Highlights
- Old Havana District (walking all within).
- Central Park.
- Revolution Museum.
- Beauty Arts Museum.
- Alicia Alonso Theater.
- Havana Capitol.
- Revolution Square.
- Colon Cemetery.
- National Hotel.
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:
Old Havana Arms’ Square is a historic plaza located in Old Havana, 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 Park 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).
An impressive neoclassical structure, completed in 1929 by construction firm Purdy&Henderson, 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 92m.
Chinatown, established in the 19th century by Chinese immigrants, features Chinese-style architecture, including traditional gates, temples, and intricately decorated buildings. The Taoist Temple of Guanyin, dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, is the center of religious observance for the Chinese-Cuban community.
Revolution Square, is the largest public square in the city; dominated by the imposing José Martí Memorial constructed between 1953-1958, a 109-meter tall tower that honors the national hero and poet.
The Christopher Columbus Cemetery, established in 1876; covering an area of over 50 hectares. The necropolis has stunning Neoclassical and Baroque-style mausoleums, chapels, and sculptures. Designed by the architect Calixto Arellano de Loira y Cardoso; contains over 800,000 graves. The main entrance has a towering Romanesque-inspired gateway that stands 21.66 meters high. The cemetery also contains monuments dedicated to notable figures.
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 and Havana University. Vedado’s wide boulevards and tree-lined streets are perfect for leisurely strolls.
National Hotel of Cuba, opened in 1930, adorned with classic Art Deco and Neoclassical elements. Visit the Hall of Fame within to discover all the celebrities who have stayed. In the 1950s, it became a focal point for organized crime, particularly during the era when the Mafia sought to establish a stronghold in Havana. Meyer Lansky and Santo Trafficante Jr. were instrumental in transforming the hotel into a glamorous casino; 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.
Malecón or Havana’s boardwalk. The initial construction began in 1901 under Francisco de Paula de la Torre’s command (Cuban architect and engineer). 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. 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.