The Best of Havana: Unique Bucket List Ideas

Fireworks behind the Capitolio in Havana, Cuba || Photo by Claudio Pelaez

Let’s be real – it’s not easy choosing the best things to do in Havana when on a trip to Cuba, especially with only a few days to make the most of your experience. Many travelers are on the hunt for unique bucket list ideas and in a country as complex and colorful as Cuba, there is no shortage of enriching cultural experiences.

To help guide fellow travelers and Cuba aficionados, we compiled a list to showcase the best of Havana. We admit this is not all-inclusive (as we can’t give away every best-kept secret), but it’s a great start! So here we go...

THE TOP 14 THINGS WE LOVE TO DO IN HAVANA (IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER) 

1. El malecón

Don’t be the person who went to Havana but didn’t enjoy all the Malecón has to offer. The best ways to experience the five-mile iconic esplanade along the coast of Havana are endless — take a stroll, go jogging, listen to some live music, watch fishermen cast their rods, or relish a spectacular sunset. No matter what you fancy, they’re all great ways to appreciate this city landmark and hang amongst locals.

2. Casa de la Música de Miramar

Take in a live salsa performance before breaking out your dancing shoes at Casa de la Música de Miramar — a premier music venue where you can catch A-list musicians and live salsa performances every night of the week.

3. Fábrica del Arte Cubano (FAC)

Spend the evening at Fábrica del Arte Cubano (FAC) — a former cooking oil factory that has since gained popular acclaim as one of Havana's hippest spots. This artistic laboratory often features Cuba’s best talent in its mixed-use space including music and dance venues, restaurants and bars, an art gallery, and a cultural center all under one roof.

4. hecho en casa

Savor traditional, farm-to-table Cuban cuisine by the inspirational Chef Alina Menéndez Lamas, owner of Hecho en Casa, a restaurant dedicated to sharing their passion for homemade, fresh Cuban food. Because we’re such big fans, we produced a virtual learning video featuring Chef Alina’s journey as an entrepreneur. Hecho en Casa is truly a labor of love.

5. NostalgiCar

Explore the various Havana neighborhoods far off the tourist track from the back seat of a vintage car. NostalgiCar is our go-to transportation service as not only is it a family-run business with a whole lot of gumption, but they also have the most beautifully restored classic cars.

6. playas del este

Take a dip in the crystal blue Caribbean waters of Playas del Este located just a short drive from Havana. It may be touristy but hey, it checks all of the boxes and is a worthwhile beachy day trip!

7. la Zorra y el Cuervo

Listen to A-list musicians at la Zorra y el Cuervo — arguably the best jazz club in Havana that embodies a New York, cozy, basement-style venue. For more jazz inspiration, read our blog — Get Jazzed: Alejandro’s Top 5 Cuban Jazz Suggestions.

8. catch a baseball game

Attend a baseball game for an electrifying experience enjoying Cuba’s national sport. Learn about the island’s baseball legacy before you go (Part 1 and Part 2), and how Cuban baseball pioneer, Esteban Bellán, made a mark on history.

9. El PaZillo

For an unconventional night out, visit El Pazillo on one of their pride nights. This bar is well known for supporting the LGBTIQ+ community and having great drag shows. They specialize in Havana Club rum cocktails; however, they’re also open in the morning if you want a more chill vibe with a smoothie or fresh juice.

10. view havana from morro castle

Jump in a taxi and venture through the underground tunnel across the bay to take in the breathtaking view of Havana’s cityscape. The fortress known as the Morro Castle (Castillo de los Tres Reyes Magos del Morro) is quite impressive and hosts a cannon ceremony every night. Plus, there is a massive marble Jesus Christ statue. Take our word – it’s worth the visit.

11. COPPELIA ICE CREAM

Cue up for a long but worth-the-wait ice cream from the Coppelia Ice Cream Complex. (It’s a whole city block!) No matter what you do in Cuba, you will discover that waiting in line is simply part of the experience, so you might as well channel your inner yogi and then be rewarded with delicious ice cream.

12. lo de monik

Enjoy one of the best Cuban sandwiches and hamburgers in Havana. Our past travelers and alumni can attest to it! Lo De Monik is a bar/restaurant located near Angel’s Hill – an emblematic corner in Old Havana. Great service and tasty food – it’s a win-win.

13. clandestina

Rep the word on the street with Clandestina’s designs. This group of creative young Cuban artists created the first independent, sustainable fashion brand in the country. Inspired by upcycling and zero waste lifestyles, they design unique clothing and accessories stamped with the best of Cuban humor.

14. Galería Taller Gorría

Grab a cocktail on the rooftop of Galería Taller Gorría for a taste of up-and-coming restaurant and art-space concepts in Havana. Who doesn’t love rooftop vibes with a stunning view?

So there you have it! There is no shortage of interesting things to do in Havana that will offer a uniquely Cuban experience and satisfy a range of interests. We encourage you to reach out and inquire about traveling with us one day to experience all that Havana and Cuba have to offer — we promise to not disappoint. Showing people the wonders of Havana and Cuba through transformative travel is what we do best.