Crumbling, withered, exotic and alive; Havana is a living microcosm of the country at large.
There is nowhere in the world like Havana. From the resplendent Spanish colonial architecture of the Old Town, to the spectacular dilapidation of Havana Centro, a city of stalwart survivors and masterful musicians rocks indefatigably to the syncopated beat of the rumba.
Bereft of the consumer-driven trappings of other less colourful metropolises, Havana remains characterful, safe, and packed with a plethora of interesting museums. For history buffs there's the living breathing essence of UNESCO-sponsered Havana Vieja; for beach bums there's the sun-splashed tranquility of Playas del Este. (source)
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN HAVANA
Hotel Sevilla
The Hotel Sevilla is a masterpiece of colonial architecture, luxurious and familiar, which welcomes its visitors in the best tradition of Havana hospitality.
Discovering colonial Havana is an additional pleasure for the guests of the Hotel Inglaterra, the oldest hotel in Cuba, which soon will celebrate its 130th anniversary.
Welcome to ‘’The Discrete Elegance of the 1900’s’’. For nearly a century the Hotel Plaza has offered everything you have been looking for, from the heart of Old Havana, Cuba. Our hotel has welcomed world-known personalities such as Albert Einstein and Babe Ruth among others.
In 1867, the regal splendor and sumptuous comfort of the magnificent palace of the Count Santovenia made it the favorite hotel of ship chandlers, merchants, artists, scientists and illustrious travelers passing through the capital city.
A century later, the hotel has re-opened its doors and guests will be delighted to discover that its original stately elegance and comfort have been preserved.
The Meliá Habana hotel is located in the heart of Miramar, the new business center of Havana. Right next to the Fifth Avenue, 10 minutes from the historic city centre, 15 minutes from the José Martí International Airport and 5 minutes from the Congress and Convention Center.
The Hotel Nacional de Cuba has more than sixty years of history and still keeps its prestige among those belonging to GRAN CARIBE group. Considered as a CLASSIC FOR DISTINCTION, it was opened on December 30th, 1930. In 1992 it went through a general restoration preserving all the splendor of its eclectic architecture as a result of a mixture of Art Deco features with modern influences of that time.
The Meliá Cohiba hotel is located in the centre of Havana, near the Malecón. 2 km from the Plaza de la Revolución, 6 km from the heart of Old Havana, 10 km from the Convention Centre, 11 km from Pabexpo, 15 km from Expocuba and the Botanical Gardens, and 16 km from José Martí international airport.
Located on Fifth Avenue, in the luxurious area of Miramar, with a beautiful ocean view, in a commercial, diplomatic and residential area. Only 15 minutes away from La Habana international airport, 10 minutes away from the ity’s colonial area, 5 minutes from the beach, 2,5 km to the Exhibition Center Pabexpo and 1 km to the Aquario Nacional de Cuba.
Contemporary style meets distinguished tradition at The Saratoga Hotel and Conference Center. Formerly known as the Prime Hotel and Conference Center, our newly appointed accommodations have introduced a fresh, new vibe to the heart of the downtown scene.
In the heart of the hustle and bustle of Vedado. Cinemas, nightlife are nearby and always present crowds on the sidewwlaks. Most rooms offer stunning views of the city, nice pool.
This luxury 5-star hotel is located in front of Parque Central, in the very heart of Old colonial Havana. Surrounded by numerous famous buildings, such as the Capitol, The Garcia Lorca Theatre and the Museum of Modern Arts. It combines the elegance of colonial style with modern services. The terrace and bar with a swimming pool, located on the top floor of the hotel offer a breathtaking view over Old Havana.
On the narrow alleys of Old Havana, the Los Frailes Inn stands just a few steps away from the majestic convent of Saint Francis of Assisi and the populous Old Square. The former mansion of the fourth Marquis and Captain of the French Navy, Don Pedro Claudio Duquesne, once visited by the finest nobility, ecclesiastical dignitaries, military authorities, renowned artists, the best of Cuban and foreign society, has become today the perfect place to enjoy the voice of silence and meditation in the pleasant afternoons of the old city.
Located along the Malecon, Havana's waterfront boulevard, this elegant hotel is considered a classic among Cubans. Its proximity to the historical-cultural center of Havana, makes this hotel the perfect place from which to explore the city. In the night time the Riviera offers excellent entertainment featuring both the exclusive Copa Room Cabaret and one of Havana's top restaurants.
La Bodeguita del Medio is Havana’s most celebrated bar located at Calle Empedrado 207. Hemingway bent his elbow here; Salvador Allende, Fidel Castro, Harry Belafonte and Nat King Cole have all left their autographs on the wall. The “B del M” as it is also known as, oozes history and suffers from over popularity.The food here is simple and well prepared Cuban dishes).
One thing you need to remember is that, this joint is crowded and very rowdy, so you definitely need a reservation, and even if you have one, you might need to wait for a table. La Bodeguita del Medio is open from 10:30 to midnight daily.
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes Cultural Attraction
The National Fine Arts Museum has three floors of this square city block building with a central courtyard and zigzagging ramped stairwell. There is an extensive collection of Cuban art and sculptures on display, with modern masters like Wifredo Lam, Raul Martinez, Amelia Pelaez and Rene Portocarrero being well represented. The international collection leans heavily on Classical and neoclassical European works with some American, Latin American and Oriental works on display. The Admission fee is $3 for adults and children get in free of charge.
The Memorial Jose Marti is located at the Plaza de la Revolucion, Nuevo Vedodo. This marble tower is the highest point in Havana and stands at 109 meters tall. At the base of the tower is a statue of the poet and national independence hero Jose Marti, and inside the base is a museum dedicated to Marti, where you will find manuscripts, memorabilia, portraits and other informative displays. There is an elevator that takes visitors to lookout rooms at the top of the tower, which offers panoramic views of Havana. Located here as well is a small theatre where concerts and poetry reading are held. Admission price for adults is $6 and children under 12 are free.
Museo de la Ciudad
The building, which houses the Museum of the City, is an example of a beautiful 18th century Cuban Baroque and is one of the most important and well preserved building in Habana Vieja. This was the seat of the Cuban governments for over a hundred years. There are dozens of rooms with polished marble floors and ornate architectural details holding displays of colonial era relics and artifacts. The courtyard has a white marble statue of Christopher Columbus and the Throne Room has thick red velvet draperies, an array of treasures and a plush throne that was built for the monarchs that visited from Spain. The admission fee for adults is $2 and children are free.
Museo de la Revolucion y Memorial Granma
Horseback riding is quite a bit less work than hiking and particularly appropriate for going long distances over rugged terrain. There is no other way than horseback riding to travel here and probably will never be. The guides for these trips are Arrieros and baqueanos (cowboys). As there are no roads or steady trails here, they have learned the routes from their fathers and grandfathers before them. It is worth learning Spanish to understand their tales around the campfire!
El Malecon Tourist Attraction
El Malecon is an Oceanside pedestrian walkway that stretches from Castillo de San Salvador de la Punta in Habana Vieja to the Almendares River. Through the day you will see men fishing off the coral outcropping that border the walkway and children swimming, and at night you will see lovers entwined on cozy perches and groups of people all along the sea wall. The most picturesque section of El Malecon is probably Centro Habana with its crumbling facades, faded paint, neoclassical buildings and neo-Moorish buildings, which separate the Malecon from the city. When the weather is rough, you might have to time your steps or even cross the street because the waves break so furiously over the sea wall.
Catedral de San Cristobal Tourist Attraction
This is the classic cathedral of Old Havana. On the inside the cathedral is simple thanks to a radical 19th century neoclassical makeover, but the vaulted ceilings, massive stone pillars and modest collection of art and antiquities make it worth a visit. Visiting hours at the cathedral are Monday to Saturday 10:30am to 12:30pm, Sunday 9am to 12:30pm and if you are lucky you can even attend Mass here which is Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Friday at 8pm or on Sunday at 10:30am.
Parque Historico Militar Morro-Cabana Tourist Attraction
This Historical and Military Park is located at Carretera de la Cabanna, Habana del Este and was built by the Spanish in the 16th century. The military fort is at the entrance to the harbour and offered Havana protection from enemy ships and pirates. There is a collection of old weapons at the fort, including a huge catapult. Every evening at 21:00 a cannon is fired across the bay. The Parque Historico Militar Morro-Cabana is open daily from 8am to 10pm. The admission fee is $3.
Plaza de Armas (Arms Square) Tourist Attraction
This is the place where it is said that the city was founded. A small chapel, El Templete, was built here in 1828 to mark the spot. In front of the chapel is a ceiba tree, which is similar to the one under which the first mass is Cuba is said to have been performed. The Museo de la Ciudad dominates the plaza De Armas, which once was the former Presidential Palace. The oldest building in the square is the impressive Castillo de la Real Fuerza, which was the colonial fortress and is home of the Museo de la Ceramica Artistic.
Cigar Factories Tourist Attraction
The Real Fabrica de Tabacos Partagas is the oldest cigar factory in Havana. The cigars are still rolled by hand and there is a tradition that someone is employed to read to the workers while they work.
A visit to Havana would not be complete without a visit to a cigar factory.
Hotels Cuba - Excursions around Cuba - Cuba - Cuba culture - Best hotels in Cuba
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Hotels Havana - Excursions around Havana - Havana - Havana culture - Best hotels in Havana
Best places to stay in Havana - Best activities & excursions in Havana - Hotels - Lodges - Lodge - Travel to Havana - Visit Havana
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