Things to Do in Havana

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982, Old Havana is one of the best-preserved colonial centers in the Americas. Wander through four historic plazas - Plaza de Armas, Plaza de la Catedral, Plaza Vieja, and Plaza de San Francisco - each surrounded by stunning Baroque and neoclassical buildings. The pedestrian Calle Obispo is the main artery, lined with shops, galleries, and bars. Don't miss the iconic El Floridita and La Bodeguita del Medio, Hemingway's favorite haunts.

Havana's iconic 7-kilometer seafront promenade stretches from Old Havana to Vedado, serving as the city's living room where locals gather to fish, socialize, play music, and watch spectacular sunsets. The Malecón is lined with colorful, weathered buildings in various architectural styles from Art Nouveau to Art Deco. It's the perfect place to experience authentic Havana life, especially in the golden hour when the city glows and musicians appear. An essential Cuban experience that costs nothing.

This magnificent neoclassical building, inspired by the US Capitol and completed in 1929, once housed Cuba's Congress and now serves as the seat of the National Assembly. The 91-meter dome is one of Havana's most recognizable landmarks. Inside, marvel at the stunning Salón de los Pasos Perdidos (Hall of Lost Steps) and the 25-carat diamond marking Cuba's kilometer zero. Recently restored to its former glory, the Capitolio represents the grandeur of pre-revolutionary Havana.

Originally called Plaza Nueva when built in 1559, Plaza Vieja is the most diverse and charming of Old Havana's four main squares. Surrounded by beautifully restored buildings from different centuries - colonial mansions, Art Nouveau gems, and vibrant facades - the plaza hosts cafes, galleries, a microbrewery, and the Camera Obscura offering panoramic city views. Free of traffic and full of life, it's perfect for people-watching while sipping a cold Cristal beer or Cuban coffee.

A mind-blowing neighborhood art project in Jaimanitas, Fusterlandia is the life's work of Cuban artist José Fuster. Often compared to Gaudí's work in Barcelona, Fuster has transformed over 80 homes with vibrant mosaics, murals, sculptures, and fantastical decorations. The colorful explosion of Cuban folk art spreads across houses, bus stops, benches, and even the street itself. A 25-minute taxi ride from Old Havana, it's an unforgettable experience and one of Cuba's most photographed sites.

Housed in the former Presidential Palace, this comprehensive museum chronicles Cuba's revolutionary history from the colonial era through the Bay of Pigs and beyond. The ornate building itself is worth seeing, designed by the same architects as the Capitolio. Exhibits include Che Guevara's belongings, weapons from the revolution, and behind the building, the Granma Memorial featuring the yacht that brought Fidel Castro and revolutionaries from Mexico in 1956.

The stunning cathedral dominating Plaza de la Catedral is a masterpiece of Cuban Baroque architecture, completed in 1777. Its asymmetrical bell towers and undulating facade, built from coral limestone that reveals fossilized marine life, make it unique among Caribbean churches. The interior is more restrained but features beautiful frescoes and once held Columbus's remains. The atmospheric plaza surrounding it is one of Havana's most beautiful, filled with restaurants and live music.

This iconic fortress guarding Havana's harbor entrance has protected the city since 1589. El Morro, as locals call it, offers spectacular views of the Havana skyline across the bay and is especially magical at sunset. Explore the lighthouse, ramparts, and maritime museum, then stay for the nightly Cañonazo ceremony at 9pm when soldiers in period costume fire a cannon, a tradition dating back to colonial times when it signaled the closing of the city gates.