Havana Nights: 10 Delightful Activities to Do to Immerse Yourself in the Cuban Culture

Remember the famous 2004 movie Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights? If you answered yes to this question, we’re pretty sure you fell in love with the captivating atmosphere of Cuban culture. The settings of this movie induce an impulsive urge to fly to Havana and start a new life. 

However, there’s a little secret you should know. The movie was filmed in Puerto Rico, yet the filmmakers succeeded in choosing places resembling Havana, especially the colonial areas of Old San Juan. Nonetheless, Havana is the main star of our article. Being the capital city of Cuba, this city possesses a vibrant ambience you can’t deny.

There is so much to enjoy around the Cuban streets of Havana, including the vintage breeze from the old architecture. Situated on the Caribbean Sea, this city is also home to splendid beaches where you can spend your vacation chilling and relaxing while sipping on its tempting cocktails.

Cuba is a fascinating place to be, especially if you enjoy being introduced to new cultures. The Cuban culture is also one to die for; being an intriguing mix of Afro and Hispanic ensures the result of unique customs. Thus, here are the best things to do while exploring this mesmerizing city and having your own Havana nights! 

1. Walk through History at La Habana Vieja (Old Havana)

La Habana Vieja is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the city. Its historical ambience has always attracted visitors, especially history buffs. The cobblestone streets maintain unprecedented beauty, adding even more charm to the colonial area. Moreover, La Havana Vieja is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There is so much history around this area, and the architecture displayed can be easily seen. It is home to thousands of buildings that bear historical significance, along with several plazas and squares to explore. There are several main attractions in this area that you’ll enjoy visiting. 

The Malecón is the most prominent landmark of La Havana Vieja. It’s an avenue stretching along the seawall at the city’s northern shore. Besides the fascinating avenue, there are a couple of fortresses around here for you to see, with Castillo del Morro being the most prominent. It dates back to the colonial times. It is situated at the entrance of Havana Bay to guard the city from potential attacks.

Other fortresses include La Cabaña, San Salvador de la Punta Fortress, and Castillo de la Real Fuerza. They were constructed hundreds of years ago and serve as protection structures for the country. These fortresses proudly stand around Old Havana, their sturdy walls telling tales of the colonial era.

2. Take a Ride in a Vintage Car

One of the best ways to experience Cuba authentically is to get into one of those classic cars from the 1950s. They are an iconic symbol of the country, and many visitors enjoy visiting historical places in one of those cars. 

Such an experience will allow the gentle breeze of Havana to caress your face while you explore the city’s fascinating streets. The best part is this tour may take you to places you never knew existed or weren’t on your itinerary. Such classic rides mainly stroll around the Old Havana area. However, this little Mustang may also take you across the Havana Forest.

If you are up to this lively experience, you must have your Havana car booked in advance. You will have a welcome drink at the Hotel Nacional before having your vehicle ready for your two-hour tour.

3. Drink Mojitos in La Bodeguita del Medio

When you step foot into La Bodeguita del Medio, you can instantly feel the history lingering in its air and trapped within the walls. So, if you wander about Havana’s streets in summer, you may treat yourself to a mojito cocktail to beat the heat. The restaurant is an iconic destination in Old Havana. 

It has been around since the 40s, and despite being that old, it has been gaining more popularity over the years. Rumors have it that Ernest Hemingway used to frequent this bar a lot. Other bars are also known to be Hemingway’s favourite spots. Moreover, there are claims that this restaurant is the birthplace of mojitos. 

Today, La Bodeguita has become a hot tourist destination. No matter when you visit this spot, you will always find it packed with people. While you may need to stand in line to order your mojito, we assure you it’s worth the wait.

4. Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts (Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes)

For all art lovers, you should head to the National Museum of Fine Arts while in Havana. This is a must-see destination for those who admire the beauty within artsy matters. Not only will the museum’s interior fascinate you, but its well-maintained exterior is mesmerizing.

The museum is set across two buildings that date back to the 20s. Before housing the museum, the building was the Palacio del Centro Asturiano. It used to be home to a wide array of art collections from all over the globe, especially ancient cultures. Egyptian and Roman paintings were used to fill the whole place.

In the late 1950s, the museum’s collection of art started to be more dedicated to Cuban Art. You will find an imposing collection of sculptures, paintings, and other forms of art narrating the history and culture of Cuba. It’s a great place to be if you are eager to learn about everything Cuban and admire its richness. 

5. Stroll Along the Paseo del Prado

Bearing the same name as a renowned street in Spain, Paseo del Prado is deemed a fantastic street in Havana to wander about. It’s more of a promenade that divides the popular area of Old Havana and Centro Habana. This street is one of the oldest streets in Havana; it has earned many names through the years. 

Today, it goes by Paseo del Prado nowadays and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, given its historic ambience. It also embraces a wide array of iconic buildings. While going down this street, you will encounter several landmarks attracting tourists everywhere. These landmarks include iconic museums like the Reina Sofia Museum and the Naval Museum.

Tourists enjoy taking a leisurely stroll down the historic street, contemplating the pleasing scenes of the trees that line the whole street. In the late 20s, the well-known French architect Jean-Claude Nicholas Forestier altered the street’s design. He added the hypnotizing stone benches, bronze lions, and marble that we see today.

6. Explore El Bosque de La Habana (The Lungs of Havana)

The Metropolitan Park is one of the well-known spots in Havana and makes for a great tourist destination. This park is a green forest known as the lungs of Havana for its dense trees that provide the city with fresh air. However, some locals also refer to it as Almendares Park. It sits in the heart of the capital city, providing scenic views that tranquillize visitors.

The vast natural area is home to several natural charms and tropical trees. It is a perfect spot to relax away from the noise of the busy streets. The Almendares River also happens to stream among the green lands.

El Bosque de La Habana is the only tropical rainforest in the city. It has been a recreational area for the locals for many years. Activities that you can do while in the green forest include boating, mini-golf, pony rides, and getting silly in the children’s playground.

7. See Che Guevara in La Plaza de La Revolución

Who doesn’t remember the reputable Argentinian Marxist revolutionary Ernesto Che Guevara? While he wasn’t particularly Cuban, he was a major figure who played an active role in the Cuban Revolution. In honour of his memory, a huge steel mural can be found on the façade of the Interior Ministry building at the Revolution Plaza.

Rather known as Plaza de La Revolución, this square is one of Havana’s oldest, largest, and most prominent. It stretches over a vast area embellished by several old buildings that house administrative offices. Unfortunately, the plaza lies a bit away from the heart of Havana City. However, tourists usually flock there via a classic car ride while enjoying the fresh air. 

Driving around the plaza gives you a strong sense of history and heritage. You can’t help but feel the power of the Cuban resistance. The presence of memorials and sculptures also adds to the historic spirit of the area. One of the iconic landmarks around the plaza is the huge tower known as the Jose Marti Memorial.

8. Visit the Revolution Museum of Havana

The revolution is one of the highlights of Cuba’s history. Many things changed during that significant event. Thus, it was important to shed light on such historic events so that the upcoming generations would know the truth and heritage of their country. If you are a history buff, the Revolution Museum is your right destination. 

The museum proudly sits in the historic area of Old Havana. This building served as the Presidential Palace before transforming into a historic museum. The museum will walk you through prominent events in the timeline of Cuban history. You will witness myriad portraits of Cuba’s struggle towards independence.

It houses several objects that go back in time, including tanks and military vehicles. Those objects were used during the operation known as Bay of Pigs. You shouldn’t also miss the yacht displayed that transferred Cuba’s 15th president, Fidel Castro, from Mexico to Cuba. The most exciting part is the bullet holes shown in the central staircase. They prove the assassination attempt of President Fulgencio Batista that failed.

9. Climb the Staircase of La Guarida Restaurant

Havana is famous for its abundance of old buildings. The good part is that most of these buildings are not left abandoned but are instead innovated. La Guarida Restaurant is embraced by a pretty old building, serving as the only Paladar in Havana. 

This chic corner has become a hot tourist destination, attracting even Hollywood celebrities. It preserves Cuban roots, creating a unique ambiance that narrates the history and culture of Havana. The restaurant is quite pricey, yet it is known for offering delicious food and drinks of premium quality. 

Besides enjoying a hearty meal of Cuban cuisine, you will also encounter the reputable staircase of La Guardia. The restaurant owns a massive set of stairs entirely made of marble. Tourists fly worldwide to dine at this restaurant and snap a picture or two on its grand staircase. 

10. Relax at Playas del Este

Since Havana has summery weather all year round, you shouldn’t miss the Caribbean side of this beautiful city. A short drive away from the city centre of Havana can take you to the splendid views of Playas del Este. There are a few beach resorts around Cuba, but this one is the closest to Havana.

Playas del Este is a picturesque beach that stretches for several miles and features an array of pretty palms. Given its vastness, the beach is divided into sections with different names. Santa Maria del Mar is the most popular beach among tourists, and it offers plenty of facilities that make it a hot spot.

On the other hand, Guanabo is another section that is always crowded. It doesn’t offer as many facilities and services as the other beaches. However, it is a perfect spot to take the stress off your mind and enjoy some quality, serene time.

Exploring Havana is a fascinating experience, allowing you to learn a new culture and discover history. No matter where you stay, you will always find something interesting in Havana. You can also head to the beach and enjoy an authentic Caribbean experience.