
Callejón de Hamel
A narrow Havana alley bursting with vibrant murals, found art, and infectious Sunday rumba music and dance.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live music & dancing

Callejón de Hamel
Best Time
Live music & dancing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A narrow Havana alley bursting with vibrant murals, found art, and infectious Sunday rumba music and dance.
"This colorful alley is a peculiar but super cool place for photos and experiencing authentic Cuban rumba."

🎯 Sunday is Rumba Day!
Don't miss the vibrant Sunday rumba sessions for an authentic cultural immersion.
💰 Bring Cash for Tips
Tipping performers is customary and appreciated. Have small bills ready.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Murals
Immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of colors with unique street art and found object sculptures adorning every surface.

Rumba Sundays
Experience the infectious energy of live rumba music and spontaneous dancing that fills the alley every Sunday.

Found Object Art
Discover whimsical and thought-provoking art installations crafted from everyday objects, like painted bathtubs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art & Music
Getting There & Staying Safe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Our 7 day itinerary for Havana
🎯 Sunday is Rumba Day!
Don't miss the vibrant Sunday rumba sessions for an authentic cultural immersion.
💰 Bring Cash for Tips
Tipping performers is customary and appreciated. Have small bills ready.
⚠️ Be Wary of Scams
Some visitors report overpriced drinks and overly helpful locals. Stay alert.
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
The colorful art makes for incredible photos. Explore every nook and cranny.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Sunday is Rumba Day!
Don't miss the vibrant Sunday rumba sessions for an authentic cultural immersion.
💰 Bring Cash for Tips
Tipping performers is customary and appreciated. Have small bills ready.
⚠️ Be Wary of Scams
Some visitors report overpriced drinks and overly helpful locals. Stay alert.
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
The colorful art makes for incredible photos. Explore every nook and cranny.
🚲 Consider a Bike Tour
Easier to access and navigate the area as part of a guided bike tour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Callejón de Hamel is celebrated for its incredibly colorful and unique street art, transforming an ordinary alley into a vibrant outdoor gallery. The Sunday rumba sessions are a major draw, offering an energetic and immersive cultural experience. However, some visitors have encountered tourist traps, including overpriced drinks and overly persistent locals, leading to a 'scammer central' perception for a few.
"Interesting and colorful street. It’s easier to come here on a bike tour."
Andrew Itsuno
"Solo female traveler, went by myself and stayed for the music and dancing for a couple hours. Felt safe, lots of energy, be mindful and you’ll enjoy yourself. Got an overpriced coco taxi to old Havana. Bring cash to tip the performers."
Sonia Miguel
"SCAM!! Agreed with many of the other posts. Lying locals trying to be nice to tourists and overpriced drinks. This is so atypical of our visit to Cuba where most people are genuine. Simply stay away from this entire area near the University of Havana (guards don’t let tourists visit the University). Overall, there are is just a bunch of painted bathtubs. Scammer central around this area!"
L’ Angloy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Callejón de Hamel is located in the Vedado neighborhood. Many visitors arrive via taxi or as part of a guided bike tour. Some reviews suggest coco taxis can be overpriced, so negotiate fares or consider other options.
It's a narrow alley, so it might be easier to find with a local guide or by following directions from your accommodation.
A leisurely stroll is recommended to take in the art. For a more comprehensive experience, consider a bike tour that includes this stop.
It's a significant distance to walk from Old Havana to Callejón de Hamel, so a taxi or public transport is generally recommended.
Some visitors have reported overpriced taxi fares, particularly for coco taxis. Always agree on the price before starting your journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Callejón de Hamel is an open public space and does not require an entrance fee.
As an outdoor alley, it's accessible at any time. However, the vibrant atmosphere with music and dancing is most prominent on Sundays.
There is no official admission fee for the Sunday rumba, but it's customary to tip the performers.
While accessible, visiting at night might be less vibrant for the art viewing experience, though some bars may be open. Exercise caution.
Yes, many Havana tours, especially bike tours, include Callejón de Hamel as a stop. This can be a convenient way to visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Every inch of the alley is a photo opportunity! Look for the vibrant murals, unique sculptures made from found objects, and the lively atmosphere on Sundays.
It's generally acceptable to photograph the lively street scenes, but it's always polite to ask for permission if you're focusing on an individual.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full murals, while a standard zoom can be useful for details. A phone camera is perfectly adequate for most visitors.
There are no specific restrictions mentioned, but be mindful of private businesses or individuals if you're taking close-up shots.
Morning light can be softer for capturing the art details. Sunday afternoons offer dynamic shots with the music and dancing, but can be crowded.
🎫 🎶 Music & Culture
The alley is famous for its live rumba music, a vibrant Afro-Cuban genre that often involves drumming, singing, and dancing.
Sundays are the main event, with performances typically starting in the afternoon and continuing into the evening.
Absolutely! The atmosphere is very participatory. Don't be shy to join in the dancing if the mood strikes you.
It's a space dedicated to Afro-Cuban culture, art, and spirituality, particularly Santería, with many of the artworks reflecting these themes.
While Sundays are the main draw, there might be occasional smaller performances or spontaneous music sessions during the week, but it's less common.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the cultural depth might be more appreciated by adults, the sheer visual spectacle is engaging for all ages. It's a great opportunity for kids to see creative expression in a unique urban setting. Consider it a fun, open-air gallery that’s more engaging than a traditional museum. Remember to bring water and snacks, as options within the alley might be limited or overpriced.
📸 Photographers
Sunday afternoons provide dynamic opportunities to capture the energy of the live rumba music and dancing. The movement, expressions, and vibrant attire of the performers offer fantastic candid shots. However, be prepared for crowds during peak times. Early mornings or weekdays might offer a more serene environment for focused photography, allowing you to appreciate the art without the hustle and bustle.
🎶 Music & Dance Enthusiasts
Beyond the Sunday spectacle, the alley's art often reflects the rhythms and spirit of Cuban music. You'll find yourself immersed in a space that celebrates creativity in all its forms. Be ready to be swept up in the atmosphere and perhaps even find yourself dancing alongside locals. It's an unforgettable cultural immersion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Callejón de Hamel
Many of the artworks carry a deep cultural and spiritual significance, often referencing Santería, an Afro-Cuban religion. Symbols and deities are frequently depicted, adding a layer of mystique and depth to the visual experience. Visitors often describe an 'occult vibe' or a 'peculiar' yet captivating atmosphere, which stems from this rich cultural tapestry. Exploring the alley is like walking through an open-air museum, with each turn revealing a new, unexpected piece of art that sparks curiosity and conversation.
Rumba Sundays: A Cultural Spectacle
Visitors are not just spectators; they are encouraged to become part of the celebration. Don't be shy to join in the dancing if the spirit moves you! It's a communal experience that fosters connection and joy. Remember to bring cash to tip the performers, as their talent and energy are what make these Sundays so special. While the music and dancing are the main draw, the surrounding bars often serve drinks, though some reviews caution about potentially overpriced beverages and tourist traps.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit