Old Havana may be the city's heart and soul, but to Cubans, it's El Malecón. Technically speaking, El Malecón is a 5-mile-long boulevard that stretches along the water, with Havana Bay on one side and the edges of Old Havana, Vedado and Central Havana on the other, depending on where you are. But metaphorically speaking, El Malecón is both a meeting point and place of refuge for locals looking to catch a breath of fresh air after a long day or night.

During the day, you're likely to see some residents along with a tourist or two, but at night, especially come sundown, is when you'll see flocks of Cubans holding loved ones close as they watch the sunset, crowds of young people laughing and drinking, fishermen waiting for a catch or even a small dance party. And sometimes, you may not see anybody at all. On particularly stormy days, waves crash up against El Malecón and much of the sea spills onto the roads, making for a great photo op.

Old Havana (Habana Vieja) Old Havana (Habana Vieja) free

Skipping Old Havana is tantamount to missing Parliament if you're in London or the Eiffel Tower if you're in Paris. This picturesque neighborhood is not just iconic to Havana and Cuba, but also to the world. In the early 1980s, Old Havana was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks to the impressive preservation of some of the area's centuries-old architecture. Walking through Old Havana, you'll see a plethora of architectural styles, including baroque and neoclassical design elements, decorated in the brightest of colors. The neighborhood is also brimming with equally picturesque cobblestone-lined plazas, automobiles that look like they belong in museums and throngs of equally interesting people, whether they be Cuban street entertainers or awestruck world travelers.

The perimeters of Old Havana are actually the old borders of the city present in the 16th century. In the beginning of its heyday, Old Havana was a thriving port town owned by the Spanish. Often called the "Key to the New World," Havana was attractive for offering access to the Atlantic, which made shipping new riches from the Americas back to Spain an easy feat. Although the Spaniards' occupation eventually came to an end, they left behind a significant architectural style.

Plaza Vieja Plaza Vieja free

Of all the picturesque plazas that dot Old Havana , Plaza Vieja is considered to be the neighborhood's main square. The cobblestone-lined plaza is flanked by brightly colored baroque and art nouveau-style buildings housing restaurants, art galleries, residences and even a camera obscura. Built in 1559, this plaza has had many faces and has played host to a bevy of historical events – both good and bad. Fiestas and festive processions were commonplace back in the day, as were bullfights and public executions. Plaza Vieja used to be a space for military exercises before becoming the site of an open-air market. After that, it was converted into a park, then transformed into an underground parking structure, if you can believe it.

Luckily those days are behind Plaza Vieja, with travelers finding the current rendition of the square to be a true feast for the eyes. Visitors also praised the individual artwork that's spread throughout the square (including a bald nude woman riding a chicken while carrying a fork) and the fact that locals hang out in the square, not just tourists. If you have time, some say the best way to soak in the atmosphere of the plaza is to grab a drink alfresco and just kick back, relax and watch all the people pass by. Being in the pedestrian-friendly Old Havana, Plaza Vieja is easily accessible by foot.

Plaza de la Catedral Plaza de la Catedral free

If you're one of those travelers who believes that if you've seen one plaza you've seen them all, then you clearly haven't been to Plaza de la Catedral. A top-rated attraction among many recent travelers, Plaza de la Catedral is worth the extra time for, unsurprisingly, its stunning 18th-century cathedral, also known Catedral de la Habana. Visitors were taken by the imposing baroque cathedral, which was once described by a Cervantes Prize-winning writer as "music made into stone."

The square is quite small, so don't expect to find as many amenities (there's only one restaurant) as the nearby Plaza Vieja . But its lack of square footage isn't what bothered visitors. What did annoy travelers was how crowded the square becomes when cruise ships are docked in the city's harbor. If you can figure out when that occurs, travelers strongly recommended planning your visit around that. You can find Plaza de la Catedral in Old Havana . Plaza de la Catedral is free to visit and it's open year-round.

Museum of the Revolution (Museo de la Revolución) Museum of the Revolution (Museo de la Revolución)

There is no better place for a crash course on the country's history than the Museo de la Revolución. The museum chronicles the life and times before the revolution as well as the leaders and events that led to Fidel Castro’s successful uprising. Artifacts displayed help visitors understand what was going on in the minds of the revolution fighters. Standout relics include blood-stained uniforms of the fallen from the Santiago de Cuba Moncada Barracks attack, maps that were used for navigation during the war and bullet holes from an attempted assassination of Fulgencio Batista, which is located in the building's main stairway. There are also areas dedicated to Che Guevara and Castro, and in front of the building the tank used by Castro during the Bay of Pigs invasion is in full view.

But that's not all visitors should peruse. The building also oozes with interesting history of its own. The property used to be a palace that housed some of the country's most corrupt presidents, including Batista. Once Castro came to power, he quickly turned it into the museum that it is today.

Museum of Fine Arts (Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes de La Habana) Museum of Fine Arts (Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes de La Habana)

This museum houses the largest collection of art in the country and is separated into two buildings; one for Cuban art housed in the Palacio de Bellas Artes, and (two blocks away) another for the rest of the world in the Centro Asturiano. The Cuban portion of the museum highlights a variety of artistic styles and mediums depicting everything from the Spanish occupation to the revolution. Visitors will view work from some of the country's greats, including Guillermo Collazo and Raul Martinez, the Andy Warhol of Cuba. If you're a fan of Picasso's "Guernica," seek out Servando Cabrera Moreno's portrait of the Bay of Pigs.

The international side of the museum is just as diverse. There, visitors will run into Roman, Japanese, Greek, Spanish and British pieces, with the oldest artwork dating back to 500 B.C. Recent visitors were happy to report there is lots to see in the museum, but particularly enjoyed perusing the Cuban portion. Some regular museumgoers commented that the non-Cuban art museum had much of what they've seen before, so think about what you want to see and plan accordingly. Being a state-owned museum, it's important to note that there is a no photography rule that is strictly enforced.

Finca Vigía Finca Vigía

Havana is known for a lot of things – vintage automobiles, lively locals, beautiful buildings – but one individual who has remained just as synonymous with Cuba's capital for so long (aside from Castro) is Ernest Hemingway. The world-renowned writer lived in Havana for a whopping 22 years with his wives (one divorced) and dozens of pets, even while the United States' relationship with Cuba was starting to crumble. Finca Vigía, which translated means the "lookout farm," was the place where Hemingway wrote a great chunk of one of his most famous works, "The Old Man and the Sea." He was also known to host many VIPs, including Hollywood heavyweights, diplomats and other writers at Finca Vigía.

When Hemingway passed, his home was donated to the government by his wife, and things have remained largely untouched since. Upon visiting, travelers are able to catch a glimpse of the writer's former quarters, which includes his artwork, hunting souvenirs and his famous typewriter. Visitors can also peep his vast book collection spread throughout, which is said to include 9,000 titles. In the garden, visitors will run into Hemingway's dog cemetery and his beloved fishing boat, Pilar. Guests can also enter and climb his backyard tower, which affords great views of the surrounding neighborhood.

Playas del Este Playas del Este free

After a couple of days touring the capital, you may find yourself in need of a break from the hustle and bustle. If so, seek a side trip to Playas del Este, a set of beaches located about 11 miles east of Havana. This 5-mile stretch of shoreline starts at Bacuranao and ends at Playa Jibacoa, with about six other picturesque beaches with turquoise-colored water in between.

If you're looking for peace and quiet, Bacuranao and Playa Tarará are your best bets, although the latter requires a small entry fee. For livelier (and free) atmospheres, look to Playa Boca Ciega or Guanabo, where you'll find the highest concentration of locals. Mi Cayito and Boca Ciega are popular with LGBT travelers while those with families will likely enjoy the amenity-clad Playa Santa Maria, where the majority of the area's resorts are located. Playa Jibacoa is also considered a peaceful beach, but unlike the other resort beaches, it offers more things to enjoy than just water sports rentals. On land, visitors can traverse trails from the beach to the nearby backcountry; underwater there are coral reefs to explore. What's more, Havana Club rum is made in the town in which Playa Jibacoa resides. 

Plaza de la Revolución Plaza de la Revolución free

Of all the plazas that populate Havana, politicos can't miss this one. Plaza de la Revolución is proof that, despite recent lifted restrictions, Castro's Cuba is still very much alive. The plaza acts as the central location for many of the regime's branches of government, and features artwork and monuments honoring notable Cubans, including central figures involved in the revolution. The Ministry of Interior (or Ministerio del Interior) features a giant mural of Che Guevara, with the phrase, "Hasta la victoria siempre" ("Always toward victory") fashioned underneath. At the adjacent telecommunications building, there is a similarly styled image of Camila Cienfuegos, another famous revolution fighter, with the phrase, "Vas bien, Fidel" ("You're doing fine, Fidel") written underneath. There is also a monument to José Martí, Cuba's most famous writer who dedicated his life to fighting for independence in the pre-Castro era. Nearby is the Biblioteca Nacional José Martí, Cuba's largest library, and the Teatro Nacional de Cuba, the country's most important theater.

Travelers shared mixed reviews of Plaza de la Revolución. Many visitors enjoyed their time at the plaza and were fascinated by the attraction's historical significance (Castro used to make speeches here). Others, however, found the square to be drab in comparison to Old Havana 's colorful plazas and said the attraction isn't worth more than a quick hop off a bus tour. If you're hoping for a livelier experience, plan to visit on May 1 for the annual International Workers' Day celebration, where millions of Cubans congregate in Plaza de la Revolución to celebrate workers' achievements. Usually there are festivities as well as speeches made by top leaders, including one of the Castros.

Explore More of Havana, Cuba

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Havana

Things to do in havana, explore popular experiences, top attractions in havana.

Other Top Attractions around Havana

What travellers are saying

• Fusterlandia
• Fabrica De Arte Cubano
• Old Square (Plaza Vieja)
• El Capitolio
• Central Park
• Santa Maria del Mar
• Playas de Este
• Parque John Lennon
• Havana Forest
• Free Walking Tour Havana
• Cubaoutings
• Old Cars Havana

• Search Search Search …
• Search Search …

The Best 13 Things to do in Havana, Cuba

Just mention the name, Havana, Cuba and it immediately invokes memories of salsa, crumbling dilapidated buildings, and old American classic cars.  In some parts of Habana, it’s like time stopped back in 1959, and then, as if it started again, but somewhat jerkily as if the wrong battery has been fitted.  Havana is like all the photos you’ve seen in National Geographic.  There’s an elegance here, but still, there are many stunning buildings in glorious crumbling decay.  Some are half fallen down or held together with whatever comes to hand.  Of course, I’m not talking about the squares of Old Havana (Habana Vieja) where tourist dollars have rebuilt, replaced, and replenished.   Wander a little off the beaten track, where you’ll feel completely safe, and you’ll see the difference.  Come on in and see this magnificent vibrant city and explore the best things to do in Havana, Cuba.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS. MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

There’s a LOT to see in Havana – whether you want Havana museums, famous bars in Havana, or excursions around the city.  The time you decide to allocate to Havana will dictate your itinerary in Havana – and much of what you do in Havana will depend on your interests.  There are itineraries for history lovers in Havana, attractions in Havana for families, places to go for beach lovers in Havana, and then, places to go in Havana if you just have one day.   Anyways, for now, let’s look at Havana’s best things to do.  But first, a quick thought.  The key to seeing what you want of Havana is where you’re staying in Havana – as it impacts how easy it is to get to Havana’s attractions.

#1 THING TO DO

Take a Classic Car Tour of Havana

Take an iconic classic car tour of Havana – cruise the Malecon, visit the Plaza de la Revolution, see El Capitolio, and stop for cocktails at the Hotel National.

1. Take a Free Walking Tour in Havana Cuba

Taking a walk around Havana is one of the best ways to explore her.  Wherever you might be staying.  So much of Cuban life is lived outside, so a quick wander will get you seeing lots and lots of life.  There are street vendors and gorgeous classic cars – both restored and not.   But taking a walking Cuba is better with a local taking you around, explaining the history, the stories, and of course, where to get the best food and cocktails in Havana.   This FREE walking tour of Old Havana is a fabulous introduction to the city.   The tours are tip-based and run in Spanish and English.  And this tour was the first thing we did when we arrived in Havana .  This specific walking tour of Havana focuses on Old Havana but covers the culture of Cuba, some history basics and explores the area, pointing out various museums to visit, what to eat, and where to go not just in Havana, but in the rest of the country.  You’ll need to make a reservation and the tour meets at 1000 and 1500 each day by the Fountain of the Lions in Francisco de Asís Square, also known as Plaza de las Palomas.  These FREE Walking Tours last about 2 hours and 30 minutes.  And they are GREAT. Book a Havana Free Walking Tour Now!

2. Take a Classic Car Convertible Tour of Havana

There is nothing in the world like taking a ride in one of Cuba’s Classic American Cars down the Malecon.  It is pure magic.  These emblems of Cuba came about because of the many trade restrictions placed on Cuba following the 1959 Cuban Revolution.  No new imports came into the country – and so it became necessary to repair, renovate and restore these old cars as a way of life, not just for tourists.    And while you’ll see some really dilapidated cars, you’ll also see some stunning examples of 1950’s Classic Cars.  Taking a ride in a Classic Car in Havana is truly an iconic thing to do in Cuba. You can prebook and prepay your classic car trip in Havana here.

Most tours last 90 minutes – and while you can find them parked usually around the Museum of the Revolution in Havana – and try your hand at negotiating and paying in cash, it is much easier to prebook a tour and specify exactly what you want ahead of time.   You can read more about Convertible Classic Car experiences here   – or book a classic car tour of Havana here.

3. Explore Havana’s Museum of the Revolution

There are a variety of museums to visit in Havana, but if you are to pick just one, then make it the Revolution Museum.  It is difficult to come to Cuba without understanding a little of her revolutionary past.  There’s a basic history of Cuba here , but if you want to understand more – then we have a reading list of books about Cuba that includes some fascinating history. 

The Museum of the Revolution is housed in the old Presidential Palace of Cuba.  Following the Cuban Revolution, it became the Museo de la Revolución.  It covers the Cuban revolutionary war of the 1950s and the history of Cuba since 1959.   Many of the exhibits are in Spanish, but there is also some detail in English.  This is a National Museum of Cuba and so the messaging is very on point with the Government.  And it is likely to be very different from what was written in the newspapers of your home country. 

4. Drive or walk along Havana’s Malecon

Havana’s five-mile-long esplanade or Malecon follows the coast around the city.  You’ll find kids cooling down in the sea and in the evening where you’ll find locals walking, talking, drinking, and playing music.  Havana’s Malecon is a fabulous place for sunset.  Pick up a beer from a street vendor, sit, and watch the sun sink into the sea.  Or take a sunset classic car trip.  One thing is for certain you shouldn’t miss the Malecon in Havana it’s a truly glorious part of Havana.

5 . Drink a daiquiri at El Floridita in Havana

Cuba is the country for cocktails.  In fact, you can trace a lot of Cuban history through her cocktails – read my post on Cuban cocktails here – and there are several cocktail bars in Havana with a history that you just can’t miss.  Ernest Hemingway spent more than two decades here in Cuba over the years.  And during that time he drank a lot of cocktails here.  And so it’s no surprise that there’s a statue of him, inside, propping up the bat at El Floridita right in Old Havana (and another reason for staying in the area).  El Floridita is known as the best place for daiquiris in Havana.    It’s way, way, touristy.  But heck.  You’re here, in Havana and you’re a tourist, right?  Join a small group tour of famous cocktail bars in Havana here.

If you like to combine a few stories with your cocktail drinking and would love to include some local flavor too, then consider this guided cocktail tour – where you’ll visit El Floridita, La Bodeguita, and Sloppy Joes in Havana. Check availability and book now!

6. Head to La Bodeguita del Medio for Mojitos

This was reputedly Hemingway’s favorite bar.  And Havana, Cuba is known as the birthplace of the Mojito – even if it was (apparently) invented by the famous British explorer, Sir Francis Drake.   A mojito here at La Bodeguita will cost you around US$5 – and I confess, they’re not the best mojitos.  The best mojitos will most likely be had at the casa particular that you’re staying at, BUT you should still go to La Bodeguita and stand at the bar and order one.  Because the show you get while watching them being made is well worth it.  I can still picture it, 5 years on from our first visit there. Get to the front with this awesome cocktail tour of Havana.\

7. Visit the Rum Museum in Havana

The story of rum can be told all over the Caribbean region – and believe me, when I say we’ve followed it – from Martinique to Antigua and Dominica – but there’s something magical about rum here in Cuba.  It’s where the Bacardi empire started, although that’s now in Bermuda.  There are a couple of rum museums in Cuba.  The best, I think, is the Rum Museum in Santiago de Cuba , but if you aren’t getting that far along the island, then head to the Havana Rum Museum.  You’ll find details of it here .  (you’ll want to check for local opening times, but if it’s not open there’s also a fabulous virtual rum museum experience here ).

If you want to get inside Rum in Cuba, then this combined Rum and Cigar small group day trip is a great way to understand more, taste more, and experience Cuban Rum. Check availability, and prebook here.

Visiting the Havana Club Rum Museum is on our recommended itinerary for 2 days in Havana.

8. Visit Real Fábrica de Tabacos Partagás – Havana’s oldest cigar factory

So we’ve done classic cars and rum.  The next thing on your list of famous things to do in Cuba while you’re in Havana is cigars.    Now if you want to understand more about how tobacco for cigars is grown in Cuba, we recommend heading to the Vinales Valley – there is more on that here – but this cigar factory in Havana is well worth a visit.

Not sure if you want to visit? Read my guide to Cuban Cigars to understand how it all happens.

The Real Fábrica de Tabacos Partagás was founded by a Spaniard named Jaime Partagás and built in 1845 and has been producing fine cigars for more than 160 years.  You’ll find as many as 400 workers rolling cigars such as Montecristos and Cohibas here.  There’s always an English-speaking guide available and the cigar shop here is one of the most popular (and reliable) in the city.  A tour costs about US$10 and takes around 45 minutes.  You can pick up tickets at the Hotel Saratoga or the Habana Libre Hotel.  You’ll get to see where the leaves are unbundled and sorted, then watch as the tobacco is rolled, pressed, has a band attached, and is boxed.  If the tour isn’t running (this is Cuba, it’s hard to predict sometimes…), then you might want to try your hand at making your own cigars and join this fabulous Cigar Making Workshop .  Not only will you learn the history of tobacco and cigars in Cuba, but you’ll roll your own, and get to enjoy it with some local rum too. 

Book this awesome Havana Cigar Making Workshop NOW!

9. Visit The National Hotel – Hotel Nacional in Havana

The Hotel Nacional is the most famous hotel in Havana.    Hemingway, Sinatra, and Churchill have stayed here.     (You can too – check rates and rooms at the National Hotel, Havana here)  but really what you should come here for is the garden and the terrace with stunning views of the ocean.   A mojito on the lawn, as the sun goes down, is truly an iconic Havana thing to do.   

Build it into a tour in a classic car and you’ll make for a stunning set of experiences in Havana. Take this classic car tour and tailor it to have cocktails on the lawn of the Hotel Nacional in Havana.

10. Visit the Capital Building in Havana –  El Capitolio

Until the 1959 Cuban Revolution, El Capitolio was the seat of the Government in Havana.  In a city of gorgeous buildings, it is a stunning building.   It officially marks kilometer zero for Cuba, which is marked by a replica diamond on the floor.  There was originally a 24-carat diamond set here, but it was stolen in 1946.  It was later returned, but it was decided to not risk it again and so the replica was placed here. 

All good Classic Car tours of Havana will drive around the outside of El Capitolio – make sure you get the best classic car tour by pre-booking here.

Built in the 1920s the Capital Building took 3 years to build, but the congress that sat there was abolished in 1959, with the revolution and then the seat of government moved to the Plaza de la Revolucion (Revolution Square).  From 1962 onwards it became the Cuban Academy of Sciences and the National Library of Science and Technology.   It was then closed for some years for restoration but opened a couple of years back and if it’s open while you visit (opening hours can be eclectic), then pay the fee and explore. 

11. Visit Havana’s Revolution Square – Plaza de La Revolucion

You’ll need to take a taxi to get to Havana’s Revolution Square – although we did walk there from Old Havana early morning on May 1st to attend the Worker’s Day march and celebrations.  And this is an absolute must-see in Havana.  It’s big.  It’s grey, but this is where Cuba’s rallies and political gatherings take place.  This square is dedicated to the memory of Jose Marti – one of Cuba’s political heroes – who was instrumental in working towards independence from Spain in 1898.   The massive monument to Marti sits atop a 30-meter-high base shaped like a five-pointed star.  There are arching stairways to an 18-meter-high marble statue of Marti. 

This is also another popular (and must-do) stop on Havana Classic Car Tours.

The center of Government here in Cuba is also here, Palacio de la Revolución (Palace of the Revolution) – it’s not possible to visit this building.   The other buildings that stand here in this enormous square at the Ministry of the Interior – Ministerio del Interior – the windowless wall that faces the square has a massive mural of Che Guevara, the image taken from Alberto “Korda” Gutiérrez’s world-renowned photo along with the words Hasta la Victoria Siempre (“Always Toward Victory”). 

And finally here’s the Communications Ministry, the Ministerio de Comunicaciones, where, in October 2009, the face of Camilo Cienfuegos was erected on the 50th anniversary of Cienfuegos’s death.  Alongside his face, the words “Vas Bien, Fidel” (“You’re doing fine, Fidel”). This was Cienfuegos’s famous response in reply to Fidel’s question “Am I doing all right, Camilo?” at a rally on January 8, 1959.

You can visit Havana’s Revolution Square by private tour or taxi.  (this is a great option to book here. )

The statue of Marti and the murals of Guevara and Cienfuegos are illuminated at night.

12. Visit Havana’s Cathedral

Dominating Havana’s Cathedral Square is the stunning Havana Cathedral, built between 1748 and 1777.  Known as Catedral de la Habana as well as the Cathedral of St. Christopher (Catedral de San Cristobal), after the patron saint of Havana – St Christopher it also has a third name – the Cathedral of the Virgin Mary of the Immaculate Conception (La Catedral de la Virgen María de la Concepción Inmaculada), as Mary is also the patroness of the cathedral.   This is one of the most photographed buildings in Havana and there are several areas you’ll want to take a look at.  Firstly, the building was constructed in part with coral.  When the cathedral was built this was a commonly used building material in the Caribbean. 

If you look closely enough you can see marine fossils in the building.  Inside there’s a 14 th -century wooden statue of St Christopher.  This Catholic cathedral, one of 11 in Cuba, held (some of) the remains of Christopher Columbus for more than a hundred years.  They were shipped to Havana from the Dominican Republic in 1795 and they were interred here until 1898 when they were then removed to Seville Cathedral. You can visit Havana’s Cathedral as part of the Havana Free Walking tour.

13. Head to the Beach in Havana at Playas del Este

If you’re a beach lover, or just want some sea and sand – and Cuba has some amazing beaches – then head to Playas del Este.  This is the easiest beach to reach from Havana.   You can take a taxi (about 20 minutes) or it’s easy to reach on the T3 Hop on Hop off the bus (get off at the Playa Santa Maria stop)- it’s four stops –  and it takes about 30 minutes on this bus. 

Alternatively, why not book a private trip to several beaches near Havana? You’ll get to travel in a chauffeur-driven classic car.

The beaches here are four-mile-long, white sandy beaches.  The best beach at Playa Este is Playa Santa Maria del Mar, which is 2 miles long.  You can rent chairs and umbrellas at Playa Este and there are plenty of options for food and drink while you’re here too.  We recommend filling up on cold beer and grilled fish.  There are also options for renting jet skis and small sailing boats. 

The Playas del Este is one of our favorite Day Trips from Havana – check out more details and other options here.

If you’re looking for an alternative way to get around Havana during your stay in Cuba, why not rent a bicycle? It’s a great way to get around the city – and beyond, perhaps to the beaches, or if you’re staying in Vedado and want to get to Old Havana – perfect! Check Havana bike rental rates here – just don’t forget to lock it securely if you leave it unattended!

ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR EXPLORING CUBA INDEPENDENTLY

These are the resources and booking sites that we use when traveling to Cuba.

Get a Cuba Travel and Medical Insurance Quote from Visitors Coverage here – Alternatively, Civitatis Insurance is a great option for the required insurance for Cuba. You will need a Cuba Tourist Card to enter Cuba – some airlines include these, if yours doesn’t, buy one from EasyTouristCard – now valid for 90 days. Book your Viazul Bus tickets here Pre-book and prepay shared & private shuttles here Book the best FREE Walking Tours in Cuba Reserve attractions, day trips, and activities in Cuba here Get online in Cuba EASILY with a Cuba eSIM – read about Cuba ESIMS here , or buy a Cuba eSIM here .

Download and install a VPN BEFORE you travel to Cuba > discount coupon here Book Accommodation in Cuba’s Casa Particular here

Where to Stay in Havana

Many of the best experiences in Cuba are to be had by staying close to the heart of cities, beaches, and towns.  The closer you are the easier it is to get out there and experience it and the less time you spend traveling around trying to get to the heart of the action.  It might be that you want to stay in a hotel (and Old Havana has options like the swanky Kempinksi Manzana) or you want to experience Cuba from a Casa Particular (read about them here ).

Havana is a big city and you’ll want to pick the neighborhood that best suits what you want to do and see in Havana.  HINT:  The neighbourhood of Old Havana is a great option for the best place to stay in Havana for first-time visitors to Cuba.  Our guide here explains more about the neighborhoods of Havana and the best places to stay in Havana. 

Old Havana – Habana Vieja in Spanish is the historic center of Havana.  Gorgeous colonial splendor, colorful, character-filled streets, and crumbling glory if you step off the beaten track.  It’s here that you’ll find the main places to eat, to drink, the best walking tours of Havana and if you only have a short time in Havana, this is the best part of Havana to stay in.

The Casa Buenos Aires is in a superb location in the center of Old Havana, just one block from the Museum of the Revolution, making it easy to walk all the sights of Old Havana.  There are three private, ensuite rooms here, all with a private bathroom and a private balcony.  Breakfast and laundry are available here.  There is internet access here, a glorious garden, and a terrace with a bar where you can enjoy a fabulous Cuban cocktail.  See photos of the Casa Buenos Aires here.

The gorgeous Casa Giraldilla is a restored colonial house dating from the 1920s and has high ceilings and a glorious balcony for people-watching.   Carmen and Carlos speak English, Spanish, and a little French.   All rooms are ensuite and have either a window or a balcony onto the street.  There are two doubles and a twin room here.  Breakfast and internet access are available here.  There is a glorious terrace on the roof available to all guests.  Book a room here.

The Casa de La Plaza de Cristo is in a building that dates from 1903, an 8-meter-long balcony gives all guests a magnificent view of the Plaza de Cristo.  It is a fabulous location to stay in Old Havana.  Rooms here are bright and airy, simply decorated, and have air conditioning.  Rooms are ensuite and breakfast is available for an additional cost.  You can see the location of this great old Havana casa particular here.

Final Words on the Top 13 Things to Do in Havana Cuba

Havana is a magical city.  There are museums here, stunning colonial buildings, glorious squares, and a huge amount of history.  No matter what you decided to see in Havana, or for how long you stay there will be something to entertain you.  Be sure to take in the major sites that we’ve covered in this guide on attractions in Havana, but also take the time to explore off the beaten track.  Just take a walk and explore, there’s a lot to see in Havana and the best parts of it will be what you see when you’re not expecting it.

Cuba’s Best is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates .

Sarah Carter

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Overview

22 Best Things to do in Havana, Cuba

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Are you looking for some of the best things to do in Havana? From driving around in a classic car to drinking daiquiris, this is what to do in Havana, Cuba!

Like everyone else who’s wandered around Old Havana and watched the sunset from the Malecon with a mojito in one hand and their camera in the other, I too have fallen under Havana’s spell. When it comes to the best things to do in Havana, there are truly some awe-inspiring experiences here. Honestly, I can’t tell you how much I love this city.

With its rustic charm of old colonial buildings to the kind-hearted people you meet on the streets to its rich and vibrant history, Havana has a soul to it rarely found anywhere else in the world.

It is a place that you arrive in slight trepidation at whether it will live up to its reputation and it is a place you leave with a smile on your face, all under the faint whiff of rum and cigar smoke still lingering on your breath.

What to do in Havana

I spent six days looking for the best places to visit in Havana. I honestly had so much fun exploring all this city had to offer.

Instead of exploring other parts of Cuba , I really wanted to understand what makes this city tick, to understand why this was the cultural heartbeat of the country.

With its colourful history and uncertain future, everyone says “visit Cuba now before it changes forever.” For me, I say “just visit Cuba”. It is a country that is always going to march to its own beat, it is a country that’s beautifully unique in every way, and that’s never going to change. I honestly don’t think there’s ever going to be a bad time to visit!

From driving around in a vintage car to drinking daiquiris in Ernest Hemingway’s old haunt, here are some of the most fun things to do in Havana. Just immerse yourself in the city and you’ll love it!

Also, check out my guide on where to stay in Havana – it’s packed full of the best hotels and useful information on where to stay.

For those of you still unsure about Cuba, check out this blog post on 40 things to know before traveling to Cuba . It’s packed full of practical advice and information which will make planning your trip that little bit easier.

Fun Things to do in Havana, Cuba

1. sunset at the malecon.

The Malecon is the main waterfront in Havana. It stretches for 8km along the coast making it perfect for long walks by the sea. Despite all the cars whizzing by, it’s actually pretty peaceful down here, and it is without a doubt one of the most beautiful parts of the city.

In the evening, especially around the weekend, the Malecon has this wonderful ability to transform itself into whatever you want it to be. It is a bar where you can meet and share a couple of cervezas with the locals; it is a place where you can learn a few salsa moves; it is a place where you can share a kiss and a cuddle with a loved one as the sun dips over the horizon. Whatever your reason, it is such a stunning spot to visit.

I’d really recommend coming down here on your first night in the city. It has a buzz around it like few other places in the city.

2. Ride around in a 1950’s vintage car

Along with recently-rolled cigars and freshly-made mojitos, these colourful classic cars have become such a symbol of Havana. You barely have to take a step out of the casa particular that you’re stay in before one of these antiques trundles past.

The majority of these cars are taxis you can hire for the day or to get you from one side of the city to the other. And if you make friends with the driver, they might just let you behind the wheel. I managed to drive along the Malecon is it was one of my most adventurous things to do in Havana. It just felt so old school and authentic.

3. Get lost in Havana Vieja

Havana Vieja, Havana’s Old Town, is one of the main tourist hotspots in the city, but it doesn’t mean you have to act like a tourist. I was surprised at how easy it was to get lost here, and it led me to some of the most beautiful spots I came across while I was in Havana.

Every street is so bright and vibrant around Havana’s Old Town you could easily spend hours just exploring each one. I recommend going on a little self-guided walking tour around the streets and taking it all in. Havana’s Old Town still has this authenticity about it rarely found in other cities.

4. Listen to some Cuban beats on the streets

When it comes to what to see in Havana, you’re never far from someone playing the guitar or shaking a maraca. One bar that was always packed with an amazing Buena Vista Social Club style band was Café Paris , right in the heart of Old Havana.

This place had the best band I saw while I was in the city. Even if you don’t want to go to a bar you’ll still find musicians at all of the main plazas – get yourself a cerveza, kick back and take in the beats. There is so much live music around the city – it’s just one of the reasons I love Havana.

5. Head to El Floridita for their famous daiquiris

When Ernest Hemingway declared Floridita’s as “the best daiquiri in the world”, people have been flocking here ever since. Considering this is from the guy who once said, “write drunk, edit sober” (something that I’ve always lived by myself), you know he’s probably got some serious experience under his belt to make such a statement.

With about 20 flavours to choose from, a daiquiri from Floridita will set you back 6CUC ($6). Totally worth it, especially on a hot day (read ‘every day’ in Cuba). This really is one of the most popular things to do in Havana.

6. Take a tour of Teatro Nacional de Cuba

The Teatro Nacional de Cuba (the National Theatre of Cuba to you and me) is one of the most impressive buildings in all of Havana.

Even though the theatre first opened it 1915, it was closed for a number of years for renovations. However, on 1 st January 2016 the theatre reopened and its opulence is in stark contrast to the rest of the city.

A one hour guided tour costs 5 CUC ($5), but if you can get tickets to the ballet then do that – it’s always rated as one of the best things to do in Havana at night.

7. Ride around in a pedicab

If it’s late in the day and you don’t want to take a taxi then jump in a pedicab. These are great for getting around short distances and they’re much cheaper than a taxi too. Usually, a 10-minute ride will set you back around 2/3 CUC ($2/3) and they’re super fun riding around all the old streets.

8. Stay in a casa particular

Hotels are for the rich, casa particulares are for those who want to get to know the real Havana. Costing just 25CUC ($25) a night, a casa particular is essentially a homestay – you rent a room off a Cuban host and become one of the family for however long you’re staying there.

An extra 5 CUC ($5) buys you a huge breakfast in the morning of bread, eggs, fruit and strong coffee, and 10 CUC ($10) buys you dinner in their home, something everyone should do at least once. I really enjoyed my stay in my casa particular and it was one of my highlights in the city.

9. Learn about the history of Havana

This one is so important when it comes to what to do in Havana. There’s a story behind each of those derelict crumbling buildings built in the 1950s. When you learn that that average monthly wage is about $30 per person in Cuba, you’ll quickly realise upkeep and maintaining these once glorious buildings is just not an option when there are mouths to feed.

It’s the sad truth behind communism and the revolution, so instead of saying “wow, look at that building falling down!” appreciate the fact that there are probably families still living in it. This isn’t a museum; it’s life.

Also, Havana’s Old Town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so it’s important to appreciate why.

10. Stand in the middle of the Plaza de la Revolucion and feel tiny

The Plaza de la Revolucion is where Fidel Castro held many of his political rallies during and after the Cuba revolution and it is an absolute must-see on any trip to Havana.

Apparently you can fit up to a million people in this plaza and it is flanked by two huge memorials to Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos.

There’s also a huge monument to José Martí standing at 109m, and for 3 CUC you can catch an elevator to a viewing platform for one of the best views of Havana. Again, this is one of the top Havana attractions so make sure you add it to your list of places to see.

11. Eat at a casa paladares

If you want to eat out then you essentially have two options – government run restaurants, and casa paladares, restaurants run by locals.

Now it’s thought that the government run restaurants don’t really care what food they produce because they’re always going to be subsidised by the government, but the casa paladares lives and dies on its reputation to put out good food. If it doesn’t and people don’t eat there, it closes down. So, if you want “good” food in Havana, head to a casa paladares.

12. Drink a piña colada out of a pineapple

When it’s 30+ degrees every day and as humid as hell, it’s a good idea to drinks lots of water and to stay rehydrated at all times. Still, when water doesn’t quite cut it, grab yourself a piña colada pineapple.

These cost 5 CUC ($5) and can be found all around the city (my favourite place was just off Plaza de la Catedral). These piña colada pineapples couldn’t be any fresher and they’re a delicious way to cool down on a hot day.

13. Take a salsa lesson then drink enough rum to think you’re good at it

There aren’t many people around the world that can jump up and dance at the faint hint of a salsa beat but the Cubans absolutely live for it.

If you can, make enough time for a salsa lesson and learn the basic steps, then take yourself off to one of the many salsa bars, knock back a few cuba libres and hit that dance floor with false confidence. You’ll most likely be awful at it, but damn is it fun.

14. Party in the Arts Factory like there’s no tomorrow

One place that was really recommended to me by a buddy was the Arts Factory . It doesn’t really matter what day of the week you go here, it is always packed full of locals and tourists alike and it’s almost guaranteed an event or exhibition will be going ob.

When you walk in, you’ll be given a card which you buy drinks with, and at the end they add up how many you’ve had. In terms of bars, this is up there with the best things to do in Havana at night. Head here if you’re looking to immerse yourself in a local party.

15. Learn all about the Cuban revolution at the Museo de la Revolucion

You can’t come to Cuba and not learn all about Fidel Castro and the Cuban revolution . Even though the Museo de la Revolucion is more than a little biased, it is still one of the best museums in Havana and it’s fascinating learning about this period of history that sent shockwaves around the world right in the very heart of it.

Tickets cost 8 CUC ($8) and it takes about one to two hours to see everything. Be warned – there’s hardly any English translations on the displays. When it comes to the top things to do in Havana, from a cultural standpoint, I think learning about the history of the country is so important.

16. Talk to the locals and hear their stories

Cubans have such a natural curiosity that they’re always keen to come up and chat to you about where you’re from and what you’re doing while in the country. It obviously helps speaking Spanish, but a fair few people, especially the younger generation, speak English too.

Almost everyone you meet as a unique story to tell so make sure you’re open to meeting the locals!

17. Take endless photos of cars

As soon as you step outside the airport when you arrive in Havana you’ll see these brightly coloured vintage cars driving around everywhere, and you’ll immediately grab your camera to take a photo of one before remembering you should probably check into your casa particular first.

Do you know what the good thing is? At no point will you ever get tired taking photos of these classic cars and every one will be a beaut! As a photographer this was without a doubt one of the things I love about my time in the city. Hopefully some of my photos do them justice!

18. Find out how they make Cuban cigars at Partagras Factory

If you’re still searching for that authentic Cuban cigar, the one you want to smoke on your last night in the city with an ice-cold beer, then head to Partagras .

A lot of people will try and sell you fake cigars on the street for a little as 1 CUC ($1) – with these you really get what you pay for – but if you want the real deal then Partagras is the place for you.

Partagras also run cigar tours every Monday-Friday for 10 CUC ($10) when you get to learn all about how they make cigars in Cuba! I know not everyone advocates smoking, and I certainly don’t either. However, for a lot of people smoking a Cuban cigar is a real bucket list moment.

19. Watch the sun set from the San Carlos Fortress

When it comes to things to do in Havana, this one is right up there. Just on the other side of the Malecon and overlooking is the city is Le Cabana , the San Carlos Fortress.

Not only is this one of the best viewpoints in the city and the perfect place to go for sunset, they also fire the canons every day at 9pm to signal the end of the day in an impressive display, so two reasons to make the journey across the water! When it comes to what to do in Havana, I always make sure I recommend this activity to people. It’s very touristy but it also gives you a good insight into the history of the city too.

20. Support the locals by buying from them

In Havana, you need to be careful with where you spend your money. A lot of the big businesses in the city like hotels and tour companies are usually owned by foreigners. This means that instead of pumping money back in to the Cuban economy, something that is needed, your money is leaving the island.

One thing I really encourage is buying from locals. Even if its things like food or souvenirs it’s really important you support the local economy.

21. Watch the fishermen down by the Malecon

I could watch the fisherman is Havana all day long. It doesn’t matter what time you head down to the walls of the Malecon, you’re bound to find locals fishing here. Not only is this a pastime for the locals, often they keep the fish to cook with.

I didn’t do this myself, but apparently you can fish here too. If you ask a local and pay a little money, the locals will let you fish with their rod for a bit. One of the more unique things to do in Havana for you!

22. Marvel at El Capitolio building

Recognise this building? Even though it’s not an exact replica of the Capitol Building in Washington DC , it is modelled on the building. El Capitolio is one of the most famous buildings in Havana.

It was the organisation of government in Cuba until after the Cuban Revolution in 1959, and is now home to the Cuban Academy of Sciences. This is definitely a must-see while in the city (though it’s impossible to miss it!)

My trip to Cuba was a part of KLM’s #KLMtop10 campaign uncovering new and exciting destinations all around the world. As always, views are entirely my own and without bias.

I’d love to hear what are some of your top things to do in Havana are so make sure you let me know in the comment box below!

Like this post? Then make sure you Pin it!

About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

View all posts

• Pin It 5.1K

7 thoughts on “22 Best Things to do in Havana, Cuba”

I have been to Havana 5 times and you hit on all the right places and things to do! I haven’t been to the Arts Festival yet but plan to check it out in November, 2023. I enjoyed your article and the reviews of sites to explore!

Awesome! I’m really glad you enjoyed the article. Havana is such an amazing place to visit, I’m jealous you’re going again so soon!

I try to make time for a salsa lesson and other Latin dances when I travel. It’s a great way to learn more about the local culture.

YES! I completely agree with you here. I’ll definitely add it in as one of my top things to do in Havana

Great! It really is an incredible city and I’m sure you’ll have a great time there!

I feel like I’ve been transported back to my Cuban adventures! Lovely pics and lots of awesome things to do!

Thanks Chloe! Havana is such an incredible place to visit and so many people have said this post has taken them right back! I hope we get to go ourselves one day!

Leave a comment Cancel reply

11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Old Havana (Habana Vieja)

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Karen Hastings traveled extensively around Cuba and loved soaking up Old Havana's rich history and culture.

In Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage site , the past is palpable. Rumba riffs roll through quaint cobbled squares; vintage cars ply the streets; and historic forts, museums, and beautifully restored architectural gems share the stories that shaped this grand city.

For a sensory feast, this evocative historical district in Cuba's capital, Havana , is best explored on foot. You'll find plenty of tourist attractions and unique things to do. Meander along the narrow lanes; chat to the locals; climb the Spanish-built fortresses; feel the pulse of the music; and savor a coffee at one of the charming plazas, where Cuban Baroque meets Art Nouveau.

Need help planning your sightseeing? Check out the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions in Old Havana, Cuba.

See also: Where to Stay in Old Havana

1. Plaza de la Catedral and Catedral de San Cristobal

2. plaza vieja, 3. plaza de armas, 4. el capitolio (national capitol building), 5. plaza de san francisco de asís, 6. calle obispo, 7. castillo de la real fuerza, 8. castillo de san salvador de la punta, 9. museo de la ciudad (city museum), 10. la bodeguita del medio, 11. hotel inglaterra, where to stay in old havana for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in old havana (habana vieja).

Plaza de la Catedral is one of four plazas that make up Old Havana. A haven for history and architectural buffs, this picturesque spot is home to 18th-century buildings and is the newest of the famed plazas.

Here, you'll find popular attractions like the Palacio de los Marqueses de Aguas Claras , Casa del Lombillo , and Cuban Baroque architecture oozes from every corner, which will give your camera a workout.

Attracting the gaze of every tourist in the Plaza de la Catedral is its elegant namesake, Catedral de San Cristobal. Also known as the Cathedral of The Virgin Mary of the Immaculate Conception, this striking example of Cuban Baroque architecture was completed in 1777 by the Franciscans, after the Jesuits began building it 29 years earlier.

Two large bell towers flank the façade, which is adorned with inlaid columns. During your visit, wander inside to admire the vaulted ceilings and statue of St. Christopher.

It is said that the relics of Christopher Columbus were housed here from 1796 to 1898; however, this has never been proven. After a visit to the cathedral, relax at one of the cafés along the square and gaze at its magnificent façade.

Address: Empedrado, La Habana, Cuba

Plaza Vieja has experienced many incarnations but is now one of Havana's most vibrant gathering spots. Originally laid out in the mid-16th century, the square was once used for military exercises and was also a popular marketplace. Sadly, in the 1950s, construction engulfed the plaza and transformed it into an underground car park. Thanks to the citizens of Havana and government support, the Plaza Vieja has been restored and is now one of the most popular squares in Old Havana.

An eclectic mix of restored buildings — from Art Nouveau to Cuban Baroque — preside at its edges, and a small 18th-century fountain bubbles at its center.

An architectural highlight here is the 18th-century Casa del Conde Jaruco , which displays some of the city's most beautiful stained-glass windows.

After admiring the scene, you can ogle the 35-meter tower of the camera obscura (and climb up to admire the city views once it reopens), or relax at one of the many cafés.

Plaza de Armas has been a social hub in the city for more than five centuries. Cafés and restaurants beckon from its perimeter, and the shady gardens lure locals and tourists alike who come here to escape the tropical heat.

Presiding over the plaza are a bevy of Baroque beauties, including the magnificent Palacio de los Capitanes, which has hosted more than 60 Spanish generals over the years. Today, it's home to the Museo de la Ciudad (City Museum), a must-see for history buffs; many musical concerts are staged in its lush courtyard. Tip: Only the museum's ground floor is open, as they are currently renovating the other rooms.

Also on the Plaza de Armas, the mid-16th-century colonial fort, Castillo de la Real Fuerza is another major landmark. In the center of the square, look for the statue of the Cuban patriot, Cespedes near the fountain.

On the border of Old Havana and Central Havana, El Capitolio is a distinctive landmark in the city.

Reminiscent of the US Capitol building in Washington, D.C., the structure's magnificent cupola was actually inspired by the Panthéon in Paris. Blending Neoclassical and Art Nouveau styles, the building was inaugurated in 1929 and was the seat of government until the Cuban Revolution in 1959.

For a small fee, you can take a guided tour of this recently restored building. Notable features include the splendid inlaid marble floors, grand hallways, and massive dome.

Below the dome is a replica of a 24-carat diamond from where, it is said, all highway distances between Havana and other points in Cuba are measured. Gaze skyward to the top of the dome, and you'll see a replica of the 16th-century Florentine sculptor Giambologna's Mercury.

Address: Paseo de Marti, (Prado) Havana

Cooled by sea breezes, Plaza de San Francisco de Asís faces the harbor at the entrance to Old Havana. The carefully restored buildings impart a well-loved feel to this cobbled square.

Two famous buildings grace Plaza de San Francisco: the Lonja del Comercio , with its stunning central dome, and the Basilica Menor de San Francisco de Asís , featuring a tower that provides beautiful views over Havana and the sea.

Reputed to have the best acoustics in all of Cuba, the basilica is used primarily for musical concerts; check in with the attendant for current events. Enjoying one of the open-air performances is one of the best things to do in Old Havana.

Also in the square, is the Fuente de los Leones, a white marble fountain. Once a freshwater supply to passing ships, this "fountain of the lions," was carved by Giuseppe Gaggini, who donated it to the country in 1836.

Rich in history, architecture, and entertainment, Calle Obispo is famous Cuba-wide. This narrow roadway connecting Central Park with Plaza de Armas buzzes with life in the evening.

Travelers come here to enjoy the restaurants, including the famous El Floridita; soak up the lively ambience; and admire the architecture, which is predominantly Cuban Baroque and Art Nouveau.

Another popular point of interest along this stretch is the Taquechel Pharmacy Museum , which has been dispensing herbal remedies for more than a century.

A few steps from the Museo de la Ciudad , the 16th-century fortress, Castillo de la Real Fuerza, was built to fend off attacks from pirates. Unfortunately, it was never used for this purpose, since it was positioned too far inside the bay. Instead, the fort functioned as a storehouse for valuables and a residence for members of the military and gentry.

Designed and built by Francisco de Calona, Castillo de la Real Fuerza is an engineering marvel, with a deep moat, a drawbridge, and walls that are six meters thick and 10 meters high. Today, visitors can explore Havana's seafaring history at the maritime museum here, with displays such as model sailing boats, weapons, and treasure retrieved from sunken ships.

Address: 4MR2+C4R, O'Reilly, La Habana, Cuba

A pleasant place for a seaside stroll with beautiful harbor views, the Castillo de San Salvador de la Punta is rich in history and has played a key role in the maritime defense of Havana. It was designed by three men: Giovanni Battista Antonelli, Juan de Tejeda, and Cristóbal de Roda, and built over 21 years from 1589 to 1610.

Strategically located on the western edge of Havana's harbor, the Castillo de San Salvador de la Punta was linked with another of Havana's four fortresses, Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro , via a brass and wood chain during times of uncertainty. In the case of an attack, this link was tightened, and enemy ships were prevented from entering the harbor.

Of all the interesting monuments here, the most important is the equestrian statue of General Maximo Gomez.

Address: Malecón, La Habana, Cuba

Housed in the spectacular Cuban Baroque Palacio de los Capitanes , the Museo de la Ciudad unveils Havana's fascinating history.

You can explore the Hall of Heroic Cuba for an impressive display of objects from the revolution. Art history buffs will want to visit the Espada Cemetery Room to view the tomb of the famous French artist Vermay. In the Throne Room stands a sumptuous chair that was built for the visit of a Spanish monarch, and never used.

But perhaps the highlight of the museum is the Salon de los Espejos . Adorned with beautiful 19th-century mirrors, this room was where the official end of Spanish rule was proclaimed in 1899.

Other items of interest in the museum are the Cenotaph from the Parroquial Mayor Church; La Giraldilla, the oldest bronze statue in Cuba; and the busts in the gallery overlooking the leafy courtyard. A working knowledge of the local language is a bonus here since the tours and displays are in Spanish.

Currently, the museum is undergoing a renovation, so only the rooms on the ground floor are open.

Address: Calle Tacón, Plaza de Armas

At legendary La Bodeguita del Medio, Hemingway fans can follow in the famous scribe's footsteps. Founded in 1942, this must-see Havana restaurant has been visited by practically every celebrity to set foot in Cuba, including Pablo Neruda, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Nat King Cole, and of course, Ernest Hemingway.

Tourists flock here to sip cool drinks, feast on succulent seafood, and listen to live Cuban music immersed in an ambience rich in nostalgia. Every square inch of the walls wears the signatures and memorabilia from some of the famous and not-so-famous former patrons.

The good news: prices here are affordable enough to ask for seconds. Tip: If traveling as a family, it's best to visit during the day and eat at a table on the ground floor. Things can get a bit noisy at night.

Opened in 1895, Hotel Inglaterra is Cuba's oldest hotel, with an illustrious guest list. Back in its heyday, the hotel ensconced the likes of Anna Pavlova, José Martí, and Winston Churchill, among others. Although it has a neoclassical appearance, the hotel displays a strong Mudéjar influence; you may also notice the beautiful Andalusian mosaics.

In the years before Cuba's separation from Spain, this venerable hotel was a central gathering spot for liberal-minded activists, and General Antonio Maceo established his headquarters here to plan out the framework for the Cuban wars of independence.

Today, tourists come here for cheap lodging and the rich ambience. The guest rooms are modest, but the sumptuous lobby is steeped in an air of nostalgia. History buffs may want to sink into a leather armchair here or perch at the alfresco café with a cool drink and ponder the hotel's role as a stage for change.

Address: Paseo del Prado, No 416, Havana

Anywhere you stay in Old Havana will be within walking distance of its top sites. The main connecting street, Calle Obispo, is home to many of the old town's most popular restaurants, galleries, and entertainment venues; however, bear in mind that rooms fronting this street will be noisier than most. Breakfast is included in the rates at many of these hotels, but note that accommodation tends to be pricier and the quality is generally lower in Havana than many other cities. Here are some highly rated hotels in and near Old Havana:

Luxury Hotels:

• Only a short stroll to Old Havana's top tourist attractions, Iberostar Parque Central is handy to El Capitolio and the Museum of the Revolution. It has a lovely rooftop pool.
• Bright, elegant decor and a stunning rooftop pool with beautiful views are highlights at the Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski . Here, you are steps away from top things to do in Vedado Havana (Old Havana), like a tour of El Capitolio.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Recycled materials and bold modern art make a stylish statement at Residencia Santa Clara . It lies on a quiet street in the heart of Old Havana, and the staff extend a warm welcome to all the guests.
• Also with helpful staff, El Candil Boutique Hotel occupies a beautifully renovated house with a homey feel. Perks include an excellent breakfast and a small rooftop plunge pool.
• A renovated hotel from the 1930s, NH Collection Victoria La Habana still recalls the era of its inception with sleek and stylish accents. You can bask by the pool and stroll to popular Old Havana attractions.

Budget Hotels:

• A national monument, the colonial-style Hotel Inglaterra is Cuba's oldest hotel. It lies in a great location opposite Parque Central near Old Havana's main sights.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Cuban Coastal Escapes : Cuba is more than just museums and memorials. After you've experienced all the things to do in Havana , you can bask on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean at Varadero , about a two-hour drive away.

Cuban Culture : South of Varadero, you can step back in time at World Heritage-listed Trinidad and soak up the region's natural beauty with day trips to nearby waterfalls; picturesque beaches; and the verdant Valle de Los Ingenios, also a World Heritage site. To delve deeper into the history of the Cuban Revolution, consider a visit to Santiago de Cuba in the southeast, the country's second-largest city.

More on Cuba

• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

Must-Visit Attractions in Havana, Cuba

The Atlantic-facing capital of Cuba is a beauty – from the palm-lined Plaza de Armas to the art deco towers and grand theaters. Old Havana is the biggest draw for its 500-year-old Spanish empire history and a new wave of cool bars, while Residential Centro is lively and less touristy. Here’s our pick of the best things to see while visiting Havana .

Discover Cuba beyond Havana by chartering a yacht with SamBoat – no sailing experience required.

1. Stroll along El Malecón

Architectural Landmark

Cuba’s oceanside road and promenade is easily one of the most handsome in the world. The sea wall winds 8km (5mi) around Old Havana, past gritty Centro Havana before rounding the iconic Hotel Nacional on its sea-facing bluff and the US Embassy further west. Wander the popular stretch from Paseo del Prado westwards. Search for the caryatids of the Centro Hispanoamericano de Cultura, the coffin-shaped apartments, and the Primavera statue outside the mob-built Deauville Hotel.

2. Peruse the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes

4. Snap the street art in San Isidro Distrito de Arte

Photographers will love the colourful streets of San Isidro. Down in the untouristy southern lanes of Old Havana, an army of street painters have transformed these streets into an al fresco canvas. You’ll need to take to Instagram to identify some of the tags, if you’re a real fan. Soak up the atmosphere, snap the artwork, and pop into new art galleries, opened by the entrepreneurial sons of Cuba’s leading actor Jorge Perugorría, as well as the bars.

5. Stroll Chinatown and visit Galería Arte Continua

Art Gallery

Yes, Havana has a Chinatown. Thousands of Chinese indentured labourers worked the booming sugar plantations in the mid 19th century. Havana was once home to the largest Chinatown in Latin America. Today, wander under the paifang behind the Capitol building to find streets and societies bearing Chinese lettering. A small street of restaurants is heralded by a new neon sign. The biggest draws are the avant-garde art shows at Galería Arte Continua, fashioned out of the former Golden Eagle Cinema.

6. Take a guided tour of Havana’s Capitolio

7. Admire the Edificio Bacardí

It was all about Bacardí rum prior to the 1959 Revolution in Cuba when thousands of Americans suffering Prohibition escaped to the island for cocktails in the city’s famous bars. There was no better way to showcase profits than in a beautiful showy art deco company headquarters. Towering over Old Havana, it’s crowned by a ziggurat and the rum’s bat symbol. Go for the lobby, striped in pink Bavarian and dark Norwegian granite, as well as the little mezzanine café where you can admire the original decor.

8. Tour a Havana cigar factory

Luxury Cuban smokes have lured the rich and famous to the island for centuries. For a masterclass on the long journey from tobacco seed to expensive cigar, book a tour at the relocated Partagás factory in the Pollack Building on Centro Havana’s San Carlos Street. You’ll get a close-up on Habaneros leaf sorting, tobacco rolling, and boxing up in the holographic-bound cedar boxes. Purchases can be made at a cigar shop around the corner on Belascaoín Street.

9. Peek inside the Museo de Artes Decorativas

10. Explore the new indie stores of Havana

It’s no longer just about cigars, Che Guevara t-shirts and rum. The creative entrepreneurs of Cuba have launched fashion lines, crafts and designer must-haves in the last 10 years, so make room in your luggage for homegrown collectibles. Buy cool tees, posters and bags in Old Havana at Clandestina; clothes at Dador, Capicúa and Color Café; and handcrafted items at Piscolabis and at Alma in Miramar. For posters, books, and memorabilia, browse the crammed collection at Memorias near Hotel Sevilla in Old Havana.

This is an updated rewrite of an article originally by Barbara Maseda .

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Food & Drink

The best havana club rums and where to try them.

Bars & Cafes

The best coffeehouses in havana, cuba.

The Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Havana, Cuba

See & Do

10 reasons why you should visit the malecón, cuba at least once in your lifetime.

7 Places to Buy Souvenirs in Havana, Cuba

The Best Secret Bars in Old Havana, Cuba

Restaurants

7 best restaurants to eat traditional cuban food in havana.

Cuba Libro: Welcome to Havana's Most Unique Bookstore

The Best and Most Affordable Bars in Havana, Cuba

The Best Markets in Havana, Cuba

Places to Stay

Top casas particulares in havana, cuba.

The Best Street Food to Try in Havana, Cuba

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1326396
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

The 22 Best Things to Do in Havana Ranked: What to Do in Havana (2023)

As Cuba’s capital city, there is a nearly infinite number of places to visit in Havana and things to do in Havana at night and during the daytime. In fact, there are so many things to do it can be hard to choose.

That’s why we put together a list of the best things to do in Havana. From guided tours of Cuban cigar factories to enjoying the sunset (and a mojito) on the rooftop of a legendary Havana hotel, there’s something for everyone. We’ll ensure your trip is busy and exciting from the moment you touch down at the Havana airport .

So, what are some of the best places to visit in Havana? Let’s take a look–vámonos!

UPDATE: Keep in mind that, as part of recent travel restrictions enforced by the Cuban Government to curtail the spread of COVID-19, some of the best places to visit in Havana may have limited capacity and operating hours.

Things to Do in Havana During the Day

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Havana during the day, from art museums to historical walking tours. The good news is that there is no need to rent a car in Havana since most activities can be done on foot or by taxi.

Many of these activities will also qualify for the Support for the Cuban People license if you travel to Cuba from the US .

Before you head out for the day, be sure to pack a few essentials:

• Water bottle with filter

It’s no secret that Cuba is sunny and hot all year round, so getting the most out of your outdoor time means being well-hydrated and protected from the sun.

#1. Wander Around Old Havana (Habana Vieja)

Did you know that Old Havana is a  UNESCO Heritage site ? You can step back in time by strolling through urban plazas dating back to Old Havana’s founding in 1519. The combination of colorful, historical architecture, narrow cobblestone paths, and brightly colored 1950s automobiles creates a quintessentially Cuban experience.

If you’re wondering how to fit all of these places to visit in Havana into your Cuba trip, we have the perfect solution: the7 Hour Tour Through The Cobblestones Of Old Havana by Tour Republic. This unique experience allows you to check off many things to do in Havana alongside an expert tour guide. You’ll also receive car service, water, and a traditional Cuban lunch.

Walk down the most famous avenue in Cuba: Paseo del Prado

Stretching from the steps of the iconic Capitolio building to the sea, Paseo del Prado (Prado Avenue) is Cuba’s most famous (and probably most scenic) boulevard.

Surrounded by trees on both sides, the avenue is a great way to enjoy some much-needed shade, do some shopping, and enjoy a drink at one of the bars or cafes off the main drag.

Walk up the steps of the impressive Capitolio

El Capitolio is the Cuban Capitol building. This stately old building was designed to look like the American Capitol in Washington DC, complete with Roman pillars and an impressive dome.

Walking up the many steps is quite the workout but will afford you a beautiful view of the square below. If you’re not up for a long walk, you can enjoy Parque Central, a large manicured park next to El Capitolio.

Drink a daiquiri where it became famous: El Floridita

El Floridita may not be the birthplace of the daiquiri (that would be Cuba’s Oriente province). Still, it’s certainly where the sugary-sweet beverage gained international fame. Cuban daiquiris are a refreshing combination of simple ingredients: sugar, lemon, and, of course, rum!

This historic cocktail bar is located in Old Havana just down the street from the Gran Teatro de La Habana and the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, so it’s one of the best things to do in Havana after a day of fine arts and ballet. Be sure to raise a toast to the life-sized bronze statue of Ernest Hemingway while you’re there!

Immerse in Cuban art at the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes

Fancy yourself an art connoisseur? Then you can’t miss the Museo Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes in Old Havana (National Museum of Fine Arts).

With a large collection to cover two campuses, the Bellas Artes features some of the world’s best Cuban and Caribbean art. Since the collection spans from pre-Colonial pieces to contemporary masterpieces, you can truly feel Cuban art throughout the ages.

You can view paintings and sculptures by some of Cuba’s most famous artists, including Rita Lonja, René Portocarrero, and Wifredo Lam. The Bellas Artes is one of the must-see Havana attractions for art lovers and history buffs alike!

Get an incredible view of Havana from the rooftop of Hotel Kempinski

After a long day of walking Old Havana’s winding cobblestone streets, you can sit back and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city from the rooftop of the Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski . As Cuba’s first luxury hotel, the Kempinski is situated in the heart of historic Havana and surrounded by beautiful UNESCO World Heritage buildings.

No rooftop relaxation session is complete without a refreshing hand-crafted cocktail from Kempinski’s world-renowned bar!

Stroll down Calle Obispo, the heart of Old Havana

Calle Obispo is a bustling street in Old Havana that offers a little bit of everything: beautiful old architecture, cafes, bars, and shops selling local handicrafts. The street runs from Plaza de Armas to El Floridita (the bar that launched daiquiris to international fame).

After sampling the local drinks, you can pop into a shop for souvenirs like handcrafted rum and cigars or kick back and listen to live Cuban jazz. Regardless of how you enjoy your time on Calle Obispo, it’s one of the perfect things to do in Havana to immerse yourself in Cuba’s local culture.

Visit the old boutique stores and museums on Calle Mercaderes

If you enjoyed Calle Obispo, you’d probably like strolling along Calle Mercaderes. Known as the “Merchant’s Street,” Calle Mercaderes is named after the many shops and boutiques that line its cobbled streets.

As a car-free street, you can casually stroll from the Plaza de la Catedral to the Plaza Vieja, stopping in boutiques and cafes along the way. In fact, Calle Mercaderes is home to Havana’s oldest cafe, Taberna, where you can take a pit stop for lunch, refreshments, and live music.

Since the City Historian’s Office recently updated the entire street, you can look forward to a unique blend of contemporary infrastructure and old-world charm.

Greet El Caballero de París at Plaza de San Francisco

“El Caballero de París,” known as the Gentleman from Paris in English, is a legendary street person who used to roam the streets of old Havana.

Although his origins are shrouded in mystery, he appeared on the streets of Havana in the 1940s. He was known to cut an elegant, solitary figure. Always dressed in black formalwear, he would greet passersby with impeccable manners.

Although El Caballero passed away decades ago, his personality is memorialized by a life-sized bronze statue in Plaza de San Francisco. Legend has it that touching his hand and beard will bring you good luck!

Spy on the rooftops of Havana from the Camera Obscura

A well-kept secret is hidden at the top of the Edificio Gomez Vila: a mysterious device called the Camera Obscura.

Originally invented by Leonardo da Vinci, Havana’s Camera Obscura was a gift from Spain. As the only one of its kind in the Caribbean, it’s a unique take on what to do in Havana. The device’s purpose? The camera provides a fascinating 360-degree panorama of Old Havana. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind way to experience the city’s beautiful vistas!

For the best view, visit the Camera Obscura on a clear, cloudless day.

Drink all you can at Museo del Ron Havana Club

Cuba and rum have a long history together, and there’s no better way to get a taste of that history than at the Museo del Ron Havana Club (Havana Club Rum Museum) . The museum is run by Club Havana, Cuba’s most well-known rum brand. It takes you step-by-step through the rum-making process, from harvesting the sugarcane to distilling, fermenting, and blending.

At the end of the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a seven-year vintage of Havana Club rum and even take home a bottle of fine Cuban rum from the gift shop. Your activities in Havana aren’t complete without a sip of fine Cuban rum!

Chill at Plaza de Armas, the oldest colonial square in Cuba

Plaza de Armas (Square of Arms) was built in the 1520s and has witnessed almost 500 years of Cuban history. From military exercises conducted by Cuba’s colonial governor to Cuba’s journey to independence, memorialized by a marble statue of Carlos Manuel de Cespedes. In modern Cuba, the Colonial soldiers have been replaced with street stalls and vendors selling local goods.

Cross the drawbridge of the 500 years old fortress Castillo de la Real Fuerza

Step out on the Castillo de la Real Fuerza drawbridge to experience a chapter of Cuban Colonial history. The 500-year-old structure is one of the oldest European fortresses in the Americas and one of the must-see Havana attractions.

The drawbridge takes you across the moat and into the castle, where you can check out treasures collected from sunken pirate ships. History buffs will also enjoy architectural features from the fortresses’ exciting past, including cannons, mortars, and the famous La Giraldilla weathervane.

Step into the biggest Catholic cathedral in Cuba, Catedral de La Habana

The Catedral de La Habana is a beautiful baroque church that rivals the medieval cathedrals of Europe in terms of architecture and design. Designed by Italian architect Francesco Borromini, the cathedral’s exterior features two towering bell towers, Roman columns, and intricately carved friezes.

Construction was completed in 1787, and the building still retains that mythical aura of something from another time. La Catedral de La Habana has played an indispensable role in Cuba’s history. From 1795 to 1898, the remains of famous explorer Christopher Columbus rested here until they were moved to Spain’s Seville Cathedral.

Seeing the cathedral’s frescoes and altar are things to do in Havana for free, or you can pay 25 CUP (the Cuban currency ) to climb the bell tower.

Drink Hemingway’s mojito in La Bodeguita del Medio

Famous American author Ernest Hemingway was known to enjoy a good Cuban mojito. Now, you can sip Hemingway’s favorite drink at La Bodeguita del Medio . Other famous guests throughout the ages include Pablo Neruda, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Nat King Cole, and Salvador Allende, some of whom have left signatures on the walls!

#2. Ride in a Classic 1950s Convertible

No Cuba trip is complete without cruising around Havana in a vintage American automobile . The sightseeing tour by Tour Republic puts you right in the heart of Havana as you ride in style alongside our skilled chauffeur. From the back of a vintage convertible, you’ll see colonial fortresses, Spanish-style buildings, famous hotels, and breathtaking ocean views. The tour ends at the famous 1830 Restaurant at the mouth of the Almendares River.

Going on a guided tour of the city in the back of a vintage convertible is an iconic take on what to do in Havana!

#3. Get Lost Into the Stunning Mosaics of Fusterlandia

You’ve probably heard of Park Güell in Spain. Fusterlandia is like Cuba’s version of the flashy, colorful park-meets-art installation. Designed by Jose Fuster, nicknamed “Picasso of the Caribbean,” Fusterlandia is a kaleidoscopic landscape of mosaic roads, alleyways, and bungalows in Havana’s Jamainatas neighborhood.

The actual designs are snapshots of Cuban culture and history; they feature everything from scenes of everyday life, like dancing and dominoes, to historical depictions of key events of the Cuban Revolution.

#4. Take a Sneak Peek Into Hemingway’s Life at Finca La Vigía

Finca La Vigia was the home of legendary American writer Ernest Hemingway. After his death, the house in San Francisco de Paula was converted into the Ernest Hemingway Museum .

You can catch a glimpse of the life of this Nobel Prize Winner in Literature with a Tour Republic tour called A Day in Ernest Hemingway’s Life . In the company of your own personal driver, you’ll see Hemingway’s places to visit in Havana, including his home, the fishing village of Cojimar, the Mirador del Cristo, and, last but not least, Hemingway’s favorite bar, the Floridita.

#5. Catch the Sunset in El Malecon

El Malecon is an ocean-side drive with a legacy in Cuba as famous as Fifth Avenue in New York or Lake Shore Drive in Chicago. You can drive or walk the street’s 7 kilometers with the ocean on one side and an interesting assortment of neoclassical architecture on the other.

The best time to visit El Malecon? At sunset, the sun’s fading light turns the buildings in Central Havana into a shade of relaxing, romantic gold.

#6. Learn the Fascinating Stories Behind 2MM Statues and Graves in Cementerio de Colón

Do you like your travels to take you beyond the veil of life and death? Then you’d probably enjoy strolling around Cementerio de Colón , the oldest and largest cemetery in Havana.

The 140-acre cemetery contains over 130 years of gothic crypts, tombs, and statues, some of which are occupied by famous residents of Havana. In fact, the cemetery’s first resident was its designer and architect, Calixto Arellano de Loira y Cardoso. Today, it’s home to over two million graves and mausoleums and a cathedral designed to look like the famous Florence Duomo.

#7. Enjoy the White Sand and Turquoise Waters of Playas Del Este

A known fact about Cuba is that, as the largest island in the Caribbean, Cuba has a lot of beautiful beaches to offer . White sand beaches, turquoise waters, and infinite sunshine are all within reach.

While in Havana, the best beaches to visit are the Playas Del Este. Located 11 miles east of the city, they’re a short trip from the heart of Havana and a good way to catch a break from the city’s busy hustle and bustle. Be sure to bring swimwear to dip into the beautiful, clear waters!

#8. Dance Rumba at Callejón de Hamel

Callejón de Hamel is an alleyway in Havana well-known for Afro-Cuban-inspired murals, art shops, and music. Every Sunday afternoon, you can catch some of Cuba’s best live rumba music, which is raw and unfiltered. Don’t worry; you don’t need musical talents to participate; just get ready to dance the rumba!

#9. View Havana From the Other Side at El Cristo de La Habana

The eastern flank of Havana’s harbor is dominated by a large statue of Jesus named El Cristo de La Habana. It was erected in 1958 as a gift to President Fulgencio Bautista from his wife after he survived an assassination attempt.

To reach the statue, you’ll need to take the Casablanca ferry and take a short walk up the hill. The view from up there is unbeatable!

#10. Roll up a Cigar at Fábrica de Tabaco Partagás

You’ve probably imagined smoking a cigar in Cuba, but did you know you can roll your own, too? Join Tour Republic for a  Cuban Tobacco And Rum Tour takes you to the Partagas Factory in Central Havana.

The factory is a major player in the Cuban cigar industry and produces over 20,000 cigars daily. You’ll experience a unique Cuban tradition : a lector at a podium reading everything from the news, novels, and poetry to the cigar workers. After visiting the Partagas Factory, we’ll stop by a rum factory to sample hand-crafted Cuban rum.

#11. Get Some Souvenirs From Almacenes de San José

Almacenes de San Jose is a famous open-air craft market at the Port of Havana. Formerly an old warehouse, the City Historian’s Office renovated and upgraded the space to house a thriving market where local artisans sell their goods.

You can buy all handicrafts, from handmade leather purses to paintings and pottery. It’s the best place in Havana for a handmade, one-of-a-kind souvenir.

#12. Learn the History of the Cuban Revolution at Museo de La Revolución

Cuba has a rich, complex history, from pre-colonial times to the Revolution and the present day, as Cuba regains international footing.

If you’d like a deep dive into Cuban history, we recommend participating in a Classroom & Fieldtrip session offered by Tour Republic . The tour begins in a classroom where you’ll learn about a topic of your choice, like Colonial Times, the Republic, and the pre-Revolutionary period of the 1950 s.

After you learn everything there is to know about Cuban history, you’ll venture out of the classroom to a historical location and test your newfound knowledge!

#13. Visit the Iconic Plaza de la Revolución

Although the topic has a controversial history, there’s no doubt that the Cuban Revolution played a huge role in shaping the Cuba we know and love today.

There’s no more iconic location highlighting the Revolution’s significance than the Plaza de la Revolución. This large municipal square covers 11 square acres of land, making it one of the world’s largest city squares. Bookending both sides of the square are two large, abstract portraits of the Cuban Revolution’s architects: Che Guevara and Fidel Castro.

#14. Smoke a Cuban Cigar at the Hotel Nacional’s Garden

Cuban cigars are legendary worldwide for their high-quality tobacco and hand-made rolling technique. There’s no better place to smoke a Cuban cigar than the Hotel Nacional . The 87-year-old hotel is a registered Cuban National Monument and a bastion of Cuban history and culture.

Light up your cigar in the beautiful seaside garden, and enjoy a scenic view of the ocean and Havana Harbor.

#15. Know the Ugly. The Crumbling Buildings in Centro Havana

When visiting Havana, it’s important to understand the ugly side of the city’s old, antiquated charm. Some older buildings are no longer structurally stable or safe to inhabit. According to USA Today, over 3,800 buildings collapsed between 2000 and 2013, and an additional 28,000 people live in buildings in danger of collapsing .

Although buildings in tourist areas tend to be well-maintained, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. It would be best if you skipped buildings that look crumbling.

Havana Nightlife: What to Do in Havana at Night

When the sun sets, Havana transforms into an entirely different city. As the intense heat and humidity of daytime give way to the cooler night air, Cubans venture out to dance, drink, and listen to music. Many of Cuba’s most popular music clubs and cabarets are located near hotels and Airbnb rooms in the city center. We recommend Skyscanner if you want to book a hotel or “casa particular” in Havana.

#1. Boom! Watch the Cannon Shot Ceremony El Cañonazo at La Cabaña

Every night at 9 pm, the Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabaña (Fortress San Carlos de la Cabaña) holds an official event called the Ceremony of the Cannon Shot (El Cañonazo). It’s just what it sounds like: cannons fired from the fortress!

With the Tour Republic tour, Colonial Night at El Canonazo , you’ll also visit the beautiful Cristo de La Habana and see a stunning view of the city from El Mirador.

Don’t forget to pack your bug spray ! Mosquitos are most active at twilight, which is around the time the cannon is usually fired.

#2. Go for Drinks and Live Music at La Fábrica de Arte Cubano

Does your idea of things to do in Havana at night include dancing to Cuban jazz in some of Havana’s most well-known clubs? Then you can’t miss the Fábrica de Arte Cubano , a creative laboratory built inside a former cooking oil factory.

La Fabrica is a modern art gallery and a nightclub where you can enjoy artists’ work from all branches of art: cinema, music, dance, theater, visual arts, photography, fashion, graphic design, and architecture.

If you are interested in an immersive journey through the Havana nightlife, in our Havana Nightlife Tour , an expert will guide you to clubs where Cubans go to have a good time. We’ll take you to clubs “off the beaten path” where there are more Cubans than tourists, and we’ll customize our destinations based on your tastes in music and dance. Some of our most popular destinations are the Fabrica de Arte Cubano, Cafe TV, and Delirio Habanero.

#3. See a Ballet Performance at Gran Teatro de La Habana

You’ve probably already heard of popular Cuban dance styles like rumba and salsa, but did you know that Havana is also home to a ballet theatre? At the Gran Teatro de La Habana (Grand Theatre of Havana), you can catch an impressive ballet performance by the Cuban National Ballet Company. The theatre also hosts performances of contemporary dance and Spanish-influenced dance.

El Gran Teatro was renovated in 2015, so be sure to stop by on the weekend to catch a performance!

#4. Have a Glamorous Evening at Tropicana Cabaret

Visiting Havana’s Tropicana Cabaret is one of the most iconic things to do in Havana at night. It combines the best of food, drinks, and entertainment. The American Academy of Restaurants also awarded Tropicana the “Best of the Best Five Star Diamond” award. This “paradise under the stars” has hosted Jazz legends like Nat King Cole and Josephine Baker. It continues to feature some of Cuba’s top musical talent.

#5. Hear the Best Cuban Jazz Music at La Zorra y El Cuevo

La Zorra y el Cuervo is one of Cuba’s oldest and most well-known jazz clubs. The club has a secret entrance through an old London payphone located just down the street from the Habana Libre Hotel. Once inside, you’ll be treated to talented performers playing Latin and Afro-Cuban Jazz, a sub-genre unique to the island.

Don’t forget your dancing shoes!

#6. Dance Salsa and Jazz at the Buena Vista Social Club

Cuba is infused with a natural rhyme and rhythm, and there’s no better way to experience Havana’s dance scene than the Buena Vista Social Club .

Whether you want to stop by on your own for a drink and a dance or take a tour of the Club with Tour Republic, we recommend adding this venue to your Cuba activities list. Vamos a bailar!

#7. Have Dinner at La Guarida, the Most Celebrated Restaurant in Cuba

La Guarida is a legend on the Cuban culinary stage. The restaurant is a pioneer of Nueva Cocina Cubana. You can expect everything from classics like ropa vieja to exotic dishes like tikka masala on the menu.

Aside from the food, the decor is straight out of a film noir, complete with crystal chandeliers and old-school photographs from the city. La Guarida is an absolute must for travelers to Cuba between the high-quality cuisine and the unique ambiance.

La Guarida is also where Fresa y Chocolate (Strawberry and Chocolate, 1993) was filmed. Fresa y Chocolate is the only Cuban movie that has ever received an Academy Award nomination. It is considered an all-time classic.

Do You Agree With Our Ranking of the Best Things to Do in Havana?

Havana has something for everyone to enjoy, from dancing salsa in legendary clubs to soaking up the city’s history while riding in a vintage convertible. In fact, there are so many things to choose from you may find yourself overwhelmed by the sheer number of opportunities at your fingertips.

That’s why we put together this helpful guide to help you plan out the perfect stay in Havana, whether you’re visiting for a few days or a whole week. If budget is a concern, check out our guide to the trip to Cuba costs .

So, which fun activities do you plan to do in Havana? Let us know in the comments!

Essential Travel Logistics For Cuba

Cuban Tourist Card –  If your  Cuban Tourist Card (a.k.a Cuban Tourist Visa)  isn’t bundled into your airline ticket or travel package, buy it only through  EasyTouristCard . 

Travel Health Insurance –  Travel medical insurance is an entry requirement for Cuba, so you can’t skip it. Travelers can get travel health insurance for Cuba via  Insubuy . Travel protection benefits such as trip interruption and cancellation, baggage delay insurance, etc., are not required.

Essential Items to Pack –  Bring the essential travel necessities that you may not be able to get in Cuba:

• First aid kit
• Hand sanitizer
• Mosquito repellent
• Pin adapter (for Europeans)
• Travel guide
• Spanish-English phrasebook
• Suggested Reading: The Cubans: Ordinary Lives in Extraordinary Times

Read our complete packing list for Cuba .

Find Accommodations –  Find hotels or casas particulares (private accommodations) on Skyscanner , which lists thousands of accommodations available in Cuba.

Book Your Flight –  Book cheap flights to Cuba on Skyscanner , our favorite flight search engine to find deals on flights to Cuba.

Share Article:

About the Author

Tour republic.

Tour Republic is a marketplace where you can discover, book, and review the very best experiences Cuba has to offer. We are a team of tourism professionals and journalists who have partnered with Cuban entrepreneurs to provide travel experiences that can transform your trip into a life-changing adventure. We also share our profound love for Cuba through in-depth travel guides, myth-busting articles, and captivating narratives. Whether you want to explore Cuba's wonders or understand its intricacies, our blog posts are your gateway to the heart of this extraordinary country.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

I have been to all but three; La Guarida, Tropicana Cabaret, Ballet Performance at Gran Teatro

Looking forward to a repeat visit Cuba all so Beautiful The architecture , The People, The Culture, Music and Dance absolutely No Place Like It Best

On the tour “Trying out classic cars just for the fun of it”, do you really get to change cars 6x during the tour? Are any of the cars convertible? Any purple cars? Thanks for the information

You might also like

Cuban Currency: The Ultimate Guide for Travelers (2024 Update)

Beyond the Ban: A Guide to Americans Visiting Cuba in 2024.

Sand Fleas and Mosquitoes in Cuba: The Survival Guide (2024)

Other stories, backpacking cuba: activities, itineraries, and practical tips (2023), is cuba open for travel in 2023 updated cuba travel restrictions.

Top Things to Do in Havana, Caribbean - Havana Must-See Attractions

Things to do in havana, explore popular experiences, top attractions in havana.

Other Top Attractions around Havana

What travellers are saying

• Fusterlandia
• Fabrica De Arte Cubano
• Old Square (Plaza Vieja)
• El Capitolio
• Central Park
• Santa Maria del Mar
• Playas de Este
• Parque John Lennon
• Havana Forest
• Free Walking Tour Havana
• Cubaoutings
• Old Cars Havana

42 Fantastic Things to do in Havana, Cuba

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: September 11, 2023

We’re showcasing the very best things to do in Havana, Cuba from two points of view. This Havana guide takes the best of two different trips to help you plan the best trip possible.

Many people only spend a day in Havana taking a tour from their all-inclusive hotels, but we highly recommend spending several days in this exciting city. When visiting Havana, you’ll probably be spending most of your time in Old Havana and Centro. But here are other places you will visit in Havana as well.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Havana, Cuba

Cuba is an amazing country. It has topped many a travelers’ bucket list, and the Cuba’s capital city of Havana is one of the most exciting places to visit in the Caribbean. Originally named San Cristóbal de la Habana in 1519 Havana has enticed travelers to experience its old cars, vibrant nightlife and historic city center. Read: 11 Fun Facts About Cuba You Never Knew

• Old Havana / La Habana Vieja – Classic car tours, Hemingway tours, nightlife and Havana Viejo
• Malecon – Waterfront, sunsets, views, and Grand Packard Hotel, Taxi Particular
• Vedado – Revolution Square, Hotel Nacional,
• Centro Havana – Great architecture, historic restaurants, Paseo Del Prado, photography tours
• Chinatown – Chinatown Gates,
• Downtown Havana – Capitol Building, Parque Central, Gran Teatro De La Habana, museums
• Casablanca – El Cristo, The Morrow, Che Guevera, Cuban Missle Crisis
• Cuban Culture and Music – Salsa, Cigars and Dancing
• Where to Stay in Havana – Iberostar Grand Packard, Casas Particular

Being cut off from America for decades has added to the appeal and attraction of Havana and it lives up to the hype! We have broken down the best things to do in these Havana neighborhoods to help you better understand the city. Now let’s take a look at more Havana attractions.

Old Havana / La Habana Vieja Neighborhood

The Old City of Havana, La Habana Vieja is filled with plazas and squares. La Habana Vieja is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is worth spending a day exploring each of the plazas of Old Havana. No motorized vehicles are allowed in this area and it is beautifully restored with cobblestone streets weaving through colonial buildings. Old Havana is a great place to start when looking for things to do in Havana.

1. Take a Classic Car Tour

When arriving in Havana one of the best things to do in Havana is to book a classic car tour to see all the major sites. These impeccable vintage cars are the best way to see Havana. Being isolated from the world due to the American Embargo, time has stood still since the 1950s when America left and left its old cars to the locals.

Havana’s classic cars make it one of the most unique destinations to visit in Latin America. We went on a with Cubatur and had fantastic guides to take us from our hotel at the Iberostar Grand Packard all around the city. Visitors will get an excellent introduction to Havana taking us through all the city’s neighborhoods and driving along the waterfront to Havana Harbour. It is definitely a bucket list ticket for anyone visiting Havana.

• Book your own 2-Hour Classic American Car Tour

2. Walking Tour of Old Havana

Our walking tour of the Old City with  CubaTur  took us around the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Old Town where we explored all of the squares, the famous cafes, and churches. This tour will show you all the Old Havana points of interest so you can return in the coming days to explore further.

• Heading to Havana? Check out the best 20 Cuban Dishes to eat when you get there!

3. Mojito Mojito

Mojitos were invented in Cuba and are one of the island’s oldest cocktails. The recipe consists of white rum, (a lot of it in Havana cocktails), sugar (traditionally sugar cane), lime juice, soda water, and mint. We recommend the restaurant Mojito Mojito, we were told its claim to fame is that the Mojito was invented there!

4. El Floridita for Hemingway Daiquiri

One of my bucket list items when visiting Havana was to follow the footsteps of Ernest Hemingway. Hemingway spent much time in Havana and wrote many of his great novels including Old Man and the Sea while living outside the city.

He frequented many a bar in Havana and no place is more famous than El Floridita. He drank at El Floridita so often, there is a statue of him sitting at the end of the bar with his namesake on the bar. Walking from Parque Central towards Old Havana, you’ll easily spot El Floridita. It’s packed with tourists visiting on day trips, but head out later at night and you’ll be able to go in with less of a crowd.

5. La Bodeguita del Medio

Another Hemingway Bar is La Bodeguita del Medio. There is a note from Ernest Hemingway himself where he apparently wrote “My Mojito in La Bodeguita, My Daiquiri in El Floridita”

There are many spots in Havana Vieja to have cocktails and Hemingway frequented many. You can follow the footsteps of Ernest Hemingway on the Day in Hemingway tour where you’ll trace his life through the Hemingway Museum, Fina Vigía, his home from 1939 to 1960, Hotel Ambos Mundos, the village of Cojimar and his many drinking spots.

6. Los Van Van

Located in Old Havana, we loved the bar Los Van Van. It seemed that everyone else did too! We saw many of the same people night after night! The Mojitos were delicious and strong. (and yet there was no hangover) and the live music was outstanding and entertaining.

7. Plaza Vieja

Our favorite square in Havana, Plaza Vieja is a historic square dating back to the 16th century. Colorful colonial buildings surround the square that is alive with bustling activity. This is a great place for a frozen lemonade or cocktail to take a break from sightseeing.

8. Plaza de Armas

This is the oldest square in Havana has a lovely garden and a picturesque line of royal palms surrounding the white statue of Carlos Manuel de Céspedes. He was the initiator of the Cuban independence movement.

The City Museum and the lovely book market in its center are also located at the Plaza de Armas.

When walking along the Plaza de Armas, be sure to look down when walking here, the cobblestone street is actually made of wood . It is said that the wooden walkway kept carriages quiet so the governor would not be disturbed.

9. Plaza De La Catedral

The Catedral de San Cristobal (also known as Catedral de la Habana) stands at the head of the Plaza de la Catedral. This photogenic square is lined with stone buildings and covered porticoes making for nice shaded walking within the square. The entire atmosphere will make you feel as if you have been transported to a city in Spain.

10. Plaza de San Francisco

Plaza San Francisco is yet another beautiful square to wander through in Havana. Located at the Havana Harbour, it is one of the first plazas in Havana welcoming ships arriving from Spain to trade in the West Indies. It houses an 18th-century basilica, the old Havana stock exchange, an imposing tower, and many cafés.

Malecon Neighborhood

The Malécon is a Five Mile Long waterfront Promenade stretching from Havana Viejo to Vedado.

11. El Malecon

El Malecon spans 5 miles (8km) all the way from Old Havana to the chic neighborhood of Miramar. You can walk the entire way! During sunset, it is very busy with locals going to relax after a day at work.

12. Sunset at Iberostar Grand Packard 6th Floor

The Iberostar is one of Havana’s newest and most luxurious hotels with the best sunset view in the city. Have a cocktail on the 6th-floor bar overlooking the infinity pool and the Malecon.

13. Castillo de San Salvador de la Punta

El Malecon spans the waterfront, but the best place for sunset is at the Castillo de San Salvador de la Punta. This old fortress dating back to 1590, juts out from the coastline offering full views of the waterfront of Havana and El Morrow across the bay.

14. Fabrica de arte cubano

The newest hippest hot spot in Cuba’s capital city is The Cuban Art Factory is open from Thursdays to Sundays from 8pm to 2 am. It is a multisensory display of art galleries, performance art, cultural center, and nightclub all in one.

Fabrica de Arte Cubano is a must for people wanting to immerse in Cuban culture. Its aim is to promote Cuban artists of all kinds from musicians, and and photographers to writers and film makers. The display changes weekly.

Vedado Neighborhood

Vedado is the residential neighborhood of Havana that houses ex-pats and has a much more upscale feel to it than Centro.

15. Hotel Nacional

Further along the Malecon, in the Vedado District is the historic Hotel Nacional. Dating back to 1930, it is a mammoth hotel that has seen celebrities and dignitaries grace its doors including Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, and Rita Hayworth. It is still a popular hotel and we suggest popping in for sunset on the terrace to listen to music while enjoying a mojito.

16. Revolution Square / Plaza de la Revolución

Also located in Vedado is the Plaza de la Revolución. Revolution Square is a must stop in Havana to see monument to the people and the facades of Che Guevara and The Ministry of Interior.

Plaza de la Revolución was here that Fidel Castro made many of his long-winded speeches to the people. We were told that thousands of people would sit for up to three hours in the heat listening to what he had to say.

Centro Havana

Centro is the perfect location in Havana for capturing those classic car photographs in front of crumbling

17. The architecture of Centro Havana

Our hotel was located right beside Centro Havana and we loved wandering the streets for amazing photography moments. The buildings are literally crumbling before our eyes.

We took a pedicab through Centro Havana to cover the distance quickly, but the joy of walking through here is getting lost in the streets. It is safe and people are friendly. When walking home at 3 am one evening the streets were alive people.

18. La Guarida for Dinner

La Guarida in Centro Havana is also a popular spot for sunset. It is one of the most expensive restaurants in the city with meals costing only around $40 per person. Made famous by the Academy Award-nominated movie Fresa Y Chocolate.

It’s not easy to find as it is on the third floor of an old mansion. When you are there, have one of their Pina Coladas, they claim to have the best in the city, and we can attest, they are tasty!

19. Paseo Del Prado

This walking street stretches from the Malecon to Parque Central and is a relaxing shaded walk. It also divides Havana Viejo with Central Havana. At night many locals will be hanging out dancing, listening to music or playing sports.

Downtown Havana

20. parque central.

It is probably the first place you’ll venture to in Havana. Parque Central is where everything happens. This is the spot where you’ll see all the old cars lined up waiting for tourists to take a taxi particular ride. Central Park is surrounded by grand hotels like the Iberostar Parque Central and The Kempinski.

26. Visit The Capitol Building (el Capitolio)

The Capitol Building is one of the best places to visit in Havana. Built-in 1926 – 1029 it is often compared to the United States Capitol building. And it’s true, it really does look like it.

27. Gran Teatro de La Habana

The Gran Teatro de la Habana (Grand Theatre of Havana) dates back to 1838. It is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. Make sure to go inside and either see the Cuban National Ballet or take a tour to see the grand stage, and we recommend taking a walk downtown at night to see it lit up.

28. Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes

Arguably one of the finest art galleries in the Caribbean, this is a must-visit for art lovers. This incredible museum houses international art from 500 AD onwards. The museum is now divided into two buildings, one is dedicated to Cuban art and another dedicated to art from around the world.

29. Museum of the Revolution

If you want to learn more about the Cuban Revolution, the Museo de la Revolucion (Revolution Museums in the 1950s, this is the place to go. Located in Old Havana, it is housed in the old Presidential Palace.

Chinatown in Havana

30. barrio chino – havana chinatown.

There is a Chinatown in Havana. But there are no Chinese people there. In fact, there once was a huge Chinese community in Cuba. What’s left today is just about 2 blocks of Chinese restaurants. Still interesting to see. I enjoyed it for sure.

Casablanca Neighborhood

Casablanca is located across the bay from Old Havana. here is where you’ll find the Fort El Morrow, Christo, and Che Guevera’s headquarters.

31. El Cristo de La Havana

Havana has its own Christ the Redeemer. It is second in size only to Rio. Take a taxi, a ferry, or a tour across the bay from to Casablanca Pier to see El Christo. This Christ of Havana stands 20 meters (66 ft) high and is located on an outcrop overlooking the city of Havana.

El Christo’s location offers excellent panoramic views of the Havana Skyline. It’s not far from El Morro, so you can stop here and then make your way to the fort for the nightly canon.

32. Visit the Morro

El Morro is the castle dating back to 1589. It’s Havana’s most prominent landmark and can be seen from the Malecon. Located across the bay, it offers some great views of the Havana skyline.

El Morro was initially built to protect Havana from pirates, in later years it was used to protect Cuba during the Spanish American War. You can tour the fort and explore the many guard boxes and tunnels.

33. el Cañonazo de las Nueve

Havana used to be surrounded by a city wall (much of it can still be seen today) and at 9 pm the canon was shot to warn people that the gates would be closing. Every night in the Fortress of San Carlos de la Cabaña (aka La Cabaña), the ceremony of “el Cañonazo de las Nueve” takes place reenacting that tradition that dates back to 1774. El Morro Soldiers dress in traditional costumes and shoot the cannons at 9pm sharp.

34. Che Guevera’s Headquarters

Just across from El Christo statue is the headquarters of Che Guevara that you can tour the museum for about $6. This is where Ché Guevara held many meetings when planning his revolution.

35. Cuban Missile Crisis Relics

It was the beginning of the entire isolation of Cuba. The Soviet Union pointed missiles directly at America from Cuba. The missiles that have been moved from their original locations are now on display at the museum of La Cabana fortress in Havana.

Cuban Culture and Music

The joy of traveling to Havana is to enjoy the music and entertainment. Home to the Afro Cuban Allstars and incredible musicians, you’ll really be missing out if you don’t get out at night to enjoy live music and listen to the street performers by day.

36. Cuban Music

Cubans are very musical. At every corner in Havana Vieja, someone will be playing some great tunes. Most bars and restaurants in Havana also have live music, at just about any time. If you go into a restaurant for a drink, chances are a band will start playing.

• Note: They will come up to you to ask to buy one of their CDs. We bought one for as low as $5 and we spent $20 on a set of two another night. The prices range quite a bit. I suggest paying more around $5-10 tops.

37. Learn to Salsa

One of the best things to do in Havana is to dance. There are endless possibilities to go dancing in Cuba’s capital. Claudia took a salsa lesson in Havana and it made for good afternoon fun. There are several places to learn salsa in Havana, all you need to do is Google “Salsa Lessons Havana.”

Or you can do what we (Dave and Deb did) just go up and dance with the band, they’ll lead the way for you. The nightlife doesn’t stop in Havana and you can go bar hopping and dancing all night long. They even dance in the streets.

38. Cuban Cigars

Cuba  is so famous for its tobacco and cigars you must explore the culture of cigars even if you are not a smoker. Visit Real Fábrica de Tabacos Partagás (one of the oldest and most famous cigar factories and Cuba to learn how they are made and buy some souvenirs for friends.

• Did you know cigars are best kept in the fridge, on a wet cloth? When you take your cigars home from Cuba make them last this way. 

39. Bonus Tip: Try G uarapo

I find the heat exhausting and at times I need a good dose of sugar to recharge my batteries. Nothing beats Guarapo for this: it is pure sugarcane juice, freshly squeezed. Add some lime to cut the sweetness for a refreshing drink.

40. playas del este

If you are looking for a bit of beach time in Havana, Playas del Este is the closest beach town to Cuba’s capital city just 20 minutes out of town. This 6km long (4 miles) stretch of sand makes for the perfect escape. There are even a few tourist hotels if you want to spend the night.

Suggested Havana Tours

• A walking or driving tour is one of the best ways to get your bearings.   Get Your Guide  is a company we have used for city tours around the world and it is easy to book last-minute tours or cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Private Half-Day Tour of Havana  – Book a private walking tour, up to 6 people for your own introduction to Cuba’s capital.
• Havana City Tour  – A more affordable option is to join a group and take a city tour of Havana as you check out all the sights.
• Vinales Valley  – This 5-hour guided tour takes you out of Havana to visit a local tobacco factory, plantations, and a cruise the Cueva del Indio by boat.
• Tropicana Cabaret – Admission to the historic Tropicana Cabaret. Includes welcome drink, Cuban rum and more!

Getting Around Havana

When staying in the Old City or at the Iberostar, you really don’t need a lot of transportation, we could walk anywhere. But if we were going to a bar or restaurant that was a little out of the way, we took taxi particular. And you really must do this!

41. Take Taxi Particular

One of the best ways to get around Havana is to take a taxi particular. Taking a taxi particular is an excursion unto itself. You’ll have great conversations, make new friends and spend a fraction of the price of a tour. Taxi particular  (privately owned taxi) rides are shared taxi rides. Meaning that when you got in one, other people can also get in.

The old classic convertibles are the pride of the drivers and for just $5 or $6, they will take you to where you need to be. (within a reasonable distance)

42. Go on a Pedi Cab tour

We also hired pedicabs that were a lovely way to see the back streets. They charge about $6 (6 Cuban pesos) as well. This is a fun way to take a tour around Centro Havana.

Where to Stay in Havana

Iberostar Grand Packard – The 5-star hotel overlooking Malecon between Old and Centro Havana It has an excellent location, great sunset views, infinity pool, spa, and luxurious rooms.

The Iberostar Grand Packard surpasses the three-star experience, (that Cuban 5-star hotels are guilty of) but it is not quite up to European or American standards as far as five-star service and amenities. Check out reviews and rates on  Havana Trip Advisor

Casas Particular

If you are traveling on a budget, one of the best ways to save money is to stay in a Casas Particular. it is easy to book private accommodations around Havana. These are known as Casas Particulares. We met many people staying in a Casa Particular and they loved it. They paid anywhere from $20 – $40 per night. You can see the hostels that are open to tourists by looking for the umbrella/anchor above the door.

A beautiful boutique AirBnB we visited was Malecon360. I was in an excellent location and had great views of the Malecon.

• TripAdvisor  has many options for booking vacation rentals in Havana.
• Airbnb is a popular booking site for Havana and this is a great choice because the money goes into the local Cubans pockets.
• CubaAccommodation.com is another popular booking site.

Cuba Resources & Information

• 1 Cuban Peso = 1 USD. Be sure to select CUC (not CAC) CUC is the tourist Cuban Peso. The other is for locals only.
• Bring US cash with you in small bills to be able to change at your hotel upon arrival.
• Are you a U.S. Citizen? Learn more about the legality of traveling to Cuba as an American by visiting the  Treasury Department’s Cuba FAQ .
• Make sure you have travel insurance. In Cuba, you may be asked to show it when landing at immigration. We recommend  World Nomads  for short term trips. If you are looking for something more long-term check out  Allianz Travel . Read more about  the value of Travel Insurance here.
• Looking to plan your trip? We recommend checking out  Lonely Planet Cuba
• Don’t forget that the water in Cuba is not drinkable. We recommend bringing along the  Lifestraw Go Waterbottle . We bring this with us everywhere.
• Be sure to download offline maps before traveling to Cuba. The Internet is terrible there and it helps to have maps stored on your phone.
• Internet: It is available through the ETECSA telecom company and you can buy prepaid cards for around $2-3 per hour.

Have you ever been to Havana? What were the best things you did there?

Enjoy What to Visit in Havana? Why not pin this to Pinterest for future reference.

Do you have other suggestions of things to do in Havana that I may have missed?

Note: This post was originally published by contributor Claudia Tevani. Since publishing, we have been to Havana ourselves. Dave and I have updated this with our Havana travel tips and recommendations a comprehensive guide to visit Havana.

Claudia Tavani is from Cagliari (Sardinia). A former human rights lawyer and academic, after devoting her life to the protection of cultural identity, Claudia decided to give in to her biggest passion and started traveling. You can follow her adventures at My Adventures Across the World and on Facebook and @Claudioula

• 11 Fun Facts About Cuba You Never Knew
• Cuba Travel Guide
• The Best of Key West
• Cuba Through the Lens
• 9 Caribbean Water Sports
• What to do in Grand Cayman – 15 Ideas to Make the Most of Your Trip

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

19 Unforgettable Places to Visit In Cuba in 2024

Cuban Food: 23 Cuban Dishes You Can Try at Home

19 Fun Facts About Cuba You Never Knew

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

24 thoughts on “42 Fantastic Things to do in Havana, Cuba”

Nice list. Hope to get to visit Cuba soon.

I think i’d just end up looking at all the cars and miss everything else! It’s a beautiful country!!! On the bucket list for sure.

hi, havana is my favourite place because here my cousin live here and i want to go there in2020. i will give to all information.

Is Cuba next to Jamaica? I never heard of that combination before. I know Jamaica is not far from South Florida though.

I can only imagine of what’s there to do after traveling to Cuba.

Great Post! I visited Havana and a few other places back in 2014 and wish I had done a lot more with my time. I’ll hopefully be going back as I currently live on the neighbouring island of Jamaica.

Amazing post thanks for sharing.

Nice article except for the bad advice on cigar storage. Never put cigars in the refrigerator. They will pick up all the flavors of the fridge and may dry out or get way too moist while sitting on the wet cloth. Store them in a Tupperware container with a Boveda pack. Boveda packs are sold at any cigar store. Cuban cigars cost $10 each and up so it’s worth it to take proper care of them.

Thanks for your post Claudia! We have just received our Cuban Visa Cards and will be traveling soon! We have done avid reading of all the books we could find and even attempted to learn some Spanish! And just about everything you write about is on our list to visit or see! Dying to ride in a Coco Taxi…..Can we take our Cell phones & iPads with us and also Canon DLS camera. Great post! Will sure add our experiences here in the New Year!…

Great list but i was a little disapointed about the topic “Not so obv things”. Pretty much all except #7 is the super standard things to do there..

As said, still a good list ??

In this world, there are many places to visit, explore the culture and people of their land. However, the dominant condition is money and health.

Really a great place to visit. I Have to say that you have really explained this Cuba in a very truthful manner.

Interesting list for visiting Havana and thanks for your sharing. It seems that the trip will be full of surprises!

Great post.

http://www.cubahipster.com/index.html – our personal honest reflection on traveling and exploration around Cuba – we wish this platform was made by someone else before our trip. But it wasn’t.

So having a tight time/budget frame it is important to know how things work there, because 8 times out of 10 locals won’t be the ones to help. At least not without 5 CUC.

Does Cuba take credit cards? Do we need our money exchanged?

Thanks for the great tips! We’re hoping to head that way in March this year and can’t wait to explore Havana and Vinales!

Did you get a chance to visit Veradaro? Wondering if its worth a day trip from Havana.

I hope cuba gets liberated it was a beautiful country till communism took over. I would like to open a luxury car rental office in Cuba

Havana is the place where i definitely visit in the near future. Cuba will be the first destination for my southern america trip.

I have had a great desire to visit Cuba, but because I am from the United States, it has been closed for us to travel there for many decades. However, thanks to President Obama, the country is open to us again. I can’t wait to visit there. I have heard much about the Cuban cigars and although I do not smoke (I quit many years ago), I may still want to try one. I have heard that Cuba’s living conditions have become stagnant and declined since the 1950s. Even if this is so, I still would like a chance to see this place.

I am glad you enjoy this post. I definitely enjoy Havana! 🙂

I have always wanted to go to Havana and now I feel that time is truly running out, with the gates of Cuba having officially been thrown open it seems to me that this is a country, much like Myanmar in 2011 or Iran now, which needs to be visited asap before it changes forever…

I simply loved Claudia Tavani’s post…. Some not so obvious but fun things to do in Havana……and rightly so…. walking on El Malecon, having a good cocktail and listening to some great music look really interesting things to do in Havana for me…

Trinidad: an elegant old town in southern Cuba

Trinidad attracts plenty of tourists despite being far from Havana

• Newsletter sign up Newsletter

Set in the foothills of the Escambray Mountains, close to Cuba's southern shore, Trinidad is one of the island's most perfectly preserved towns, says Claire Boobbyer in The Times . 

It is a full four hours' drive from the capital, Havana, on the north coast, but still attracts plenty of tourists. They're drawn partly by the town itself, with its cobbled streets, old churches, and "sherbet" mansions with red-tiled roofs and wrought-iron balconies. But they also come for its densely forested, mountainous surroundings. There are some wonderful b&bs in town, and last year a new resort, the Meliá Trinidad Península , opened beside a beach just 15 minutes away. It is the first five-star hotel on Cuba's south coast. Founded by the Spanish in 1514, Trinidad grew rich from sugar production between the mid-18th and mid-19th centuries. Some of the sugar barons' mansions are now open to visitors, including the Palacio Brunet, which houses the Museo Romántico, a magnificent collection of furniture from the colonial era.

Roughly 15,000 slaves were brought here from Africa to work on the plantations, the remains of which you can visit in the nearby Valle de los Ingenios, where there is still one functioning refinery. The melding of African and Spanish cultures has left a "rich" heritage of music, craft and folk art in Trinidad, which has been named a Unesco Creative City owing to its "distinctive" workshops, music venues and galleries.

Subscribe to The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

The Península hotel is a self-contained world of luxury restaurants and swimming pools, but also offers some cultural engagement in the form of history talks, dance classes, cigar-rolling workshops, and so on. And there are plenty of other interesting places to visit along the coast to the west, including the elegant city of Cienfuegos (founded by French immigrants in 1819), and the Bahía de los Cochinos – or Bay of Pigs. Famed as the site of a thwarted invasion by CIA-backed, anti-Castro Cuban rebels in 1961, this beautiful spot is also the best place for bird-watching on the island.

Sign up for Today's Best Articles in your inbox

A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com

The Week Recommends Have a rip-roaring time on the water

By Catherine Garcia, The Week US Published 18 April 24

In the Spotlight High levels of lead and sodium were recently found in the snack packages

By Justin Klawans, The Week US Published 18 April 24

Puzzles and Quizzes

By The Week US Published 18 April 24

Features Featuring a four-level Shaker barn in Hartland and a Scandinavian-inspired home in Stowe

By The Week US Published 16 April 24

Feature The linguist recommends works by Mary Roach, Alice Carrière, and more

Feature The author recommends works by Patricia Highsmith, Shirley Jackson, and more

By The Week US Published 9 April 24

Feature Featuring a suspended fireplace in Arizona and a marine-themed home in Maine

By The Week Published 9 April 24

The Week Recommends Forget the potatoes for this gnocchi made of the 'classic combination' of spinach and ricotta

By The Week UK Published 7 April 24

Feature The best-selling author recommends works by Stephen King, Sara Gran, and more

By The Week US Published 2 April 24

Feature Featuring a 1925 art deco high-rise in San Francisco and a factory-turned-home in Los Angeles

The Week Recommends Haidt calls out 'the Great Rewiring of Childhood' phenomenon

By The Week UK Published 1 April 24

• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Advertise With Us

The Week is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036.

What You Need To Be Aware Of As A Tourist Visiting Cuba

B eaches with white sand as fine as sugar, vintage American cars cruising down streets lined by colorful aging buildings, and the chance to puff on a fine cigar while watching people dance the salsa in the warm night air: It's not hard to understand the picture-postcard allure of Cuba. It's a country in the throes of rapid change as it emerges back onto the world stage after decades of stagnation following the 1959 revolution. So now is a wonderful time to pack your dancing shoes and visit the Caribbean's largest island.

However, Cuba isn't an uncomplicated tropical paradise and there are several things you need to be aware of before you visit as a tourist. Like, as an American, is it even legal for you to visit Cuba as a tourist? What's with the money situation? And can you access the internet or are you going back to the Stone Age (also known as the early 1990s)?

Can Americans Visit Cuba?

Cuba is just 103 miles from the tip of Florida making it the ideal winter getaway for sun-seeking Americans. However, the U.S. imposed restrictions on travel to Cuba in 1963 and while the level of restrictions has varied over the years, as of July 2023, Americans can't visit Cuba purely for tourism purposes.

That said, there are 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba, and the one that most Americans visiting the island use is the "support for the Cuban people" category. You'll need a passport with six months validity at the time of entry and two blank pages. You also need a Cuban Tourist Card, which you can usually get from your airline for as little as $50.

Speaking of airlines, you can fly direct to Cuba from several U.S. cities, including Miami, Tampa, New York City , and Houston. Most direct flights from the U.S. land in the Cuban capital of Havana, though there are several nonstop flights from Miami to other destinations in the country, including Santiago de Cuba and the popular beach resort of Varadero.

Cuban Currency

There's good news and, let's say, tricky news when it comes to paying for things in Cuba. The good news is that there is now one currency used by residents and visitors alike in the country: the Cuban peso (CUP). The Cuban convertible peso (CUC), which used to be the currency used by tourists, was eliminated in 2021.

The only official place you can exchange currency in Cuba is at Cadeca exchange houses. You cannot get CUP outside of Cuba, nor should you take the currency home with you. Spend or exchange anything you have left over before you go to the airport (after security, you should pay in foreign currency).

What about credit cards? U.S. credit and debit cards won't work in Cuba. Credit cards from major financial institutions like Visa and Mastercard from other countries should be accepted by certain businesses and ATMs. However, cash is king in the country and it's always a good idea to keep some with you for tips to service workers.

The Internet In Cuba

Cuba is the perfect place to go on a digital detox. We're going to be honest: Getting online isn't as easy as in the U.S. and internet speeds can be sluggish. However, if you need to connect to the internet, you can. The most common way to access the internet in Cuba is via hotspots in places like public parks and on the Malécon in Havana. (They are also perfect for people-watching, so embrace the experience!) Many hotels and some other businesses also have Wi-Fi.

To access the internet in most places you're going to need a NAUTA card, which you can purchase from ETECSA offices around Cuba. Be prepared to stand in line to buy the card and take your passport along with you. Our advice? Be patient and make the most of your offline moments to fully immerse yourself in the Cuban experience. And plan to latergram your posts on Insta.

Sleeping And Eating

When it comes to accommodation in Cuba, you'll find a range of options. From all-inclusive beach resorts to cozy casas particulares, you'll find somewhere to suit your preferences and budget. Our pick for independent travelers is a casa particular, a privately owned guesthouse which offers a fantastic opportunity to experience Cuban hospitality firsthand. Many places offer breakfast and an evening meal, so you can taste home-cooked Cuban food. It's also an excellent way to support the Cuban people (this is likely the stated purpose of your visit, after all) as the money you pay goes directly to the guesthouse owners. In contrast, the Cuban government holds at least a 51% share in all hotels in Cuba. Hotel star ratings are often on the generous side, so be discerning.

As far as food goes in Cuba, your best bet is to go to a paladar, a privately run restaurant that serves excellent versions of classic Cuban dishes like roast pork, shredded beef, and suckling pig (the cuisine is pretty meat-forward). A note on cultural sensitivity: Many products that are widely available in the U.S. might not be in Cuba and even basic products often disappear from Cuban shops at short notice. Savor what's put on your plate and enjoy the often simple but tasty food.

How To Support And Respect The Cuban People

Staying in casas particulares and eating at paladares are just two ways that you can support the Cuban people on your trip. Consider taking a salsa class run by a local, buying locally made handicrafts, and whiling away the steamy nights sipping rum and listening to musicians put on a fabulous show. By patronizing local businesses, not only are you financially supporting the Cuban people, but you're also going to have an authentic Cuban experience.

We touched on the unavailability of some food items earlier, but shortages extend to many consumer products in Cuba. Bring everything you think you'll need for your trip, including medications. You may also want to bring a roll of toilet paper (glamorous, we know), as public bathrooms often don't have it. Power cuts are common; while they might be frustrating, remember that you're only there for a short time and, for Cubans, power cuts are infuriating, so keep your complaints to yourself. This goes for everything, really; if you're not prepared for some minor inconveniences, don't visit Cuba. If you want to take a memorable trip to a country steeped in history with a vibrant culture, stunning urban architecture, and beautiful natural landscapes, it'll all be worth it.

Read this next: The World's Best Places To Put On Your Travel Bucket List

7 Places That Prove Americans Don't Need To Leave The U.S. To Travel

Why travel abroad when you can explore new places in the U.S. and feel like you're out of the country?

• Don't overlook domestic vacations, the U.S. offers top-notch alternatives to international travel destinations.
• Explore Aspen instead of Chamonix, France; Napa Valley instead of Tuscany, Italy; and Miami Beach instead of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
• Enjoy New Orleans's cultural hotspots similar to those in Havana, Cuba, or experience San Francisco's charm mirroring Lisbon.

Perhaps the cost of an international vacation is too costly, or you don't enjoy flying. Alternatively, you might be low on annual vacation days, leaving you with insufficient time to journey across the Atlantic.

For whatever reason, U.S. citizens may fulfill their desire for an amazing vacation right here in the United States if traveling to another destination isn't feasible. For those choosing to stay in the country this year, you can discover fantastic U.S. alternatives to top travel destinations around the world . Here are seven places that prove Americans don't need to leave the U.S. to travel and have an amazing vacation.

10 Airlines With Ultra Affordable Domestic Flights In The US

7 aspen, colorado, alternative to: chamonix, france.

Aspen is the benchmark of which all other ski communities, including Chamonix, aspire to be. It's also one of the few locations that's both hip and traditional at the same time, much like Chamonix. Not to mention the landscape is perfection . Aspen is often regarded as the most elegant mountain town outside of Europe, where movie stars are always being spotted.

From a topographic standpoint, Aspen is quite similar to the Chamonix Valley, with four distinct ski slopes that can accommodate a wide range of skill levels and preferences.

Aspen Mountain is a playground for experts, with runs that directly connect it to downtown. The local favorite, Aspen Highlands, has the steepest terrain. The main mountain, Snowmass, offers terrain for all skill levels and has the second-highest vertical drop in America. And, Buttermilk is the best place for novices because of its ski school.

Similar to the well-known Mont Blanc unlimited pass in Chamonix , Aspen lift tickets are valid for all four mountains, which are conveniently accessible by complimentary shuttle buses.

6 Napa Valley, California

Alternative to: tuscany, italy.

Rather than requiring a transatlantic voyage to go on a journey evocative of Tuscany's charm, Napa Valley extends an invitation for U.S. citizens to immerse themselves in its beautiful landscapes and world-class vineyards . Winding roads go across rolling hills, dotted with vineyards that provide wines of the highest caliber.

Nestled among the vines, Napa Valley Lodge is a hidden gem for anyone seeking a true Italian getaway without leaving the U.S. with magnificent yet rustic cottages. Just a short distance away from the delectable treats of Bouchon Bakery and well-known vineyards like Hope and Grace Wines , travelers may enjoy the peace and quiet of their surroundings. The spirit of Tuscany finds a singular expression in Napa Valley, resulting in an amazing fusion of Italian refinement and Californian splendor.

5 Miami Beach, Florida

Alternative to: rio de janeiro, brazil.

Miami Beach, Florida, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, are the epitome of tropical allure and cosmopolitan beauty. Each has stunning beaches popular with sunbathers and water enthusiasts alike. Yet, beyond their sandy shores, both cities pulsate with energy long after the sun sets. Miami Beach's legendary nightlife and Rio's samba-infused streets are testaments to their cultural dynamism.

These destinations don't just offer a beach escape; they promise a cultural immersion. With colorful street art , lively music, and a melting pot of cuisine, Miami Beach tantalizes the senses and leaves an indelible mark on its visitors. Additionally, Miami Beach showcases the diversity of the U.S., providing numerous alternatives for vacationers who prefer to stay within America for their holidays.

These Are The 10 Most Beautiful US Destinations

4 new orleans, louisiana, alternative to: havana, cuba.

In the wake of devastating fires in the 1780s that ravaged New Orleans , the Spanish looked to Havana, Cuba, for inspiration on rebuilding. This historical connection forged a bond between the two wonderful cities, each characterized by a deep-rooted passion for music, dance, and vibrant architecture.

New Orleans' iconic French Quarter mirrors Havana's historic neighborhoods, both radiating an aura of old-world charm and cultural opulence. Whether it's the soulful melodies drifting through the streets or the colorful facades of colonial-era buildings, these cities stand as living testaments to their shared heritage and the enduring spirit of their people.

3 San Francisco, California

Alternative to: lisbon, portugal.

San Francisco, a bustling metropolis perched on California's northern coastline, is known for its cultural diversity with notable Asian influences. Interestingly, it shares striking resemblances with the European gem of Lisbon , Portugal, earning them the moniker of sister cities.

Both San Francisco and Lisbon have picturesque coastal settings and iconic tram systems, weaving through vibrant neighborhoods. While San Francisco boasts the majestic Golden Gate Bridge , Lisbon showcases its own architectural marvel, the Ponte 25 de Abril , evoking a sense of familiarity between the two destinations. These parallels underscore the dynamic fusion of cultures and the enduring charm that defines both San Francisco and Lisbon.

Our Vote Is In: This Is The Most Beautiful Place To Visit In The US In 2024

2 santa fe, new mexico, alternative to: cusco, peru.

Santa Fe and Cusco are steeped in rich cultural history and are known for their distinctive architecture, blending indigenous and colonial influences. Santa Fe's adobe buildings and vivacious cultural landscapes mirror the charm and cultural heritage of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire.

Additionally, both cities serve as gateways to nearby ancient archaeological sites: Machu Picchu from Cusco, and sites like Bandelier National Monument and Taos Pueblo from Santa Fe, attracting visitors interested in exploring the region's historical and cultural significance.

1 Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada

Alternative to: lake como, italy.

Lake Tahoe, straddling the border of California and Nevada in the United States, and Lake Como, nestled in the Italian Alps, both captivate visitors with their awe-inspiring landscapes. Encircled by towering peaks, these alpine lakes exude tranquil beauty that attracts travelers seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Whether it's lounging on the shores, hiking scenic trails , or indulging in water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, both destinations offer abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation. The serene ambiance and pristine waters of Lake Tahoe remind those who seek a vacation without leaving the U.S. of Lake Como, creating an idyllic setting for relaxation and a romantic getaway for couples or an adventure-filled trip for a family.

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

10 unmissable LGBTQ+ events in Latin America

Check out Latin America's most exciting annual LGTBQ+ events, from inspirational Pride marches and blockbuster carnivals to queer tango competitions and wine festivals.

A thriving hotspot for LGBTQ+ travel, Latin America’s social calendar is crammed with thrilling queer events. Whether you’re planning a trip around Pride Month celebrations or looking for some cultural enrichment with special-interest festivals, there’s hardly a bad time to visit

1. São Paulo Gay Pride

São Paulo, Brazil June

Every year, travellers in the know head to São Paulo for what is truly the largest gay pride in the world, with millions of attendees. It’s a full-force extravaganza, the one time this usually business-oriented city rivals Rio de Janeiro on the celebratory circuit. The parade’s main route travels the city’s most important thoroughfare, Avenida Paulista, lined with iconic skyscrapers, art nouveau mansions, museums and other cultural institutions. Usually in June, it’s a whole week of events with the accompanying Feira Cultural Da Diversidade LGBT+ featuring art shows, drag contests, restaurant outings and other highlights.

2. Rio de Janeiro Carnival

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil February/March

There’s no experience quite like Rio’s Carnival. Millions turn out for the event, in February or March depending on the Easter calendar — with the weekend and the Monday and Tuesday before the Christian holiday Ash Wednesday and Lent the most bacchanalian days. The event is centred around the Sambadrome, the linear stadium designed by Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, with some tourist packages giving visitors a chance to march in costume. The majority of places are queer-friendly, with the main highlights being the Gay Ball at the Scala club and the Rua Farme de Amoedo gay beach block party in Ipanema.

3. Queer Tango Festival Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires, Argentina Various dates

The tango, a fusion of African, European, New World and Indigenous dance styles, was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009. It has roots within Argentina’s same-sex history, as men often performed the dance with each other — even if only to impress women watching. After the early 2000s peso crisis, which plunged the country into financial turmoil, LGBTQ+ tango salons began to emerge. Visitors can either join in or sit back and enjoy this quintessential Buenos Aires art form through a queer lens.

4. Vendimia para Todxs (Vendimia for All)

Mendoza, Argentina February/March

With juice-stained, ballgown-wearing beauty queens representing Argentina’s wine regions on parade floats throwing grapes, melons, bottles of wine and other agricultural products into the throngs lining Mendoza’s streets, the Vendimia is already an unusual and vibrant wine festival. The Gay Vendimia or Vendimia for All only adds to the crazy fun, with a beauty queen pageant of gay, trans and drag contestants along with other entertainment. Definitely the world’s largest, if not only, queer wine festival, the event is held in February or March, timed for the country’s annual grape harvest.

5. The Vallarta Pride Parade and Vallarta Pride Festival

Vallarta, Mexico May

Puerto Vallarta is a queer-friendly destination year-round, but this vibrant city overlooking the Pacific really comes alive in late May during the Vallarta Pride Parade and Vallarta Pride Festival. The highlight is the Saturday Parade along the beachfront Malecón, where thousands of people turn up to celebrate the community. Other highlights throughout the week-long gathering include art shows, special dining events, bar parties and more. It’s a popular (albeit more crowded) time to visit this city, which was once the secluded haunt of Hollywood stars like Elizabeth Taylor.

6. Amor Film Festival

Santiago, Chile June/July

Travellers seeking a quiet and cerebral experience can do no better than heading to Santiago, Chile, for the Amor International LGBT+ Film Festival, which was founded in 2016 and is held from late June to early July. Though an international festival, there’s a strong focus on queer Latin American and Iberian submissions in Spanish and Portuguese. The scattered screening and event locations — which range from the Cineteca Nacional to the Teatro Municipal de Maipu and the Comunidad Cultural Comunitaria La Inclusive — offer the chance to catch new films and engage in cinematic conversations while exploring the Chilean capital.

7. Havana, Cuba Gay Pride March and Festival

Havana, Cuba May

Cuba has long been a queer-friendly destination. Through the organisation Cenesex, run by Mariela Castro, daughter of former leader Raul Castro, the communist country has also been an intriguing part of the global LGBTQ+ rights movement, and is especially advanced on transgender issues. Queer rights activists have to toe the party line, and this colourful late May spectacle in the storied streets of Havana is usually a government-supported event, generally promoting an approved narrative. Peaceful protests can sometimes occur, making this a rare, interesting time to see Cuban politics in action.

8. Carnaval Gay de Barranquilla

Barranquilla, Colombia Easter week

Barranquilla, a lesser-frequented spot for LGBTQ+ travellers, is best known for its lively festival. The city, which sits on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is home to one of South America’s largest events — the Barranquilla Carnaval. It features several LGBTQ+ events alongside the core parades, meaning this multifaceted extravaganza is unlikely to remain a secret for too much longer. Like many carnivals, its timing is based on the Easter calendar. The glittering week of events includes marches, cultural outings, parties, drag pageants, and other feather-adorned spectacles where the music is always turned up high.

9. San Juan Gay Pride

San Juan, Puerto Rico June

Puerto Rico has been through a difficult few years, from natural disasters to economic slowdowns, but San Juan Pride continues. This early June event is one of the Caribbean’s largest, with bars, restaurants and nightclubs along Avenida Condado in the Condado neighbourhood’s LGBTQ+ district packed with locals and visitors alike. The parade kicks off early from its staging grounds in Parque del Indio in view of the beachfront before heading along Ashford Avenue with a line-up of participants, floats, music and dancers. It culminates with a rally and show of activists, singers, drag artists and other performances at Parque del Tercer Milenio.

10. Diversity March/ Manuel Antonio Gay Beach Parade

San José, Costa Rica June/July

Visitors who time their trips right and stay long enough during a June visit to Costa Rica get two incredible LGBTQ+ pride events. It’s a chance to see art shows, film exhibits and have plenty of fun. In late June, Costa Rica’s capital San José hosts the Diversity March, a colourful spectacle combining fun and activism, with myriad sophisticated cultural events worthy of this Central American capital. Two weeks later and only a two-hour drive away is the Manuel Antonio Gay Beach Parade in Manuel Antonio National Park, on the beach itself. The weekend is full of pool parties, tea dances and other events.

Related Topics

• LGBT-FRIENDLY TRAVEL
• FAMILY TRAVEL
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• FAIRS AND CARNIVALS

You May Also Like

A guide to LGBTQ+ travel in Latin America

They inspire us and teach us about the world: Meet our 2024 Travelers of the Year

Free bonus issue.

The essential guide to Switzerland

These 6 U.S. Christmas markets feel like a fairy tale

Where to travel in May

Revisiting Vienna's World Fair: new tours and exhibitions on the 150th anniversary

25 breathtaking places and experiences for 2023

• Perpetual Planet
• Environment
• History & Culture
• Paid Content

History & Culture

• Photography
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

The best things to do this weekend in San Diego: April 19-21

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

Here are some of the best things to do this weekend in San Diego from Friday, April 19 to Sunday, April 21.

La Jolla Music Society’s jazz piano mini festival: This celebration of Jazz Appreciation Month features a panel discussion, masster class and an outdoor concert. All events take place in venues at La Jolla Music Society’s Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla. theconrad.org/jazz-piano-mini-festival

San Diego Asian Film Festival Spring Showcase: Through April 25, Pacific Arts Movement will host a spring showcase to compliment its San Diego Asian Film Festival in the fall. See films in the categories of drama, documentary, action and more. 6 and 8 p.m. Friday; 12:30, 2:45, 5:35 and 8 p.m. Saturday; 12:30, 2:45, 5:20 and 7:15 p.m. Sunday. UltraStar Cinemas Mission Valley, 7510 Hazard Center Dr #100, San Diego. $15 for general admission. sdaff.org/spring2024

‘The Prom’: San Diego College’s Dramatic Arts Program presents the San Diego premiere of this 2019 Broadway musical comedy about group of washed-up Broadway stars who descend on a conservative Midwestern town to campaign for diversity at a high school prom while drumming up media attention for themselves. Opens Friday and runs through April 27. 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; and 11 a.m. April 25. Saville Theatre, S.D. City College, 14th and C streets, San Diego. $8-$20. citycollegetheatre.com

Jojo Jorge Fálcon: Mexico City native Jojo Jorge Fálcon brings a night of monologues, songs, imitations, jokes and other funny bits San Diego County. 9 p.m. Friday. The Magnolia, 210 E Main Street, El Cajon. Tickets start at $67.50. magnoliasandiego.com/EventDetail?tmeventid=vvG1iZbkM9ivRf&offerid=0

“Stew”: Scripps Ranch Theatre & Common Ground Theatre present Zora Howard’s 2021 Pulitzer Prize finalist play about three generations of Black women sharing stories, hopes and sorrows as they prepare stew for a church event. 7:30 p.m. Friday. 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday. 2 p.m. Sunday. Legler-Benbough Theatre, Alliant International University, 9783 Avenue of Nations, San Diego. $29-$49. (858) 578-7728, scrippsranchtheatre.org

‘Conservation in the Park’: To demystify the science of art conservation, from now through April 30, the Timken Museum in Balboa Park is inviting visitors to watch as conservators from the Balboa Art Conservation Center restore the museum’s 1758 Rococo painting “Lovers in the Park” by François Boucher. Visitors can interact with and watch the conservators work from noon to 4 p.m. Friday and on April 26, and also quietly observe their work from 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. Thursday. 1500 El Prado, Balboa Park. Free. (619) 239-5548, timkenmuseum.org

La Jolla Concours d’Elegance: Fans of luxury and classic cars can enjoy an elegant three-day event taking place in various locations throughout the weekend. On Saturday, a free Cars & Coffee parade will go through Rancho Santa Fe on Paseo Delicias starting at 9 a.m. and through La Jolla Shores along Avenida de la Playa and Calle de la Playa starting at 11:30 am. This will be followed later in the evening with a free Porches on Prospect event that will display 75 Porches along Prospect and Herschel streets from 5 to 9 p.m. The main event takes place Sunday with immersive activities, up-close viewing of the cars, live music and food and drink offerings. Times vary Friday, Saturday and Sunday. La Jolla, La Jolla Shores and Rancho Santa Fe. General admission is free for kids under age 10, $30 for older children, $60 for military and $105 for adults. VIP tickets available. lajollaconcours.com

Chicano Park Day: For the 54th time, the community of Logan Heights will celebrate one of San Diego’s most distinct cultural landmarks on Chicano Park Day. This year’s theme is “Bringing back the true spirit and energy of the Chicano Park takeover.” The events and activities inside the park on this day are as diverse and colorful as the murals that mark the pillars throughout the park. Visitors will hear traditional music and see performances in Aztec Indigenous dance. This family-friendly event also features art workshops, a lowrider exhibition and craft vendors. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Chicano Park. Free. chicano-park.com

“ Freak Out!”: The San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus will perform disco hits with looks from the era of Donna Summer and the Bee Gees. Expect a lot of dancing, glitter and even roller-skating. 7 p.m. Saturday 3 p.m. Sunday. Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave., San Diego. Tickets start at $26.50. sdgmc.org

Two years into running the San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus, Charlie Beale is ready for a ‘Freak Out’

Next weekend’s disco-themed concerts, featuring roller-skating, ‘70s costumes and audience interaction, are right in line with leader’s goals for the organization

April 14, 2024

Self-care plant workshop: Local author Rachael Cohen will share about her latest book, “Self-Care for Eco-Anxiety,” and walk participants through the process of self-care with a succulent arrangement activity. Admission covers the succulent arrangement craft and a signed copy of the book. 10:30 a.m. Saturday. $70. 3010-b Juniper St., San Diego. thebookcatapult.com/event/2024-04-20/workshop-rachael-cohen

San Diego Poetry Futures 2024: This event, a collaboration with San Diego Poet Laureate Jason Magabo Perez, will celebrate local Asian & Asian American poets and authors. Hear live poetry and participate in a workshop. 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday. Third Floor of Hazard Center. Free. sdaff.org/spring2024/special_events/san-diego-poetry-futures

North Park Salsa Fest: Taste salsa, enjoy musical performances and watch as local restaurants compete to be named the best salsa maker in San Diego. 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday. North Park Mini Park, 3812 29th St., San Diego. Tickets start at $15. friendsofjefferson.org/events/salsa-fest-2

Coronado flower show: For more than a century, this annual Coronado flower show has celebrated all things floral. Festivities of the weekend will kick off tonight with a family movie night in Spreckels Park. Saturday and Sunday, visitors can see flower demonstrations and lectures as well as competitions, while enjoying live music, food and a beer and wine garden. 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Spreckels Park, Coronado. $10 per person, free for kids under age 17. coronadoflowershow.com

“Sense of Decency”: North Coast Repertory Theatre presents the world premiere of Jake Broder’s fact-based play about American Army psychiatrist Douglas M. Kelley, who was tasked with interviewing and determining the competency of Nazi leader Hermann Göring during the post-World War II Nuremberg war crimes trials. Opens Saturday and runs through May 12. 7 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays; 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sundays. 987 Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach. $57-$74. (858) 481-1055, northcoastrep.org

Black Angus Steakhouse diamond anniversary: Black Angus is serving a brunch to celebrate its 60 years in business on Saturday. Brunch will be a three-course meal that includes a spicy honey chicken biscuit slider with a jalapeño strawberry passion fruit margarita, a rib-eye steak with scrambled eggs, a lobster fritter and a bloody mary on the side, and for dessert, a sugar cookie with strawberries on top, paired with a lavender blueberry mimosa. This brunch is a collaboration with Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, which will have coffee and tea to order. Black Angus has three locations in the county: Chula Vista, El Cajon and Escondido. 11:30 a.m. Saturday. $44.99. blackangus.com

Bazaar del Mundo Shops Spring Pop-Up: Diane Powers presents a spring art show and sale spotlighting the 50th anniversary of famed San Diego artist Laurel Burch’s art business (she passed away in 2007). Jewelry, fashion, and decor items will be offered for sale, and a free limited-edition Burch poster will be free to attendees. Other featured exhibitors include Kim Yubeta, Janet Pitcher, Sue Titus, Sheri Liebert and Jackie Brazil. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. 4133 Taylor St., Old Town San Diego. bazaardelmundo.com

“Treasures from the Trunk, Pearls of Wisdom” : Mojalet Dance Collective presents an evening of music and contemporary dance. 4:30 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. The Vine Arts Village, 12540 Oaks North Drive, San Diego. $15-$20. (858) 243-1402, mojalet.com

Marisa Takal exhibition: The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library presents the Los Angeles artist’s first local solo exhibit, featuring vivid colors and paneled iconography to explore behavior and personal patterns. Opens Saturday and runs through July 13. 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays. 1008 Wall Street, La Jolla. Free. (858) 454-5872, ljathenaeum.org

Multicultural Earth Day: At this annual festival returns with a theme of “Call for Unity for Climate and Food Justice.” Expect garden tours, craft vendors, guest speakers, workshops and live performances in drumming and Aztec dance. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday. WorldBeat Cultural Center, 2100 Park Blvd., Balboa Park. Free. worldbeatcenter.org

100th Anniversary Organ Concert: Mission Hills United Church of Christ in Mission Hills will present a concert by organist Alison Luedecke to honor the centennial of its 1924 Austin pipe organ. 4 p.m. Sunday. 4070 Jackdaw St., San Diego. Free. missionhillsucc.org

Third annual Wildcoast benefit dinner: Herb & Sea is hosting a fundraising dinner for the nonprofit Wildcoast on Sunday. The event is a family-style seafood dining experience on the restaurant’s deck and will feature a large fish on a bed of hot coals, covered with burlap and seaweed, and buried in sand to roast. Dinner will also include tasting of oysters, ceviche and focaccia; sides such as a green salad and oven-roasted potatoes; and doughnuts with sea salt and fish marrow chocolate sauce for dessert. Tickets include food, alcohol, tax and gratuity, and all ticket profits will be donated to Wildcoast. 6 p.m. Sunday. 131 W. D St., Encinitas. $120. (760) 704-8300, herbandsea.com

More from this Author

San Diego Guides

The best things to do this week in San Diego: April 15-19

April 15, 2024

The best things to do this weekend in San Diego: April 12-14

April 10, 2024

The best things to do this week in San Diego: April 8-12

April 8, 2024

The best things to do this weekend in San Diego: April 5-7

April 3, 2024

The best things to do this week in San Diego: April 1-5

April 1, 2024

The best things to do this weekend in San Diego: March 29-31

March 27, 2024

More in this section

Hike of the week: Find shade and sandy trails in Anza-Borrego’s Moonlight Canyon

Moonlight Canyon Trail is a roughly 2-mile loop in Agua Caliente County Park that traverses through a shady flat wash, up rocky hillsides and overlooks the desert and Vallecito Mountains.

Entertainment

San Diego Book Crawl returning with new shuttle for tour of local independent bookstores

These are the participating bookstores for the 2024 San Diego Book Crawl, which runs April 27-29. Some are genre-specific, others are more general, and some sell used books and gifts.

April 12, 2024

San Diego flood victims have one more week to apply for a federal assistance loan. Here’s what to know.

April 19 is the deadline to apply for a loan through the Small Business Administration. Local business and disaster recovery centers will also close that day.

How to explore and eat your way through San Diego County on the Orange Line trolley

Ride the Orange Line trolley and find hidden gems or popular places to go out with family and friends, including a collectables store, Jamaican food and a late-night cocktail

Hike of the week: Explore tide pools on San Diego’s coastline at Cabrillo National Monument

Hikers can spot wildlife like sea anemone, coastal birds and beautiful native plants along this 1-mile picture-perfect trail

What flood victims need to know about applying for FEMA financial assistance

FEMA aid may assist residents in securing more long-term housing and fund rental assistance, home repairs and other costs incurred by flood damage

13 of the best things to do in Havana with kids

Dec 19, 2023 • 6 min read

Find the best things to do as a family in Cuba's capital with this guide to Havana with kids © ferrantraite / Getty Images

Havana is a dream destination for families and children of all ages.

Cubans place their family at the heart of everything. Kids are cherished and pampered and your children will be fussed over in  casas particulares (B&Bs), on the streets and in restaurants. 

The high season – from November to April – is an excellent time to visit Havana as temperatures are more manageable and the humidity of summer is absent. These months coincide with a host of cultural festivals across the city.

What is Havana like for family travelers?

Much of life in Havana is lived on the colorful streets and kids will love the buzz because there is entertainment and distraction at every turn. The city offers parks , playgrounds, beaches and music and no kid will want to miss riding around in a candy-colored convertible classic American car. Many museums and attractions offer free-of-charge or discounted entry to children under 12.

Of Havana's neighborhoods , the tree-lined, upmarket Vedado offers more green areas and quiet than Old Havana and Centro. 

If you're staying in a casa particular  (Cuban B&B), remember that prices are quoted per room, so rooms with multiple beds are a better deal. In hotels, rules vary on infants and children staying with adults in one room. If you need a crib, contact your accommodations in advance. 

Generally, restaurants in Havana don’t offer children’s menus, but all will be accommodating. Few hotel restaurants offer highchairs. If you're too tired to head out, use  Mandao for home delivery from many city food spots.

Hop-on hop-off open-top HabanaBusTour is an easy way to explore neighborhoods, and is also a good option for getting to Havana’s nearest white-sand beach, Playas del Este , just 20 minutes away.

Havana’s sidewalks are pretty broken so leave strollers at home and use carriers for babies. In cars and taxis, don’t expect to find seat belts. For door-to-door service, download taxi app La Nave.

Havana’s obstacles might put some parents off, but Cubans are enablers, and most hiccups can be overcome. Havana is mostly a safe city .

Best things to do in Havana with babies and toddlers

Explore havana’s most popular playground.

Find swings, climbing frames and a sandbox at Hábitat Calzada . Stay for its workshops and shows – messing about with clay, watching musical presentations, kids’ theater and learning percussion. Juice, coffee and ice cream is available from painted repurposed shipping containers.

Enjoy kids' shows on stage and on screen

Havana’s beloved Teatro el Arca houses a puppet museum and theater offering free, delightful shows every weekend mornings. Catch screenings for children at Cinecito movie theater, too.

Best things to do in Havana with school-age kids 

Cruise havana in a classic car.

Nothing beats exploring Havana in a gleaming, gelato-hued classic convertible. Kids will love riding in the back with the wind in their hair while they soak up the sounds and sights of the city.

Stroll around Old Havana

The Spanish colonial core of Havana is always abuzz with activity. Look out for Havana’s Gigantes  – stilt walkers in colorful, flamboyant dress who parade through pretty squares to music and draw the crowds. 

Pick up churros at a stand opposite the Museo de Chocolate. Wander over to the shipwreck museum in La Fuerza Castle with its illuminated model galleons and treasure chests. And taxi over to Morro Castle and lighthouse to play at being pirates.

Learn new arts, crafts and sporting skills

Sign up for an arts or crafts workshop with store Alma . Learn papermaking, textiles, notebook-making and embroidering photos.

Keep an eye out for workshops at  Gallería Continua in Chinatown focused on making art and music, or go to the  Havana Music School , which offers dedicated workshops in percussion and dance classes for kids, teens and families. 

Looking for something a bit more active? Qualified instructors teach kids from 8 years of age to surf the waves at El Cayo Surf Club on La Concha beach.

Tour Fusterlandia

Artist José Fuster has decorated his incredible house and almost his entire Jaimanitas neighborhood in an extraordinary patchwork of colorful ceramics.

Best things to do in Havana with tweens and teenagers

Watch street rumba on sundays.

At noon on Sundays, Callejón de Hamel , a colorful alley in Centro Havana painted in murals and decorated with recycled furniture is transformed as a rumba group sings and dances before the tightly packed crowds.

Snap street art

Teens will love artsy Old Havana neighborhood San Isidro with spray-painted walls tagged by Cuban and foreign street artists, plus art galleries, cool bars and restaurants. Stroll around and allow plenty of time to take some photos.

Learn to box

Cuba is the only country in the world to produce two three-time Olympic gold winners in boxing. The Rafael Trejo boxing gym in Old Havana arranges training, which can be booked in advance by a hotel concierge such as the one at  Paseo 206 .

Bike the city

Cycle Havana’s back roads and get a close-up look at its exuberant architecture. Book with  Cubyke  and ask in advance for a kid’s additional seat or trailer.

Catch a baseball game

Cuba’s baseball prowess is world famous. Check with your accommodations on game schedules and make your way to the stands at Havana’s Estadio Latinoamericano to see home team Industriales play.

Catch a matinee

Some of Havana’s music venues stage matinees – around 4pm to 6pm – which are perfect for family travelers.

Check out salsa musicians and dancing at  Casa de la Música with well-known names. More central is  Salón Jelengue, El Patio de Areíto with rumba every Sunday between 4pm and 8pm. Tap into son Cubano, bolero and more on other nights of the week.

Take a street food tour

Popular restaurant  Jíbaro in southern Old Havana does a great street food tour with lively anecdotes, visiting markets and stores. Tours are tailored for youngsters on booking.

Planning tips for family travel in Havana

Many items are difficult or impossible to find in Cuba, so baby food, diapers, medicines and favorite snacks should be brought with you. Bottled water is occasionally hard to come by; bring bottles with in-built filters.

Staying in a central neighborhood like Old Havana, Centro or Vedado will see you close to most parks, museums, restaurants and the ocean road. You’ll find the greatest concentration of transport options here, too. B&Bs and smart boutique stays will be your best bet for support with bookings and experiences.

Hotels with pools are a plus, too, for those days when you don't want to stray too far. The large pool with lifeguard service at the Melia Cohiba , which is in a great location near the Malecón, is a winner. Public restrooms are found only in hotels, restaurants and some museums.

Explore related stories

Jan 12, 2024 • 7 min read

If you’re looking to travel to Cuba with kids, you’ll find music, carnivals, watersports, horse riding, classic American car rides and much more.

Apr 10, 2018 • 4 min read

Jan 10, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 6, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 5, 2023 • 8 min read

Jun 16, 2020 • 5 min read

Mar 20, 2020 • 3 min read

Jan 22, 2020 • 4 min read

Mar 26, 2018 • 3 min read

La Cuevita, Where Capitalism Works in Cuba

The sale of medicines and the purchase of foreign currency, all informal, happen in plain sight of the police and despite their operations

By Juan Diego Rodriguez (14ymedio)

HAVANA TIMES – The market known as La Cuevita, in San Miguel del Padrón, on the outskirts of Havana, is not larger than the one that extends under the bridge at 100 y Boyeros in the capital, but it has a greater impact. “The space for the self-employed stalls is small, but it’s the immense informal sales around them where most buyers go,” says Nelly, who accompanies 14ymedio on their visit to La Cuevita this Friday.

Nelly lives in Ciego de Ávila but comes every month. Before, she used to work as a “mule” going back and forth to Haiti, but with the upsurge of violence in that country, she has switched to the markets in Havana. She’s not alone. “We all come with suitcases and then we go back to our provinces to sell the things there.”

“It’s like arriving at the bus terminal, really,” says Raniel, who has come to La Cuevita to buy medicines. In the legally established self-employed premises, there is costume jewelry, watches, clothes, caps, or eyeglasses, but it’s the informal vendors who display an infinite arsenal of all kinds of items. Among them, medications stand out especially.

“They arrive and spread out a box full of medicines in an aisle and they stand there selling them,” explains Raniel, who prefers to buy at La Cuevita than on online sales pages, where they are more expensive. It’s easy to observe that most of them are imported, brought in by mules, but quite a few are Cuban-made, which indicates that they come from the state market. “Cuban enalapril sells here for 250 pesos per blister, and on Revolico, it’s between 300 and 350 pesos. And in the pharmacy? “Forget about it! Enalapril is nowhere to be found in the pharmacy,” says Raniel.

Anti-inflammatories, painkillers, diclofenac with paracetamol, antibiotics of all kinds… Anyone visiting these stalls would say that in Cuba there is no problem of medicine shortages that chronically affects the healthcare system.

Other eye-catching counters are those for foreign currency exchange. Just like with medicines, as if it were a legal activity, huge signs indicate the exchange rate: the euro at 350 pesos, the dollar at 345, and the magnetic currency (MLC), at 270. “People come and, as if it were a Cadeca [Currency Exchange House], they take out their money or euros and sell them there, without hiding anything,” says Nelly, who is no longer so surprised by the activity. And the Police? Because, on paper, this illegality carries high fines. “These people must have inspectors bribed, because there are police operations every day, but the vendors remain so calm.”

During its tour, this newspaper was able to verify, indeed, that there are numerous agents moving through the aisles. “Police officers also have to solve their problems, that’s why they are here buying their things,” argues Nelly. In the time she has been involved in reselling in the provinces, she has never been fined, but she has a friend who has not been so lucky. “She already has 8,000 pesos in fines, but she comes back, she comes back, because it’s true that we don’t have another way to make a living in this country.”

If you spend enough time in La Cuevita, you can also see that many surrounding houses are used as warehouses, also informal. It is in these places where small appliances abound, such as pressure cookers, induction cookers, or fans.

It’s hard to make your way through the aisles because of the number of people there, who, amid shoving, mingle with those offering their merchandise: liquid detergent, soap, toothpaste, chicken, oil, medicines, spaghetti, elbows, potatoes… “Even packaged coffee like the one in the ration store,” says Raniel, who is convinced that many of these are products diverted from the state market.

The young man takes care of himself among the overwhelming crowd: “Here, you take out your wallet, pay, and in the process of putting it back in your pocket, they take it away.”

La Cuevita has been known to Habaneros since the 1980s, although it did not begin to gain prominence until the migration reform of 2013, which allowed Cubans to enter and leave the island more easily.

But it was with the established rule of eliminating tariffs for food and medicines, following the demonstrations of July 11, 2021, that the market became very crowded.

A mirror vendor approaches: “If you buy the large and medium ones, I’ll give you a small one as a gift,” he offers, as if he were in a capitalist street market. “There is a lot of movement,” says Raniel. “People come here to struggle, to make a living.” And he jokes: “It’s as if capitalism existed in Cuba.”

Read more from Cuba here on Havana Times.

• My View of the Mathematical World
• Eggs Have Become Golden for Cuba’s Retirees

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *