Whether you're on a trip to Cuba for the first time or the umpteenth time, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Havana. Cuba's largest city is a bustling and bustling town with an eclectic nightlife. From dance to salsa, from ballet to live music, Havana is sure to provide something for everyone.
One of the best things to do in Havana is take a pedicab ride. These funky old cars are perfect for exploring the city and are also great for taking tourists to other areas. You'll find rows of classic 1950's cars lined up in the Revolution Square car park. If you're on a budget, you can also get a pedicab ride for 2/3 CUC ($2/3). It's a fun ride and you'll have the chance to check out some of Havana's oldest and coolest bars.
Another fun thing to do in Havana is visit the Cuban Art Factory. This performance center promotes the work of local Cuban artists. The building is actually a mix of a nightclub, art gallery and performance space. The building has different rooms and is usually packed by 11pm. It's a great place to hang out, but make sure to reserve tickets ahead of time. It's also home to a couple of great salsa bars.
During the day, the Malecon is a great place to walk along the sea. This long seaside promenade is a favorite of locals and tourists and has been featured in several books and films. You can start at Plaza Vieja, a cobbled square that's surrounded by Unesco edifices. Some buildings are currently being renovated, but others have fallen into disrepair. The Malecon offers great views of the city and the sea.
If you're feeling like something a little more exotic, consider a trip to Playas Del Este, an unspoiled beach 11 miles east of Havana. The beaches here have turquoise waters and are a great place to get away from the city for a while.
Another fun thing to do in Havana that isn't as famous as the Tropicana Cabaret is to take a tour of El Morro Fortress and Lighthouse. This historic structure was built in the 1500's to protect Havana from pirates. You can take a short cab ride from the city center to visit the castle. It's an interesting museum that is best explored on your own, but it's also a great place to relax after a day of sightseeing.
The best things to do in Havana include exploring the city's rich history and enjoying Cuban cuisine. You can find good food in Cuban restaurants and paladars, which are private restaurants that are typically run by a family. However, be careful, as some government-run restaurants don't make a quality meal.
Havana's Revolution Museum is also a great place to learn about Cuba's history. The museum features old military vehicles and aircraft, as well as images of the time period before the Cuban Revolution. It also has an interesting gallery that displays aircraft from the 1950's. The museum is also home to an old yacht that was used to ferry Castro from Mexico.
