Vedado & Nightlife
Vedado is Havana's more modern face — the district emerged in the 1920s–50s when American money flowed into the city. Wide boulevards, Art Deco villas, the University of Havana (1728) on a hill, and the grand hotels of the Mafia era: the Hotel Nacional de Cuba (1930), where Meyer Lansky, Frank Sinatra, and Marlon Brando stayed, and the Habana Libre (formerly Hilton), which Fidel Castro turned into the revolutionary headquarters in 1959.
Hotel Nacional de Cuba
Even if you're not staying here (from 150 €/night), you should visit: The garden overlooking the Malecón and the bay is one of Havana's most beautiful spots. In the basement: a museum about the Mafia history. At the bar: excellent Mojitos and Daiquirís (4–6 €). On Sundays, bands play in the garden.
Nightlife
Havana's nightlife is legendary — and more diverse than most think:
- Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC): Cuba's most exciting cultural venue. A converted cooking oil factory where art exhibitions, live music, DJs, theater, and film screenings take place simultaneously on several floors. Thursday to Sunday from 8 pm, entry 2 €. THE highlight of Havana's nightlife.
- Tropicana: The legendary open-air show (since 1939) under tropical trees. 200 dancers in extravagant costumes — pure glamour from another era. From 70 €/person including cocktail and show. Touristy but breathtaking.
- Casa de la Música (Centro): Live salsa with Cuba's best bands. Evenings from 10 pm (5–15 €). Here, Cubans and tourists dance side by side.
- La Zorra y el Cuervo: Havana's best jazz club in a basement in Vedado. Small stage, excellent musicians, intimate atmosphere. Entry 10 €.
Achtung
In Vedado and especially at night on the Malecón, you will often be approached by Jineteros — people who want to sell you cigars, rum, restaurants, or other "services." Be friendly but firm. They are generally harmless, but the cigars offered are almost always fakes.
