A Stroll Through Old Havana

[Iberostar Hotels & Resorts]

The city of Havana has more than enough attractions and entertainment to justify a trip to the wonderful island of Cuba. There are dozens of restaurants, bars and nightclubs, in addition to a very active cultural side of life and the spectacular historical and cultural heritage which is most notably displayed in the Old Havana area, the historical center of the city.

Old Havana is the most interesting and important colonial center in all of the Caribbean. It was declared Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 1982 for good reason, and since then it has been improving in a sustained restoration process which has returned many parts to their old glory, which, mixed with half-destroyed buildings, give the tourist the sensation of taking a walk back 200 years in history.

Perhaps the greatest concentration of attractions in Old Havana is to the north of Calle Lamparilla, and exploring this area, with a focus on Calle Obispo, its most important street, is a must. Around this street you will find the Cathedral Square, the Castillo de la Real Fuerza, the Plaza de Armas and the main restaurants such as the Floridita and theBodeguita del Medio, which, as is well-known, are places you cannot neglect when visiting Havana! To the extreme south of Old Havana you will find the Central Train Station, which holds great architectural value and next to which important ruins of the old Wall of Havana are preserved; this in addition to the José Martí Native Home Museum, theIglesia de Paula church and the Alameda de Paula, the oldest promenade in the city, which, although almost forgotten, is one of the most beautiful.

The best way to visit and appreciate every detail of Old Havana is on foot. But if what you want is a more panoramic view,  it is a good idea to explore the city in a horse-drawn carriage, whose driver will play the role of tour guide.

Havana is a jewel whose most precious stone is Old Havana, where the streets recount the history of the city.  The streets of Old Havana will awaken your senses. Sometimes you have to fold up your map, close the guide book and literally let yourself be carried away.

 

“The IBEROSTAR Parque Central, which belongs to Grupo IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts, is a 5-star hotel situated in the very center of Havana. This luxury hotel boasts spectacular views over Havana , which you can gaze at from the rooms and the spa, as well as other locations. The IBEROSTAR Parque Central is considered the best hotel in Havana.”

from our blog PassportTo...