What to See and Do in Havana, Cuba: A Local’s Guide

Havana, with its old cars gliding past colorful buildings and music spilling from every corner, is a city that grabs your attention in unexpected ways. It’s not just a place to tick off a list-it’s a living story of culture, history, and everyday life. When you arrive, words like “nostalgia” and “energy” float together in the warm Caribbean air. Havana’s charm isn’t just in its famous squares or vintage vibes; it lies in the small moments-the laughs shared over a coffee, the unexpected murals, and the aroma of spices from neighborhood kitchens. Whether you’re wandering through plazas or chatting with locals, this city invites you to slow down and truly notice.

Historic Landmarks and Timeless Neighborhoods

Start with Old Havana, the heart of the city where colonial architecture wears its age with pride. Plaza de la Catedral stands as a reminder of Cuba’s baroque past, its cathedral towering with ornate details. Nearby, Plaza Vieja bustles during the day with families and artists, but at night it becomes a quiet spot to sip mojitos. Just walking along Calle Obispo, a lively pedestrian path, feels like a dive into postcard scenes-colorful facades, handcrafted goods, and street musicians.

Few places capture Havana’s story quite like the Malecón, a broad seawall stretching five miles along the coast. At sunset, locals gather here to talk, fish, and watch the waves crash against concrete. It’s a spot filled with everyday rituals and lively conversations. You might overhear tales about old revolutionaries or catch a glimpse of young people playing baseball.

Hidden Corners and Unexpected Finds

Beyond the main sights, Havana has corners that surprise. Take a stroll through the neighborhood of Vedado. While it’s known for wider streets and fewer tourists, it’s home to Hemingway’s favorite hangout, La Bodeguita del Medio-where the mojitos flow and stories feel as fresh as the mint. But look further, and you’ll find quirky spots like Callejón de Hamel, a narrow alley decked in Afro-Cuban art. On Sundays, this alley bursts into life with rumba music, inviting you to join an impromptu dance party.

For art lovers, Fusterlandia in Jaimanitas is worth the short ride out of the city. Here, a local artist has turned his neighborhood into a mosaic-covered fantasy with colorful tiles and sculptures packing every surface. It’s like stepping into a dream made of ceramics.

Where to Stay: Neighborhoods with Character

Havana’s lodging options range from cozy guesthouses to apartments run by welcoming locals. In Old Havana, staying close to the plazas means stepping outside your door into the city’s historic heartbeat. It’s lively and at times noisy, but waking up to the sounds of church bells and street vendors is its own kind of charm.

If you prefer something calmer, Vedado offers a more modern feel with leafy streets and cafés where you can watch the city buzz by without the crowds. Miramar, further west, feels more residential and quiet, with wide avenues and ocean views. Wherever you choose, many places offer a chance to live like a Havana local-chatting with your hosts, sharing home-cooked meals, and learning stories you won’t find in guidebooks.

Cuban Flavors: Food and Neighborhood Bites

Cubans take their food seriously, and Havana’s dining scene offers more than just the usual rice and beans. In Centro Habana, you can find food stalls serving ropa vieja, a shredded beef stew that melts in your mouth, paired with sweet plantains and tangy pickles. Locals often grab lunch here, where the buzz of conversation is as rich as the flavors.

For seafood, look no further than La Habana Vieja’s small eateries near the harbor. Fresh fish grilled to perfection, accompanied by yuca and a squeeze of lime, offers a taste of the ocean’s bounty. Don’t miss trying tostones-crispy fried green plantains-which are perfect to snack on with a squeeze of garlic sauce.

And when afternoon calls for a break, a strong café cubano (Cuban espresso) is the fuel. You’ll find cafés in every district, each with its unique vibe-from old-world leather chairs to lively open terraces.

Getting Around Havana

Once you arrive at José Martí International Airport, a shared bus or private shuttle can take you straight to the city center. The ride offers a first glimpse of Havana’s mix of shiny classic cars and utilitarian buildings, a contrast that perfectly sums up the city. To move within Havana, you might hop on one of the vintage American cars circulating the tourist routes-they are a fun way to see the city, but if you want to blend in, the local buses and old-fashioned streetcars in Vedado offer a real taste of daily life.

Walking often remains the best way to soak in Havana’s character. Many areas are compact, and you’ll stumble upon unexpected scenes simply by taking your time and turning down quieter lanes.

Culture and Customs: What to Know in Havana

Havana’s culture is warm and welcoming but knowing a bit about local customs helps. Greeting people with a friendly “Hola” or “Buenos días” goes a long way-Cubans appreciate politeness. When visiting homes or smaller shops, it’s nice to ask permission before taking photos, as privacy is respected.

Keep in mind that bargaining in markets is common, but always stay polite and smile-it’s part of the fun interaction rather than a serious negotiation. Avoid discussing politics too openly with strangers; while Cubans usually won’t mind chatting, it’s a sensitive topic.

Music and dance are woven into daily life, so don’t be shy if invited to join a dance or clap along. It’s a great way to connect and feel the pulse of the city.

More Quirks and Myths About Havana

There’s an old tale about a Havana street called “Obispo” where, legend says, a pigeon saved a bookshop from burning by alerting the owner. Whether true or not, it’s these stories you’ll hear over coffee that add color to the city’s past. And you may notice that lots of buildings wear colorful peeling paint-not because of neglect, but because Havana embraces life’s imperfections, each crack telling its own story.

Havana isn’t polished; it’s real. The city shows its heart through its music, the chatter of neighbors, the smell of roasting coffee, and the rhythm of cars and footsteps echoing through the streets. It’s a place to arrive with an open mind and curiosity, where every corner holds a story waiting to be found.

Author: Lara Jensen

A digital nomad exploring cities across the globe, with a passion for local street food and hidden cafes.