If you’re headed to Cuba, then you’ll have plenty of things to do in Havana, especially if you’re a big fan of history and stunning architecture.
Havana is a city frozen in time, which means it’s brimming with Spanish colonial architecture, classic cars, and the famous 1920s capital building.
Aside from indulging in the local rum and cigars, here are seven unmissable things to do in Havana for your next trip to the Cuban capital.
The best things to do in Havana
1. Explore Centro Habana
There are plenty of endless winding streets to wander in Havana, but if you’re going to spend the day getting lost on foot, head to Centro Habana.
Check out the UNESCO sites in the historical district first, but then head off to Centro Habana to marvel at some of the most colourful buildings in the city. You’ll hear salsa music wafting out from the windows and get to really immerse yourself in the local culture.
2. Visit the Cemetery of Cristóbal Colón
Did you know that Christopher Columbus’s name wasn’t actually Christopher Columbus? This cemetery has his name, as he’s a pretty famous figure in Latin America.
The cemetery itself has major Père Lachaise vibes, even though Havana’s version is even bigger. It’s organised with different quarters for different types of people, and most of the graves are fascinating sculptures.
3. Spend the Afternoon at the Revolution Museum
The Revolution Museum in Havana is inside of the old Presidental Palace building, which still has old Cuban artillery surrounding the outside.
Head inside to look at authentic old artefacts from the revolution, such as clothes worn by soldiers and newspapers with bullet holes in them.
4. Tour the Cigar Factory Partagás
Whether you smoke cigars are not, you absolutely can’t miss the opportunity to tour a local Cuban cigar factory while you’re in Havana.
The cigars that the country produces are legendary and pure, and touring a factory is a great way to understand the history of cigars and how they impact the local economy and culture.
5. Stroll Along the Malecón
One of the best things to do in Havana at dusk is to head to the 8 kilometre stretch of seawall called Malecón.
It’s one of the best spots in the city to watch the sunset, and it’s even better if you can rent a classic car and drive down the strip with the wind blowing in your hair.
6. Sip a Daquiri at El Floridita
Any literary geek knows that Cuba was one of Hemingway’s most famous hideaways. If you want to experience his Havana, then head to El Floridita to sip a daiquiri.
According to Hemingway, they serve the “best daiquiris in the world.”
The bar is in the Old Havana neighbourhood, which is a great place to explore after your drink.
7. Ride in a Classic Convertible
It’s impossible to visit Havana and not take a ride in one of the city’s famous classic cars. Better yet, make it a convertible.
You can find numerous companies that rent out cars for the day. Or, you can hire a driver to take you around to all of the hot tourist attractions.
How do these rankings work?BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK
MOST POPULAR
SIMILAR ARTICLES
newsletter