The start of a weeklong journey through Cuba spending two days visiting the best sights in Havana on the trip Grand Caribbean: Cuba, the Dominican Republic and Haiti.
Havana
The capital and largest city of Cuba was founded in the 16th century by Spanish conquistadors. It is now a major tourist city with over a million visitors a year and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city has a lot to offer in terms of sites, museums, historical buildings, restaurants and nightlife. Two days would provide a small sampling of this bustling city.
Havana Cathedral
The full name of this cathedral dating back to 1748 is The Cathedral of The Virgin Mary of the Immaculate Conception. Besides its historical significance, it is also known for the frescos and paintings inside.
Museo de la Ciudad
This museum in Plaza de Armas is housed in a building that dates back to the 1770s.
Fortress San Salvador de la Punta
This fortress along with the eastern fortress was created to protect Havana Bay and cab be traced back to 1582. It is now converted to a museum.
Museo de la Revolución
This museum is housed in the old Presidential Palace until 1959 and then turned into a museum after the revolution. Interestingly, the building was decorated by Tiffany & Co.
Behind the museum is the Granma yacht, which in 1956 brought over Fidel Castro, Raúl Castro, Che Guevara, and Camilo Cienfuegos to overthrow Fulgencio Batista.
Plaza de la Revolución
This large square is surrounded by government buildings, but it is famous for the being the location where Fidel addressed the public on many occasions. The center has a José Martí Memorial and statue. Images of Che and Fidel adorn the buildings facing the memorial.
Restaurants and Nightlife
The atmosphere in the evenings is a major highlight of the city with restaurants around every corner. Some offer delicious lobster meals for the equivalent of $5. Bars fill the city with the signature cocktails, the Cuba Libre and Mojito as well as the refreshing local beer, Cristal. Clubs are also an option for drinking and dancing. It seems that every local in Havana is a professional singer or salsa dancer.
The vibrant city will not fail to please a traveler looking for a unique experience that encompasses culture, arts, history, architecture, shopping, cuisine, nightlife and most importantly fun.