Top 10 things to do in Havana

I probably don’t need to tell you that taking a ride in one of Havana’s beautifully preserved classic cars is a must! What surprised me, though, was that before my visit, I assumed these iconic 1950’s American cars were mainly used as a tourist attraction, and only in Havana. However, I quickly realized that these vintage cars are a common sight all over Cuba and aren’t just for show – locals rely on them for their daily transportation. This added a whole new layer of authenticity to the experience and made the ride even more enjoyable! The tour itself usually lasts about an hour and can either take you around the city or to a specific destination of your choice. The sensation of cruising through Havana’s streets in a classic car is simply incredible. It felt like stepping into a movie scene! This tour was hands down one of my favorite experiences in Havana. The blend of nostalgia, history, and pure fun made it wonderful!

Exploring the plazas of Havana Vieja (Old Havana) was a fantastic experience! Each plaza has its own unique charm and history, offering plenty of opportunities to take photos, dive into the fascinating stories behind each one, or simply relax with a coffee or cocktail while soaking in the atmosphere. There are five main squares you won’t want to miss: Plaza de Armas, Plaza Vieja, Plaza de San Francisco, Plaza del Cristo, and Plaza de la Catedral. Each of these squares is distinct in its beauty and character, reflecting a different aspect of Havana’s rich colonial past and lively culture. Many of these plazas are also dotted with trees and lush greenery, providing a welcome break from the midday heat. Whether you’re drawn to their historical significance or just looking for a beautiful place to relax, the plazas of Old Havana are an essential part of the city’s soul.

I’m not much of a drinker in my everyday life, and I definitely don’t want to promote anything that might harm your health. That said, if there’s one place in the world where you might want to indulge in a rum cocktail, Havana is it! Cuban rum is legendary, and Havana’s cocktail scene is deeply tied to the city’s culture and history.

For those who don’t mind venturing into the more touristy spots, you can follow in the footsteps of Ernest Hemingway (at least, according to legend) and sip a Daiquiri at El Floridita or a Mojito at La Bodeguita del Medio. These iconic bars are packed with history and charm, even if they tend to get a bit crowded with visitors. But if you’re looking for something a little quieter and more off-the-beaten-path, don’t worry—Havana is filled with hidden gems. There are countless bars scattered around the city where you can enjoy a delicious cocktail without breaking the bank. Whether you’re after a classic rum-based drink or something with a modern twist, you’ll find plenty of cozy spots that offer a relaxed atmosphere, away from the tourist crowds.

Cuba’s history is undeniably fascinating. Even if you’re not usually a history buff, it’s hard to ignore the captivating stories woven into Havana’s streets. To fully appreciate the city, you can’t just wander around like an oblivious tourist—you’ve got to dive into its rich past! One of the best ways to do this is by taking a walking tour of Havana Vieja (Old Havana), where every corner has a story to tell. You can also tour the iconic “El Capitolio” (National Capitol Building), a grand symbol of the country’s political past. And no visit would be complete without exploring the Museo de la Revolución (Museum of the Revolution) and the Granma Memorial, where you can immerse yourself in the history of the 1959 Cuban Revolution.

If there’s one thing that will always remind me of Havana, it’s the art. The city is brimming with creativity, from its stunning architecture and quirky bar décor to the vibrant street art around every corner. Havana truly feels like an open-air gallery, and taking a piece of that creativity home felt like the perfect way to capture the city’s essence.

For art lovers, Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes de Cuba (Museum of Fine Arts) is a must-visit. The museum’s permanent collection is thoughtfully organized into four main sections: Art in the Colony, Turn of the Century, Modern Art, and Contemporary Art. Be sure to visit the Cuban Art building, which, in my opinion, offers a much richer experience than the Universal Art section. Havana’s art scene is not just a visual treat—it’s a journey through the city’s rich history and cultural identity.

If you’re interested in contemporary art, the coolest place to visit in Havana is the Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC). This unique venue is a vibrant blend of art gallery, cultural center, and nightclub, making it one of the most exciting spots in the city. At Fábrica de Arte Cubano, you can spend hours exploring different artistic expressions in one space, and the best part is that it transforms throughout the evening. After browsing the latest exhibits, you can enjoy live performances or DJ sets, grab a cocktail, and mingle with locals and travelers alike.

Speaking of art, finding authentic Cuban art was surprisingly easy! Just wandering through the streets of Havana Vieja, you’ll come across many street artists showcasing their work. One of the best parts is that these artists often sign their pieces for you, making your purchase feel personal and unique. While there are plenty of art shops and galleries, I preferred buying directly from the artists themselves—there’s something special about the personal connection and knowing exactly who created your new treasure. Best of all, buying art in Havana doesn’t have to be expensive. You can find small, beautiful pieces starting as low as $5–$10. If you’re after something more substantial, there are also larger and more detailed works to choose from, making it easy to find something that fits your taste and budget.

My favorite place to explore was the Almacenes San José Artisans’ Market. The market itself can be overwhelming at first, with many stalls selling souvenirs, and yes, the vendors can be quite persistent. But head upstairs, and you’ll discover an artistic paradise! The upper level is filled with hundreds of unique, authentic paintings. You can easily spend hours browsing through different styles, chatting with the artists, and discovering your next favorite piece to take home.

Catching the sunset while strolling along Malecón Avenue is an absolute must! On one side, you have the city with its beautiful, historic buildings, and on the other, the vast, breathtaking sea. The colors of the sunset over the water are simply spectacular. As evening falls, Malecón comes alive with locals—talking, singing, dancing, playing music, and even fishing. It’s not just about the view; it’s about experiencing the vibrant energy of Havana as the day fades into night.

We stumbled upon the charming neighborhood of Vedado by accident while searching for the famous Coppelia ice cream spot. After seeing the massive queue—at least an hour’s wait!—we decided to skip the ice cream and explore the area instead, and it did not disappoint! Vedado is a peaceful neighborhood, perfect for those who enjoy long, quiet walks away from the tourist crowds. With its wide streets, lush green parks, and beautiful lower houses, this mostly residential area offers a refreshing contrast to the bustling streets of Old Havana.

Experiencing live music in Havana is an absolute must! Whether it’s a spontaneous street performance, an intimate show at a cozy bar, a dazzling cabaret, or a night at the famous Buena Vista Social Club, the rhythms of Cuban music are bound to captivate you.

In Havana, music is woven into the fabric of everyday life. You can stumble upon talented musicians performing on the streets, filling the air with the sounds of son cubano, salsa, and rumba. For a more intimate setting, many bars and cafes host live music, where you can sit back with a mojito and soak in the melodies of authentic Cuban tunes.

Visiting Fusterlandia was one of the most random yet surprisingly fun experiences I had in Havana! In 1975, Cuban artist José Fuster, inspired by Gaudí’s public works in Barcelona and Brâncuși’s in Romania, began transforming his home and studio with vibrant mosaics. What started as a personal project gradually expanded as his neighbors asked him to decorate their homes, too.

Today, the entire neighborhood has become a whimsical mosaic wonderland, with colorful, imaginative artwork adorning every corner. Walking through Fusterlandia feels like stepping into a dreamland filled with vibrant, unique, and joyful creations. It’s a playful, artistic escape that’s definitely worth the visit! Check out this post to discover more about Fusterlandia!