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Layover Ideas Havana Jose Marti Airport HAV

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Top 5 Layover Ideas for Havana Jose Marti Airport

Long layovers can be tedious, but if you find yourself with spare time at Havana Jose Marti Airport (HAV), there are plenty of ways to transform your wait into an exciting mini-adventure. Here are our top 5 layover ideas:

1. Explore Old Havana

Just a short taxi ride from the airport, Old Havana, or Habana Vieja, is a UNESCO World Heritage site packed with historical landmarks, charming streets, and vibrant culture. You can visit the Plaza de la Catedral, stroll along the Malecón, and enjoy a traditional Cuban meal at a local paladar. Remember to leave ample time for your return to the airport.

2. Visit the Museum of the Revolution

For history buffs, the Museum of the Revolution is a must-visit. Located in the former Presidential Palace, the museum offers a fascinating insight into Cuba's revolutionary history. Exhibits include the Granma yacht that transported Fidel Castro and his rebels from Mexico to Cuba in 1956, and various artifacts from the revolution period.

3. Relax at Playas del Este

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Playas del Este, a stretch of beautiful beaches located east of Havana. Here, you can relax under the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.

4. Visit the Partagas Cigar Factory

No trip to Havana would be complete without a visit to a cigar factory. The Partagas Cigar Factory, one of the oldest in the city, offers guided tours where you can learn about the process of cigar making and even purchase some to take home.

5. Enjoy a Mojito at La Bodeguita del Medio

Finally, end your layover in style by visiting La Bodeguita del Medio, the birthplace of the Mojito. This iconic bar has been a favorite haunt of celebrities and writers, including Ernest Hemingway. Enjoy a refreshing Mojito and soak up the lively atmosphere before heading back to the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If you have between 12-48 hours to spend, you can venture further afield and explore some of the attractions in the wider Havana region. The following activities are perfect for those with an extended layover:

1. Discover the Viñales Valley

Located about a two-hour drive from Havana, the Viñales Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning landscapes and tobacco fields. You can take a guided tour, explore the caves, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views. Don't forget to try a traditional Cuban cigar made from the tobacco grown in this region.

2. Visit Varadero Beach

If you're looking for a beach getaway, Varadero Beach is worth the trip. About a two-hour drive from the airport, this resort town is famous for its pristine sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters. You can relax on the beach, try water sports, or visit the nearby Varahicacos Ecological Reserve.

3. Explore the Zapata Peninsula

For nature lovers, the Zapata Peninsula, about a three-hour drive from Havana, is a must-visit. Home to the Ciénaga de Zapata National Park and the Bay of Pigs, the peninsula offers a variety of outdoor activities, including bird watching, snorkeling, and exploring the area's natural beauty.

4. Visit the City of Cienfuegos

The city of Cienfuegos, often referred to as the 'Pearl of the South', is about a three-hour drive from Havana. Known for its French influence and neoclassical architecture, the city offers beautiful sights such as the Palacio de Valle and the Cienfuegos Botanical Garden.

5. Explore Trinidad

Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is about a four-hour drive from Havana. This well-preserved colonial city is known for its cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, and vibrant music scene. You can visit the Museo Romántico, climb the bell tower at the Convento de San Francisco for panoramic views, or enjoy live music at Casa de la Música.

Updated on: November 22, 2023

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