Walking Tour of Old Havana

When we stepped off the bus on the morning of January 5th, we were greeted by the iconic Plaza de Armas. At its heart stood a towering Carlos Manuel de Céspedes statue, the “Padre de la Patria”. In English, this is translated to “Father of the Country”. Céspedes received this name because of his significant influence on Cuban independence. Behind him soared an even taller Cuban flag, its vibrant colors rippling in the breeze. The plaza was alive with greenery including a canopy of palm trees and other native plants.

As we walked through old Havana, I could see the influence that the Spanish style of architecture had on the city in the 16th and 17th centuries. Arriving at the Plaza de la Catedral, the stunning beauty of the Cathedral of Havana immediately struck me. Inside, a mass was taking place. We quietly observed the interior, taking in the high ceilings and the glow from the chandeliers above.

The Atmosphere of Old Havana

As we continued to explore the streets of Old Havana, we were immersed in its vibrant and lively atmosphere. The cobblestone streets buzzed with a diverse mix of visitors, locals, and the occasional stray cat or dog weaving through the crowd. Musicians played lively tunes on the street corners. Along the way, we learned about Cuba’s dedication to preserving the old Spanish architectural styles that give the buildings their charm. Their colorful walls and intricate details told stories of the island’s colonial past.

Our tour took us to the bustling Plaza Vieja, a square brimming with life and surrounded by beautifully restored buildings. To finish our walking tour, we visited the Plaza de San Francisco de Asís and learned its importance. Plaza de San Francisco was crucial to the Caribbean because it served as the meeting point for all ships in the region, which would gather there in Cuba before sailing back to Spain together.

Lunch and the Market

After we toured Old Havana, we stopped at Bahía for lunch, a perfect spot to enjoy the city’s charm. Throughout the trip, we were treated to authentic Cuban cuisine, and this meal was no exception. What truly set the experience apart was the view. From our table, we had a stunning panorama of Old Havana. Beyond that, we caught a glimpse of the ocean from inside the bay.

After lunch, we made our way to the Almacenes San José Artisans’ Market, a bustling hub of activity filled with shops, tourists, and local artisans eager to showcase their goods. The market offered an array of unique souvenirs, giving us the perfect chance to practice our haggling skills using US dollars. Upstairs, the market showcased a collection of different paintings and prints, each piece reflecting the artistry of Cuba. Artists sold many of these works at prices far below what they might fetch in the United States, making it a great spot for art enthusiasts.

I purchased a panoramic print of classic cars. The print depicts many cars that are all sorts of colors, sitting on a street in downtown Havana. After finding the print, I purchased a painting that beautifully captures a coastal scene. It features a red-sailed boat sailing across calm, sparkling blue waters. In the background, El Morro stands tall above the ocean. Small patches of greenery on the fortress’ edges add a touch of life to the historic structure. This was by far my favorite souvenir I bought on the trip.

Classic Car Tour

After leaving the market, we set off for a classic car tour. There were five vehicles in total, ranging from the 1920s to the 1950s, each with its unique charm. I chose to ride in a beautiful white and blue Buick, an amazing vehicle that had been restored over seven years by our driver. The car was a perfect example of the care and effort it takes to keep these vintage treasures alive.

As we cruised through the streets of Havana, we made our way to Revolution Square. Here, we took the opportunity to capture photos, both inside and outside the cars, soaking in the history and atmosphere of this iconic location. Standing tall in the background were the murals of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos, their eyes watching over the square. It was a moment of connection with the past, where the beauty of the cars and the historic significance of the murals blended perfectly, making the experience feel like a step back in time.

The second full day of our trip was my favorite, as we explored history and culture at every turn in the charming plazas like Plaza de la Catedral and Plaza de Armas. Following the walking tour, a visit to the market, where we were able to buy very unique souvenirs, added to our experience. Finally, the drive through Havana and stopping at Plaza de la Revolución to finish the day. Altogether, we experienced a day full of unforgettable moments and memories that will last a lifetime.