The Elsewhere Guide
Havana, Cuba
Frozen in 1959, gorgeous, and unlike anywhere else on earth
Havana, a city where time seems to have paused, envelops you in its old-world charm and vibrant energy. The cobblestone streets echo with the rhythm of salsa, while vintage cars parade past pastel-colored facades. For the discerning traveler, Havana offers an exclusive blend of history, culture, and luxury that demands exploration.
The best time to visit Havana is between November and April, when the weather is pleasantly warm and the city comes alive with festivals and events.
Where to Stay
Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana
Old Havana
Occupying an entire block in Old Havana, this iconic hotel blends neoclassical architecture with contemporary luxury. Guests enjoy sweeping views of the city from the rooftop infinity pool.
Why we love it: Its rooftop terrace offers the best sunset vistas over Havana's historic skyline.
Hotel Nacional de Cuba
Vedado
A symbol of Cuban history and culture, this legendary hotel has hosted countless celebrities and dignitaries since the 1930s. Its gardens and ocean views are unparalleled.
Why we love it: Staying here feels like stepping back into a glamorous era of Cuban history.
Iberostar Grand Packard
Prado
This modern luxury hotel offers a stunning blend of contemporary design and classic Cuban charm, with impeccable service and breathtaking views of El Morro.
Why we love it: The hotel's innovative design and location make it a perfect blend of past and present.
Seven Days in Havana
Colonial Charisma: A Stroll Through Time
Breakfast at El Café
Old Havana
💡 Try their artisanal coffee paired with a freshly baked croissant.
Private tour of Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
Old Havana
💡 Book a private guide for insights into Cuba's rich art history.
Lunch at Doña Eutimia
Old Havana
💡 Order the Ropa Vieja, a classic Cuban dish.
Explore Plaza de la Catedral
Old Havana
💡 Visit the Catedral de San Cristobal, an architectural gem.
Dinner at La Guarida
Centro Habana
💡 Reserve a table on the rooftop for an unforgettable dining experience.
Immerse yourself in the colonial charm of Havana's oldest streets.
Vintage Vibes: Havana's Classic Cars and Rhythms
Breakfast at El Dandy
Old Havana
💡 The avocado toast here is legendary.
Classic Car Tour of Havana
Havana
💡 Opt for a convertible for the ultimate experience.
Lunch at El Del Frente
Old Havana
💡 Their rooftop seating offers a perfect midday retreat.
Rum Tasting at Museo del Ron Havana Club
Centro Habana
💡 Book a private tasting session for a more personalized experience.
Dinner at San Cristóbal Paladar
Centro Habana
💡 This is where Obama dined, ask for the presidential treatment.
Discover Havana's vibrant culture through its iconic cars and rhythms.
Artistic Allure: Galleries and Gardens
Breakfast at Café Bohemia
Old Havana
💡 Enjoy breakfast in the tranquil courtyard.
Visit Fábrica de Arte Cubano
Vedado
💡 Check their schedule for special exhibitions and performances.
Lunch at Atelier
Vedado
💡 The lobster here is a must-try.
Stroll through Jardín Botánico Nacional
Arroyo Naranjo
💡 Hire a guide to learn about Cuban flora.
Dinner at Río Mar
Miramar
💡 Request a table with a view of the Almendares River.
Havana's artistic scene is as colorful as its history.
Cultural Canvas: Music, Dance, and Mystery
Breakfast at Chacón 162
Old Havana
💡 The freshly squeezed juices are revitalizing.
Private Salsa Lesson
Centro Habana
💡 Wear comfortable shoes to move with ease.
Lunch at La Cocina de Lilliam
Miramar
💡 Dine in the lush garden for a serene experience.
Explore Cementerio de Cristóbal Colón
Vedado
💡 Hire a guide to uncover the stories behind the monuments.
Tropicana Cabaret Show
Marianao
💡 Book a VIP table for the best view of the performance.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and mysterious allure of Havana.
Beyond Havana: Day Trip to Viñales
Breakfast at your hotel
Havana
💡 Enjoy a hearty breakfast before your day trip.
Private Car to Viñales
Viñales
💡 Arrange a luxury vehicle for comfort.
Lunch at Finca Agroecológica El Paraíso
Viñales
💡 Savor the organic farm-to-table cuisine.
Explore Viñales Valley
Viñales
💡 Hire a local guide for a horseback tour through the tobacco fields.
Return to Havana
Havana
💡 Relax and enjoy the scenic drive back to the city.
Experience the lush landscapes and traditional farming practices of Viñales.
Culinary Delights: A Taste of Havana
Breakfast at La Floridita
Old Havana
💡 Try the Hemingway's favorite daiquiri for a morning kickstart.
Private Cooking Class at La Cocina de Lilliam
Miramar
💡 Learn to prepare traditional Cuban dishes with a local chef.
Lunch at Paladar Los Mercaderes
Old Havana
💡 The seafood paella is both a visual and gastronomic treat.
Cuban Chocolate Tasting at Museo del Chocolate
Old Havana
💡 Pair your chocolate with a robust Cuban coffee.
Dinner at Iván Chef Justo
Old Havana
💡 Reserve the chef's table for an intimate dining experience.
Indulge in the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Havana.
The Havana Finale: Elegance and Extravagance
Breakfast at Café Laurent
Vedado
💡 Enjoy panoramic city views from the terrace.
Private Tour of Museo Hemingway Finca Vigía
San Francisco de Paula
💡 Explore Hemingway's personal artifacts and library.
Lunch at El Aljibe
Miramar
💡 Their famous roast chicken is a must-try.
Relax at Playas del Este
Santa Maria del Mar
💡 Rent a private cabana for ultimate comfort.
Farewell Dinner at La Fontana
Miramar
💡 End your trip with a classic Cuban mojito.
Conclude your luxurious Havana journey with a day of elegance and relaxation.
The Table
Restaurants that define the destination.
La Guarida
This iconic restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience in a grand, atmospheric setting.
San Cristóbal Paladar
A favorite of celebrities, this paladar serves up authentic Cuban flavors in an eclectic environment.
Iván Chef Justo
Known for innovative takes on traditional Cuban dishes, it's a must for food connoisseurs.
Doña Eutimia
Tucked away near the cathedral, this spot is famous for its Ropa Vieja.
Río Mar
This restaurant offers exquisite seafood with stunning views of the river.
Finca Agroecológica El Paraíso
Experience farm-to-table dining amidst the serene landscape of Viñales.
Make It Extraordinary
Experiences beyond the obvious.
Classic Car Tour of Havana
Cruise through Havana's streets in a vintage American car, experiencing the city like it's the 1950s.
Private Salsa Lesson
Learn the passionate moves of Cuban salsa with a private instructor in a local dance studio.
Rum Tasting at Museo del Ron Havana Club
Delve into the history of Cuban rum with a guided tasting session at this iconic museum.
Tropicana Cabaret Show
Witness the legendary Tropicana show, a dazzling display of Cuban music and dance in an open-air setting.
Private Tour of Museo Hemingway Finca Vigía
Explore the former home of Ernest Hemingway, filled with personal artifacts and surrounded by lush gardens.
Havana is a city that enchants with its rich history and vibrant culture, offering a luxurious escape for those seeking an authentic Cuban experience. Embrace the elegance and energy of this timeless city, where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered.
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