Top 10 Must-Do Activities in Havana, Cuba

Cuba is one of those incredible countries that’s just so amazing to explore. This is no more true than within Havana, the capital city. Best of all, there’s a heap of the best things to do in Havana that makes for an epic holiday for a few days or even longer.

1.) Enjoy the sea view from the Malecon

The Malecon is Havana’s 8km-long city wall and esplanade that runs the full length of the city. This, alone, makes it the perfect viewing platform not only for the great sea view but for a lot of the city sites, too.

It’s a common walking spot for locals and you’ll see loads of fishermen catching their supper, too. Taking over 50 years to build, strolling the length of the Malecon is like taking a walk through time. Moreover, there’s an abundance of incredible architecture you’ll see along the way.

If you don’t feel like taking a long stroll, hop into one of the classic cars that you can rent (with a driver) for a few hours. It’s a great way to drive the Malecon, and you will even get to visit other areas of Havana. Just remember to barter; prices start quite high, but everyone we asked wanted to negotiate and lower the cost for us.

2.) Discover Havana Cathedral

Most cities have a must-see list, which typically includes some sort of imposing cathedral, and guess what? Havana is no exception. The architecture of Havana Cathedral is absolutely stunning, and if you’re up for climbing the tower, the views from the top are well worth the effort.

3.) Find Colon Cemetery

A cemetery might not sound like the most exciting attraction and may seem a little morose, but El Cementario de Cristobal (named after Christopher Columbus) is definitely worth scouting out. Notably, many of the 800,000 graves belong to particularly affluent Cubans, so the headstones are works of art.

4.) Embrace salsa dancing

Havana is a city alive with music, and its heritage is definitely tangible in the city’s vibrant music scene. Make sure you catch a glimpse of the sensual and world-famous salsa dance, a thrilling part of Havana culture (ideally with a rum-based cocktail in hand).

5.) Visit Plaza de la Revolución

The plaza is home to a number of recognized landmarks, including José Martí Memorial. It’s well worth seeing and probably one of the most iconic plazas in the world. Consequently, it’s easily one of the best things to do in Havana when you’re in the city.

6.) Explore Old Havana

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Old Havana stands out for its charm and colorful streets. Pick your way through the cobbled pathways and quaint little squares, taking in stunning old buildings like the Cathedral de San Cristobal.

7.) Check out the Gran Teatro de La Habana

The Gran Teatro de La Habana, built in 1915, is renowned for its baroque style and the fascinating sculptures adorning it. Be sure to grab some tickets to see the world-renowned Cuban National Ballet Company in all their glory.

8.) Witness the stunning Fusterlandia

Fusterlandia, a small village on the outskirts of Havana, is filled with colorful mosaics and sculptures created by José Fuster. This artistic neighborhood is a beautiful and unique sight that every traveler should see.

9.) Undertake a day trip to Viñales Valley

Don’t forget to head over to Viñales Valley and explore some of the incredible scenery in this protected area of Cuba. We went horseriding through the valley, ventured into some impressive caves, visited a local farm for some typical Cuban cigars, and admired the large painted mosaics.

10.) Marvel at the historical sights and vibrant atmosphere

Havana is rich in history and culture, and there are countless attractions to marvel at. From lively street art to beautiful colonial architecture, you will find stunning sights at every turn.

So, whether you’re a beach lover, a foodie, or a culture fiend, Havana has something for every traveler. Explore the best things to do in Havana during your next visit.