What to do in havana? Attractions & travel guide

Travel requirements Dutch passport

An Electronic Visa (e-Visa) is required for Cuba. You must apply online before your departure.

Entry requirements can change. Always check the current guidelines from the embassy of cuba before you travel.

01 Attractions

What to do in havana

From the best restaurants to the finest cultural hotspots; this is a personal selection of places worth your time. No filters, no sponsorship, just what we would recommend ourselves. Ready to plan your city break? Complete your trip and find the cheapest flights and best hotel deals for havana right here.

Almendares River

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Natural waterway flowing through the city’s spine

The Almendares River flows from south to north through Havana, forming part of the city’s natural infrastructure. It cuts across the urban landscape, connecting different zones and serving as a defining geographical feature. Historically significant, the river supported transportation routes and provided access to inland areas beyond the coast. Today, it supports ecological balance and offers scenic views along its banks, especially during sunrise or twilight hours. Local communities use it for informal recreation and seasonal festivals. The river’s path mirrors the city’s expansion patterns and plays a quiet but essential role in shaping Havana’s spatial organization and environmental flow.

Centraal havana Onbekend

Fortaleza de la Defensa

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Military fortress guarding the city's entrance

Built during the Spanish colonial period, this defensive fort lies at the strategic entry point of Havana Bay. Designed to guard against naval invasions, it reflects the city’s long-standing role as a vital port and military stronghold. The stone walls and watch towers stand as silent witnesses to centuries of maritime conflict and regional power struggles. Today, visitors walk along its perimeter and observe how ancient defense systems adapted to changing sea conditions. The site embodies Havana’s resilience and strategic importance throughout history. Located near the bay’s narrow inlet, it contributes significantly to the city’s layered urban fabric and serves as a symbol of national security amid shifting global dynamics.

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Old Havana

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Historic district with colonial architecture and vibrant streets

Old Havana is a preserved historical core founded in 1519, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982. The district features colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone alleys, and centuries-old fortifications designed to defend against naval threats during the Spanish colonial era. It remains the cultural heartbeat of the city, reflecting Cuba’s architectural legacy and daily life. Visitors explore restored plazas, historic homes, and street-level markets where local traditions thrive. The area offers an immersive experience of Cuban identity, blending past and present within its fortified walls. With a dense network of narrow lanes and traditional doorways, Old Havana stands as both a tourist destination and living urban space shaped by centuries of maritime trade and political influence.

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Plaza de Armas

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Central square with colonial layout and public gatherings

Plaza de Armas has served as the central gathering place of Havana since colonial times. Positioned at the heart of the old city, it hosts public celebrations, religious services, and political meetings. Surrounded by historic government buildings and market stalls, the square reflects the city’s dual function as administrative center and social hub. Its open design allows for easy movement between neighborhoods and reinforces the communal spirit of Cuban society. The surrounding architecture blends neoclassical elements with local materials, offering insight into the city’s evolving governance structures. This peaceful yet dynamic space continues to anchor everyday life in Havana’s urban rhythm.

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Hotels

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