Havana is a magical city with a certain mystique offered nowhere else in the world. From its historic Old Town to vintage American cars, Havana has captured the hearts of travelers for decades.
Although Havana’s main tourist attractions are definitely worth your time, there are lots of places off the beaten track for intrepid travelers. The city’s hidden corners have much to offer for all sorts of visitors, and you’ll gain a glimpse of the local lifestyle.
Read on to find out some of the best hidden gems in Havana!
Ditch the Hotels for a Casa Particular
Cuban hotels are pricey, stuffy, and don’t let you experience any part of the local lifestyle in Havana. For an authentic stay in Havana, stay at a casa particular to hang out with locals, and save money during your trip. Since you’ll be living with a Cuban family, you’ll witness the daily life of Havana locals.
Your hosts can give you additional advice on hidden gems, places to eat, and potential scams that affect tourists. Havana’s hotels and resorts don’t provide any access to the local neighborhoods, and often cost you a hefty price. By spending your money at casa particulares, you’ll support the local communities and learn the customs of Havana’s residents.
Escape to El Bosque de La Habana
A sanctuary hidden within the city, El Bosque de La Habana offers locals and tourists respite from the scorching heat. The forest provides shade thanks to the hanging canopies of humungous trees. Surrounded by lush greenery, it feels like you’ve left Havana for the tropical rainforest.
The forest sits along the Almendares River, and a footbridge lets you watch the water peacefully flow through the jungle-like terrain. Roaming the forest gives you a sense of solitude that’s difficult to feel in the more touristy areas of Havana. Following the river northwards leads you to a delightful park with bike paths, and you may even come across Santeria customs during your journey.
Walk Around Havana Chinatown
Believe it or not, Havana has one of Latin America’s oldest and largest Chinatowns. During the 19th century, thousands of Chinese were brought to Cuba to work on sugar fields through labor contracts. The laborers worked alongside African slaves and had to remain in Cuba for eight years before earning their freedom.
Although many contract workers returned to Asia, some remained in Cuba, and their traditions stayed on the island. Another influx of Chinese into Cuba occurred in the mid-19th century when migrants fled the United States to escape discrimination.
As more Chinese immigrants came to Cuba, local business owners established their own community in Havana. Despite many Cubans with Chinese ancestry fleeing the country during Castro’s regime, the area still has Chinese restaurants and architecture.
Boogie with the Locals at Bertolt Brecht
The Bertolt Brecht Cultural Center opened more than 50 years ago, and it remains one of Havana’s favorite joints for live music. The multi-room venue hosts a wide range of musical styles and artists who put their talents on display. Nightly concerts and plays entertain the crowds, and the party continues late into the evening.
When you need a break from the music, grab a drink, and chat with your friends on the terrace. The cultural center offers a lively atmosphere and gives you a taste of the local vibe in Havana.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at the Chocolate Museum
Havana’s Chocolate Museum is your golden ticket to stuff your face with artisanal chocolates produced in front of your eyes. The museum delves into the history of Cuba’s chocolate production, but the real treat is tasting the delicious varieties they prepare on site.
They also sell cold and hot chocolate drinks that make a delightful pairing with your chocolate of choice. Once your chocolate is ready, relax in the air-conditioned room or sit in the museum’s charming courtyard.
Have a Coffee at Café Mamainé
Café Mamainé is a cozy eatery decorated with colorful artwork and a wide range of seating arrangements for a peaceful meal. The café’s calm vibe eases customers while indulging taste buds with savory tapas and refreshing drinks.
Located in the Vedado neighborhood, Café Mamainé serves delicious Cuban dishes for reasonable prices. Grab a stool at the bar, join a friend at a small table, get some fresh air on the patio, or sit on a wooden log to enjoy your order.
Whether you need a coffee to wake up in the morning or a handcrafted mojito, the staff treats you right at this local joint. If one of the fabulous pieces of art catches your eye, it’s possible to buy it right there from the staff.
Take a Dance Class with the Locals
Don’t forget to pack your dancing shoes when you go to Havana!
Experience a multitude of dances that top-notch Cuban instructors teach students, and Havana is the perfect place to hit the dance floor. Dance classes are an exciting addition to group tours in Cuba to take home skills to impress your friends.
Some of the dances to learn include salsa, bachata, and merengue and Havana has plenty of rowdy venues to strut your stuff.
