Pick up at your accommodation. Drive to Old Havana District (clients can change the itinerary’s order upon request).

Visit Cathedral Square in Old Havana. Optional visit to:

• Colonial Architecture Museum.
• Colonial Art Museum. Don Luis Chacón’s House.
• Experimental Graphic Art Atelier.

The Havana’s Arms Square is a historic plaza located in Old Havana, is named after the two bronze lions statues that flank the entrance, known as the “Arms of Havana”.

San Francisco de Asis’ Square is ornamented by cobblestone streets, former slave’s auction place. Next is San Francisco de Asis Church (baroque architecture).

A charming and historic cobblestone plaza that dates back to the 16th century. After the walk, enjoy a cold beer at the local brewery located in one of its corners.

Central Square is an active hub of activity. Also visit surrounding places like Sloppy Joe’s or El Floridita bar (one of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite bars).

The Capitol Building in Havana is an impressive neoclassical structure that stands as an iconic landmark in the city, completed in 1929 by construction firm Purdy&Henderson, the Capitol was modeled after the United States Capitol building in Washington D.C. The Capitol features a striking white marble facade and a stunning central dome that rises 92 meters (302 feet) high. The central lobby features a massive statue of the Roman goddess Minerva. It remains an important government building, with its neoclassical grandeur and towering dome, the Capitol is undoubtedly one of Havana’s most recognizable and photographed landmarks, symbolizing the city’s rich history and architectural legacy.

Havana’s Chinatown, is a historic neighborhood located just west of Old Havana. Established in the 19th century by Chinese immigrants, it remains an important cultural enclave within the city. The heart of Chinatown is centered around Cuchillo street. Colorful red lanterns, Chinese signage, and the aroma of authentic Chinese cuisine fill the air.

Beyond the main commercial streets, Chinatown features ornate Chinese-style architecture, including traditional gates, temples, and intricately decorated buildings. The Templo Taoísta de Guanyin, a Taoist temple dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, is a prominent landmark and a center of religious observance for the Chinese-Cuban community.

Wandering through Havana’s Chinatown transports visitors to another world, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and traditions that Chinese immigrants have brought to Cuba over the generations. It remains an important hub for the Chinese-Cuban population, preserving their unique identity and influence within the larger fabric of Havana.

Despite facing challenges over the years, including a decline in the Chinese-Cuban population, Havana’s Chinatown persists as a neighborhood that adds to the city’s multicultural tapestry.

Havana’s Revolution Square, is the largest public square in the city and one of the most iconic landmarks in Cuba. This expansive plaza is dominated by the imposing José Martí Memorial, a 109-meter tall tower that honors the national hero and poet who played a key role in Cuba’s struggle for independence from Spain. The square itself is a hub of political and cultural activity in the Cuban capital. It has been the site of numerous historic events (massive rallies). Havana’s Revolution Square has its origins dating back to the early 20th century. The land for the square was originally designated in the 1920s as part of a plan to expand and modernize the city of Havana. However, the square as it is known today was not fully developed until the years following the Cuban Revolution in 1959, the iconic José Martí Memorial was constructed between 1953-1958, which is indeed the most complex piece of the whole compound. The square underwent significant expansion and redevelopment in the 1960s. Additional government buildings and public spaces were added around the memorial in the following years to create the expansive plaza we see today, it has remained an important political center in Havana ever since.

Nestled in the heart of Havana, the Christopher Columbus Cemetery, is one of the largest and most impressive cemeteries in the world; covering an area of over 50 hectares. This historic necropolis is renowned for its stunning Neoclassical and Baroque-style mausoleums, chapels, and sculptures that line its winding pathways. Established in 1876, the cemetery was designed by the architect Calixto Arellano de Loira y Cardoso and features an array of architectural styles that reflect the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Cuba over the centuries. Contain over 800,000 graves, with more than 1 million interments. The main entrance to the cemetery is particularly impressive, with a towering Romanesque-inspired gateway that stands 21.66 meters high. The cemetery also contains monuments dedicated to notable figures, including baseball players from the Cuban League and firefighters who lost their lives in a major fire in 1890.

As one of Havana’s most popular tourist attractions, the Christopher Columbus Cemetery offers visitors a unique glimpse into Cuba’s rich history and the lives of its most prominent citizens. The cemetery is home to the tombs of numerous Cuban national heroes, including poets, politicians, and military figures, as well as the final resting place of the explorer Christopher Columbus himself. Visitors can wander through the cemetery’s labyrinth of ornate tombs and monuments, admiring the intricate carvings, stained-glass windows, and towering obelisks that adorn the graves. The cemetery also features a number of chapels and ceremonial spaces that provide a peaceful respite from the bustling streets of Havana.

Vedado is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood in Havana. Established in the late 19th century, it features a mix of colonial, Art Deco, and modernist buildings, reflecting the city’s historical evolution. The area is home to significant landmarks such as the John Lennon Park (statue) and the impressive Havana University. Vedado’s wide boulevards and tree-lined streets are perfect for leisurely strolls, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of Havana’s residents.

The National Hotel of Cuba, a stunning architectural marvel, stands as a testament to the island’s rich history and vibrant culture. Opened in 1930, this iconic hotel has welcomed numerous celebrities, dignitaries, and travelers seeking a taste of the luxurious lifestyle that Havana offers. With its grand façade adorned with classic Art Deco and Neoclassical elements, the hotel boasts breathtaking views of the Malecón and the sparkling Caribbean Sea. Inside, guests can enjoy elegantly decorated rooms, a variety of dining options featuring traditional Cuban cuisine, and a lively atmosphere that reflects the island’s unique charm.

In the 1950s, the National Hotel of Cuba became a focal point for organized crime, particularly during the era when the Mafia sought to establish a stronghold in Havana. Notable figures like Meyer Lansky and Santo Trafficante Jr. were instrumental in transforming the hotel into a glamorous casino, attracting high rollers and celebrities alike. This transformation was part of a larger trend where the Mafia invested heavily in the Cuban tourism industry, turning the National into a lavish playground for the elite. The casino featured opulent gaming rooms and extravagant entertainment, drawing visitors from around the world and solidifying the hotel’s reputation as a hotspot for nightlife and excess. All of this came to an end after 1959.

Havana’s boardwalk, or Malecón, was conceived in the late 19th century as part of a larger urban development project aimed at modernizing the city. The initial construction began in 1901 under the direction of the Cuban architect and engineer, Francisco de Paula de la Torre. The project was designed to provide a protective seawall against the crashing waves of the Caribbean while also creating a scenic promenade for leisurely strolls. Over the years, the Malecón underwent several expansions and renovations, evolving into the vibrant esplanade it is today.

The Malecón officially opened in 1921 and quickly became a central feature of Havana’s social life. It went through a major renovation during 1952. Its construction not only enhanced the city’s aesthetics but also served as a vital infrastructure project, providing a buffer against coastal erosion. The boardwalk has since become a symbol of Havana, reflecting the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Today, it stands as a beloved gathering place where locals and visitors alike can enjoy the stunning coastal views, making it an essential experience for anyone exploring the vibrant capital of Cuba.