10 amazing things to do in Havana
10 amazing things to do in Havana
Havana is a unique and vibrant city with many contrasts. You can see how the Cuban Revolution and Fidel Castro’s reign affected this once bustling and opulent destination. The decaying Spanish architecture gives you a sense of what the city once was before communism took over.
It feels as if you have stepped back in time with classic cars embellishing the streets. In 1960 a U.S. embargo was enacted banning the export of goods to Cuba, including vehicles. The Cubans have since taken great care in preserving these pre-1960’s vintage vehicles. Which brings me to number one on my list…
1. Take a tour in a classic car
Finding a vintage car for a tour is not hard to do in Havana! After a long day of walking and a cocktail or two, we decided spur of the moment that it would be fun to relax in a convertible for a couple of hours and see the city that way. We found our tour guide near El Capitolio, dropping off their latest tourists (they seemed happy!). The cost for my friend and I ran about $100 for about two hours. Our drivers were friendly and drove us around the city, down el Malecon past the magnificent Hotel Nacional, to Vedado neighborhood and the Christ of Havana statue with a fantastic view of Old Havana.
2. Stay at a casa particular or Airbnb
Staying in a casa particular or Airbnb is a great idea for many reasons. A casa particular is Spanish for “private house.” One of the many great reasons to stay in one of these accommodations is that it allows you to experience authentic Cuban life. In many cases, they will even prepare breakfast or a meal for you for an extra fee. It doesn’t get more authentic than that!
Another great reason to stay at an Airbnb or casa particular is that you get insider tips about Havana from a local – not a hotel chain. Cubans are some of the friendliest and genuine people I have come across. Learning about their culture and talking with them was a treasure.
Third and probably the most important reason to stay at a casa particular/Airbnb is that it supports the hardworking Cuban people and their families instead of the Cuban government.
3. Wander the streets of Old Havana (Habana Vieja)
Get a feel for Cuban life by venturing away from the touristy areas by visiting one of the many fruit markets scattered throughout the city. Go to a bakery where the locals go. Photograph some of the local street art and propaganda banners. Experience Cuban life firsthand!
4. Walk along El Malecon
This broad esplanade has a sea wall that stretches for 5 miles. You’ll find locals and tourists alike sitting along the wall, enjoying the sunset as classic cars zoom by.
5. Visit the Plaza Vieja
This lively square is surrounded by beautiful architecture that houses cafes and restaurants. Visit early in the morning to beat the crowds to get gorgeous photographs. I wish I had done so!
6. Have a cup of coffee at Cafe el Escorial
This coffee shop is conveniently located in Plaza Vieja. The coffee is so good! They roast the beans on-site, and it smells heavenly. I brought a few bags of beans back home.
7. Have a cocktail at Floridita
Though maybe a bit touristy, I have to admit, having a drink at one of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite hangouts was pretty cool. They also claim to be home to the original strawberry daiquiri.
8. Pass the time at El Dandy
Located in the Plaza del Cristo, El Dandy was quickly my favorite restaurant in Havana. This place is a must! The coffee is excellent, and they have a unique variety of cocktails, fresh juices, the food didn’t disappoint either. There are vegan and vegetarian options as well, which can be hard to find in Cuba. The atmosphere has so much character. El Dandy displays a gallery of local photography and has authentic and vintage decor. We loved this place so much; we went back again!
9. Visit the Museo de la Revolucion
You will learn everything there is to know about the Cuban Revolution at this museum. It tells the story of the Revolution in both Spanish and English with both artifacts and pictures. The museum located in the beautiful former presidential palace.
10. Enjoy the views and a Mojito on a rooftop bar
Havana is home to some marvelous rooftops with jaw-dropping views. Combine that with a delicious cocktail, and you are set! I’ve researched and sampled some fantastic rooftops, so all you have to do is show up!
El Cocinero is located in the Vedado neighborhood of Havana. This chic rooftop bar and restaurant is in a refurbished old factory. Remnants of the factory still exist, such as the chimney towering over the building, adding to its character. To get to the restaurant and rooftop bar you wind up three flights of stairs on a circular staircase. The atmosphere is modern and stylish and the food and cocktails are great too.
La Guarida is one of the most iconic restaurants in Havana. It is a little pricey by Cuban standards, but the rooftop just above the restaurant has its own lighter fare menu and tapas. You must make reservations for the restaurant, but there is no need for reservations at the rooftop bar. To get to the restaurant and rooftop you climb a beautiful ornate staircase. This rooftop is gorgeous, and so are the views!
Mirabana Bar is on the rooftop of Hotel Parque Central. It is one of the tallest buildings in Havana, which is great for views and relaxing with a cocktail at sunset. The atmosphere is great and the views are amazing.
O’Reilly 304 is not a rooftop, but I thought it is worth mentioning because it does have a terrace with seating. This restaurant/bar is trendy and hip with stylish decor. It is known for its seafood and Latin fare and premium craft cocktails. The Mojitos are delicious, and the Ceviche was some of the best I’ve had.
