Cuba
By: Fabian Lebrija
Havana in 3 days!
Havana is an extremely -- at times,
overwhelming -- city, overflowing with history, art, architecture, culture,
nightlife, and more. Three days will allow you to visit its most important
attractions, and maybe even discover some of its lesser-known charms.
Day 1: Start in the Old City
Start your day in Havana Vieja. Visit the Plaza de la Catedral, the Plaza de Armas, Plaza Vieja, and Plaza de San Francisco. Be sure to tour the Museo de la Ciudad, the Castillo de la Real Fuerza, and any other attractions that catch your attention. Have a world famous original mimosa at La Bodeguita del Medio.
As the day cools down, enjoy a fine cigar at the Hotel Nacional. Sitting on a high bluff overlooking the Malecón, this is Havana's signature hotel, and it's loaded with atmosphere. The outdoor terrace made of marble is a great place to grab a table for a sunset drink and cigar while enjoying the scenery. Another mojito here won’t hurt!
For dinner, a great spot would be La Guarida, the city's most celebrated paladar. Reservations here are essential.
Day 2: Vedado & Miramar
Start the morning strolling along the beautiful tombs and mausoleums of Cementerio de Colón. From here, take a 10 minute drive to Miramar and the Playa district. After lunch, head to the José Martí Memorial, and enjoy the panoramic view from the highest spot in Havana.
In the evening, head over to the Tropicana for dinner and a show. This place is the original and known to be the best cabaret show in Cuba!
Day 3: More Havana Vieja
Give yourself another day in Habana Vieja -- there's just no way you've seen it all in one day. Be sure to visit some of the art galleries, spend some time shopping at the Calle Tacón outdoor market ,and check out he classic cars lined up nearby. Pass through the Capitolio Nacional (Cuba Capitol Building). Resembling the U.S. Capitol Building, this iconic landmark is one of the city's signature attractions.
In front of the Capitolio Nacional is the Partagas cigar factory, where you you can see Cuba’s premium cigars being hand-rolled for export. The four story factory specializes in full-bodied cigars such as the Cohiba, Montecristo and, of course, the Partagás, one of the oldest of the Havana brands, started in 1843. Guided tours (45 minutes) are offered every 15 minutes. Buy tickets in advance at either Hotel Saratoga or Hotel Habana Libre (both a block away from the factory).
Have lunch on one of the ancient plazas here. In the late afternoon, head over to the Parque Histórico Morro y Cabaña and explore the forts and museums at this complex.
Check out more pictures from my trip here!
