This post is all about things to do in Athens Greece.
It’s no secret that Athens is one of the most exciting cities in the world – and has been for thousands of years.
This ancient city happens to be the oldest capital in all of Europe (even older than Rome!)
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
In the months I’ve spent in Athens, I’ve often found travelers’ most common mistake is only booking 1-2 days.
Athens is big, and it feels like every corner you turn you’re greeted with a historical landmark.
Here are 21 things to do in Athens Greece.
Don’t forget to print your FREE Athens Checklist Printable.
One of the most fascinating landmarks of Athens is, of course, the Acropolis.
The Acropolis of Athens is a rocky complex consisting of several buildings of great historical significance. The most complete building still standing today is the famous Parthenon.
This structure sits high in the middle of Athens, dominating the city and illuminating the night.
Be sure to make a visit to the Acropolis your top priority in Athens. Check out this Skip the Line Acropolis tour with a licensed archaeologist.
2. Tour the Ancient Agora of Athens
There are two Agoras of Athens – the Ancient and the Roman.
Once a thriving marketplace for Athenians, the Ancient Agora is a predominant piece of Athens history.
This complex includes the monumental Temple of Hephaestus, Stoa of Attalos, and a small museum.
Did you know the only stadium in the world built completely of marble resides in Athens? Only representing the most majestic theatrical experience for Athenians, this stadium is one of a kind.
4. Watch the Sunset on Lycabettus Hill
Lycabettus hill offers one of the best views in the city.
To get to the top of Lycabettus, you can either climb the 200 steps to the top or take the cable car.
5. Take a Day trip to the Temple of Poseidon
Visit the temple dedicated to the “Master of the Sea”. Located on Cape Sounion, it’s just an hour from the center of Athens. This sunset tour includes full roundtrip transportation from the city.
6. See the Roman Agora
Constructed in the 1st century BC, the Roman Agora is another fascinating historical compound to see in Athens. Admire the gate of Athena from afar or pay 2 euros to take a stroll through the agora.
7. Acropolis Museum
After seeing the Acropolis, learn more about the history of the impressive structure at the Acropolis Museum.
Entrance to the museum is 5-10 euros. Additionally, it’s included in many Athens packages and tours like this guided tour here.
8. Anafiotika
Anafiotika is the charming neighborhood in Plaka that shows off its island-like architecture. With its white-washed buildings, clay pots, and bright colors, it’s one of the most colorful neighborhoods in Athens.
This neighborhood also offers one of the best viewpoints of the city.
9. Walk around Psiri & Monastiraki
Psiri & Monastiraki district is one of the trendiest areas of Athens. Streets are lined with cute cafes, fun nightlife spots, and stunning rooftop bars.
10. Eat chocolate cake at Nancy’s Sweet Home
Since you’ll be in Monastiraki, head to Nancy’s Sweet Home and get in line for one of their famous chocolate cakes.
11. Take a Free Walking Tour
Free walking tours are the best way to get to a new city without spending a fortune. Plus, it’s a great way to meet fellow travelers!
Rated one of the top 50 best bars in the world, The Clumsies is somewhere you must stop to have a drink.
I ordered a seasonal summer drink that came with a strip of sunscreen! Clumsies isn’t just any ordinary bar, it’s an experience.
13. Walk around Plaka
Plaka feels like a secret village in the center of Athens. Being the oldest neighborhood in the capital, a walk through the creaky whimsical streets beneath the Acropolis is a magical to experience.
14. Zappeion
The Zappeion is of the city center’s most well-known landmarks. Once used as the main fencing hall for the 1896 Olympics, the building is now repurposed for important meetings and ceremonies.
15. Stroll Through the Little Kook
Step into a fairy tale on one of the most unique streets in Athens! Little Kook is a completely themed street that changes themes every month. Not only is the street just decorated, but all the shops, cafes, and restaurants are too.
Some of my favorite themes have been Halloween, Christmas, Peter Pan, and Alice in Wonderland.
16. Visit the Archaeological Museum
Showcasing extensive artifacts from Roman, Egyptian, and Greek history, the Archaeological Museum is yet another museum in Athens that is considered one of the best in the world.
17. See Syntagma Square
Syntagma square is often considered the heart of Athens. It’s one of the most popular spots in the city for shopping, protests, and other public meetings.
18. Walk Through the National Gardens
After you’ve seen Syntagma, head over to the beautiful National Gardens. The entrance is free, and it’s a stunning oasis in the center of Athens.
19. Take Advantage of Athen’s Nightlife
What most people don’t know is Athens has a seriously amazing night scene.
S.I.X dogs is one of the most popular bars/clubs in the city. The venue transforms from bar to club depending on the day so be sure to check their schedule.
Other great bars are Juan Rodriguez, Barrett, and Handlebar.
20. Go to a Rooftop Bar
Athens is full of rooftop bars with a jaw-dropping view of the Acropolis.
Some of the best rooftop bars are A for Athens, 360 Cocktail Bar, and Couleur Locale.
21. Eat Traditional Greek Food
While Greece is full of beauty and history, I must say the best part of this country is the cuisine. Traditional Greek dishes are some of the tastiest in the world.
Don’t forget to try souvlaki, saganaki, a Greek salad, and wash it all down with Ouzo.
A few of my favorite restaurants are Bandiera, Oineas, and Avli.
Have a great trip to Athens and be sure to save this post for your future trip to Greece!
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
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Attention fellow travelers and cinephiles! If you’ve ever found yourself lost in the mesmerizing, offbeat worlds of Wes Anderson’s films, you’re not alone.
His distinct style, a blend of whimsy and precision, has a way of capturing our hearts and imaginations. But what if I told you that there are actual places out there, beyond the silver screen, that could be straight out of a Wes Anderson movie?
Grab your pastel-colored turtle neck and a bottle of bubbly and let’s dive into these 25 Real-life places that totally belong in a Wes Anderson movie.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
Here are 25 Real-life Places That Belong in a Wes Anderson Film
1. Edificio España | Madrid, Spain
The Edificio Espana opened in 1953 and is the 8th tallest skyscraper in Madrid. The historic building has 25 floors and incorporates 20th-century Spanish architecture in the neo-baroque style.
While the building is a hotel, the complex has a mix of offices, shops, and apartments. Designed by architect Julian Otamendi, it was “the symbol of prosperity” during Francisco Franco Bahamonde’s rule.
Address: Plaza de España 1, Madrid, Spain
photo by @poealan via @accidentallywesanderson
2. Vernadsky National Library of Ukraine | Kyiv, Ukraine
The Vernadsky National Library of Ukraine is one of the largest libraries in the world. It serves as the main library and science information center for all of Ukraine. The building has 27 floors and contains about 15 million items.
Wheelers Oyster Bar prides itself on being “the oldest restaurant in town!”
This quaint, family-owned Oyster Bar has been passed through the owner’s family for generations. While the building is gorgeous, their delicious seafood is rumored to be worth the hype!
Address: 8 High St, Whitstable CT5 1BQ, United Kingdom
photo by @tonia.fest
4. Royal Oxford Hotel | Oxford, United Kingdom
Built in the 1930s, the Royal Oxford Hotel screams Wes Anderson with its bright mustard yellow paint and symmetrical details. When I studied in Oxford, I adored walking past this hotel frequently.
Address: Park End St, Oxford OX1 1HR, United Kingdom
photo by @pursesandplanes
5. Pfunds Molkerei | Dresden, Germany
“The World’s Most Beautiful Milk Shop.” In the 19th century, a farmer traveled from Reinholdshain with his wife and six cows to Dresden in order to supply the city with healthy milk. Through this journey, Pfund dairy was established and is still serving fresh milk to this day.
The interior of this humble beginnings milk shop is elaborately decorated with hand-painted Villeroy & Boch ceramic tiles, all accented in blue and gold.
Pfunds Molkerei is actually a real filming location that was used in Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel for the interior of Mendl’s Confectionery.
Photos are not allowed in Pfunds, unless you are press and have been granted special permission.
Address: Bautzner Str. 79, 01099 Dresden, Germany
photo via interior.gamersta
6. Húsavík Lighthouse | Husavik, Iceland
Húsavík Lighthouse was built in 1956. It is located on the Húsavík cape and stands at 49 meters, or 160 feet, above sea level.
With its bright yellow structure and desolate background, this lighthouse definitely belongs in a Wes Anderson film.
Address: Vitaslóð 1, 640, Húsavík, Iceland
photo by @Matthjsvmierlo via nylon
7. American Radiator Building | Manhattan, New York City
Built in 1924 by architects Raymond Hood and Andre Foulihoux, the American Radiator Building is a 23-story landmark building located in Midtown, Manhattan.
The structure is actually based on the famous Tribune Tower in Chicago but with a Gothic Art Deco twist. With its unique color, it’s rumored to symbolize coal. When it lights up at night it is said to look like a giant ball of glowing coal.
Although black isn’t technically a color Wes Anderson would embrace, I think the style of the building is undeniably something that would pop-up in one of his films.
Address: 40 West 40th Street Manhattan, New York City
photo via designyourtrust
8. Stylenanda Pink Hotel | Seoul, South Korea
Despite the misleading title, the Stylenanda Pink Hotel is actually a 6-level store, designed as a hotel.
This popular pink store is located in Seoul and is filled with wondrous rooms of makeup, clothing, accessories, and “Instagrammable” set-ups such as fake pools or an art-deco hotel lobby.
Address: 37-8 Myeongdong 8-gil, Chungmuro 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
9. Bloom & Bean | Liverpool, United Kingdom
Bloom and Bean is a quaint coffee shop in Liverpool decorated from the inside out with chic pale pink and forest green. This little shop looks like the ultimate Wes Anderson cafe experience!
Address: 6a Victoria St, Liverpool L2 6QE, United Kingdom
10. Miami Beach | Florida, USA
Iconic South Beach lifeguard towers have become staple landmarks of Miami Beach.
The classic art deco towers started popping up in the 1990s shortly after hurricane Andrew hit. The towers were part of the effort to revive the area from the devastation. Many more have been constructed since the first few by Architect William Lane.
These towers symbolize the rebirth of the city.
Address: Various towers along the coastline of Miami Beach from the tip at South Pointe Park up to 87th Street.
photo by @mijookim_studio
11. TWA at JFK Airport | New York, USA
The Trans World Flight Center was constructed for Trans World Airlines by Finnish-American architect, Eero Saarinen.
The design of the terminal represents a flight wing and incorporates a Neo-futuristic style. Googie, and Fantastic. While the terminal was originally built in 1962 it has since been renovated and is now owned by the TWA Hotel.
Address: Terminal 5, John F. Kennedy International Airport, Queens, New York 11430; United States
photo by @mikeraz212
12. Muzeum Narodowe | Warsaw, Poland
Muzeum Narodowe, or the National Museum of Warsaw was constructed in 1862, and was unfornately damaged and raided by Nazis in WWII. It has since recovered and is one of the largest museums in Poland.
photo by @tantejohannes via @accidentallywesanderson
13. Moritzburg Castle | Saxony, Germany
Moritzburg Castle is a Baroque-style palace built in 1546 in the state of Saxony, near Dresden.
The castle features 4 round towers and was built on a symmetrical artificial island. Originally, the palace was a hunting lodge for Moritz of Saxony, the then Duke of Saxony.
Address: Schloßallee, 01468 Moritzburg, Germany
photo by marie_ohh_marie via @accidentallywesanderson
14. Eastern Columbia Building|Los Angeles, California
The Eastern Columbia Building was built in 1930 by Claud Beelman. It is known as the “benchmark of deco buildings in Los Angeles.” and the “Art Deco Jewel of the West.”
It was originally built as the flagship building for the Eastern-Columbia Department Store until they went out of business in 1957. It is now more commonly known as “Eastern Columbia Lofts.”
You may recognize it as one of Johnny Depp’s penthouses or from the TV show, iCarly.
With prominent glossy turquoise, gold trim, and symmetrical features this statement building is perfect for a Wes Anderson film.
Address: 849 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014
photo by @elizabethdaniels01 via @accidentallywesanderson
15. Hawa Mahal | Jaipur, India
The Hawa Mahal is a pink and red sandstone palace in Jaipur, India. This five-story pyramidal-shaped palace was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh.
Its famous honeycomb latticework was originally built to allow royal ladies to observe the daily life of the city from above without being seen since they could not go out in public without face coverings.
Address: Hawa Mahal Rd, Badi Choupad, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, India
photo by @wesleympeterson
16. The Ultimate Picture Palace | Oxford, United Kingdom
The Ultimate Picture Palace opened in 1911 and is the only surviving independent cinema in Oxford. The historic theater has gone through a series of owners and renovations over the years.
In 1996 it’s neoclassical facade was restored and it officially opened under the name as The Ultimate Picture Palace.
The theater is known historically in England for being “a rare surviving example of a simple early cinema.”
Address: Jeune Street, Oxford OX4 1BN
photo by @pursesandplanes
17. Sands Club | Treasure Cay Abaco Island | Bahamas
The Sands Club is a chic farm-to-table beachfront dining experience in Treasure Cay. It’s iconic long dock with pale pink accents make it a Wes Anderson wannabe classic.
photo by maryschlacter via @accidentallywesanderson
18. The Bathrooms in the British Library | London, United Kingdom
The British Library is the national library of the UK, and has the largest number of cataloged items in the world. These mustard colored walls and sink symmetry are the perfect stylized film aesthetic!
Address: 96 Euston Rd, London NW1 2DB, United Kingdom
photo by @pursesandplanes
19. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is decorated throughout with Baroque and Art Nouveau style buildings. While these are the most obvious architectural styles, you can also see eclectic, gothic, and soviet influences throughout the city.
Several monuments in Budapest are famous for their unique architectural styles such as the Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and The Fisherman’s Bastion.
photo by @zsolt_hlinka
20. The National Gallery of Ireland | Dublin, Ireland
The National Gallery of Ireland was established in 1864 and opened when it had just twelve paintings. A must-see in Dublin, this gallery is nearly as beautiful as the artwork it contains with its stunning symmetrical layout, pastel colors, and minimalist design.
photo by @pursesandplanes
21. Grand Hotel Europa | Innsbruck, Austria
The King of Bavaria called it “the finest hotel in Innsbruck.” The Grand Hotel Europa was established in 1869, making it the most historic hotel in Innsbruck. Golden colored walls and ornate chandeliers decorate the interior of this glamorous hotel.
Address: Südtiroler Pl. 2, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
photo by @joemanderton via @wesandersonplanet
22. Havana, Cuba
Havana is a melting pot of several different architectural styles. When you walk around the city, you will see just how different all of the buildings are – but I that’s what makes Havana so unique!
Havana’s bright-colored buildings largely come from Spanish Colonial influences. Other known styles in Havana are Baroque, Neoclassical, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco.
Havana architecture
23. Gellért Thermal Baths | Budapest, Hungary
Gellért Hotel was one of the main inspirations behind the design of Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel.
When the hotel opened it’s doors in 1918, it’s iconic Art-nouveau architecture and panoramic mirror entrance quickly made it known as one of the most luxurious hotels in Hungary. The hotel’s ancient thermal baths have been used since the middle ages.
Address: Budapest, Kelenhegyi út 4, 1118 Hungary
24. Estádio do Pacaembu | São Paulo, Brazil
The Estádio do Pacaembu is an Art Deco stadium located in the Pacaembu neighborhood of São Paulo. The stadium was established in 1940 and named after the national celebrity Paulo Machado de Carvalho.
Address: Praça Charles Miller – Pacaembu, São Paulo – SP, 01234-010, Brazil
25. James Smith & Sons | London, United Kingdom
James Smith & Sons is a historic umbrella store founded in 1930. It’s classic Victorian style storefront makes it a classic dreamy Wes Anderson feel.
Anderson undoubtedly is inspired by European Baroque, Art Deco, and Art Nouveau architectural styles. Although he and his designers do incorporate a lot of these styles, I don’t think they restrict themselves. Neo Classicalism, Gothic, and other influences can also be seen in his work.
For something to belong in a Wes Anderson it can’t just be a cool looking building. It has to have a story. The beauty of architecture is that it oftentimes reflects the struggle and/or prosperity of a city.
And there you have it! 25 Real-life Places That Belong In a Wes Anderson Film.
The style that Wes Anderson carries into his films is unlike no other. It’s worldly, historic, and it’s all in the details.
I would love to know, have you been to any of these places? And are you as obsessed with Wes Anderson films as much as I am!?
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
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Bear Creek Winery is tucked away in a secret corner of the Ozarks near Branson, Missouri.
This Winery is a gem only true Missourians know about!
If you’re looking for a luxurious and charming rustic escape for the evening, look no further than Bear Creek Winery.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
My Winery Essentials
Growing up in Springfield, I have a pretty good grasp on the best spots in the area.
Living alongside “The Birthplace of Route 66” makes the 417 a total foodie’s heaven on earth, which makes it tricky to choose where to dine with so many great options.
After hearing so much hype about Bear Creek, I just had to check it out myself.
Planning your trip to Branson? Visiting the Big Cedar grounds is a must! I’m obsessed with Cedar Creek Spa.
Or if you’re looking for family fun activities, I love the Titanic Museum and the Dixie Stampede.
Bear Creek Winery – Things to Know
Bear Creek is a Winery, Restaurant, Lodging, and Small Batch Brewery.
You can pick and choose what suits you out of their extensive offerings, opting to stay a whole weekend or just simply enjoy some pizza at their restaurant.
Be sure to check out their website here to get a detailed look at what they offer.
Bear Creek is located in Walnut Shade, Missouri which is about 20 minutes from Branson or Springfield.
The hours do vary, but here are their current hours listed for the season –
Sunday – Thursday 10-6pm *Sunday live music 2-5pm
Friday & Saturday 10-9pm *Live music 2-9pm
Food & Wine Selections
What I didn’t expect to find at Bear Creek, was some insanely delicious pizza!
I ordered the fresh and delicious “Bear Ass Pizza”. The prices are reasonable and the servings are huge.
Wine samples are offered, and you can enjoy a glass of your favorite for $6. My favorite wine is the Hillbilly Persuasion, which is a nice light crisp wine, close to a Chardonnay.
Dinner with a view
What better way to enjoy pizza and live music than sitting on a terrace? Bear Creek has both indoor and outdoor seating to suit everyone’s dining preferences.
The Ozarks are stunning. If you are looking for a rustic getaway in the woods, Branson area has many spectacular lodging options such as Bear Creek, Big Cedar Lodge, or Chateau on the Lake.
Bear Creek is the perfectly charming and rustic getaway for your date night or friend’s outing.
If you plan a trip to Southwest Missouri, consider spending an evening at Bear Creek Winery.
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
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A Viñales Day Trip Tour from Havana was the perfect solution to a problem I commonly have when planning trips – never enough time!
Originally, we wanted to stay in a Casa Particular in Viñales for a few days, but we just didn’t have the time in our limited seven days in Cuba. We were so happy we found this Airbnb experience that offered a day trip.
Where is Viñales?
Viñales is a town in Western Cuba home to lush fields, tobacco farms, rock climbing, and so much more. Just a couple hours away from bustling Havana, Viñales makes for a perfect day trip to enjoy life at a slower pace!
Why book an Airbnb Experience?
Because most of the tourism is run by the communist government, booking Airbnb experiences is the most direct way to give Cuban people money to support them for their services.
Most Cubans must work government jobs that only pay a monthly average wage of $20-40 USD (a month!) To make ends meet, many Cubans work on the side in the tourism industry.
By booking an Airbnb or Airbnb Experience, your money will go to supporting the Cuban people directly, rather than to a hotel or tourist agency. This rule doesn’t just apply to Cuba, it’s just like shopping locally. Your money goes to the people, rather than larger corporations.
Also, it is way more of an authentic experience!
Now that I’ve briefed you on Cuban geography and politics, let’s get to it!
– Viñales Day Trip Tour from Havana –
Depart from Havana around 8 a.m.
We were picked up in this awesome classic car from Havana around 8-9 a.m.
Honestly, nobody is on time in Cuba, so if you have a tour booked and they are running behind – that is totally normal! Patience is key, as keep in mind internet is not always readily available here.
The 2.5-hour drive to Viñales was really enjoyable. Make sure to bring your passport everywhere with you in Cuba, as cops will often flag you down when you are leaving city limits.
Horseback Riding through Mogotes Valley.
The first stop on our tour was riding beautiful horses through the lush valley.
Anytime I think of engaging in tourism with animals, I always do some research into the specifics of how the animals are treated.
We almost booked a different tour in Viñales before coming across this one, however, there were a number of reviews of how badly the horses were treated. Luckily on this tour, the horses seemed to be very well taken care of.
This photo doesn’t do the views of the valley justice, it was so stunning!
The Art of Cuban Cigars
This was unexpectedly one of my favorite parts of the tour! Smoking a Cuban cigar in Cuba is definitely a bucket list moment worth all the hype. You learn where the tobacco grows, how to roll it, and of course how to smoke it.
Bring cash with you so you can buy cigars and other souvenirs! If you personally don’t want them, they make excellent gifts to give away back home.
Say hello to the little farm animals
After the horseback riding and cigar demonstration, you just get to chill and hang out with the farmers while smoking cigars. It honestly feels like you’re visiting your family’s farm! It was so nice, and all the animals were so adorable.
Horseback, cigars, and now caves – oh my! This tour has quite a variety, which always kept things interesting. We enjoyed a nice boat ride through the beautiful caves of Viñales.
Enjoy a late lunch with a view.
On your way back to Havana, you will stop at a delicious restaurant with an incredible view. I ordered the Cuban Ropa Vieja, which is the National Dish of Cuba. It was incredibly delicious!
That concludes a full-day trip Tour to Viñales.
While Havana is a great place to base yourself during your time in Cuba, I highly recommend venturing out beyond.
You can book this Viñales Day Trip Tour on Airbnb here.
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
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by Natalie | Published on May 30, 2020 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023 | Blog
This post is all about photos of Cuba.
Cuba’s vibrant colors are what I remember most about my 7-day journey through this stunning country.
From vintage cars that defy the test of time to the rhythmic moves of salsa dancers, we’ve captured so much in this Cuba photo diary.
By the end of this post about photos of Cuba, I can assure you, that you’ll be planning your Cuban vacation!
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
Buildings here are like a crayon box on steroids, with every shade imaginable. From pastel pinks to sun-bleached yellows and bold blues. It’s like someone turned the entire city into a work of art.
Havana is a gigantic melting pot of colors and architectural influences from around the world. The styles of buildings that largely make up this city are Colonial, Spanish Baroque, Neoclassicism, and Art Deco.
Some of the architecture in Havana was oh-so colorful and symmetrical, it reminded me of something that would be seen in a Wes Anderson film.
Everyday Struggles for Cubans
Havana’s colors are bright but perhaps it is a distraction for tourists from the everyday struggles of Cubans.
Cuba has undoubtedly had a long history of fighting battles both outside and inside the country.
Most Cubans really struggle to make ends meet as the average monthly wage for a state worker is $20 – $30 ($USD). Many Cubans work constantly, pulling second jobs in the tourist industry working for tips or for private companies.
Old Havana or Vevado?
Havana is divided into two parts; Old Havana and Vevado.
Old Havana is likely what you envision Havana to be – bright colors, cobblestone streets, and those dreamy classic cars. However, with that being said, it’s definitely where all the tourists are. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing!
Vevado is the business district and more urban neighborhood of Havana. Likely, where more authentic Cubans live and spend more of their time. Click here for a more in-depth breakdown by a Cuban of the Havana neighborhoods if you are stuck choosing between the two!
We stayed near Old Havana and I am pretty happy with our decision. Vevado is rather far and spread out and I don’t think we would have gotten the experience we envisioned Havana to be.
The Famous Restaurant in Havana – La Guarida!
I LOVED getting to experience dining at La Guarida.
La Guarida is one of the most famous restaurants in all of Havana. It is known for a filming location in a classic film, Strawberry and Chocolate.
Making reservations weeks in advance is highly recommended. You can check out my full restaurant review of La Guarida, here.
La Guarida Restaurant Havana
Spend an evening watching the incredible Tropicana show
Tropicana is a classic Cuban MUST! The Tropicana is a world-famous cabaret show dating back to the late 30s.
Some of the tricks performed are jaw-dropping, and it’s an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to dress up! The recommended dress code is “casual elegance,” meaning women shouldn’t wear shorts and men should wear long pants and a collared shirt.
After you’ve spent some time exploring the city, consider booking an Airbnb experience to go beyond Havana.
We booked an Airbnb experience that took us on a day trip to stunning Viñales.
The tour was so lovely; we enjoyed the few hour’s journeys in a classic car, horseback riding in the valley, and learned how to make Cuban cigars.
VINALES
Vinales is a slice of paradise tucked away in the Cuban countryside.
Immerse yourself in the land of horses, lush greenery, and tobacco farms.
Why you should book an Airbnb experience
Your money will go to supporting the Cuban people directly, rather than to a hotel or tourist agency (that are often run by the communist government!)
This rule doesn’t just apply to Cuba, it’s just like shopping locally.
Your money goes directly to the people, rather than larger corporations. Also, it is way more of an authentic experience.
This tour was so much fun, that we were completely exhausted when we returned to Havana. Luckily, our next destination in Cuba was a relaxing oceanfront town called Cojimar.
COJIMAR
Cojimar is a small fishing village on the Cuban coast. Filled with colorful boats bobbing in the harbor and salty sea breezes that instantly put you at ease, Cojimar is the perfect place to relax.
If this hidden gem sounds familiar, it’s because it is where Hemingway once lived and was inspired to write, Old Man and the Sea.
This sleepy ocean-front town is located just a 15-minute drive from Havana’s old town.
It’s a total change of pace from bustling Havana, and we were ready for somewhere a bit more low-key.
We stayed in an incredible Airbnb that was right on the water. It was way cheaper and more modern than any of the BNBs located in the city center of Havana.
Honestly, there is not much to do in Cojimar aside from visiting Hemngway’s house.
Unless you are setting it as your home base for your Havana trip, I would only spend two days here max. We filled our time by taking a taxi to Santa Maria Beach, which I highly recommend!
A few more photos of Havana.
It’s too beautiful of a city not to capture every corner of it.
Thanks for reading! I hope these 41 photos of Cuba will convince you to plan a trip of a lifetime.
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
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