Sightseeing in Havana - what to see. Complete travel guide

Havana is the capital and the main tourist destination on the Island of Freedom. This charming city happily welcomes tourists and travelers from all over the world in order to show its colorful shows to new guests. In the evening, gorgeous cabarets open their doors and attract visitors with flashing lights. It is hard to find another city in the world that has such a distinctive, unique culture and tranquil atmosphere. The time spent in Havana is impossible to forget, and tourists usually cherish their memories of this city for years to come. Havana is a great place not only to relax but also to have fun.

Spanish colonizers were the founders of this city. Before their arrival, American Indians lived in this territory. In 1519, the Spanish captured this region and started colonizing the land and indigenous tribes. Attacks, epidemics, and hunger completely wiped off the indigenous population. Havana was officially founded on September 16, 1519. In the 60s of the 16th century, Havana became the center of Cuba. Two centuries later, the British attacked the city, but they had to return Cuba to the Spanish in accordance with the Treaty of Paris. The British got Florida back instead.

The freedom movement started in Cuba at the end of the 19th century. The main aim of the movement was to finish the Spanish reign and finally become an independent nation. Spain satisfied the claim in 1859, and Cuba finally became an independent country. Despite gaining the independent status, the Spanish still had the power to elect the general governor. In 1898, the United States declared war to Spain and attacked Havana, this way blocking the coastal areas of Cuba. The island remained occupied by the United States until 1902. This was had a devastating effect on the economy of Havana. The city started recovering only starting from 1925. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Having arrived in the capital of the Republic of Cuba, tourists shouldn’t forget to try national cuisine or cochina criolla. The country’s cuisine is an interesting combination of Spanish, African, and Colombian culinary traditions. All local dishes are relatively easy to cook but they have an exquisite taste. Pizza and hotdogs are the most popular types of local fast food. Tourists do not need to worry about finding a place to eat because there are many street vendors who offer delicious snacks such as waffles and sweet buns. Rum cocktails and Hatuey beer are the most popular alcoholic drinks on the island. Many guests of the city like drinks with sugar cane juice or guarapo. Despite the ingredients, this drink is not too sweet, so it is very refreshing and is pleasant to drink.

Are you planning to swim and sunbathe? Despite the close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, there are no really good beaches in central Havana. The first quality beach, which is pleasant to stay on, is situated fifteen minutes away from the city center. Beaches in this part of Havana are referred to as “East” ones. There are almost ten beaches in this direction, and each of them has its own name. The entrance is free, and sun loungers are available for an extra fee. However, sun loungers are optional because all beaches have soft sand. Visitors can comfortably sunbathe on towels. The ocean is shallow near the coast, so the beaches are suitable for vacationers with children.

There are not many entertainments near the coastline, but it is not hard to find a charming café. That being said, there are many sellers of coconut milk and fruits. There are also many local people who offer souvenirs and jewelry made of corals and shells to tourists. For the convenience of visitors, there are dressing cabins, toilets, and showers to rinse off saltwater at almost every beach.

Do you enjoy exploring the underwater ocean life? Diving is very popular in Havana. Scuba diving is very popular and exciting in Cuba because this is an opportunity to not only see the beautiful underwater world of the region but also explore old sunken ships. In many areas, for example, near Tarara Beach, there are underwater rocks with many incredible underwater creatures.

When planning a diving tour, it is better not to overestimate your own skills and training. Not all instructors ask about your experience in diving, so if you are not ready for advanced diving, it is better not to risk. People, who only want to learn how to dive, are better to visit special centers for beginners. They offer a special master course for all beginners. It is always possible to rent everything you need. The quality of the diving gear doesn’t raise any questions.

As a rule, tourists arrive at José Martí International Airport situated twenty-five kilometers away from the city center. It will take approximately twelve hours to fly to the capital of Cuba from continental Europe. At the airport, it is always possible to take a taxi to the city center. This is the most comfortable way – you will reach the center of Havana in half an hour. There is no public transport that connects Havana and the airport, but it is possible to get on guagua, a local public bus that stops nearby.