Visit Havana

You might not feel it, but you’re standing near one of the highest points in Havana. To your right is the Loma de Aróstegui—one of the tallest hills in the city. Back in the day, hills were prime military real estate, perfect for building formidable Read more

At the top of Avenida de los Presidentes stands the most striking monument along this central promenade — a grand marble tribute to José Miguel Gómez. A key figure in Cuba’s modern history, he became known for his relentless fight for Cuban Read more

Even though we’re in Havana, this spot is dedicated to the legendary Napoleon Bonaparte. The museum before you was founded in 1961, by two Cuban art and history enthusiasts: Julio Lobo, a wealthy sugar trader, and Orestes Ferrara, a Read more

Originally located in the heart of Old Havana, the University of Havana has been part of the Vedado district since 1902. Founded in 1728 by Dominican friars, it’s the oldest university in Cuba — and one of the oldest in all of Latin America. At the Read more

Tucked away off the beaten path, Callejón de Hamel is one of Havana’s most unique alleyways. Like an open-air urban gallery, the eclectic Cuban folk art brings together both locals and tourists. About 200 metres long, most of the pieces were Read more

Welcome to El Malecón, also known as Avenida Maceo. Built in 1901 for Havana’s middle class, this iconic seaside promenade has become the city’s favourite gathering spot. It’s where Habaneros take romantic strolls, fish with friends, share Read more

Before Havana began to flourish and expand in the early 19th century, this area was home to the San Lázaro quarries, where political prisoners were sent for forced labour. Among them was a young man named José Martí: philosopher, thinker, Read more

Here you are, at 120 Calle P, where Abel Santamaría once lived—a young Cuban who, in just a few years, went from being an ordinary citizen to the second-in-command of the revolution led by Fidel Castro. Let’s rewind a bit. Born in Encrucijada Read more

Black, red, grey, orange—these bold colours spell out “La Rampa” up on your right. You’re approaching the main street of Vedado, but that’s not all. Those seven large letters, in a 1970s-style font, also mark the name of the iconic La Rampa Read more

Easily recognisable by its Art Deco architecture, a rare sight in Vedado, the Hotel Nacional de Cuba carries a legendary reputation. Opened in 1930 on the site of the 18th-century Santa Clara fortress, this iconic hotel captures the elegance and Read more

One of the most magical things about Havana is the feeling that you’re stepping through time — from the colonial era to the glamorous 1940s and 1950s. Here in Vedado, historic hotels like the one in front of you — the Hotel Capri — take you Read more

Opened in 1958 under the Hilton brand, the Hotel Habana Libre is a striking example of modernist architecture. At the time, it was the largest hotel in Latin America, with 25 floors and 572 rooms. Beyond its size and style, the hotel is closely tied Read more

Within Vedado’s neat grid of streets, two grand avenues stand out. One is Avenida Paseo, and the other is Avenida de los Presidentes, which you’re now standing on. Stretching over twenty blocks and running all the way to the Malecón, this is Read more

Round headlights, pop colours, curvy lines, and that unmistakable vintage rumble—Cuba’s classic American cars never fail to turn heads. Sure, it might sound cliché—but we’re all in. These legendary cars bring joy to every visitor exploring Read more

“There is not a heart in Cuba that does not feel indebted to this beloved old woman.” These were the words of Cuban national hero José Martí, in tribute to Mariana Grajales Cuello—honoured by this commemorative monument. Cuba will never forget this remarkable woman. Born on 26 June 1808 in Santiago de Cuba, Mariana Grajales Cuello made history through her deep commitment to the most important causes of her time. She fought for women’s rights, denouncing the patriarchy in Latin American society. She stood against slavery, fighting for the liberation of Afro-descendant communities. Above all, she committed herself to Cuba’s long fight for independence, playing a vital role in all three wars against Spanish colonial rule — the Ten Years’ War, the Little War, and the War of Independence, fought between 1868 and 1898. In the midst of war, Mariana was a beacon of courage and compassion. She organised supply missions for rebel camps, established and managed a hospital for the wounded—regardless of their allegiance—and often rushed to the battlefield to offer aid herself. She even led her husband and several of her children into the struggle for Cuba’s liberation, eventually losing many of them to the cause. A fearless, strong patriot, and a mother who paid the highest price for her devotion, Mariana Grajales Cuello became the heroine of a nation. To this day, she is remembered as the Mother of Cuba. Read more

 Vedado stands apart from much of Havana, showcasing the city’s more modern side. Built between the 1920s and 1950s, this residential and commercial district was developed on a wooded area that was off-limits to construction for years, which Read more