3 days in Havana
Havana, the capital of Cuba, is like a vibrant and colorful party that never ends! It’s famous for its rich culture, stunning architecture, and nightlife that will make your head spin (in a good way, of course!). While Havana may not have a designated “gayborhood,” don’t you worry because there are plenty of gay-friendly spots in Havana to explore. And guess what? Calle 23 is where the real magic happens at night – it’s like the ultimate queer hotspot!
So, if you’re ready to paint the town rainbow and have the time of your life, Havana is calling your name. Get ready to dance, mingle, and experience the best of LGBTQ+ Havana! Let’s make unforgettable memories together, because you deserve it.
Day 1:
Morning
Start your day by exploring Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 16th century. You won’t believe the stunning architecture and historic buildings in this place! Take a guided tour and prepare to be amazed. Don’t forget to visit the Plaza de Armas, the oldest square in Havana. And oh, the Cathedral of Havana, it’s a beautiful baroque-style cathedral that you absolutely have to see. You won’t be disappointed!
Afternoon
In the afternoon, head on over to the Malecón, Havana’s famous seafront boulevard. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, soak in the breathtaking views of the city skyline, and enjoy the sight of locals fishing and socializing. Don’t forget to make a pit stop at one of the outdoor bars for a refreshing drink and some prime people-watching.
Evening
In the evening, head to one of the local restaurants for some delicious dinner. You’ve got to try the local specialties like ropa vieja (shredded beef) or lechón asado (roast pork). And the lively atmosphere of the city adds to the whole experience.
After dinner, head to one of the local bars or clubs for some live music and dancing. You’ve got to check out the popular gay-friendly spots in Havana like Cabaret Las Vegas, where you can catch an awesome drag show and dance the night away. It also holds a special historical landmark for Cuba’s LGBTQ+ movement. This used to be the only spot where queer Cubans could party in peace, even in the face of blatant persecution. These days, people of all ages can be seen there, although the crowd is definitely a bit on the older side. And if you’re into salsa, Café Cantante Mi Habana is the place to be! So grab your dancing shoes and get ready for a night filled with fun and excitement!
Day 2:
Morning
On your second day in Havana, you absolutely cannot miss the Museum of the Revolution. It’s a real gem! This place will take you on a journey through the captivating history and vibrant culture of Cuba. You’ll get to dive deep into the country’s revolutionary past and get up close with some incredible artifacts and exhibits from the Cuban Revolution. It’s like stepping into a time machine and immersing yourself in the rich heritage of this fascinating place. So, make sure to put this museum at the top of your Havana itinerary. You won’t regret it!
Afternoon
In the afternoon, make your way to the Vedado neighborhood, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss out on the famous Hotel Nacional de Cuba, where countless famous figures have graced its halls over the years. Take a delightful tour of the hotel and treat yourself to a refreshing drink at the outdoor bar with breathtaking ocean views.
Evening
In the evening, head to La Guarida, Havana’s most famous private paladar. The 1994 Oscar-nominated movie Fresa y Chocolate (Strawberries & Chocolate) about two men who are opposites: one gay, the other straight; one a fierce communist, the other a fierce individualist; one suspicious, the other accepting; and how they come to love each other was shot here. Since then it has seen some of the most high-profile visitors to the island arrive in search of the best meal in Havana. Rihanna stopped in for a meal when filming on the island, and even President Obama made an appearance on his historic visit to Cuba in 2016.
After a satisfying meal, take a leisurely stroll down Calle 23, one of the main gay-friendly spots in Havana. It’s the place to be for some live music, dancing, and all-around good vibes. You’ll find some popular bars around Calle 23 like XY Bar (formerly Bar Myxto). XY’s music list and cocktail menu are like a treasure trove of variety, and they always have an impressive selection of beers on hand. So grab a drink, let loose, and have a blast!
Day 3:
Morning
On your final day in Havana, don’t miss the chance to explore the incredible Havana Club Museum of Rum! It’s like stepping into a time machine that takes you through the fascinating history and production process of Cuba’s world-renowned rum. And the best part? You get to enjoy some delicious tastings of the different rum varieties. It’s a must-visit for rum enthusiasts and anyone looking to have a good time!
Afternoon
In the afternoon, head over to the Almendares Park. It’s this awesome green space right in the middle of the city. Take a leisurely stroll through the park, kick back on the grass, and soak up the chill vibes. And hey, if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, give kayaking or paddle boating a shot on the nearby river. It’s all about having a good time and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere.
Evening
Before you head back home, wrap up your visit on a high note. Swing by one of the local bars or clubs in the El Vedado area for a final night of live music and dancing. No matter when you decide to go, you’ll be greeted by a welcoming and trendy atmosphere.
Make sure to check out the famous PaZillo Bar, one of the popular gay-friendly spots in Havana where they regularly host LGBTQ+ themed parties. Their music is all about getting your groove on, with a mix of the year’s hottest Billboard hits and a strong inclination towards salsa, reggaeton, and other tropical rhythms. The dress code is pretty flexible, but if you want to dance the night away, comfy shoes are highly recommended.
If you’re in the mood for a more laid-back vibe, give Rylac Bar a try. They’ve got comfy puff seats, fairy lights, and a lot less noise overall. And if you’re up for it, take a stroll in the nearby garden, perfect for unwinding on a warm early evening. The dress code and music here are equally casual, so it’s the ideal opportunity to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this beautiful city.