45 Pictures that will make you fall in love with Havana, Cuba
Havana Cuba is a stunning Caribbean destination to explore. Every nook and corner of Havana is painted in bright colors, has interesting history, lovely people and beautiful architecture. Continue reading to find some of the unseen pictures of Havana – true, beautiful and the raw. These photos of Havana will make you re-think about how you perceive the city, at-least it did to me. Most of the us know of vintage cars in Havana Cuba and may be its political past. But did you know that other then being a Spanish speaking country, Cuba also has a long connection with Spain and that it remained a loyal ally of the Spaniards for centuries. Here it is – 45 unseen pictures of Havana Cuba that will make you fall in love!
All Images ©tosomeplacenew. All rights reserved.
Beautiful Pictures of Havana Cuba
Photographing Havana Classic Cars
Let’s start with some of the known bits of Havana. These vintage and classic cars of Havana are a real treat! Most tourists love to visit Cuba for these wonderful experience of riding in an 1950 Cadillac or one of the pretty colored vintage cars.
This beautiful view of Havana street and the colorful classic cars were taken from the balcony of Great Theatre of Havana Alicia Alonso. This theatre is dedicated to the ballerina of Cuba – Alicia Alonso. To get access to this view, there is an entry fee of 5 CUC.
Location: Great Theatre of Havana Alicia Alonso, Old Havana
Showstopper! I meant the cars in Havana Cuba
Another great spot to capture the cars is at the Museum of Revolution. The access to the museum grounds are free. The parking area is filled with classic cars as they are so popular with tourists. Entry to explore the museum is 8 CUC.
Location: Museum of Revolution – parking lot, Old Havana
Travel to Cuba Tips – Everything you need to know
Old Havana Cuba Streets
Streets Photos of Old Havana Cuba are a real treat. Whether you are visiting Vieja Havana or Centro Havana, you will be surprised at every corner. Take a look at these Old Havana Cuba streets and fall in love
Location: Old Havana Lanes (Free to explore, open 24 hours)
El Cristo, Havana or Rio de Janeiro?
How cool is Cuba? This picture of El Cristo is unique. It might remind you of Rio de Janeiro (Christ the redeemer). But this is in Havana Cuba.
El Cristo is located on a hill top overlooking the bay of Havana. From up the hilltop, you can see the port of Havana. Look at this amazing view of the port (El Malecon). Cubans believe the statue of Lord Christ is holding a mojito and cigar and thus enjoying life 🙂
Location: El Cristo La Habana, Casa Blanca, Havana (Free entry, open 24 hours)
From El Cristo La Habana, you also view the amazing coastline of Havana Cuba. Cruise-liners often dock here. If you love city-scapes like us, you will definitely adore this view. Located right where the El Cristo statue is.
Capturing the beautiful Havana Square
If you are focusing on sightseeing in Havana city, Old Havana squares cant be missed. There are 4 squares in Havana and each one reminds of the rich Spanish heritage of Cuba.
This stunning courtyard with colorful buildings is the Old Havana Square or Vieja Havana. Entry is free and is open 24 hours.
Location: Old Havana Square, Old Havana
The second most beautiful and important square in Havana is the Cathedral Square, also located in Old Havana. The beautiful courtyard is surrounded with restaurants and colorful buildings. The center stage is of course, taken by the stunning cathedral.
We found many hidden gems by the Cathedral square, this includes beautiful murals, kitty cafes and great restaurants.
Location: Cathedral Square, Old Havana (image above and below)
Are you looking to add some interesting spots to your sightseeing in Havana Cuba? Look for this Spanish Mural in Old Havana – Cathedral Square.
This mural is located in a lane opposite to the Cathedral itself. The Cathedral Square is also surrounded by colorful lanes and street art.
Another popular square is the St Francis Assisi Square in Old Havana. It is a basilica and the monastery of San Francisco de Asis that was built in Havana at the end of the sixteenth century and is home of the Franciscan community in Havana.
Location: St Francis Assisi Square, Old Havana.
Other best places to photograph in Havana
Don’t forget the Grand Theatre of Havana – Ballet was one of the arts that was encouraged by the Cuban government post revolution. The architecture of the building is gorgeous.
Location: Grand Theatre of Havana, Old Havana.
The El Capitolio is located next to the Grand Theatre of Havana in Old Havana. This building was used as a administration office, today it is home to the National Science museum. Try to capture the beauty of the building by standing on the other side of the road.
Here is a view of the opposite side of the road, from El Capitalio – colorful buildings alert!
Location: El Capitalio, Old Havana.
Hamel’s Alley – Hamel’s Alley is the cradle of Afro-Cuban past, colorful alleys and music haven. This place comes alive every Sunday with rumba and people dancing on the streets.
Location: Hamel Alley (Callejon de Hamel), Havana.
Revolution Museum
The Revolution Museum – A must visit to learn all about Cuba’s past and why it is at its present stage.
Gorgeous Museum of the Revolution, isn’t it? (Museo de la revolucion, from the outside)
There is an entry fee of 8 CUC to enter the museum. Highly recommend paying a visit to this museum to lean about Cuba’s political past.
Amazing views of the Malecon and other iconic structures, from one of the balconies of the Museum of the Revolution.
Location: Museum of the Revolution,Old Havana.
Keeping in line with the revolution theme, here is one of the most photographed squares in Cuba – Plaza de la revolucion or the Revolution Square.
Revolution Square is one the biggest political squares in Cuba. Right opposite to the square, there are government office buildings. Here you will find 2 tall images of Che Guevara and Fidel Castro on the 2 separate building exteriors. It is an iconic landmark of Cuba.
To get a perfect shot of this building, stay at the revolution square and capture the landmark on the other side of the road. Don’t be alamrned by security personnel, you are allowed to take pictures. It is open 24 hours and is free.
Location : Revolution Square/ Che Guevara Building (free)
Cuba had a long history of Spanish rule and that is evident from the language, architecture and their culture. The Spaniards built castles by the coastal lines to safeguard their territories. There are 2 fortified castles that are worth visiting – El Morro Castle and La Cabana Fort. They are located very close to each other.
There is an entry fee for each of the forts and it is about 8 CUC.
Location : La Cabana fort grounds and El Morro, Havana
Regardless of its history, Cuba is very special. The amount of joy I have seen in people’s eyes is unthinkable. Such a safe place, people are warm and welcoming and women – they are encouraged to live a free life and are so liberated and this feeling is incomparable to any place on earth.
More Unseen Photos of Havana Cuba
Popular activity in Havana – Amateur Boxing!
Location: Gimnasio de boxeo, Old Havana
Hotels in Havana Cuba are so magnificent, its like re-living a slice of history
Location: Old Havana. Search for Havana Cuba hotels
Food and drink in Cuba is also their unique selling point. Try their beef dish (roopa vieja) or their delicious mojito or cappuccino. Look for some pretty side cafes for their local Cuban (casa paladar) experience.
Location: Old Havana Square, Old Havana (above and below)
If you move away from the Old Havana neighborhood and explore the other areas like Playa, Vedado or Central Havana, you will experience some different architecture and vibe. The streets are wider and cleaner in the Playa area. Central Havana is edgy and very crowded, but still very unique. If you like to know about the different neighborhoods in Havana and what to see, refer to my Ultimate Havana Guide
Vedado has the beautiful Nacional Hotel, facing the Malecon. This area also houses the government offices and the plaza of revolution.
Capture the “Cuba” – sign, located at Hotel Nacional de Cuba. Stay or dine at a place that is full of history – from the infamous mafia Havana conference of 1942 or the Cuban revolution (bullet marks)
Location: Hotel Nacional de Cuba – y O, Vedado, Postal Code: 10400, Cuba, Calle 21
As you drive around in Havana, you will notice some stunning architectural marvels, colorful, unique, some of Spanish origin and some contemporary
These structures are located by the Harbourfront (Malecon). Best way to see these spots is to drive or rent a classic car in Havana.
Location: Harbourfront (Malecon), Havana
There are city tours available as well for 10 CUC to take you around most of these neighborhoods, except for Old Havana.
Monuments in Havana – by Malecon neighbourhood
Location : General Hospital/Malecon (free)
Such a cool sight in Havana – it is like the old meets new (shot by the Malecon)
Monuments in Havana – by Miramar, Playa neighbourhood
Location : Vedado, Havana (Also visit the yellow Colon Cemetery in Vedado)
Beautiful Residential and office buildings – in Vedado, Havana
Sports Complex in Vedado Havana
Monuments in Old Havana – by El Floridita Restaurant, Old Havana
Evening Views in Havana
Evenings in Havana are epic. It doesn’t matter if you are a party animal or you just like to lounge around. Most hotels have roof top bars and restaurants that offers stunning views of the city of Havana. Take a look.
Stunning rooftop evenings and views from Havana Cuba
Location: Rooftop of Hotel Iberostar Parcque Central, Old Havana. Book your stay here
Havana Cuba Pictures
I hope these pictures of Havana Cuba made you re-think about Havana. It is a safe place to visit and experience something unique. Be sure to add some of these spots to your Cuba travel itinerary.
Additional Reading
- Read All you need to know before your trip to Cuba
- Havana Itinerary for 3 Days here
- Get Packing tips for Cuba here
- Learn all about Havana’s neighborhoods in Guide to Havana City
- Get 15 amazing Photo Spots in Paris France
Last Updated on : December 02 2018
These photos have given me a serious case of wanderlust! I mean look at how gorgeous they are! Cuba is so lively and so vibrant. I’ve got to visit soon 🙂
Those cars! And that architecture. What a match made in heaven. Honestly yours are some of the best photos I’ve ever seen of Havana. Seriously considering adding it to my itinerary when I’m over that way later this year! How long would you recommend spending in Cuba?
Just Havana – 3 days is a must. But if you have a week, you can do Havana (3 days), Vinales (1 day), 2-3 days in Varadero (beach resort/town) – they are easily accessible from Havana
Fabulous pictures which would easily entice a person to Havana.
Your photos are beautiful! The architecture in Cuba is so interesting and photogenic! It really reminds me of Spain.
I really enjoyed this visual guide to Havana. My favorite photo is the first one with a parking lot full of colorful cars! What a scene!
Hopefully, I get the chance to visit it some day <3
Aww… thank you. It is quite a beautiful scene with all the colorful cars
Your pictures are so gorgeous!!! love that hat too babe! Great post!
Amazing pictures! A friend of mine visited Havana recently and really loved it! I hope to see it soon as well!
Such gorgeous pictures! My boyfriend went to Cuba a couple of years ago and we were just talking about how it’s a completely different world there. These photos show its beauty!
Cuba is a dream. It has been on my bucket list for a while. Your photos are awesome.
Thank you so much. Hope you get to visit soon
Loving the moods and vibes you captured in Havana! Such a photogenic place to be at! The first photo is like a throwback in time =)
Aside from your amazing photos, you really are good in inspiring people to travel more and explore. Now Cuba is on my bucket list!
Thank you babe, your comment really made me day <3
Gorgeous photos! I love how unique all the streets in Havana look. I have been wanting to go for a while and this just makes me want to go even more!
Thanks so much Meghan. Glad you enjoyed the post!
Wow! These pictures left me speechless, Mayuri! Havana seems so picturesque and charming. Plus, your post is an exceptional guide which I will definitely use when going there. Is Cuba a budget travel destination?
It is one of the budget destinations in the Caribbean for sure! Flights from US/Canada are decent. Food is very cheap so is certain accommodations and Airbnb. Please check out my Travel Tips on Cuba.
You are right, your pictures do make me want to fall in love with Cuba. I think I will have to move it up a few more places on my Wishlist. Thanks so much for sharing.
Aww…that’s so sweet! Glad you enjoyed the pictures <3
Those cars are just the cutest!! Every time I see photos of Cuba, I’m so in love with the vintage vehicles!
I had so much fun riding in one of the classic cars. You should try that too <3
Great pictures, which camera did you use?
Thanks so much. It is Sony A5000 and iphone 8
These photos are so beautiful! They bring back such lovely memories from Cuba. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
Thanks so much Cheryl! Much love!
You’re right, you made me fall in love just by looking at your photographs! So beautiful, like stepping back in time. I really need to make this a priority to go here 🙂
Awesome photos and yup, you’ve done it! Wanderlusiing for Havana now! LOL. And I know that its not going to stay looking like that for very much longer now that its open up to tourism. I want to see it before Starbucks pops up in every corner. The theatre looks gorgoues:) I’d love ot see that.
I laughed at your El Cristo description. Your photos of Cuba are enticing me to book a trip to Havana. Who knows, maybe I’ll head there next winter.
Beautiful photos! I love that they’re all in focus and taken well! Really shows off how beautiful and colourful Cuba is! I’ve never been but would love to go one day!
I sincerely fell in love with Havana, it stole my heart. The cars, the people, the food…everything is so authentic. I have been also to other cities in Cuba but this is so particular. Your shots are so awesome 🙂
Thank you so much! Glad you enjoyed the city and our pictures!
I cant even! I have wanted to go to Cuba FOREVER, but now I am having major FOMO!
I must must must put it higher on the bucket list
Yes girl! You will love Havana. My Insta is still full of Havana pics as I cant get over it!
A Great Post and Beautiful Photos. I’ve Save and Pinned Your Post. We are traveling to Cuba in Oct. 2018. Look forward to visiting Havana and some of your suggestions! Rob 🙂
Thank you Rob. Glad you enjoyed reading my post. Have a safe trip to Cuba, I am sure you will love it!
Happy Travels!
I would LOVE to go to Havana. There’s something about it that shines through in your photos, especially the colourfulness and distinct culture. It’s one of those places which I’ve always wanted to explore. Great post 🙂
Thanks so much for your kind words. Cuban culture is very unique and colorful, as you have aptly put. I hope you get to visit Havana some day.
Okay this makes me want to book tickets to Cuba like right now! Such amazing photos, I will move Cuba a bit higher up on my bucket list!
Yay! I am so glad these photos made you feel that way. I am sure you will love Havana Cuba.
One of my favorite trips last year was to Havana! Your photos are absolutely stunning and do it a great justice. Can’t wait to go back again.
Thank you Leah! Means so much coming from you – I wanted to join you in your group trip in July last year. Thanks again
We are back from Cuba and we loved it!
Great photos!