La Habana Vieja - Discovering Cuba

Travelling to La Habana Vieja

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in La Habana Vieja, a pretty good destination in Cuba (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to La Habana Vieja and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around La Habana Vieja, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Cuba, here's everything to know about La Habana Vieja for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to La Habana Vieja

La Habana Vieja, or Old Havana, is the historic center of Havana, Cuba. It was founded in the early 16th century by Spanish conquistadors and it contains one of the best-preserved collections of Baroque and Colonial architecture in Latin America. The area has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its historical and cultural significance. Some popular attractions in La Habana Vieja include its main plazas, like Plaza de Armas and Plaza Vieja, as well as landmarks like the Havana Cathedral and the Museum of the Revolution. It is a vibrant area with a lively atmosphere, filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where visitors can find traditional Cuban cuisine, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

What to visit in La Habana Vieja

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in La Habana Vieja, Cuba and some information about each: 1. Plaza de la Catedral - This is a stunning square located in the heart of the old town and is home to the Cathedral of Havana, which is considered to be one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Cuba.
2. Castillo de la Real Fuerza - This is the oldest fortress in Havana and was built in the 16th century to protect the city from pirates and other invaders. It now serves as a museum that displays artifacts from Cuba's colonial period.
3. El Malecon - This is a famous esplanade that spans 8 km along Havana's waterfront. It is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to take a stroll along the sea, watch the sunset or just soak up the atmosphere.
4. Museo de la Revolución - This is a must-visit museum for anyone interested in Cuban history. It is housed in the former Presidential Palace and documents the country's revolutionary struggle against Batista's government in the 1950s.
5. Plaza Vieja - This is another beautiful square in the heart of the old town with colorful colonial-style buildings surrounding it. It's a great place to sit and have a drink or a meal and watch the world go by.
6. El Capitolio - This magnificent neoclassical building was once the seat of the Cuban government and is now home to the Cuban Academy of Sciences. It's definitely worth visiting to admire its impressive architecture and learn about its history.
7. Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes de La Habana - This is one of the most important art museums in Latin America and houses an impressive collection of Cuban art from the 16th century to the present day. Whether you're an art enthusiast or not, it's well worth a visit.
8. Calle Obispo - This is a lively pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants that leads from the Plaza de Armas to the seafront. It's a great place to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Havana and pick up some souvenirs.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Cuba, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to La Habana Vieja

The best time to visit La Habana Vieja, Cuba is from December to May, during the dry season. During this time, the weather is typically warm and sunny with low humidity and fewer chances of rain. However, keep in mind that this is the peak tourist season, and accommodation prices tend to be higher. If you prefer to travel during the low season, which runs from June to November, be prepared for occasional rain, high heat, and humidity. But the low season often means fewer crowds and lower hotel and flight rates. Ultimately, the best time to travel to La Habana Vieja will depend on your preferences and travel goals.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to La Habana Vieja

There are several ways to get to La Habana Vieja, Cuba: 1. By plane: You can book a flight to José Martí International Airport in Havana, which is the closest airport to La Habana Vieja. From there, you can take a taxi or a transfer service to your accommodation.
2. By bus: There are several bus companies that operate in Cuba, such as Viazul, which offer routes to Havana. Once you arrive at the bus station in Havana, you can take a taxi or a public bus to La Habana Vieja.
3. By taxi: You can also hire a taxi service from another city in Cuba to take you directly to La Habana Vieja.
4. By car: If you prefer to drive to La Habana Vieja, you can rent a car in Havana or in another city in Cuba and drive yourself to your destination. However, be aware that driving in Cuba can be challenging due to the condition of the roads and the lack of road signs.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit La Habana Vieja, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in La Habana Vieja

1. Ropa Vieja - This is a classic Cuban dish made with shredded beef, tomato sauce, peppers, and onions. The meat is slow-cooked until it's tender and then served with rice and beans.
2. Moros y Cristianos - This dish is a mixture of black beans and rice, seasoned with garlic, onion, and cumin. The beans give the rice a distinct black color, hence the name "Moros y Cristianos" (Moors and Christians).
3. Yuca con Mojo - This is a popular side dish made from boiled yuca (a starchy root vegetable) and topped with a garlic and citrus sauce called "mojo." The yuca has a creamy texture and the sharpness of the mojo is a perfect complement.
4. Lechón - This is a roasted suckling pig that is seasoned with garlic, cumin, and oregano. The meat is incredibly tender and flavorful, and is often served at special events and celebrations.
5. Pescado Frito - This is a fried fish dish made with fresh caught fish, often snapper or tilapia. The fish is seasoned with garlic, salt, and lime juice and then deep-fried to a crispy golden brown.
6. Cubano sandwich - This sandwich is made with ham, roast pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread. It's pressed until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy, creating a deliciously savory sandwich.
7. Arroz con Pollo - This is a classic dish made with chicken and rice, cooked with tomatoes, peppers, and saffron. The chicken is typically seasoned with cumin and garlic, and the rice is fluffy and flavorful.
You can find general info about typical foods in Cuba here.

Is La Habana Vieja an expensive destination for tourists?

La Habana Vieja (Old Havana) in Cuba can be considered an affordable destination for tourists, as it offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodation options such as hostels and casas particulares. However, it's important to note that prices for food, drinks, and activities can vary depending on the season and tourist demand. Also, many places only accept payment in Cuban convertible pesos (CUC), which are worth more than Cuban pesos (CUP), the national currency. It's recommended to research the prices beforehand and have a budget plan to avoid overspending.

Where to find accomodation in La Habana Vieja

The best areas to find accommodation to visit La Habana Vieja are: 1. Old Havana: This is the most convenient area to stay in if you plan to explore the historic center of Havana as it is walking distance from most of the attractions.
2. Vedado: Vedado is a trendy neighborhood located just a few minutes from Old Havana. It is a quieter area with plenty of hotels and Airbnbs, and it's well-connected to other parts of the city.
3. Centro Habana: Centro Habana is a great alternative to Old Havana for budget travelers. It is still conveniently located and offers a glimpse into daily life in Havana.
You can check hotel prices at La Habana Vieja here:
Booking.com

Is La Habana Vieja a safe destination for tourists?

Generally speaking, La Habana Vieja is considered to be a safe place for tourists in Cuba. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure your own safety. This can include being aware of your surroundings, avoiding carrying large amounts of cash, and staying in well-lit and populated areas. It's also a good idea to research any specific safety concerns or warnings before traveling to Cuba.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Cuba here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting La Habana Vieja.

What type of travelers will enjoy La Habana Vieja the most?

La Habana Vieja, or Old Havana, is a great destination for a variety of travelers. Couples will love the charm and romantic atmosphere of this historic district, with its narrow streets, beautiful architecture, and lovely plazas. It's perfect for strolling hand-in-hand, enjoying a coffee or a mojito at a local cafe, and taking in the sights.
Young people looking for fun will enjoy the lively atmosphere of the bars and clubs in Old Havana, especially on weekends when the streets come alive with music and dance. There are also many unique shops and art galleries to explore.
Families will find plenty of things to do in Old Havana, including visiting historic landmarks like the Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro, the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, and the Capitolio Nacional. Kids will love exploring the narrow streets and discovering hidden courtyards and plazas.
Overall, La Habana Vieja offers something for everyone and is a must-see destination for any traveler visiting Cuba.

How to get around La Habana Vieja

The best way to move around La Habana Vieja (Old Havana) is on foot. The area is relatively small and most of its attractions are located within walking distance of each other. However, if you need to cover more ground or prefer not to walk, you can also use a bicycle taxi called "Bicitaxi" or a regular taxi. It's important to negotiate the price before getting in to avoid overpaying.

What to see around La Habana Vieja

Sure, here are some of the best day trips you can take from La Habana Vieja, Cuba: 1. Viñales Valley: This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its stunning natural beauty, tobacco farms, and traditional rural life.
2. Playa del Este: Just a 30-minute drive from Havana, Playa del Este is a stunning stretch of beaches with crystal clear waters.
3. Varadero: This popular beach resort town is just two hours away from Havana and is known for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and lively atmosphere.
4. Cienfuegos: This charming coastal city is just a few hours away from Havana and is known for its beautiful architecture, stunning sea views, and the Teatro Terry.
5. Trinidad: This picturesque colonial town has a rich history and is known for its colorful colonial architecture, cobbled streets, and museums.
6. Soroa: This nature reserve is just a two-hour drive from Havana and features lush green forests, waterfalls, and beautiful natural scenery.
These are just a few options, but there are many more interesting places to visit in the surrounding areas of La Habana Vieja.
For every travel information about Cuba you can click here.

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