Top Things to Do in Havana

About the City

Havana, the vibrant heart of Cuba, pulsates with a rhythm fueled by music, vintage cars, and colorful street art. Walking through its cobbled streets feels like a step back in time, as '50s Chevys honk by against a backdrop of baroque and neoclassical architecture. The air carries the harmonious blend of laughter, son cubano, and the occasional scent of a well-crafted cigar. Visitors become part of the city's living museum, exploring historic gems like the Malecón or the grandeur of the Capitolio. Despite its charm, Havana is not without its issues; buildings that once stood proud now show signs of decay, a testament to economic hardships. Resources can be scarce, leading to long lines for basic goods, and tourists can experience the sharp dichotomy between popular attractions and local realities. Yet, the warmth of the Havana people outshines these tribulations - they are the true soul of the city, offering a generous welcome with stories, dance, and an unbeatable spirit of resilience.

Things to Do in Havana

Indulge in Moros y Cristianos

Food & Drink

Feast on the harmonious blend of black beans and white rice known as 'Moros y Cristianos.' Each bite is a nod to Cuba's Spanish and African heritage, a simple yet profound staple that tells a story on...

Paddleboarding in Havana Bay

Outdoors

Grab a paddleboard and become the captain of your own adventure on the calm waters of Havana Bay. Enjoy the city views from a fresh angle while getting a sun-kissed workout. It's like walking on water...

Find Serenity at a Havana Yoga Session

The Unexpected

Stretch it out with yoga in the heart of Havana! Whether it's a rooftop or beachside session, you'll be saying 'Namaste' with some serious Cuban zen.

Become a Cigar Aficionado

The Unexpected

Get puffed up on knowledge with a cigar factory tour! You'll learn the art of rolling the perfect cigar and discover why Cuban 'puros' are legendary. Just remember: puff, puff, but don't inhale!

Twist and Shout at a Cuban Vinyl Shop

The Unexpected

Dig through crates of vintage vinyl and unearth musical gems from salsa to son. It's a hands-on history lesson that'll have your record player spinning with delight.

Turn Up the Heat with a Cuban Cooking Class

The Unexpected

Don your chef's hat and sizzle up some Cuban classics! You'll be dicing, slicing, and sautéeing your way to culinary brilliance. Plus, you get to eat your homework – how awesome is that?

Reel in the Big One - Fishing in Havana

Outdoors

Cast a line by the Malecón or hop on a local fisherman's boat and try to snare a big fish. Even if they don't bite, you'll have a whale of a tale to tell about the one that got away.

Explore Havana's Street Art Scene

Outdoors

Put on your comfiest sneakers and get ready to feast your eyes on Havana's vibrant street art. Murals, graffiti, and installations, oh my! It's like a visual buffet that never ends, giving you a taste...

Architectural Photo Safari

Outdoors

Unleash your inner shutterbug on an architectural scavenger hunt across Havana. Snap pics of baroque cathedrals, art nouveau buildings, and Soviet-style blocks. It's like a full-on workout for your ca...

Eco-Trek in the Havana Forest

Outdoors

Lace up and get ready for an eco-adventure in the lush green heart of Havana. Explore trails, cross little streams, and say 'Hola' to the wild side of the city. It's like Mother Nature gave Havana a b...

Sip on a Classic Mojito

Food & Drink

Muddle your way through the fresh minty bliss of a classic Mojito. This Cuban cocktail is a refreshing mix of rum, mint, sugar, lime juice, and soda water. It's like taking a dip in a cool Havana bree...

Uncover the Mysteries of El Capitolio

Sights

Marvel at Havana's own version of the U.S. Capitol, El Capitolio. This grandiose beauty's got a dome that'll have you craning your neck back like you're trying to see who's buying the drinks at the ba...

Navigate the Nooks of the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes

Sights

Let your inner art aficionado loose in the labyrinth of the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, a treasure trove of Cuban creativity. From colonial to contemporary, you'll be saying 'Oh la la' at every tu...

Jive with Jazz at La Zorra y el Cuervo

Sights

Swing by La Zorra y el Cuervo and let the smooth jazz take you on a sonic trip. It's a speakeasy vibe with some of the hottest licks and riffs in town!

Bask in Botanical Bliss at Jardín Botánico Nacional

Sights

Nature lovers, unite! The Jardín Botánico Nacional is like Mother Nature's living room, where you can chill with plants from all over the world. It's greenery galore!

Get Spooked at the Castillo de la Real Fuerza

Sights

Dare to wander the halls of Castillo de la Real Fuerza, where tales of ghosts and old fort vibes will give you a delightful shiver. It's history with a side of thrill!

Slurp Some Caldoza

Food & Drink

Get cozy with caldoza, a hearty stew that's packed with all the goodies: meat, potatoes, and veggies. Every spoonful is like a celebration of Cuban resourcefulness and flavor!

Dive into a Dish of Arroz con Pollo

Food & Drink

Embrace the ultimate comfort dish with arroz con pollo, a one-pan wonder that's a symphony of flavors with rice, chicken, veggies, and an array of Cuban seasonings. It's like a warm hug from abuela on...

Munch on Malanga Fritters

Food & Drink

Get your crunch on with malanga fritters, a.k.a. 'frituras de malanga.' These crispy, golden-brown treasures are a tuber treat that'll have you saying, 'One more, por favor!' They're like the Cuban co...

Ride in a Vintage Car Convertible

The Unexpected

Cruise the streets of Havana in style, with the top down and the Caribbean breeze in your hair. Rent a classic convertible, pick a sunny day, and roll like a 50s movie star. Remember, it's not just ab...