The best things to do in Havana
Havana, the capital of Cuba, is a city steeped in history and culture. With its colonial architecture, vintage cars, and lively music scene, it’s no wonder that Havana is a popular tourist destination. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or just soaking up the local atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in Havana. Here are some of the best things to do in this vibrant city.
Explore Old Havana
Old Havana, also known as Havana Vieja, is the historic center of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a maze of narrow streets and colorful buildings, many of which date back to the 16th century. Some of the must-see sights in Old Havana include the Catedral de San Cristobal, the Plaza de la Cathedral, and the Palacio de los Capitanes Generales.
Visit the Museo de la Revolucion
The Museo de la Revolucion is located in the former Presidential Palace and is dedicated to the history of the Cuban Revolution. Inside, you’ll find a fascinating collection of artifacts and memorabilia, including weapons, photos, and documents. The museum also features a rooftop terrace with great views of the city.
Take a Stroll Along the Malecon
The Malecon is a seaside promenade that stretches for several kilometers along the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a great place to take a walk, watch the sunset, or just people-watch. Along the way, you’ll see a variety of sculptures, monuments, and other works of art.
Check out the Murals of La Habana
Havana is home to a number of impressive murals, many of which are located in the Vedado neighborhood. The most famous of these is the Mural de la Prehistoria, which depicts the history of Cuba from pre-Columbian times to the present. Other notable murals include the Mural de la Libertad and the Mural del Che Guevara.
Go to the Partagas Cigar Factory
Cigars are an important part of Cuban culture, and the Partagas Cigar Factory is one of the best places to learn about the history and production of cigars. Visitors can take a tour of the factory and see the different stages of cigar-making, from sorting and rolling to aging and packaging.
Listen to Live Music
Havana is known for its lively music scene, and there are plenty of places to hear live music in the city. Some of the best places to go include the Casa de la Musica in Miramar, the Jazz Cafe in Vedado, and the Teatro Nacional in Centro Habana.
Take a Day Trip to Viñales
Viñales is a small town located about two hours west of Havana. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, including the Viñales Valley, which is home to some of the best tobacco fields in the world. Visitors can take a tour of the valley, visit a tobacco farm, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride.
Visit the Fusterlandia
Fusterlandia is a neighborhood in the town of Jaimanitas, which is located about 20 minutes west of Havana. The neighborhood is known for its colorful and whimsical ceramic tile mosaics, which cover many of the buildings andpublic spaces. The mosaics were created by artist Jose Fuster, who has transformed the neighborhood into a unique open-air art gallery. Visitors can take a walking tour of the neighborhood to see the mosaics and learn about Fuster’s work.
Enjoy the Nightlife
Havana has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of clubs, bars, and restaurants to choose from. Some of the most popular spots include the Fabrica de Arte Cubano, a former oil factory that has been converted into an art and performance space, and the La Zorra y el Cuervo, a jazz club that has been hosting live music since the 1950s.
Relax on the Beach
Havana is not known for its beaches, but there are a few options to get some sand and sun. One of the most popular beaches is Santa Maria del Mar, which is located about 30 minutes east of the city. The beach is known for its clear water and quiet atmosphere. Visitors can also take a day trip to the nearby beaches of Guanabo or Playas del Este.
Take a Walking Tour
One of the best ways to explore Havana is to take a walking tour. There are a variety of walking tours available, covering different themes such as architecture, food, or culture. Walking tours are a great way to learn about the city and its history from a local guide and discover hidden gems that may not be found in guidebooks.
In conclusion, Havana offers a wide range of activities for visitors. From exploring the historic Old Havana, to visiting museums, taking in the art and culture, enjoying the nightlife, relaxing on the beach and learning about the history of the island. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Havana is a top tourist destination.
