Havana is Cuba's vibrant capital city, a place where 1950s American cars cruise past crumbling colonial architecture and revolutionary murals. The city's unique blend of Spanish colonial heritage, Art Deco buildings, and Caribbean culture creates an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world.
Top attractions
The most popular and significant attractions in Havana.
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1
Plaza de la Catedral
The jewel of Old Havana, this baroque plaza is dominated by the Cathedral of the Virgin Mary of the Immaculate Conception, built between 1748 and 1777. The square is surrounded by elegant 18th-century palaces and is one of the most beautiful in the Americas.
Tip: Visit in the morning to avoid tour groups; the square is liveliest in the evenings with live music
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2
Plaza Vieja
Old Havana's most architecturally diverse square blends Cuban Baroque with Art Nouveau and Neoclassical styles. The recently restored plaza features a central fountain and is flanked by colonial mansions converted into galleries, breweries, and cafes.
Tip: Climb to the Cámara Oscura for panoramic views; try a cold Bucanero beer at Factoria Plaza Vieja
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3
Plaza de Armas
Havana's oldest square, dating from the early 1500s, is shaded by ceiba trees and lined with second-hand book stalls. The square features a marble statue of Carlos Manuel de Céspedes and is bordered by the Palacio de los Capitanes Generales.
Tip: Browse the book stalls for vintage Cuban postcards and revolutionary memorabilia
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4
Plaza de San Francisco de Asis
A grand cobblestone plaza facing Havana Harbor, dominated by the Basilica of San Francisco de Asís (now a concert hall). The plaza features the iconic El Caballero de Paris statue, a beloved Havana street character immortalized in bronze.
Tip: Rub the beard of El Caballero de Paris statue for good luck - a local tradition
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5
El Capitolio
Modeled on the US Capitol building but actually taller, this magnificent neoclassical building was completed in 1929 and served as Cuba's seat of government until 1959. Fully restored, it now houses the Cuban Academy of Sciences and welcomes visitors to explore its grand interior.
Tip: Book guided tours in advance during peak season; the dome offers spectacular views
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6
El Malecon
Havana's iconic 8-kilometer seafront promenade stretches from Old Havana to Vedado, serving as the city's living room. Locals gather here to fish, socialize, play music, and watch the sunset over the Straits of Florida.
Tip: Walk the full length at sunset for the best experience; wear shoes that can get wet as waves often splash over the seawall
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7
Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana
The largest Spanish colonial fortress in the Americas, La Cabana was built between 1763 and 1774 following the British occupation of Havana. It overlooks the harbor and hosts the famous Cañonazo ceremony every night at 9pm.
Tip: Arrive before 8:30pm for the cannon ceremony; the best photos are from the Morro Castle side
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8
Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro
El Morro castle guards the entrance to Havana Harbor and dates to 1589. The lighthouse, added in 1844, is still operational. The castle offers the best panoramic views of Havana's skyline.
Tip: Combine with La Cabana fortress for a full day trip across the harbor via ferry ($0.25 USD)
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9
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
Split across two buildings, this is the finest art museum in the Caribbean. The Cuban Art building houses the world's largest collection of Cuban art from the 17th century to the present, while the International Art building contains European masterpieces.
Tip: The Cuban Art building is the highlight; combine both buildings for the full experience
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10
Museo de la Revolucion
Housed in the former Presidential Palace of Fulgencio Batista, this comprehensive museum traces the history of the Cuban Revolution. The outdoor pavilion displays the Granma yacht that brought Fidel Castro and his guerrillas from Mexico in 1956.
Tip: The exhibits are in Spanish; hiring an English-speaking guide ($5-10 USD) greatly enhances the experience
Tips for visiting attractions
Make the most of your sightseeing time.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh midday light.
Book tickets online in advance for major attractions to skip long queues and sometimes save money.
Many cities offer multi-attraction passes that include public transport. Calculate whether they save you money based on your itinerary.