Visit Havana on a holiday to Cuba

Cuba's beautiful Caribbean beaches, charming atmosphere and turquoise waters are three reasons why people flock to this island every year. However, a trip to Cuba wouldn't be complete without a visit to its capital Havana - read on to find out why.

A lot of people who book a holiday in Cuba do so with the intention to top up their tans, enjoy rum cocktails on the beach and dance the night away in salsa clubs. While you will definitely be able to do all this on a trip to the island, which is situated in the heart of the Caribbean, there is also much more to see here.

Havana is the heart of Cuba, with the capital being its historical centre, where holidaymakers can learn all about the island's interesting past. Indeed, it is home to many demonstrations that were pivotal during the revolution in 1959. Furthermore, as this occasion left US banning trade sanctions with the nation, the city is a great place to see how the island has been stuck in time ever since, with cars and buildings all dating from the 1950s.

One of the first things you'll notice when you come to Havana is its crumbling buildings and old-fashioned American cars. However, as well as being home to aged remnants and dated goods, it is also the best place to experience Cuba's rich culture.

Walking down the streets, you'll come across drummers playing on bongos, people dancing and men having a game of chess in the basking sun. Mural paintings are all over the city - which is also the largest in the Caribbean - while posters of revolutionary Che Guevara remain from 60 years ago.

There are many attractions to see in Havana, including the Museo de la Revolucion, which helps to recount its recent past, and the downfall of leader Fulgencio Batista.

It is also worth visiting the Real Fabrica de Tabacos Partagas, one of the biggest cigar factories in Havana. Cuba is well known for its cigar trade, so you can learn a lot about this industry and how cigars are made by visiting this establishment. You can even sample a cigar or buy some to bring them home for a special occasion.