Here’s Where You Can Take the Best Photos in Havana, Cuba

Traveling to Cuba was a dream come true for a lot of reasons. Partially because it has always been exempt for us American travelers. But mostly because I can finally live my “Havana Oh Na Na” life I’ve been daydreaming about via Instagram. If you’re here, I’m sure you feel the same. Here are the best Havana Cuba photography spots that you absolutely have to capture for yourself!

But let me just make one thing clear: Havana can be a little hard to navigate.

Luckily, I was touring the city with Endless Havana, a female-operated tour company that not only took us to all of the locations below, but also gave us a taste of real, Cuban culture.

I’m not talking about the tours that just give you a little bit of history. Or the tours that take you to a “real shop” and get a kick back when you spend wayyy too much money on a Cuban cigar. No; Endless Havana took us beyond the touristy spots, beyond the Instagram destinations and into the lives of locals. And because of this tour, Cuba has become my favorite travel destination!

Check out their upcoming tours here so you get a real taste of Cuba!

El Capitolio

You can’t possibly miss (and probably can’t avoid) this giant beauty in Havana! El Capitolio is the nation’s capital where the organization of government was held until the Cuban Revolution in 1959. Now it’s home to the Cuban Academy of Sciences, but it still looks incredibly regal. Unfortunately, this spot was under construction while we were visiting, but the locals are very excited about refurbishing this historical building.

Opposite of Capitolio

Across the street from El Capitolio is one of Havana’s greatest sights, at least according to Instagram anyway. Colorful, dilapidated buildings line the busy street, making the perfect backdrop for a quintessential Cuban scene. Take your time here to make sure you get an old car in the shot (this may take 20 minutes, but who’s counting anyway). 

Floridita Restaurante & Bar

Any literary buffs out there? If so, you have to stop by Floridita Restaurante & Bar. Not only was this one of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite spots to grab a mojito, but it’s the perfect place to grab a photo encapsulating Cuban life. But let’s be real, you’re just here to get a cocktail.

Plaza de la Catedral

Are you looking for something with more history? Maybe you prefer more landscape photography? Then wind your way through the Cuban streets and stumble upon Plaza de la Catedral, the Cathedral of Havana. Good luck getting a solo shot here, but its exterior and interior are absolutely stunning.

Plaza Vieja

In the heart of Old Havana, or “Habana,” is the Old Square, or “Plaza Vieja.”  Its border is surrounded by seven consejos populares with a fountain in its center, though not as bright and colorful as some of the other buildings you might have seen thus far. This place isn’t bustling with tourists so getting a solo shot wouldn’t be impossible.

Fusterlandia

Fusterlandia, located in the Jaimanitas neighborhood, is basically one giant, interactive art exhibit created by José Fuster. This artist wanted to bring a touch of Gaudi and Brâncuși to his hometown in Cuba and covered an entire home/neighborhood in mosaic tiles! It took just about over a decade to make, but so worth it for your ‘gram grid.

El Malecón

While most are capturing photos of Castillo de Los Tres Reyes del Morro, we just couldn’t get enough of the street scenes and old cars. Take a trip along El Malecón (the walk way between the seawall and mainland) and catch a glimpse of the castle along the sea. Or do as we did and keep taking pictures among the decrepit yet beautiful buildings.

Parque Central

Not far from El Capitolio lies Parque Central, the tourist hub of Havana. You’ll see everyone here using their phones (to use the free WiFi), all of the old cars to rent for a day, and lots of small businesses. Make sure you rent an old car here if you’re looking for some authentic, Havana Cuba photography scenes! We paid $35 USD to rent a car for one hour (specifically for photo taking) and it was definitely worth it!

Want to Take Your Own, Awesome Instagram Photos?

As you probably know by now, most of the big time bloggers and influencers don’t use their cell phones to take a proper Instagram picture. Sure, the iPhone X has come out with some awesome features, especially the portrait mode! But it just doesn’t hold a candle to a professional, DSLR camera (especially if you want to get noticed on Instagram).

Most of these were taken with a Nikon D750 (by my dear friend Angie) or my Sony A6300. Try purchasing one of these refurbished, on Amazon, or rent them! Practice makes perfect and eventually, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without one.

*Thank you to Endless Havana for hosting me on this tour. As always, ideas and opinions expressed are entirely my own.

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