Central Park

Smart planning brings out the best in Central Park, Havana. Known locally as Parque Central, the area buzzes from early morning to late evening. Crowds swell during major festivals but often thin out at midday, when light filters through the trees and locals escape the heat. Most visitors find arrival straightforward, whether walking from nearby hotels in Old Havana or hopping in one of the city’s photogenic classic taxis. While tickets aren’t needed for the park itself, guided tours and nearby attractions sometimes require advance booking.

• Best time to visit: Early morning or golden hour, November to April, when humidity drops and the light’s just right.
• How to get there: Easily reached by foot from Old Havana neighborhoods, with plenty of vintage taxis and bicitaxis circulating the area.
• Accessibility: Flat walkways and ramps provide reasonable access for strollers and wheelchairs. Benches are plentiful for those needing to rest.
• Average visit duration: Between 1-2 hours, but people-watching can stretch visits longer.

Central Park captivates with a generous mix of old grandeur and lively, day-to-day life. Marble statues and gilded street lamps hint at history, while the steady hum of dominos, local debate, and live music promises Havana’s spirit. The park’s central location means that landmarks await in every direction, but a few highlights demand special notice.

• Key sights: Seek out the tall statue of José Martí, the Cuban hero, standing atop a white marble base while children play nearby. Admire the facades of El Gran Teatro de La Habana and Hotel Inglaterra, both facing the park with their elegant balconies and century-old stories.
• Unique experiences: Pause at the chess table where retirees play fiercely; join a lunchtime rumba by local musicians on weekend afternoons; or wander to the nearby Paseo del Prado for a tree-shaded stroll just steps away.
• Photo-worthy locations: Stand at the north edge for a sweeping shot that includes classic convertibles, grand theatres, and the leafy promenade—all Havana in one frame.
• Cultural facts: This plaza has been the epicenter for celebrations, protests, and everyday meetups since the 19th century. Watching the ongoing domino matches offers not just entertainment but a glimpse into Cuban social life.