Oh, Havana. Thoughts of this city stir up memories of warm days, sultry nights, and plenty of rum. I was fortunate enough to spend one whole month exploring Havana and all it has to offer. Below, I share my list things to see and do when visiting this time machine.
Before jetting off, make sure to read this post on how to get a visa. It is important to know and understand the rules for visiting this island nation, especially if you are coming from America.
You may also be wondering about how to get on wifi in order to speak to friends and family back home, or post the amazing pictures you will be taking. This post on getting wifi in Cuba explains all the information you need to know.
For those looking for great places to eat and drink, this list of the top 26 restaurants in Havana is essential. If you are searching for more of a rooftop vibe, this list of top rooftop bars is the perfect place to start your planning.
1. Explore the Old Plazas
The four plazas that make up the backbone of Old Havana are not to be missed on a visit to this city.
Plaza de la Catedral
This plaza is named for the very large cathedral that takes up one whole side. It is still used for frequent services and is open to the public for visits. The other buildings that surround the plaza are museums.
In a small dead end street off this plaza, you can find some family run restaurants. This is a good place to grab lunch or dinner since the restaurants all offer free wifi. At the end, there is an art gallery where you can view and purchase art by Cuban artists.
Plaza de Armas
This plaza was once the main administrative center of the city. Frequent military parades were held here, giving it it's name. In the center park, there is a statue to the “Father of the Homeland' Carlos Manuel de Céspedes.
On one side, visitors can also view an example of a wooden street. It is said that all the streets were once made of wood in order to help the Governors sleep. Today, the city maintains it and restores it every few years.
In one corner, there is a vintage book fair that is held daily. Some of the vendors also have antiques, collectibles, and vintage comics. It is worth walking around just to see what is being offered. If you do decide to buy something, don't forget to negotiate the price.
The Force Castle is worth a visit for those interested in the military history of Havana. The rooftop has some great views of the harbor and the town of Casablanca across the water.
Plaza de San Francisco
Plaza de San Francisco is named after the large church that dominates one side. Across from it is the cruise ship terminal, making this the first stop on many tours from cruises. The buildings surrounding it were once home to some of the wealthiest inhabitants of Havana. Notable structures include the church, the Customs House, and the fountain carved from marble by an Italian artist.
As you pass through, you might see people taking pictures holding a statue's beard and hand while standing on his foot. This is a statue of El Caballero de París, a well known man who roamed the streets of Havana during the 1950s. It is said if you hold his beard, hand and stand on his foot while making a wish, it will come true.
Plaza Vieja
Known as ‘Old Square', this plaza is one of the oldest parts of Havana. It was once home to a thriving market that had moved from Plaza de San Francisco.
Around the edges, visitors can find many cafes and restaurants serving up food and drinks, as well as small museums and art/photo galleries. One of the more notable establishments is the oldest brewery in the city, where diners can try three different kinds of beer.
The Camera Obscura is also located at the top of the of the buildings. I recommend checking this out (it only takes a few minutes to see the demonstration), and only costs 2 CUC.
Plaza de la Revolución
This Plaza is not located in Old Havana, but I am including it because it is home to a famous ironwork portrait of Che Guevara. In the center of the plaza is a tower that visitors can pay to enter. The views from the top allow you to see a large part of the city!
2. Dance Salsa
You can't come to Cuba and not try dancing salsa. Whether you want to learn or just want to watch, the locations below will help you to have a fabulous night out on the town.
Casa del Son
This dance school was where I took salsa lessons twice a week. All of their instructors are incredibly talented and love, love, love to dance salsa. I sometimes couldn't believe their energy, especially when I knew that all they did all day was dance!
Even if you are taking a class with a group, each person has their own individual instructor, which helps to make learning all of the moves much easier. Highly recommend checking them out!
Cost: Individual dance classes are 18 CUC for 1 hour, or 28 CUC for two hours. Packages are available for groups or weekly classes. Check their website for more details.
Insider Tip: Dancing salsa is no joke – don't forget to bring a bottle of water and wear comfortable clothing. The dance school also has instructors in others kinds of dance aside from salsa if you are interested.
Asturia
Want to practice those salsa moves you've learned? Asturia is a nightclub and bar that plays salsa and reggaeton music. It costs 10 CUC to get in, but that comes with 4 drink vouchers. The small space can fill up quickly on the weekends, but it is a lot of fun!
Cost: 10 CUC cover charge (comes with 4 drink tickets)
Insider Tip: Check with a local which night is best to visit here. Some nights it fills up quickly, and others more slowly.
1830
This is probably one of the most famous salsa clubs in Havana. Grab a taxi here most nights, and join the crowds of people showing off their best moves. Even if you don't want to dance yourself, watching all of the couples dance still makes for an amazing night out!
Cost: There is a 5 CUC cover charge to enter.
Insider Tip: This venue is open most nights, but be sure to check with a local about which nights are the best for dancing salsa.
Hotel Inglaterra Rooftop
The rooftop bar at Hotel Inglaterra is a really fun place to dance salsa. They feature a live band, so even if you do not want to dance, you can still enjoy the music while you sip a drink.
Cost: There is no cover charge to enter.
Insider Tip: Once the rooftop reaches capacity, no more visitors are allowed. It can get pretty crowded on the weekends, so I suggest heading there earlier rather than later. They close at midnight.
Fabrica de Arte Cubano (FAC)
When you ask people where the best place is to go out, almost all of them will tell you ‘Fabrica.' The venue is housed in an old warehouse and features art galleries, food (everything from snacks to a sit down restaurant), several bars both indoors and outdoors, a movie ‘theatre' (they mostly just play music videos), and multiple spaces to dance. It is so so fun and should not be missed on any trip to Havana!
Cost: It is only 2 CUC to enter Fabrica. Food and drinks are reasonably priced.
Insider Tip: Fabrica is only open Thursday-Sunday from 8:00 pm-3:00 am. If you head there later in the night, the lines will be extremely long and you will have to wait awhile to enter.
3. Learn How Rum Is Made
Cuba is synonymous with rum, and for a good reason. At every restaurant in the country visitors can enjoy concoctions made with this alcohol. If you are like me, you might be wondering more about the history of the drink as well as how it is made.
In Havana, not far from Plaza de San Francisco, visitors can tour a museum dedicated to the history of Havana Club rum, one of the most famous and popular brands in the country. I loved learning a little more about exactly how they make the rum and some insight into the origins of this spirit. My favorite part of the tour, of course, was the tasting.
Cost: 7 CUC per person. Rum is available for purchase in the gift shop and ranges in price. It is not more expensive to buy the rum in this store; it cost the same price no matter where you purchase it in the country.
Insider Tip: The tours at the Havana Club Rum Museum are given in English, Spanish, and German. Each tour is timed, so I recommend going to buy your ticket in advance so that you know exactly what time you need to meet. This avoids waiting around aimlessly. More info on the museum, including opening hours, is available at the Museo del Ron website.
4. Walk in the Footsteps of Hemingway
Hemingway once made Havana his home and many of the establishments have references to his frequent visits. Cuba held a special place in Hemingways heart, and it is a lot of fun walking in his footsteps and seeing the old part of the city through his eyes.
Ambos Mundos
This bar at the corner of Obispo and Mercaderes streets is the hotel where Hemingway first lived when he came to Cuba. In room 511, Hemingway is said to have started his novel For Whom The Bell Tolls. Today, visitors can tour the space where he stayed from 1932-1939. After checking out the room, don't forget to head to the rooftop for amazing views of Havana. A live band and a cold mojito is the perfect way to honor the man and legend, Hemingway.
Cost: Tours of Hemingway's room are 5 CUC, or free for hotel guests.
Insider Tip: Make sure to take a ride up to the fifth floor or rooftop in the old elevator, which is still operated by hand.
Read more about the top rooftop bars in the city.
A cocktail at Ambos Mundos.
La Floridita
This bar claims to be the birthplace of the daiquiri and Ernest Hemingway's favorite spot to indulge in the cocktail. Because of this notoriety, it can get very packed. It is still a lot of fun to drink this famous cocktail in the same space where Hemingway is rumored to have enjoyed one.
Cost: A daiquiri will put you back 6 CUC.
Insider Tip: Though it generally is very busy, the turnaround here is generally pretty fast since everyone basically comes to just drink a cocktail and then leaves.
La Bodeguita del Medio
For Hemingway's favorite mojito, head to Empedrado street just off Plaza de la Catedral. Inside above the bar, you can see the author's handwriting which states this bar as his mojito spot. Don't be deterred by crowds outside of the bar as you approach; many people grab their drinks and enjoy them outside in the street.
Cost: A mojito costs 5 CUC here.
Insider Tip: Feel free to grab your drink at the bar and enjoy it in the street just outside the bar (it is very small inside). You can also use a marker to sign your name on the wall, either inside or outside in the street.
Read more about the top restaurants and bars in Havana.
5. Visit Vedado
Take a break from Old Havana and head over to this area of the city, which is home to one of Cuba's most famous hotels.
Hotel Nacional
This hotel is a famous landmark of Havana, and overlooks the Havana Harbor from above the Malecón. Many famous actors, writers, politicians, and athletes have spent the night here including Winston Churchill, Frank Sinatra, and Ava Gardner. Visitors to the hotel can see a list of all of the famous guests who have visited the establishment in the Hall of Fame bar.
Outside, visitors and guests can tour the trenches that were used to defend Havana during the Cuban Missile Crisis. There are also lovely gardens and an outdoor cafe to enjoy a cold cocktail while looking out on the sea and the cars driving along the Malecón.
Cost: For prices on booking a night, check the hotel website. Cocktails outside start at 5 CUC (mojitos were 6 CUC).
Insider Tip: The hotel has a cabaret show called Cabaret Parisien. Though I did not have a chance to see it, I heard good reviews from those I spoke to that had gone.
Coppelia
For a truly Cuban experience, check out the popular ice cream spot, Coppelia. Expect long lines (this is Cuba after all), but it is very much worth it. The flavors of ice cream vary on a daily basis; in the afternoon they may run out of certain flavors, so it is better to go earlier rather than later in the day.
Lines outside are for specific spots inside the grounds, either the garden, ice cream counter, or upstairs. Follow the crowds of people so you don't go to the ‘wrong' place once inside. You can't really have a bad seat here, so any line will do.
Cost: This is the cheapest ice cream you will ever have. A bowl with multiple scoops is just 5 CUP! You can pay a few CUC if you do not have CUP on you.
Insider Tip: Coppelia is open from 10 am until 10 pm, from Tuesday to Sunday (closed Monday).
Jazz Bar: La Zorra y El Cuervo
This well known jazz bar gives spectacular performances and shows of live jazz music. For those who are jazz music lovers (and even those who are not!), this is the perfect place to end a day of exploring Havana. It is a great place to have an authentic night of really good music.
Cost: The entrance fee is 10 CUC, but includes two drinks.
Insider Tip: During the week it may not get super packed, but for better seats I advise going earlier rather than later. The lines can get long here.
6. Fusterlandia
Located about 20 minutes outside of Havana, Fusterlandia is a public art project started by a local artist named José Fuster. He uses colorful mosaics and whimsical shapes to create something extremely beautiful but also very fun! After covering almost every surface of his house, he proceeded to beautify his neighborhood into something out of a fantasy! The house is open daily from 9:30 am – 4:00 pm, but you are free to look around the surrounding neighborhood whenever you like!
Cost: Free! Some of Fuster's artwork is available for purchase.
Insider Tip: Because this is located a little ways away, I recommend asking your taxi driver to wait for you while you look around the house and surrounding neighborhood. That way you have a ride secured back into the city.
7. Catch a show at the Gran Teatro
Located along one side of Parque Central, this historical theater is a great place to immerse yourself in Cuban culture and catch a show. When I visited, the Cuban Ballet Company was putting on Swan Lake. It was an absolutely magical performance. Turned out to be the perfect last night in Havana!
I do recommend getting there a little bit early if you go to see a show. Before the performance, you can enjoy a cocktail (or two) in the gorgeous lobby area before you find your seats for the performance.
If you don't have time to see a show, or it is sold out, you can still get inside to see the beautiful architecture through a guided tour. Tours cost 2 CUC per person.
Cost: 30 CUC for tickets (per person). The seats are right in the front rows!
Insider Tip: Shows at the theatre often sell out quickly. I recommend buying tickets as early in the week as you can.
8. Visit a Museum
There are many museums in Havana, and most of them are very reasonably priced. The following were some of the ones I found most interesting, but there are many more I didn't have time to visit.
Museo de la Revolución
This museum is housed in the old presidential palace and is absolutely gorgeous inside – part of the interior was decorated by Tiffany's of New York. The exhibits tell the history of the revolution from the perspective of the revolutionaries, and certainly has a biased tone. It is interesting nonetheless. There are many artifacts, photographs and documents to browse on several different floors. Outside, visitors can see some of the old vehicles, aircrafts, tanks, and even Castros boat that he arrived in to launch the revolution.
Cost: The entrance fee is 8 CUC.
Insider Tip: Don't forget to visit the area behind the museum and see the different vehicles and weapons used in the revolutionary wars. It is included in the ticket price.
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes de Cuba
This museum displays a wide range of Cuban art from different periods. The art is professionally displayed and organized well. I enjoyed seeing the variety of work by the cuban artists, especially the mixed media pieces.
On particularly hot days in Havana, the air conditioned building makes a great place to spend an afternoon.
Cost: The entrance fee is 5 CUC.
Insider Tip: There are two buildings that make up the Museo National de Bellas Artes. One is international art and the other is Cuban art. I found the cuban art building much more interesting. The ticket price includes both buildings, which are just down the street from each other.
Capitolio Tour
The Cuban government recently opened up the capitol building to the public for guided tours. Inside, visitors can learn about the architecture and history of the building, including fun facts and stories. In addition, tours allow visitors to take a look inside important rooms, such as the legislative rooms where historical decisions have been made. The restorations inside are stunning and quite impressive. I very much enjoyed getting to see the lavish interior to an iconic part of the skyline in Havana.
Cost: 10 CUC. Tours last approximately 45 minutes.
Insider Tip: Tours of the building are held on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday at the following times: 10:00 am, 11:00 am, 12:00 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:30 pm, and 3:30 pm. On Wednesday and Sunday, tours are held at the following times: 10:00 am, 11:00 am, and 12:00 pm. There are no tours on Monday.
Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabaña
Located across the channel, this fort was originally built to help the city against any future attack. Inside, visitors can wander the ramparts and check out the museums housed inside, including a fascinating one on Che Guevara. It was really neat to see his office that he set up here, and learn more about his life as well as his death. I also recommend visiting the cigar shop and seeing the longest cigar in the world that is displayed inside!
Cost: 6 CUC before 6 pm, 8 CUC after 6 pm
Insider Tip: Every night at 9 pm, the fort hosts a cannon ceremony. Actors in 18th century military uniforms fire a cannon over the harbor.
Museum of City of Havana
Located in the Plaza de Armas, this museum was originally the Governor's Palace. Today, the beautiful building has been restored and is open to the public. Inside, guests can learn more about the history of the city, as well as view the private apartments of the Captain General and his family. There are also exhibits displaying old horse-drawn carriages, artwork, artillery and military uniforms. The inner courtyard features a statue to honor Christopher Columbus.
Cost: Entrance fee is 3 CUC.
Insider Tip: Keep your eye our for the peacocks that make this museum their home. Can you spot one in my pictures?!
9. Go to the Beach
Just 30 minutes away, lies the beautiful Playas del Este (East Beaches). It makes the perfect spot for a beach day and is very easy to reach! Just across the street from Hotel Inglaterra is a bus stop that takes tourists to the lovely beaches for just 5 CUC round trip! The bus is very comfortable and air-conditioned, which is always welcome in the Havana heat. At the beach, enjoy the crystal clear water, white sand beaches and piña coladas!
The bus to Playas del Este is available daily from 9:30 am – 6:00 pm, when the last bus returns to Havana. Make sure you don't miss it! If you do, it is not the end of the world; taxi's sometimes wait for the stragglers.
Cost: The beach is free to visit. A round trip bus ticket from Havana is 5 CUC. Beach chairs are available to rent for a few CUC per person at the beach.
Insider Tip: The tourist bus from Havana has three stops along the length of the beach. The second is rumored to be less windy, but I recommend going all the way to the end – that way you will be the first to get on when it is time to head back at the end of the day and won't have to stand for the 30 minute bus ride.
10. Ride in a classic car
When you visit Havana, one of the first things you notice is the old cars driving around. It gives the illusion that you have stepped back in time. The cars are very well maintained and come in a variety of colors from pink, to red, purple, and turquoise – I even saw a polka dotted one! I highly recommend hiring a driver for an hour to take you around so that you can take in the sights in style!
Cost: The cost for one hour starts around 40 CUC and goes up from there, depending on the driver and the quality of the car. If you are going with friends, you can split the cost, which helps save money. Don't be afraid to negotiate! My friends and I got a tour for an hour and paid 30 CUC all together.
Insider Tip: Make sure to ask your driver to stop in a fun spot so you can take pictures in the vintage car. A popular spot is on the Malecón in front of the Hotel Nacional.
Getting Around
Havana is a very walkable city. Most of the attractions on this list are within walking distance of one another. If you do find you need to get around, there are several options.
One is to hire a bicycle taxi. They are used by tourists and locals alike. Make sure to agree upon a price before getting in.
There are also car taxis. Many of them are older cars, but you may see some that are yellow and kind of reminded me of Pacman. Again, always make sure you know the price before you get in.
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Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.