Quick, what are the two things Cuba is most known for?
If you answered cigars and rum, you would be right! The best way to enjoy the latter (and the former if you're into smoking) is at one of the many rooftop bars in Havana! Picture yourself with a cold cocktail in your hand, the sun warming you, while you sit back and enjoy the sound of a live band playing just a few feet away. Visit during the day, the afternoon, or evening as the sun slips behind the buildings. There really isn't a bad time to drink on a rooftop, I've decided. I should mention that most of the cocktails on this list cost around 5 CUC (~$5).
Hotel Saratoga
This hotel is one of the best (and most expensive) in Havana. In fact, it is the place Jay Z and Beyonce stayed when celebrating their wedding anniversary, and where Madonna came for her 58th birthday trip. The rooftop bar, called the Mirador, serves cocktails and light food throughout the day. The best part, and the reason you want to go, is for the views. The terrace offers views of the surrounding area, and even the sea.
Hotel Saratoga, 603 Paseo de Martí, Havana
La Guarida
This restaurant is said to be one of the best in the city. It certainly is one of the more fancy places to dine. If you want to save some money, I recommend skipping the meal and just heading here for the rooftop views. While the entrance may not look like much (honestly it looks abandoned), head up the staircase and you will be rewarded. Grab a cocktail at the bar and climb up the winding staircase; there's a bar at this level, but if you go even further up, you will get some of the best views in all of Havana, in my opinion.
When I visited in the early afternoon, the restaurant was closed, but they let me buy a mojito and take it up with me. Of all the rooftop bars in Havana, the view at this one is the best. Totally worth it.
Paladar La Guarida, 418 Concordia, Havana
Ambos Mundos
This hotel was made famous by Hemingway, who stayed there and used the room as an office when he lived in Havana. The rooftop bar is equally famous for the sweeping views it offers of Havana, as well as the forts and light house across the canal. The building itself is hard to miss, with its pink color. Inside, hitch a ride to the top in the old school elevator, operated by a staff member. Once upstairs, take in the views and sip on cocktails while the live band plays traditional cuban salsa music.
Ambos Mundos, 153 Obispo, Havana
El del Frente
The entrance to this rooftop bar and restaurant is a bit hard to spot, but look for the small white door. Located across the street from 304 on O'Reilly, the owner of both establishments decided to name this second restaurant “the one in front,” for obvious reasons. The atmosphere is laid back and at night the cool breeze offers a welcome respite from the hot Havana days. Serving up delicious tapas and light meals, this rooftop should definitely be a part of any trip to Havana. Reservations are recommended, especially for the evening and nights. For cocktails, I recommend the canchanchara, a lovely mix of lime, honey, and aguardiente. Ladies all receive beautiful complimentary flowers at the end of their meal/drinks.
El del Frente, 303 O'Reilly, Havana
Hotel Parque Central
Another hotel with great views of Havana is the rooftop at the Hotel Parque Central. It is the perfect place to relax in the afternoon and watch the sun set. They usually have a live band playing, which only adds to the ambiance.
Hotel Parque Central, N side of Parque Central, Havana
Hotel Manzana
This hotel has an exquisite rooftop infinity pool and terrace. It can get quite crowded in the afternoon, and they have no problem turning people away. While the pool is reserved for guests or those with a day pass, visitors can still enjoy a cocktail or two with spectacular views of the city and capitol building.
Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski, E side of Parque Central, Havana
Hotel Inglaterra
Not only is this colonial hotel one of the oldest in the city, it was the location where Jose Marti hosted many of his meetings and speeches. The rooftop bar looks out on Parque Central and it really comes alive at night when locals and tourists flock here to dance salsa until midnight.
Hotel Inglaterra, W side of Parque Central, Havana
Trip Planning? Pin this for later!
Have you been to any rooftop bars in Havana? Which are your favorite? Share in the comments below!