Plaza de San Francisco de Asís
Historic Havana plaza with iconic lion fountains, colonial architecture, and vibrant art, facing the harbor.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Plaza de San Francisco de Asís
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Havana plaza with iconic lion fountains, colonial architecture, and vibrant art, facing the harbor.
"A beautiful plaza with gorgeous heritage buildings, a great starting point for exploring Old Havana."
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture stunning wedding photos and scenic shots with the beautiful architecture.
🎨 Explore Local Art
Don't miss the beautiful galleries featuring Venezuelan artist works.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fuente de los Leones
Center of the plaza
Iconic lion fountains, a picturesque centerpiece perfect for photos and a moment of calm.
Art Installations
Throughout the plaza
Discover captivating art pieces and galleries, showcasing local and international talent.
Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi
Adjacent to the plaza
Admire the stunning colonial architecture of this historic basilica, a true gem.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art & History
Harbor Views & Cafe Culture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Traveling to Havana, Cuba for 4 days. What to do to ensure I have the most fun?
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture stunning wedding photos and scenic shots with the beautiful architecture.
🎨 Explore Local Art
Don't miss the beautiful galleries featuring Venezuelan artist works.
Art near St. Francis of Assisi Square in Havana / Arte cerca de la Plaza de San Francisco de Asís en La Habana
🚶♀️ Gateway to Old Havana
Ideal starting point for exploring the vehicle-free old town.
☕ Relax at Cafes
Enjoy pleasant cafes and restaurants with harbor views.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture stunning wedding photos and scenic shots with the beautiful architecture.
🎨 Explore Local Art
Don't miss the beautiful galleries featuring Venezuelan artist works.
🚶♀️ Gateway to Old Havana
Ideal starting point for exploring the vehicle-free old town.
☕ Relax at Cafes
Enjoy pleasant cafes and restaurants with harbor views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Plaza de San Francisco de Asís for its beautiful colonial architecture, iconic fountain, and vibrant art scene. It's highlighted as a picturesque spot perfect for photography and a charming gateway to exploring Old Havana, with plenty of cafes to enjoy the atmosphere.
"This is another one of the many beautiful Plazas in downtown Havana, with a number of very interesting art installations. Lots of cafés are in the area."
Reza Sattarzadeh Nowbari
"This plaza is one of several city squares which is ancient, containing traditional buildings and museums of Havana city. It must be one of the destinations during the tour in the city."
Haytham Abbas
"Beautiful plaza in Havana beside the St Francisco de Asis Basilica. It’s a very nice place to take pictures for weddings. The architecture is very beautiful all around. This is another touristic place with seeing and exploring."
Oliver
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The plaza is located in Old Havana, easily accessible by taxi or on foot if you're already exploring the historic center. Many walking tours of Old Havana include this as a key stop.
Yes, the plaza was historically built facing Havana's port and offers views of the harbor. It's a great place to start your exploration after arriving by sea or exploring the waterfront.
Absolutely! It's a central point in Old Havana and a pleasant walk from many other plazas and attractions in the vehicle-free zone.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the plaza itself is a public space and is free to enter. You only pay if you choose to enter specific museums or purchase from cafes and restaurants.
As an open plaza, it's accessible at all hours. However, individual shops, cafes, and galleries within or around the plaza will have their own operating times.
No advance booking is necessary for the plaza itself. It's a public square meant for strolling and enjoying the atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
The Fuente de los Leones fountain is a prime spot. The surrounding colonial architecture, especially the Basilica, offers stunning backdrops. The harbor views are also picturesque.
Yes, many visitors note it's a very nice place for wedding photography due to its beautiful architecture and romantic ambiance.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour lighting, while early mornings can be less crowded for unobstructed shots. Evenings provide a lively atmosphere.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, the plaza and its surroundings are home to many pleasant cafes and restaurants, offering a great place to relax and enjoy local cuisine or a drink with a view.
You'll find a variety of Cuban dishes, international options, and coffee at the numerous establishments around the plaza.
🎫 🏛️ History & Culture
Built in the 16th century, it was a key stop for Spanish galleons traveling between the Indies and Spain. It's one of Havana's ancient squares, rich with traditional buildings and museums.
Besides the fountain and the Basilica, you can explore art galleries, traditional buildings, and it serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the historic Old Havana.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Havana's Past
The plaza itself is characterized by its open cobblestone expanse and the iconic Fuente de los Leones (Fountain of the Lions) at its center. This fountain serves as a picturesque focal point, inviting visitors to pause and admire the surroundings. The area is also known for its vibrant art installations, adding a contemporary cultural layer to the historical backdrop. It's a place where the old and new coexist harmoniously, making it a captivating destination for history buffs and art lovers alike.
Artistic Flair and Cafe Culture
Complementing the art scene are numerous charming cafes and restaurants that line the plaza. These establishments provide the perfect opportunity to unwind, enjoy a cup of Cuban coffee, or savor local cuisine while taking in the views of the harbor or the bustling plaza. The atmosphere is often described as pleasant and inviting, making it an ideal spot to rest your feet after exploring Old Havana or to simply soak in the local ambiance.
Social
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