Taking a short tour of Havana

A dream destination where the 1960s rub shoulders with the modern world, Havana draws visitors in. Whether the trip is a general discovery or one focused on cigar accessories and cars, nobody comes back from Cuba disappointed. Here are the best things to do if you have to improvise a short tour of Havana.

The historical and cultural side of Havana

A capital steeped in history, where numerous cathedrals bear witness to the religious fervour of the Cubans. From the tallest building on the Plaza Vieja you will find a « camera obscura » offering a 360° panoramic view of the city. Between the palm trees and the narrow streets stand majestic buildings such as El Capitolio and the Grand Theatre. But if you want to plunge into the heart of Havana, the Paseo de Martí is where to go. There, colourful houses rise above the older residents sitting on chairs watching passers-by. And of course nobody can visit Cuba without stopping at the Plaza de la Revolución, where Che Guevara and Fidel Castro keep watch over their fellow citizens.

What would Cuba be without its cigars?

Cultural as much as historical, the cigar is part and parcel of Cuban heritage. There are many factories in the country, but stop at the ones where visitors are allowed to watch coronas or Romeo y Julietas being rolled. For around 10 to 20 euros, you can spend an hour inside an industry that has made Cuba’s name.

You will be able to watch the various stages of hand-rolling. Some torcedoras or torcedores may even let you try selecting and rolling a few leaves yourself. A rare chance to see the craft at close quarters.

Cars, dancing and the rest

Lastly, the great indulgence in Cuba is riding through the sunlit streets in a vintage car. And since everything is an excuse to dance, a few salsa lessons on the spot are a must before taking to the dance floors, of which the country has plenty.