The historic old town of Havana

The historic old town of Havana

Imagine strolling through the winding streets of historic Old Havana, surrounded by colorful, colonial buildings that tell stories from centuries ago. Every step on the cobblestones takes you deeper into the magic of the Caribbean, where the sun shines over the sea and fills the air with the scent of freshly prepared Ropa Vieja. You just have to stay here!

In this vibrant heart of Cuba, past and present combine in truly exciting ways. Let yourself be carried away by the lively art scene, the rhythmic sounds of the music and the smiles of the locals. An authentic culinary experience awaits at every corner - from cozy cafes to traditional paladares.

Prepare for magical moments and discover the impressive architecture that makes the old town a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Let's go on a journey together that will inspire your senses!

Magical moments in the heart of the Caribbean: Discover the magical architecture of Havana

Old Havana, also known as La Habana Vieja, is a true gem of colonial architecture. Strolling through the narrow, cobbled streets feels like you've been transported back in time. Here, magnificent baroque facades are lined up with colorful, dilapidated buildings, and every step reveals new architectural wonders. Particular attention is paid to the impressive Capitolio, a masterpiece with its majestic dome, reminiscent of the Capitol in Washington D.C. reminds us and captivates the visitor with its splendor.

The colonial buildings, many of which have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcase the diversity of architectural styles that have characterized Havana over the centuries. A typical example is the Plaza de Armas with the impressive Castillo de la Real Fuerza, a fortress that has watched over the city since the 16th century. The charming Plaza Vieja is also a highlight: Here you can linger in one of the small cafés while letting your gaze wander over the colorful buildings. Each of these houses tells stories from times gone by - stories that testify to revolution, passion and the city's never-ending pulse.

The city's rich history is reflected not only in its buildings, but also in the works of art that can be found on every corner. Frescoes, wall paintings and sculptures fit harmoniously into the cityscape and give the old town a lively character. A visit to the Museo de la Ciudad is particularly recommended, where you can gain a deep insight into the history and development of Havana - an enrichment for every history lover.

As evening approaches, the old town changes again. The warm colors of the sunset envelop the historic facades in a soft light and the sounds of music from the open windows and lively squares invite you to shake a leg. The streets are filled with people enjoying the vibrant life of the city. An unforgettable experience is the view from the Malecón, the waterfront promenade, where the waves of the Caribbean Sea gently beat against the stones, while the illuminated silhouettes of the old town create a magical picture - a moment that you will not soon forget.

The enchanting Old Town of Havana is not only a place where history comes to life, but also a fascinating setting that appeals to the senses. Whether you are interested in architecture, history, art or just the vibrant life, Havana offers magical moments waiting to be discovered.

Culinary surprises and authentic experiences: Eating out in the old town

Old Havana is a true land of milk and honey for foodies and those who want to experience the authentic Cuban lifestyle. Complement your explorations through the streets with a culinary journey of discovery that will introduce you to the diversity and richness of Cuban cuisine. The smell of freshly prepared food always seduces your senses. The colorful houses with their decorated balconies and the lively squares are the perfect setting for an unforgettable meal.

A typical restaurant that you should not miss is thisLa Bodeguita del Medio. Known from the mouth of Hemingway, whose desk has a permanent place here, this restaurant offers a mix of history and delicious food. Try the famous onesRopa Vieja, tender braised beef strips with a spicy tomato sauce that melt in your mouth. Plus a glassMojito, freshly made with mint from the garden, and you'll feel like you're a part of Cuban history.

Another highlight are thePaladares– private restaurants, often located in Cubans’ homes. These smaller, family-run businesses are the epitome of authentic food culture and allow you to experience the lives of the locals up close. VisitLa Cocina de Lilliam, where the fresh ingredients come directly from the market. Here Lilliam serves home-cooked Cuban classics that each of us knows from our own travels or from family recipes.

• Tipps für Essensliebhaber:
  • Genießen Sie das Frühstück in einer der zahlreichen Finca-Cafés, die frischen Kaffee und tropische Früchte anbieten.
  • Lassen Sie sich von den heimischen Tapas verführen. Probieren Sie tostones – frittierte grünen Kochbananen, die perfekt als Snack fungieren.
  • Verpassen Sie nicht die Kunst des Streetfood, und kaufen Sie sich ein hamburguesa (Burger) von einem lokalen Verkäufer, um ein Stück der kubanischen Esskultur mitzunehmen.

After a hearty meal in the old town, an evening in one of the dim onesCasa de la Musicaa must. Here you can enjoy live dance and music performances. Let yourself be carried away by the rhythms of theSalsaGet carried away while holding a cocktail - an ideal end to a day full of culinary discoveries. Engage in the local culture by venturing onto the dance floor; This will make your visit to Havana an unforgettable experience that will last long after you leave.

Between history and present: A journey through Havana's vibrant culture and art scene

Old Havana, a living testament to its colonial past and contemporary developments, pulsates with creativity and cultural diversity. As you stroll through the narrow streets, you will always be surprised by the grandeur of the historic buildings and the colorful wall paintings. Here, where the past is woven into every stone, the present comes alive through the passionate sounds of music. The rhythms of Salsa and Son can be heard everywhere, captivating not only the locals but also tourists.

A visit to the small but beautiful “Fabrica de Arte Cubano”, a former oil mill, is a must for art lovers. This creative oasis combines contemporary art, music and gastronomy in a unique concept. Here you can not only discover the works of emerging Cuban artists, but also take part in various events. In the late evening, the place transforms into a pulsating center full of live performances and DJ sets that keep the audience entertained until the early hours of the morning.

Another highlight of the Havana scene is the famous “Café Museo”, where you can not only enjoy a cup of the best Cuban coffee, but also immerse yourself in the history of the Cuban cigar. The walls are decorated with photographs of famous cigar smokers, while every piece of the interior tells stories. You can also often find live jazz here, which carries visitors along like a gentle stream and transforms the café into a true sound experience.

And if you want to experience the city’s colorful street art, you should join the “Old Havana Art Walk”. This guided tour introduces participants to the creative expressions of local artists who beautify the city with ingenious murals and graffiti. The interplay of color, form and culture not only provides a deep insight into social moods, but also offers the opportunity to talk to the artists themselves.

The special connection between tradition and modernity can be seen not least in the “Teatro Nacional de Cuba”, where masterpieces of Cuban theater art are performed. The majestic building attracts attention with its impressive architecture, while inside the play of light and shadow enhances the atmosphere of the performances. Tickets usually sell out quickly, so it's advisable to get tickets early to experience a slice of Cuban theater life up close.

In Havana, history is never far away, and yet new voices are constantly adding to it. The interplay of old and new, tradition and innovation, makes a visit to this city an unforgettable experience that delves deep into the soul of Cuban culture.

Imagine strolling through the winding streets of historic Old Havana while the warm Caribbean sun rays gently kiss your skin. The colorful facades and the sweet smell of fresh tacos and spicy mojo in the air captivate you. Here, where the past comes alive and the pulsating rhythm of life envelops you, you can feel the soul of Cuba in every moment. Be inspired by the sounds of jazz music, the laughter of the locals and the creative artwork that adorns the walls. In Havana, history and present mix to form a colorful mosaic that intoxicates the senses and awakens the spirit of discovery. Pack your bags and immerse yourself in this unique adventure - Old Havana is waiting to be discovered!