Cuba seems to be one of the few places in the world where time has stood still due to the long-lasting communist government. The country has resisted modernisation, while many of its “neighbours” in Central America have adopted it. It’s the reason why an increasing number of people want to travel to Cuba. The capital, Havana, is the highlight for many travellers and rightly so. You can never be bored in this vibrant and colourful city. Here are our top things to do in Havana, Cuba.
It’s no secret that Havana is on the map for its booming art scene. When you visit Cuba, you will find beautiful architecture, but Havana has a lot more in store when it comes to art. Whether you like the cutting-edge street art the Callejon de Hamel has to offer, you enjoy having a coffee in one of the many art cafes, or you feel like taking advantage of the gallery scene, Havana has it all.
Suppose you’re in the mood for something a little more adventurous, visit the Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC). The former cooking oil plant is a lot more than just an art gallery. You will find yourself surrounded by exhibitions, shops, live music and even food & drinks.
Follow our link here to some of the best walking tours in Havana.
Pun intended! Walk down the streets of old Havana and let the musical waves hit your ears. Or if you fancy something cosier, head to one of the many bars lining the colourful streets. The music scene in Havana is eclectic, and no matter what genre you’re into, from Jazz to Rock’n’Roll, you will find something familiar to make you feel at home. But then, you have to step into the wild side and embrace a new genre. Havana has it all.
Like most cities in Central America, you will find many gorgeous plazas spread across the city. The Plaza de Armas (Square of Arms) is the oldest plaza in Havana. Built in the early 1520s, it was originally known as the Plaza de Iglesia. The name was changed during colonial times when the plaza was used for social events such as concerts and parades.With all this history and beauty, but if you need convincing, there is also a daily secondhand book market; it’s worth a visit.
The Plaza de la Revolución, originally “Plaza Civica”, was built in the 1920s by the French urbanist Jean Claude Forestier and was given its current name by Fidel Castro after the Cuban revolution in the late 1950s.
These days, the plaza is best known for its striking mural of Che Guevara, who has played an essential role in the Cuban revolution. The plaza is the base of the Cuban government and remains the political hub of Havana, hosting many protests. It may not be Havana’s prettiest plaza, but it’s definitely a landmark that has played a significant role in Cuba’s history and politics.
The Plaza de la Catedral is the home of the stunning baroque Catedral de San Cristobal and one of the most visited attractions in Havana. The Catedral was completed in the 18th Century and is currently the seat of the Roman catholic Archdiocese of San Cristobel de la Havana. After you have been awed inside, take time to appreciate the beauty of the exterior as you rest in the plaza. Here you will find cafes and restaurants, street music, and art.
Whether you are a collector, an admirer, or an ‘ordinary’ car driver, you will love the number and condition of the classic cars.
The cars originated from America in the 1940s and 1950s, when there were open trading agreements between the United States and Cuba. However, shifting political alliances led Fidel Castro to ban the importation of American cars and car parts in 1959. Without replacements and no access to new parts, Cubans had to maintain what they had. Imported Russian Ladas were often used to repair or renovate the Chevrolets and Fords.
We can’t deny that driving a classic car through Havana is an experience you won’t forget!
Founded in the early 1500s, Havana, alongside its fortification system arerecognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The area lies within the former city walls, and is itself home to 5 large Plazas. Plaza de Armas, Plaza Vieja, Plaza de San Francisco, Plaza del Cristo and Plaza de la Catedral.
The Plazas are themselves home to some of Havana’s most stunning buildings and architecture—for example, the Iglesia Catedral de La Habana, and Palacio de los Capitanes Generales.
It is also where you will be able to see iconic coloured houses, along streets and alleyways where the new and the old jostle for space.
Visiting the Havana Rum Museum is one of the top things to do in Havana. You can choose from guided tours, tastings and cocktail workshops. Be sure to plan ahead and reserve your spot, as group sizes are limited and tours often fill up quickly. If you aren’t feeling too tipsy after that, why not go to one of the many bars and try some rum-based cocktails? Thank you – I’ll have a Mojito!
Cuba is world-famous for its rum, salsa, music… and cigars! It boasts one of the world’s finest tobacco-growing locations and continues to employ traditional farming methods. This is what has made their cigars world famous and has significantly contributed to their economy for years. Visit the Partagas Cigar Factory for a guided tour and watch in awe as the renowned cigars are made.
Tempted to buy some cigars? There’s no doubt you will come across people on the streets of Havana who will try to sell you some cigars of questionable quality. The Cuban government has made it illegal for street vendors to sell cigars, so make sure you head to dedicated cigar shops for the real experience.
You cannot travel to Cuba without at least appreciating one of the country’s dazzling sunsets. Before you head out to catch some live music or learn some salsa make sure you make your way to the ocean side or The Fosca (highest building in Havana). We promise that you will be mesmerised watching the sun disappear behind the beautiful buildings of Havana.
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