As the largest city in the Caribbean, Havana is vast and diverse. Unexpected treasures hide behind every corner. That’s why, even with two sightseeing routes, you might still feel like you’re only scratching the surface. To avoid doing too little — or too much — here are some extra spots and unforgettable experiences that will make you fall in love with Havana even more. To keep things simple, let’s explore them by neighbourhood.
In Habana Vieja — Havana’s historic centre — you can get a deeper sense of José Martí’s life, the national hero, political thinker, martyr, and champion of Cuba’s independence. Next to the central station is the Casita de Martí, the house where he was born on January 28, 1853. A typical working-class home of the time, with its tiled roof and mortar walls, the house was turned into a museum in 1925. Inside, you’ll find a collection of objects and documents retracing the major stages of Martí’s life — from his youth and political activity in Montecristi, to his journey from Cap-Haïtien to Cuba, and his deportation to Spain. Every room offers an intimate look at the man often called Cuba’s most universal
figure. Just a short walk away, near the Plaza de Armas, another kind of story awaits you at the Hotel Ambos Mundos. Out of its 52 rooms, number 511 draws the most attention — not for its comfort or its view, but for its connection to the American writer Ernest Hemingway. Hemingway fell in love with Havana and stayed here from 1932 to 1939 — for the modest sum of $1.50 a day. Just like in many of his favourite bars and quiet corners of the city, he often came here with his typewriter, working on some of his most famous books. Death in the Afternoon, Green Hills of Africa, and To Have and Have Not are just a few examples. Today, room 511 is a small museum featuring photos and personal items that once belonged to the Nobel Prize–winning author.
Hop in!
Climb into a Coco Taxi — the bright yellow ones, not the black ones reserved for locals — or settle into a stunning vintage American car from the 1920s or 30s, and head over to Vedado for the next part of your journey. There too, you’ll find plenty of sights and things to do.
There’s always more to see..
Don’t miss the Christopher Colombus cemetery. Named after the legendary Italian navigator — though his remains aren’t actually here — the cemetery has a way of surprising its visitors.
Covering 50 hectares and holding around a million graves, its full of rich religious iconography and architectural gems. This is a unique place of reflection, offering a fascinating journey through Cuban history.
For Art and Music Lovers
If you’re curious for more, head over to the Miramar neighbourhood — even if it’s just to set foot in the Fábrica de Arte Cubano. This former factory turned creative hub is a true hotspot for contemporary art, named one of the 100 best places in the world by Time magazine in 2019. While you’re in the area, don’t miss the chance to stop by the Casa de la Música — the perfect place to dance salsa just like you’ve always dreamed.
The surrounding area
The next few places are a bit further from central Havana, so be ready to go the extra mile. First, head out by road to Finca Vigía, a beautiful 19th-century colonial house where Ernest Hemingway — or Papa, as the locals call him — lived and wrote between 1939 and 1960.
Then, set sail across the bay to explore the old villages of Casablanca and Regla, located to the north and east of Havana. From there, you’ll get a closer look at El Morro Castle, La Cabaña Fortress, and other iconic spots along the city’s opposite shores.
A bit further away…
If Havana has already won you over, why not take a look beyond the city? Here are a few day-trip ideas! For beach lovers, the stretch of seven Playas del Este is ideal — perfect for swimming in turquoise waters and soaking up the sun on soft white sand. If you’re more into nature and wildlife, head to the Viñales Valley, the Zapata Peninsula, or Las Terrazas. These three UNESCO biosphere reserves offer breathtaking landscapes of Cuba’s rich biodiversity. If you’re a city explorer at heart, the provinces of Matanzas and Cienfuegos are favourites among travellers — full of charm, history, and culture.
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