10 best things to do in Havana, Cuba

Havana is one of the most atmospheric cities in the world — a place where pastel-coloured mansions, vintage cars, live music and Caribbean sea breezes combine into something unforgettable. Whether you’re wandering the cobbled streets of Old Havana, sipping rum in a centuries-old bar or cruising the Malecón in a classic convertible, the city delivers history, culture and energy at every turn.

From revolutionary landmarks to art markets, leafy squares, lively nightlife and world-famous cigars, this guide covers the very best things to do in Havana. Each experience is designed to help you understand the city’s rhythm, uncover its cultural heart and make the most of your time in Cuba’s bold and beautiful capital.

1. Wander the timeless streets of Old Havana (Habana Vieja)

The heart of Havana is its UNESCO-listed Old Town, a magical maze of plazas, colonial palaces, cathedrals and narrow lanes that feel like stepping back into the 18th century. Begin at Plaza Vieja, surrounded by restored mansions and cafés spilling out onto cobblestones. Continue to Plaza de la Catedral, home to Havana Cathedral’s baroque façade, one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.

From there, stroll to Plaza de Armas, the oldest square in Havana, which hosts a daily second-hand book market and is shaded by royal palms. Every corner you turn reveals wrought-iron balconies, musicians playing guitar, street vendors offering churros and locals going about life in romantic slow motion.

Plan to spend at least half a day here — the charm is in walking slowly, photographing everything and letting Havana’s character unfold naturally.

2. Walk the Malecón at sunset

Havana’s oceanfront boulevard, the Malecón, is one of the city’s most iconic locations. Stretching for 8km along the coast, it’s a meeting point for artists, fishermen, musicians, families and couples who gather in the evenings to watch the sky shift from gold to orange to pink.

As the waves crash dramatically against the sea wall, classic American cars roll by, and the scent of salt water mixes with live music drifting from nearby buildings. Walking the Malecón at sunset is not just a scenic activity — it’s a cultural experience that reveals the warmth and social spirit of Havana.

If you stay after dark, the ambience becomes even more atmospheric, with groups chatting, dancing and playing instruments late into the night.

3. Ride through Havana in a classic convertible car

No trip to Havana is complete without cruising through the city in a brightly coloured vintage car from the 1950s. These iconic convertibles — Chevrolets, Buicks, Cadillacs — are more than just vehicles; they’re symbols of Cuban history and resilience.

The most popular tour routes take you past the Malecón, Revolution Square, Vedado’s leafy neighbourhoods and the luxurious mansions of Miramar. With the wind in your hair and salsa music playing through the speakers, it’s one of the most fun and memorable things to do in Havana.

For photos, ask your driver to stop at key viewpoints — especially in front of the Capitol building or along the oceanfront for perfect retro shots.

4. Explore the Museum of the Revolution

Located inside the former Presidential Palace, the Museum of the Revolution is essential for understanding modern Cuban history. The building itself — opulent, marble-lined and once home to Cuba’s leaders — adds gravity to the exhibits inside.

The museum chronicles the rise of Fidel Castro, Che Guevara and the Cuban Revolution. You’ll find artefacts, personal belongings, propaganda posters, detailed timelines and even the famous yacht Granma, the vessel that carried revolutionaries to Cuba in 1956.

It’s one of Havana’s most important cultural institutions, offering insight into how Cubans view their own history and identity.

5. Visit Fusterlandia, Havana’s colourful mosaic wonderland

Just outside central Havana lies Fusterlandia — a surreal, vibrant neighbourhood transformed by Cuban artist José Fuster. Every house, wall and rooftop is decorated with bright tiles, sculptures, murals and patterns inspired by Gaudí.

The area feels like an open-air art gallery, blending Cuban folklore, politics and imagination into one giant mosaic installation. Visitors can explore Fuster’s home, browse galleries and walk through the transformed streets where locals have embraced the artistic movement.

It’s one of the most unique things to do in Havana and a refreshing escape from the city centre.

6. Sip mojitos and daiquiris in Havana’s famous bars

Havana’s cocktail culture is legendary, especially in bars tied to Ernest Hemingway’s time in the city. Visit La Bodeguita del Medio, home of the classic mojito, where walls are covered in signatures and the energy is high from morning until late night.

For daiquiris, head to El Floridita — an elegant bar where icy, perfectly mixed cocktails were supposedly Hemingway’s favourite. Soft lighting, historical photos and a bronze statue of Hemingway make it a nostalgic spot for a drink.

Beyond these icons, Havana is full of small taverns and rooftop bars where you can listen to live music and enjoy Cuba’s rum culture at its finest.

7. Explore Vedado’s art, culture and leafy streets

Vedado is Havana’s cultural and intellectual district — a place of grand mansions, modern architecture, theatres and lively nightlife. Walking through its wide avenues reveals a side of Havana many visitors overlook.

Key highlights include the Coppelia ice cream parlour (a Cuban institution), the peaceful University of Havana campus and the Necrópolis Cristóbal Colón, one of the world’s most striking cemeteries. Vedado is also known for jazz clubs, LGBTQ-friendly bars and late-night dining.

It’s an excellent area to understand contemporary Havana beyond the postcard-perfect Old Town.

8. Relax in Parque Central and admire the Capitolio

Parque Central is one of Havana’s most elegant squares, framed by palm trees, vintage cars and grand architecture. The square leads directly to the remarkable Capitolio — a monumental domed building inspired by the U.S. Capitol but even more ornate.

The area is always full of life: classic-car drivers offering tours, locals playing chess, musicians performing and tourists photographing the surrounding hotels and theatres. The adjoining Gran Teatro de La Habana is especially impressive, hosting ballet and opera performances.

Sit on a bench, watch the movement of the city and soak up Havana’s distinctive atmosphere.

9. Learn the craft of Cuban cigars

Cuban cigars are world-famous, and Havana is the best place to learn how they’re made. Visit a cigar factory such as Partagás or La Corona to see expert rollers (torcedores) handcrafting cigars with incredible skill.

Guides explain the entire process — from leaf selection and fermentation to rolling, cutting and final quality checks. The aroma, precision and tradition involved make it a fascinating cultural experience even if you don’t smoke.

Official shops sell authentic cigars; avoid street vendors to ensure quality and legality.

10. Enjoy live music and nightlife across the city

Havana’s nightlife is energetic, diverse and deeply musical. Head to Casa de la Música for iconic salsa performances, Fabrica de Arte Cubano (FAC) for an edgy blend of art, bars and live shows, or small local venues where musicians improvise with guitars, drums and trumpets.

The rhythms of son, salsa, rumba and jazz echo through the night, inviting visitors to dance or simply enjoy the atmosphere. Havana is at its most alive after dark, and experiencing its music culture is essential.

Whether you prefer lively dance halls, rooftop bars or intimate cafés, Havana delivers unforgettable evenings.