Havana Holidays

Five of the Best Things to Do on Havana Holidays

Tour the city in a classic car: Famous for its classic cars, there’s no better way to explore Havana. As you drive through the streets lined with notable monuments, cathedrals and palaces, and with the breeze in your hair, you’ll get a true sense of the city’s past and present influences. The 1950s cars that you find in Havana are surprisingly immaculate, and you’ll feel as though you’ve gone back in time, especially as you ride through the old parts of the city.

Explore Old Havana: At the very heart of the Cuban capital is Old Havana. This buzzing city has an intoxicating energy that will lure you into its charms with its fine colonial architecture, lively squares and faded grandeur. Known locally as La Habana Vieja, the Old City is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is filled with ancient plazas where cobbled streets weave between brightly- coloured buildings. Around every corner you’ll find an architectural treasure that depicts a different era from Art Deco to Baroque. There are four main plazas in the Old City but if you want to see the cathedral, head to Plaza Vieja which was formerly the religious centre.                                                                                                                       

Drink a Mojito: First created in Cuba, the Mojito is synonymous with the country and there’s no better place to try this authentic drink than at one of the bars in Havana. Fusing white rum, sugar cane, lime juice, mint and soda, this tangy cocktail is delicious. You’ll find lots of places dotted around the city where you can enjoy the cocktail, and La Bodeguita del Medio is where Ernest Hemingway is said to have written “My Mojito, in Bodeguita, my Daiquiri in El Floridita.”                                                                                                                              

Walk along the Malecón: Spanning 8km along the length of the city of Havana, the Malecón is a promenade and stretch of road that runs along the coastline. Flanked by eclectic Neoclassical and Art Nouveau architecture, this is one of the most outstanding areas in Cuba. Originally the promenade was created for the middle classes in the early 20^th century, but it soon expanded out towards the east of the city. The evening is a great time to visit the Malecón as beautiful sunsets cast a warm glow over the water and lively Cuban beats pulsate throughout the streets.

Learn how to Salsa: Havana tours wouldn’t be complete without trying out some salsa moves. Deep-rooted in Cuban culture, salsa music and dancing can be heard in many of the bars and clubs of Havana. This passionate dance gives you a real taste of authentic Cuban culture and is great fun to learn on your trip. Even if you think you have two left feet, you’ll love the experience and it’s also a good way to interact with the locals and enjoy their culture.

When is the best time for Havana holidays?

The best time to visit Havana, the vibrant capital city of Cuba, is during the winter months from November to April. This period boasts pleasant temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F, making it ideal for exploring the city’s rich culture and historical sites. The dry season during these months ensures a more enjoyable experience without the interruption of heavy rainfall. Also, there are often various festivals and events during this time in Havana, so you can immerse yourself in the local culture.

What is the nightlife like in Havana?

The nightlife in Havana is vibrant, diverse and full of Cuban energy, reflecting the city’s culture and passion for music and dancing. In the evenings, the streets come alive with a mix of traditional Cuban sounds like salsa, rumba and son, alongside more contemporary music genres. Some of the best places to visit at nighttime include famous venues such as the Buena Vista Social Club or Fabrica de Arte Cubano where you can enjoy live performances and dance to the hip-jiggling beats. The lively atmosphere, striking buildings and warm hospitality of the Cuban people make the nightlife in Havana intoxicating.