Centuries ago, the Spanish fired this cannon at 8 p.m. from La Cabaña to signal the closing of Havana's city gates across the bay. The tradition endures today at 9 p.m., a vivid echo of colonial history. As daylight heat yields to evening breezes, settle on the ramparts with views of a tranquil sea and the city igniting its first lamps. Street vendors offer peanuts and fresh popcorn. Then, soldiers in colonial Spanish uniforms march to drumbeats, lighting lanterns and sharing the ceremony's tales. At 9 p.m. sharp, the cannon's roar crowns the spectacle amid cheers from onlookers.
Morro-Cabaña Historical Complex, Monumental Highway, at the exit of the Havana Bay Tunnel.
This lively promenade hums with energy day and night, running from Central Park—marked by José Martí's statue—to the Malecón. Chanel unveiled its Cruise 2016/2017 collection here, framed by stunning early-20th-century architecture. Dive into everyday Cuban vibrancy: baseball fans debating passionately (the national obsession), emerging soccer enthusiasts, kids playing shirtless with a battered ball, and subtle street sellers.
Havana's nod to classic cafés, El Escorial roasts premium beans from nearby regions on-site, serving what locals dub "the black nectar of the white gods." Relish an iced coffee for under 3 CUC (about 2€) amid Plaza Vieja's buzz and fountain views.
Plaza Vieja, corner of Muralla and Mercaderes streets.
