Vardero is considered by many to be the most beautiful beach in the world. It includes twenty-one kilometers of fine white sand that welcome sun lovers interested in swimming and water sports. Varadero has been ranked the 10th best beach in the world by the 2012 edition of Traveler’s Choice.In addition to its stunning beaches, visitors can explore the surrounding area’s caves and cliffs. Nearby, visitors might be interested in venturing into the towns of Cardenas (and Matanzas) where you could meet the locals and enjoy a romantic seafood dinner in one of the many families-owned restaurants while watching the sunset.
It is the perfect place to enjoy Havana’s soul. The esplanade is a magnet for locals and tourists alike. This sea boulevard extends 8 km along the historical areas of the city, from the colonial center of Habana Vieja all the way to Vedado. Along the busy boulevard, visitors marvel at the beauty of the surrounding buildings, with their charm and beauty. In the evening, the setting sun reflects upon the surrounding buildings and the Havana Bay, to give it a magical touch. While in Havana Malecón, visitors enjoy music played by many of the wandering bands, enjoy a fast peanut snack or just bask in the northern breeze.
Al Medina is one of the only Middle Eastern-style restaurants in Havana. They usually have a small but good band playing traditional Cuban music. They serve good seafood and beef shish kabobs as well as hummus, salads and vegetarian dishes. They also have somecomida tipica – traditional Cuban food. The main courses and side dishes are all prepared quite traditionally, and prices are relatively low.
Paseo del Prado #563, third floor, between Teniente Rey and Dragones, across from the Capitolio.
El Asturianito has a similar menu to Los Nardos (a restaurant found on the lower level of the building) serving traditional Cuban/Creole food with a wide variety of beef, seafood and chicken dishes. The portions are huge and the prices are very low. Chances are, meals will not be finished and leftovers will be taken home.
It is a pleasantly surprising experience in which some absolutely fantastic food is served on a budget.
A great place to enjoy Spanish tapas and live Flamenco while having great seafood dinner. The prices are reasonable and the sangria and the tapas are mouth watering. At night, the place is live with performances conducted by gifted Flamenco musicians and dancers from renown Cuban Flamenco group.
Mercaderes #257, between Amargura y Brasil (Teniente Rey).Phone: 867-3838
La Mina is dead in the center of all of the good things in Old Havana. Refreshing meals for $7 to $10 a plate and good, inexpensive cocktails (Mojitos are $2) can be obtained. The restaurant is known for its traditional live music and its outdoor patios, filled with plants and their signature peacocks running around. The restaurant is open every day until at least 2:00 am.
Calle Obispo #109, corner of Oficios. Phone: 862-0216
Excellent beer is served with burgers and kabobs, cooked on an outdoor grill with their signature side dish of fufú. They have a traditional group playing live traditional Cuban music in the courtyard and, since the restaurant opens out onto the plaza, it can be a fun place to watch the lively foot traffic in the area.
La Muralla and San Ignacio Streets, Plaza Vieja.