Havana

Havana’s diverse architecture is a product of its varied history and includes fearsome 16th-century fortifications, lavish Art Deco theatres and Soviet-style structures - simply wandering the city streets provides an education in Cuban history. Over half a century of communist rule granted the city some dramatic transformations and grand public buildings, with presidential palaces turned into museums and capitol buildings serving as public libraries. Make sure to pop into some for a glimpse of the glamour that characterised pre-revolution Cuba.

An undeniably romantic city, there are plenty of atmospheric spots that you won’t want to pass by. Watching the sunset from the Malecón is a quintessential Havana experience, sound tracked by buskers playing catchy Cuban classics. The city’s historic squares – Plaza Vieja, Plaza de la Catedral, Plaza de Armas and Plaza de San Francisco de Asis – are superb spots for people watching.

The city's vibrant cultural scene is the highlight of most Havana holidays. You can watch a world-class ballet show, famous 1940s cabaret, Afro-Cuban street performance or simply salsa the night away - daiquiri in hand. You’ll soon realise that music and dancing is a constant in Havana, as ubiquitous as Che Guevara memorabilia and classic American cars