Havana in 24 Hours – Our own must see guide – words Alexa Wang
You’re going on vacation and, due to the hustle and bustle of your break, you only have 24 hours in one of your locations. But don’t despair! Travelling to any destination for a short period of time means picking and choosing from a range of attractions and activities, and in a vibrant capital city like Havana, this can be a difficult endeavour.
But fortunately, there are some advantages to being on a limited schedule. You’re never going to fit every museum, monument, restaurant, and event into your visit. So, you can relax and focus on the attractions you DO get to see. If you’re thinking of spending a day in Havana on an upcoming holiday in Cuba, then here are a few recommendations to make Havana in 24 Hours Caribbean island odyssey all the better!
Explore Old Town Havana
If you simply want to relax, unwind, stroll through cobbled streets and elegant squares, eat, and sip cocktails, then there are few better places to spend your day than in Old Town Havana. This part of town is home to a wide range of tantalising restaurants, vibrant live music venues, and important local monuments.
The Old Town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Some of its most impressive buildings include the Cine Payret cinema, Cathedral of Havana, Museum of Fine Arts, the Great Theatre of Havana, and the Capitolio Nacional.
Visit the Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana
Just a short trip from the Old Town, the Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana is an 18th century fortification that was built to protect the city’s harbour and to prevent it from being captured by the British for a second time. The fort has been restored for visitors and features 18th century regalia and weapons on display in the Museo de Fortificaciones y Armas and the Museo de Comandancia del Che.
With plenty of shops and restaurants nearby, you can stop off to refuel before or after your tour. A visit here can easily take up a fair and enjoyable part of a morning or afternoon.
Spend a Night on the Town
Whatever you decide to do with your day in Havana, the nightlife is certainly one thing that is not to be missed. Start your evening off by enjoying some delicious local dishes such as Ropa Vieja, or Pernil Relleno de Moros y Cristianos, then head to a cocktail bar to enjoy some traditional Cuban music and classic drinks like a Cuba Libre, mojito, El Presidente, or Ron Collins. To end your night on a high note, be sure to visit a famous cabaret or dance club like the Tropicana, La Casa del Son, or the Buena Vista Social Club.
Even if your visit to Havana is just a small part of your Cuban adventure, this day is certain to be one of the best of your vacation.
Havana in 24 Hours – Our own must see guide – words Alexa Wang
