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The sun setting at the end of each day is no excuse to bring your exploration of the vibrant Cuban capital to an end. Havana, with its warm Caribbean weather, record of safety for visitors, and the Cubans’ love for getting together, offers a plethora of activities to indulge in after dark. Here, we present the top things you won’t want to miss!
Sip a Cocktail on a Rooftop Bar
Havana’s bartenders are legendary for making mean cocktails, and it’s no surprise given that both the mojito and daiquiri were created on this island. Several of the capital’s larger hotels boast rooftop bars with incredible views over the city’s oldest parts. From here, you can feel like a movie star from the glory days of Hollywood before the Cuban revolution. If you prefer a more authentic experience, visit La Bodeguita del Medio, a popular hangout adorned with the autographs of greats like Ernest Hemingway and Errol Flynn. The wooden bar exudes an undeniable ambiance that is absolutely captivating.
Join the Locals for a Seafront Promenade
The 8 km-long seafront promenade, affectionately known as the Malecon, is where Habaneros gather as the street lights start to flicker at sunset. The promenade stretches from the mouth of Havana Harbour through the Centro Habana neighborhood to the more modern Vedado district. It is one of the best spots in the city to watch the sun set beneath the waves. Joining the locals on a short stroll along Havana Bay is the perfect way to soak up the local ambience and experience the laid-back vibe that makes Havana so unique.
Put on Your Dancing Shoes
If you can’t resist tapping your feet to a beat, Havana’s vibrant nightlife won’t disappoint. With numerous clubs to choose from, spending an evening at a dance venue is a must. Cubans are known for dressing up before hitting the town, so make sure to do the same. Try Fabrica de Arte Cubano, a converted cooking oil factory that features a basement nightclub from Thursdays to Sundays, in addition to art galleries, cinema, and performance spaces. It’s worth noting that nightlife in Havana doesn’t really kick off until around 10 p.m., with bars and clubs often staying open until the last customer leaves, which could be as late as two or three in the morning.
Take in a Show
If you prefer to watch someone else do the dancing, Havana has a variety of regular shows to entertain you. One of the most famous is the extravagant display of scantily-clad dancers at the Tropicana. The lush grounds alone are impressive, and the carnival-like dancing adds another level of excitement. For a more classical experience, head to the incredible Gran Teatro building, home to the world-famous Ballet Nacional. Or, consider catching a performance by Cuba’s modern dance company, Danza Contemporanea de Cuba, at Vedado’s Teatro Mella. Their electric performances are nothing short of mesmerizing.
Enjoy Some Live Music
For a taste of the local sound, make your way to the Casa de la Musica. This venue is a favorite among Cuba’s top salsa and reggaeton groups. The original club is located in the Miramar neighborhood, but there’s also an outpost in Centro Habana with the same lineup of acts. If you’re a jazz enthusiast, don’t miss Jazz Club La Zorra y el Cuervo. Look for the English red telephone box on Calle 23 between Calle N and Calle O—this quirky entrance leads you to one of the capital’s best jazz spots. For Havana’s contemporary music scene, Café Teatro Bertol Brecht is the place to be. It’s an excellent spot to enjoy some live music while sipping on a relaxed cocktail or two.
Cross the City in a Classic Car
Havana takes on a different look in the evening, which makes it worth hopping into one of Cuba’s iconic vintage taxis, even if you’ve already explored the city during the day. Take a tour of the colorful city streets, soak in the sights along the Malecon, and then head up the hill overlooking the bay to marvel at the 20 m-high statue of El Cristo de la Habana. Cuban artist Jilma Madera’s Carrara marble sculpture offers a romantic view of the twinkling lights below.
Eat at a Paladar
Dining at a paladar is one of the most authentic ways to experience Cuban cuisine. These small house-restaurants, owned by individuals rather than the state, provide a glimpse into the real Cuba through homemade traditional meals. Once considered illegal, paladares are now welcomed by the communist government as they seek to improve the country’s economy. Their numbers continue to grow, as does the quality of the food they serve. In addition to menus featuring Cuban staples, “Italian” paladares have also become increasingly common.
Far from being a “daylight hours only” destination, Havana offers a multitude of activities to keep you entertained after dark. Whether you’re strolling along the Malecon among the local fishermen, overlooking the city from a rooftop hotel bar, enjoying live shows in the city’s many bars, or indulging in delicious local cuisine at a paladar, you’ll never be at a loss for things to do come nightfall!
