Havana Holidays

From salsa dancing in bars to flamboyant cabaret shows, Havana has a wealth of nightlife that'll suit all. The Tropicana is one of the most iconic night spots in Havana, boasting all-singing, all-dancing shows several days a week. The shows have been running since 1939, and have welcomed stars of the silver screen including Marlon Brando and Greta Garbo. Elsewhere, there are plenty of vibrant bars and restaurants open until late. Be sure to sip some daiquiris at Ernest Hemingway’s favourite haunt  El Floridita, and step into La Bodeguita del Medio which claims to be the birthplace of the mojito. 

While Havana is known for its city sights and cultural activities, it’s possible to sample the jewel that is the Caribbean coast too. Tourist resorts aplenty sit in Varadero, a two-hour drive east of Havana, where there’s watersports, bars, golf clubs and much more. But idyllic beaches can be found much closer to the capital if you just fancy a quick day trip. Just 30 minutes’ drive away is Playas del este, which is one of the most picture-perfect stretches of white sands and inviting crystal-clear water closest to Havana. Head there on a weekday to avoid the crowds.

Sightseeing opportunities abound throughout Havana, with the Museum of the Revolution being at the centre of it all. It’s housed in the former palace of dictator Fulgencio Batista, and gives a comprehensive look at all of the events leading up to the revolution - led by Fidel Castro - between 1953 and 1959. Other areas of the city that will interest history lovers include Plaza de la Revolución, which was the site of multiple political rallies, and the imposing National Capitol Building. The charming cobbled streets of Old Havana have many a tale to tell, with the UNESCO world heritage site unfolding to reveal Neoclassical and Baroque buildings, churches and smaller museums.

Locals and tourists alike can be found propping up the Malecón, an 8km-long seawall that stretches from the Vedado neighbourhood to Old Havana. Early evening is the best time to arrive for stunning sunset views and to soak up the golden hour hues, while it’s also a good place to watch (and hear) the cannon shot ceremony at La Cabaña Fortress. Taking place on the other side of the harbour, the cannon is fired every evening at 9pm as a historical reconstruction. During the colonial era, the cannon was traditionally fired to signal the end of the day for the city gates to be closed for the night.