Cuba is a magical place to visit, with so many wondrous sights and flavors to experience.
We’ve gathered together our top 10 items to enjoy as you explore and discover what to do in Havana.
Let’s take a look at all you can look forward to on your next vacation to Havana!
What to Do in Havana: The Top 10
Cuba saw record numbers for tourism in 2018 with an estimated 4.8 million people visiting the island. It’s only expected to go up from there, and you can be a part of it!
Here are our favorite attractions and activities for things to do in Havana, starting with the best!
1. Vintage Convertible Tour
Cuba is known for its stereotypical vintage cars and vibrant houses.
In Havana, you can rent one of these cars for your own leisure cruising. Or, if you’d rather someone else do the driving for you, we can offer our excellent services!
Be sure to take a trip down El Malecón. This road stretches down the coast of the Caribbean Sea, giving you the best of the open sea breeze!
2. Join the Carnival in Havana
At the beginning of January, all of Havana puts on a carnival to celebrate El Dia de Los Reyes—The Day of the Three Kings.
Starting on January 6th, this magical festival tours the historical center of Havana. All throughout live conga music echoes throughout the colorful, old houses. echoing between the crumbling old houses.
Follow the conga dancers on stilts throughout the carnival tour to get the best experience. Everybody, conga!
3. Visit Plaza de la Revolución
The Plaza de la Revolución is a significant, historical landmark in Havana.
There are several, important government buildings and cultural institutions surrounding the plaza. These serve to memorialize the political rallies that took place here during the revolution. The Ministries of Interior and Communications host steel memorials to Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos, heroes of the Cuban Revolution.
In Havana, you can also visit the Museo de la Revolución. This museum holds artifacts and photographs from the days before the revolution in Cuba. Here, you can learn more about Fidel Castro and Che Guevara from a local perspective.
4. Visit Fusterlandia
Cuba is filled with wonderful colors and amazing art. Both of these come together in a one-of-a-kind experience called Fusterlandia.
Created by artist Jose Fuster, this began as a building that was covered head-to-toe in ceramic tile mosaics. Inspired by Picasso and Gaudi, Fuster’s artistry spread throughout the rest of the village.
It’s a beautiful canvas that you can take a whole day exploring. Located just outside Havana in the Jaimanitas neighborhood, it’s a quick taxi ride away. Plan accordingly, and be sure to grab a hand-crafted souvenir!
5. El Gran Teatro de La Habana
The Great Theatre of Havana is home to Cuba’s ballet company and orchestra, located right next to the nation’s capital.
The construction of this immaculate building began in 1908, before the Cuban Revolution. The elite aristocrats of the time wanted a place to host extravagant balls and luxurious receptions, so the theatre was built.
Once you walk through the theatre it will be clear to see the extent of its prestigious beauty and artistry.
6. Drinks at El Floridita
Made famous by Ernest Hemingway, there’s nothing more delightful than daiquiris at El Floridita.
El Floridita is located in a prime location, just around the corner from the Great Theatre of Havana. It may be bustling with other tourists, but you’re sure to find a spot to kick back and relax and enjoy a refreshing beverage.
7. Visit Murealando
Many associate Cuba with the revolution and perceive it as being in a state of despair, but that’s far from the case.
Cuba has a strong community bond, with neighborhoods coming together to transform and embolden their lives and environment. There’s no better example of this than Murealando.
What was once an old, abandoned water tower has now been cleaned up and beautified into an inspiring art space. Local artists are encouraged to showcase their creativity with expansive murals and found-object installations.
Check it out!
8. Explore Hammel Alley
Hammel Alley is a meeting place for both locals and tourists.
In this little alley, you can expect to hear live music, see tons of local artwork, and taste authentic Cuban food.
Every inch of the buildings here is covered in murals by artists in the neighborhood. Hand-crafted sculptures made of repurposed materials are scattered all about like treasures to find.
In the evening, expect this alley to start bustling with music and dancing!
9. Visit the Hotel Nacional de Cuba
The Hotel Nacional de Cuba is an icon of Cuban culture and history.
Dozens of celebrities, artists, and political officials have made headlining appearances at this hotel—even the mafia. Opening in 1930, this landmark building boasts a distinct elegance that reflects the Cuban style of that period.
Enjoy a drink here while lounging out on the patio, watching the sunset over the Caribbean.
10. Explore the Colonial Plazas of Havana
One of the best ways to experience Old Havana is to stroll through the four colonial plazas.
Start at Plaza de la Cathedral, a stupendous colonial square with an ornate cathedral at the center. This plaza is ringed with arches inspired by 18th-century Spanish architecture.
Next, head to Plaza de Armas to explore some of Havana’s best museums. Check out the nearby flea market for colonial coins or revolution-inspired fashion.
Plaza Vieja is next on the tour. Featured in the center is a fabulous fountain. It’s the perfect focal piece for the restaurants surrounding the square, bustling with musicians playing the Cuban classics.
Finish the tour at some historic bars around Plaza de San Francisco. Linger along the cobblestone streets to take a peek at some contemporary art galleries nestled in the converted church.
Havanna, Oh-na-na
These may be the best things to do in Havanna, but there are still tons more to check out. Figure out your itinerary for what to do in Havana and book a trip now, there’s no time like the present!
We offer plenty of packages available to take you all around Havana and the surrounding landmarks and villages. Check it out and contact us at your convenience!