10 Things to Do in Havana: A Guide to Exploring the Heart of Cuba
Havana, the soul of Cuba, is a city where history, culture, and vibrant energy come together in the most captivating way. Whether you're wandering through its colonial streets, dancing to live music, or cruising in a classic convertible, every moment in Havana feels like stepping into a living postcard.
If you’re planning a trip to this incredible city, here are 10 unforgettable things you won’t want to miss:
1. Wander Through Old Havana (Habana Vieja)
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Old Havana is the beating heart of the city. Stroll through its cobbled streets, admire the colorful colonial buildings, and visit the historic plazas:
🏛 Plaza de la Catedral – Home to the stunning Catedral de San Cristóbal de la Habana.
📚 Plaza de Armas – The city’s oldest square, lined with antique book stalls.
🎭 Plaza Vieja – A lively square filled with bars, cafés, and street performers.
2. Visit the Museum of the Revolution
Housed in the former Presidential Palace, this museum is a must-visit for history buffs. It offers a fascinating look at Cuba’s revolutionary past, with exhibits showcasing Fidel Castro’s rise to power, Che Guevara’s role in the revolution, and artifacts from Cuba’s fight for independence.
💡 Don’t miss the bullet holes on the palace walls from past conflicts!
3. Stroll Along the Malecón at Sunset
The Malecón, Havana’s famous seawall boulevard, stretches over 8 kilometers along the coast. It’s a perfect spot for a sunset walk, with locals playing music, fishing, and enjoying the ocean breeze.
🌅 Best time to go? Sunset—the golden light over the city is unreal.
4. Cruise Through Havana in a Classic Convertible
No trip to Havana is complete without riding in a vintage American car from the 1950s. These colorful convertiblesare everywhere, and taking a city tour in one is like traveling back in time.
🚗 Pro tip: Book a sunset ride for the most magical views of the city.
5. Book a Photoshoot with a Local Photographer
Instead of relying on selfies and rushed snapshots, why not have a professional capture your Havana adventure?
📸 Why book a session?
✅ You’ll get high-quality, beautifully composed photos.
✅ A local photographer knows the best hidden spots for pictures.
✅ It’s a fun experience—you’ll feel like a movie star in Havana!
6. Experience the Legendary Nightlife at Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC)
This isn’t just a bar—it’s a multi-level cultural experience combining art, live music, DJs, and theater. One of the coolest nightlife spots in the world, it’s where Havana’s creative crowd gathers.
🎟 Go early! The line to get in can be long, but it’s worth the wait.
7. Experience Havana’s Coolest Art & Cocktail Scene at Yarini
For a truly unique night out in Havana, Yarini Bar & Restaurant is the place to be. Owned by renowned Cuban actor Jorge Perugorría, this spot blends live music, contemporary art, and an incredible cocktail menu—all set in a stylish, modern space in Old Havana.
🎨 What makes it special?
✅ Art gallery featuring works from top Cuban artists.
🎶 Live music & performances every week.
🍸 Signature cocktails that rival the best in the city.
🍽️ Delicious Cuban-fusion cuisine.
8. Visit the Colorful Callejón de Hamel
Cuba is deeply rooted in Afro-Cuban culture, and the Callejón de Hamel is the best place to experience it. This vibrant alleyway is filled with murals, sculptures, and live Rumba performances every Sunday.
🎶 Insider tip: Visit on Sunday afternoon to catch the drumming and dancing.
9. Escape to Playas del Este (Havana’s Best Beach)
If you’re craving a beach day, you don’t need to leave Havana! Playas del Este, just 30 minutes from the city, offers white sands and turquoise waters—the perfect spot to relax after days of exploring.
🏖 How to get there? Take a taxi or the hop-on-hop-off T3 bus from Parque Central.
10. Find Havana’s Most Instagrammable Spots
Havana is one of the most photogenic cities in the world, and if you want to find the best spots for amazing pictures, our Traveler’s Guide is a must! It includes:
📍 Hidden photo locations.
📷 The best vintage cars for pictures.
🍹 Most Instagrammable cafés and bars.
From its historic streets to its lively nightlife, Havana is a city full of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re exploring Old Havana, riding in a classic car, or dancing the night away at FAC, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do.
Planning your trip? Drop a comment if you have any questions—I’d love to help! 🇨🇺✈️