Havana, the Cuban capital, is truly unique. Founded in the early 16th century, it is one of the oldest capital cities in the Americas. Havana is a place I’ve always loved dearly, and not just because my family is from there. Come spend a day in Havana with me!
This article is part of my Wander Like a Local series, where guest writers reveal the best-kept secrets, must-see spots, and unique experiences that only locals know. Discover hidden gems and authentic tips from those who call it home.
This fascinating city enchants visitors with its vibrant colors, rich art, stunning architecture, and ever-present music. Melodies drift over the wrought-iron balconies onto the cobblestone streets and into the leafy plazas, seemingly from every corner.
Havana bewitches me. It beckons me with all the beautiful things to see, do, and experience. And what better way to immerse myself in fascinating Cuban culture than by spending a day in Havana?
For those wondering what to do in Havana for a day, let me take you on a journey through this captivating city. From its historic plazas to its lively streets, Havana, Cuba, offers an experience like no other — one that will undoubtedly enchant you as it does me.
Have You Explored Havana, Cuba?
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Tour Havana in a Classic American Car From the 1950s
To kick off a day in Havana, I start with the quintessential experience — touring the city in a classic American car. You can book these tours for one or two hours or even longer if desired. If you’re a first-timer, let the driver take you on the classic route, allowing you to see plenty quickly. Depending on your negotiating skills, the hourly ride can cost from $35 to $50 per hour.
All the drivers speak at least basic English, alleviating any communication concerns. One highlight is a stop at Revolution Square for a photo op. I also love cruising through the Havana forest, a tropical paradise in the city’s heart.
But the true joy comes from driving through the city, witnessing the diverse architectural styles, from colonial to Art Deco to modern. Despite some poor maintenance and frequently crumbling buildings, I can still visualize the city’s past splendor.
With enough time, I like exploring the upscale neighborhoods of Vedado, Miramar, and Playa — a must for anyone wondering what to do in Havana for a day.
My final recommendation for this classic American car tour is to visit the crazy, fantastical Fusterlandia — a neighborhood covered in vibrant mosaics, indeed a one-of-a-kind sight in Havana.
Explore Old Havana on Foot
After a classic car tour, I enjoy exploring Old Havana on foot. That entire section of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site. I like peeking into its winding alleyways, strolling down the pedestrianized streets, and relaxing in one of the plazas under a shady poinciana tree.
Taking a guided walking tour of Old Havana is highly recommended for those looking to make the most of a day in Havana. The best way to explore the city is by visiting each of the four plazas.
Plaza Vieja
Plaza Vieja is the central spot in Havana for locals and tourists to enjoy snacks, drinks, and live Cuban music. Surrounding the plaza are cafes and restaurants with resident musicians. The plaza is wide, cobblestoned, and adorned with unique works of art.
Plaza de La Catedral
Plaza de La Catedral is one of the oldest colonial plazas in Havana. The main attraction is the Baroque cathedral, built in 1777. Surrounding the incredible cathedral are well-preserved 18th-century homes. Some are now restaurants. It’s surprising to learn that this beautiful plaza was once a swamp!
Plaza de Armas
Plaza de Armas is the site where the city was founded in 1519. Initially called Plaza de Iglesias, or Church Square, it was named in honor of a church that stood here until 1741. For those seeking to enjoy a day in Havana, this plaza is undoubtedly one of the most exciting sites.
At the center sits Céspedes Park, named after the Cuban patriot Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, who liberated his slaves and initiated the first Cuban war for independence from Spain.
The beautiful square is surrounded by remnants of the city’s colonial past — a military fortress on the left, the Museum of Natural History on the right, and the Museum of the City of Havana at the entrance.
The latter is a faithfully restored representation of what an upper-class colonial home would have looked like in those times. For anyone wondering what to do in Havana for a day, immersing yourself in the rich history of this plaza is an absolute must.
Plaza de San Francisco de Asis
At the center of Plaza de San Francisco, or San Francisco Square, is a breathtaking fountain crafted from pure white Carrera marble. The entire plaza is so inspiring that it’s frequently used by the locals as a backdrop for weddings and quinceañera (Sweet 15) photo shoots.
Surrounding the plaza are upscale boutique hotels, restaurants, and a concentration of art galleries. The intricately decorated Greek Orthodox Church of Havana stands to the east of the plaza, nestled in a shaded garden.
Old Havana Beyond the Four Plazas
Near Plaza de San Francisco is Havana’s Rum Museum (I always get my free sample there). Wandering through these ancient squares, I frequently discover little museums, galleries, and charming shops selling unique treasures like locally-made perfumes, homemade ice cream in tropical flavors, or unique, delicately carved fans.
A highlight in Old Havana is Obispo Street, a pedestrian thoroughfare lined with intriguing shops and museums on both sides. Another delightful stop is Mercaderes Street, boasting fantastic restaurants and charming parks where lazy cats lounge on colonial steps.
No matter where I roam in Havana, I encounter itinerant musicians, making my experience unforgettable. Exploring these vibrant areas is an absolute must for those searching for things to do in Havana for a day.
Take a Break for Lunch
After wandering through Old Havana, it’s time to take a break to enjoy lunch at one of the city’s private enterprise restaurants. A day in Havana offers plenty of fantastic dining options to fuel your explorations.
Despite what some might think, Havana has an excellent restaurant scene, you just have to know where to look. Some of my favorite places to eat in Havana include Los Mercaderes on Mercaderes Street, which serves authentic Cuban cuisine at reasonable prices.
Another standout is Doña Eutemia, just off Cathedral Square. It’s a little on the high-end side, but worth it. This restaurant was named one of the best in the world in 2019.
For those wondering where to eat on their day in Havana, I put together some dining recommendations I enjoy including:
- San Cristobal Where President Obama dined when he visited Cuba.
- La Guarida Site where “Strawberry and Chocolate” was filmed, Cuba’s entry into the Academy Award’s Best Foreign Language Movie.
- El Cocinero Part of The Cuban Art Factory complex.
- Le Petit Restaurant A little bit of Paris in Havana.
- Plan H Wine Bar and Delicatessen. A delightful woman-owned restaurant and wine bar on one of Havana’s prettiest streets.
Continue your Old Havana self-guided walk and end at Parque Central or Central Park, considered the heart of Havana.
Check Out One of Havana’s Museums
I love museums, but with just one day in Havana, I guess I have to settle for just one, maximum two, of Havana’s many museums. Havana is truly a museum city. The Museum of Fine Arts has two wings: the Cuban and International Wing. I made a beeline for the Cuban Wing, my favorite. The incredible artwork on display is utterly inspiring. Of course, a day in Havana offers many other museum options to explore.
- Museo del Ron Havana Club (Rum Museum). Near Plaza Vieja.
- Museo de la Revolucion (Museum of the Revolution)
- Museo del Chocolate (Chocolate Museum). Off Plaza Vieja.
- Museo de la Ciudad (Museum of the City of Havana). In Plaza de Armas.
- Museo de Arte Colonial. (Colonial Art Museum). In Plaza de la Catedral.
- National Museum of Contemporary Ceramics. On Obispo Street.
Relax at a Classic Havana Bar
Some of Havana’s bars are truly legendary. During my day in Havana, I visited El Floridita, right off Parque Central, the oldest continuously operating bar in the Americas.
American writer Ernest Hemingway was a regular here, often ordering his favorite daiquiri. His statue sits at the bar in the spot he inhabited for years. Of course, I had to snap a touristy photo with him — cheesy but fun!
Another of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite spots is the Bodeguita del Medio, west of the cathedral on Empedrado Street. Patrons continue the tradition of writing their names on the walls here while savoring the mojito cocktails that Hemingway helped popularize. It’s admittedly touristy, and the mojitos cost about twice as much as anywhere else, but still a memorable Cuban experience.
To cap off a day in Havana bar crawl, head back to Parque Central, home to Havana’s most luxurious hotels. Stroll into a few of these modern high-end properties and go up to the top floors where spectacular city views await. The juxtaposition of these contemporary hotels against colonial architecture is fascinating to witness.
My favorite rooftop hotel is the new and luxurious Kempinski. I always admire the lobby’s design before ascending to the infinity pool on the top floor.
From this vantage point, I can appreciate stunning panoramic views of Havana and its surroundings – a perfect way to end my exploration of Havana in a day.
Nighttime is the Best Time in Havana
And now for Havana at night. Havana’s nightlife is as legendary as it ever was. After an exhilarating day exploring the sights na, I know the perfect way to cap off my day in Havana experience is by immersing myself in the city’s vibrant music scene. Catching a live performance is an absolute must.
One of my favorite Havana night spots is the Fabrica de Arte Cubano or the Cuban Art Factory. This venue is unique. It is installed in a large multi-story refurbished cooking oil factory in the upscale Vedado neighborhood. Each of the many rooms displays an art form be it paintings, photography, cinema, classical symphony, jazz, modern dance, or dramatic play. All in one iconic building!
For a more intimate vibe, I love going to La Zorra y El Cuervo (The Vixen and the Crow), a tucked-away jazz club oozing old-world charm: the dimly lit ambiance and soul-stirring melodies make for an unforgettable evening.
Looking for a high-end, Vegas-style floor show with all the sequins and bells and whistles? The Parisienne at the legendary Hotel Nacional de Cuba is the best option. If you’re seeking an open-air experience, a stroll along El Malecón, Havana’s seawall, is ideal. It’s full of street musicians playing on the seaside promenade – the perfect soundtrack to admire the crashing waves at sunset.
No matter which venue I explore, Havana’s profound love for music is palpable, making for a spiritually enriching and unforgettable end to my day in Havana, this enigmatic and enchanting city.
The End of the Perfect Day in Havana
Every moment of a day in Havana can be spellbinding, from a classic car tour through colonial streets to live music that pulses through Havana’s soul. The city’s impressive architecture reveals a fascinating history and vibrancy. The cuisine delights the tastebuds.
Admiring Cuban art at the Museum of Fine Arts, sipping mojitos where Hemingway once did, and swaying to rhythms at music clubs, Havana seduces with its rich cultural tapestry.
Topping off the night with a sunset stroll along the Malecón, watching waves crash against the ocean horizon, I felt I had truly experienced the perfect day in Havana.
For those wondering what to do in Havana for a day, this amazing city can enchant like no other. Havana has cast its spell on me — one I have no desire to break.
Ready to Go?
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- Need something else to plan your perfect trip? Visit my travel resources page for more trusted partners. Happy wandering!
Visiting Havana next month with my fiancé! We’re excited to check out the art and architecture, especially in Vedado and Miramar.
You’re going to have SO much fun!