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Paseo del Prado

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Landmark
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Paseo del Prado (Cuba)

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The Paseo del Prado is one of the most magnificent boulevards in Havana, serving as the boundary between Old Havana (Habana Vieja) and Central Havana (Centro Habana). Laid out in 1772 during the rule of the Marquis de la Torre, the promenade was remodeled several times, most notably in 1928 by French landscape architect Jean-Claude Nicolas Forestier. Distinctive features of the Paseo include its broad marble-paved central walkway, shaded tree-lined alleys, and iconic bronze lion statues guarding the street corners. Along the boulevard stand some of the city's most significant buildings, including the Gran Teatro de La Habana, the Capitolio, and numerous Neoclassical palaces with ornate facades. The Paseo functions as a lively social space where artists exhibit their works, children play soccer, and tourists observe the city's daily life. It is a profound symbol of the colonial elegance and cultural richness of the Cuban capital. Its atmosphere seamlessly blends historic charm with the pulsating energy of modern Havana.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C222425272829292928272524
Rain mm302923336410883108102874530

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Paseo del Prado is a public, tree-lined promenade freely accessible at any time. You can stroll along the avenue and admire the historic buildings.
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Typical hours
The promenade is open 24/7. Nearby cafés and shops are usually open from late morning until late evening.
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Photography
The avenue features excellent photo subjects with its old trees, lampposts, and colonial buildings. Photograph the bronze lion statues and the view toward the Capitol.
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Time needed
A walk along the entire Paseo del Prado takes about 20 to 30 minutes. If you stop at one of the cafés, you can linger longer.
Combine with
Paseo del Prado connects the Capitol to the Malecón. You can combine the promenade with a visit to Central Park and the old town.
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Getting there
Paseo del Prado is in central Havana, walkable from most hotels. Taxis and buses run along the street.
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Insider tip
Walk the promenade in late afternoon when the light is soft and the city comes alive. Sit on a bench and watch local life go by.

Geography

Coordinates
23.13600, -82.35600

Facts

  • The promenade is approximately 2 kilometers long and stretches to the Malecón.
  • The eight bronze lions were added to the walkway in 1928.
  • The Paseo was once the preferred residential area for Cuba's upper class.
  • Jean-Claude Nicolas Forestier also designed the Champ de Mars park in Paris.
  • The original name of the street was Alameda de Paula.
  • In the 1950s, the Paseo was the primary venue for Havana's carnival parades.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Sights in the town Paseo del Prado (3)

Church Santo Cristo del Buen Viaje, Havana📍 landmark

Church in Havana, dedicated to protecting travelers, with a simple facade.

Floridita📍 landmark

Famous bar in Havana, known for daiquiris and as a hangout of Ernest Hemingway.

Havana Plan Piloto📍 landmark

Urban planning project for Havana from the 20th century, shaping the city's modern layout.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Paseo del Prado?
A famous tree-lined promenade in Havana decorated with bronze lion statues.
What does the Paseo del Prado separate?
It forms the boundary between Old Havana (Habana Vieja) and Central Havana.
Are there places to sit there?
Yes, there are numerous marble benches along the entire promenade for resting.
Is it safe to walk here at night?
Yes, it is a busy and usually well-lit area, convenient for evening strolls.
Which buildings are located on the Prado?
Outstanding buildings like the Gran Teatro and magnificent hotels line the path.
Paseo del Prado: where is it located?
Paseo del Prado is located in Cuba.
Paseo del Prado: what is there to see?
Highlights include Church Santo Cristo del Buen Viaje, Havana, Floridita, Havana Plan Piloto.
Paseo del Prado: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Paseo del Prado: why is it worth visiting?
The Paseo del Prado is one of the most magnificent boulevards in Havana, serving as the boundary between Old Havana (Habana Vieja) and Central Havana (Centro Habana).
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