Locals and tourists alike can be found propping up the Malecón, an 8km-long seawall that stretches from the Vedado neighbourhood to Old Havana. Early evening is the best time to arrive for stunning sunset views and to soak up the golden hour hues, while it’s also a good place to watch (and hear) the cannon shot ceremony at La Cabaña Fortress. Taking place on the other side of the harbour, the cannon is fired every evening at 9pm as a historical reconstruction. During the colonial era, the cannon was traditionally fired to signal the end of the day for the city gates to be closed for the night.
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Havana Holidays
Overview
Havana is the undisputed capital of Caribbean glamour, with colourful buildings and classic American cars providing a glimpse into the city’s vibrant history. From landmark tourist attractions to picturesque beaches, holidays to Havana, Cuba have got it all, with December through to May providing the best chances for dry, sunny weather. For an unforgettable getaway of a lifetime, Havana, Cuba holidays have got you covered.
Rich in culture and nightlife, Havana is often travellers’ first experience of Cuba. It’s lively, colourful, and full of one-of-a-kind experiences for the whole family. Havana, Cuba holidays offer the opportunity to get to grips with the city sights, as well as sampling the country’s famed beaches. Picturesque stretches of white sands can be reached within a 30-minute drive, while many seek to combine their trip to Havana with a day-trip to the popular resort of Varadero, a two-hour drive away.
The city is home to a multitude of different areas, from the UNESCO world heritage site of Old Havana to the residential district of Miramar. Although relatively walkable, one of the easiest ways to see the sights - especially in the height of summer - is via a ride in a classic American car. Many of the cars can be found dotted around the city, with Parque Central offering the best choice for those wanting to hand-pick their vehicle and barter for a better price with drivers.
Famed for being a country that’s turned its back on capitalism, Havana is free of most international chains, including cafes and restaurants. Instead, visitors are encouraged to dine in local paladares, which range from cosy tables in people’s homes to more established eateries. During holidays to Havana, Cuba, the paladares are the perfect way to get to grips with homemade Cuban food and engage with the locals.
Essential Information: When you go and what you'll need
Temperature(Avg.monthly °c)
Rainfall(Avg.monthly mm)
January
22°c
February
23°c
March
23°c
April
25°c
May
25°c
June
26°c
July
26°c
August
27°c
September
27°c
October
26°c
November
24°c
December
22°c
Getting Around
Although much of Havana is very walkable, you will need to rely on other forms of transport for sights that are a little further away. Cabs are everywhere, but prepare to haggle for a reasonable price. Alternatively, you can even hire a two-seater bici-taxi for short or long distances, or rent out a bicycle.
Your Guide to Havana
Things to do
Places to go
Embrace the Havana nightlife
From salsa dancing in bars to flamboyant cabaret shows, Havana has a wealth of nightlife that'll suit all. The Tropicana is one of the most iconic night spots in Havana, boasting all-singing, all-dancing shows several days a week. The shows have been running since 1939, and have welcomed stars of the silver screen including Marlon Brando and Greta Garbo. Elsewhere, there are plenty of vibrant bars and restaurants open until late. Be sure to sip some daiquiris at Ernest Hemingway’s favourite haunt El Floridita, and step into La Bodeguita del Medio which claims to be the birthplace of the mojito.
Beach Day Trip
While Havana is known for its city sights and cultural activities, it’s possible to sample the jewel that is the Caribbean coast too. Tourist resorts aplenty sit in Varadero, a two-hour drive east of Havana, where there’s watersports, bars, golf clubs and much more. But idyllic beaches can be found much closer to the capital if you just fancy a quick day trip. Just 30 minutes’ drive away is Playas del este, which is one of the most picture-perfect stretches of white sands and inviting crystal-clear water closest to Havana. Head there on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
Embrace The Cuban History
Sightseeing opportunities abound throughout Havana, with the Museum of the Revolution being at the centre of it all. It’s housed in the former palace of dictator Fulgencio Batista, and gives a comprehensive look at all of the events leading up to the revolution - led by Fidel Castro - between 1953 and 1959. Other areas of the city that will interest history lovers include Plaza de la Revolución, which was the site of multiple political rallies, and the imposing National Capitol Building. The charming cobbled streets of Old Havana have many a tale to tell, with the UNESCO world heritage site unfolding to reveal Neoclassical and Baroque buildings, churches and smaller museums.
Sunset along the Malecón
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