The Vedado District

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 is how it got its name, Vedado, meaning “forbidden.” With its grid-like layout, wide avenues, and tall buildings, Vedado feels a bit like North American cities. That’s no coincidence, considering how close Cuba and the United States were—before tensions escalated in the late 20th century. Once a haven for American mobsters, the area is now a green, vibrant part of the city where locals and tourists cross paths among museums, parks, and iconic landmarks from Cuba’s history.