Camera Obscura Plaza Vieja
Experience Havana like never before with a unique Camera Obscura and breathtaking rooftop views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Camera Obscura Plaza Vieja
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Havana like never before with a unique Camera Obscura and breathtaking rooftop views.
"Worth the 2 CUC for a short, cool experience with an amazing view!"
Worth the Small Fee
Only 2 CUC per person, it's a budget-friendly and unique experience. :moneybag:
Stairs are a Workout
Be prepared for a long climb up the stairs to reach the camera and rooftop. :athletic_shoe:
Quick Facts
Rating
4.7 · 74 reviews
Type
Tourist Attraction
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Camera Obscura Show
Inside the dark room
Witness real-time, projected images of Havana in a fascinating, anachronistic display.
Rooftop Panoramic Views
Rooftop terrace
Enjoy breathtaking, unobstructed 360-degree views of Old Havana's rooftops and landmarks.
Host's Welcome
Entrance area
Meet the friendly host who adds a personal touch to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best View
Embrace the Anachronism
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Suggestions for Havana street photography locations-barbershops, basketball, playgrounds? Sugerencias de lugares para fotografías callejeras en La Habana: ¿barberías, baloncesto, parques infantiles?
Hello, I am an American street photographer who plans to spend a couple of weeks in Havana in April with a side trip to Trinidad. I would like to make photographs in tiny barbershops, small urban basketball courts packed in among buildings, and children's playgrounds/jungle…
Worth the Small Fee
Only 2 CUC per person, it's a budget-friendly and unique experience. :moneybag:
Stairs are a Workout
Be prepared for a long climb up the stairs to reach the camera and rooftop. :athletic_shoe:
Photography and Video: Will I have an issue?
I’ll be in Havana at the end of the week and wanted to take my GoPro, a small digital camera and possibly a small Canon lens camera. I saw a video where they “deported” to Peruvians from Cuba for recording videos. My question is well I have an issue for recording and taking…
Photos in Cuba
Hola ! In 2 weeks, I’m heading to Havana for the first time with my brother and boyfriend. This is definitely a trip my brother and I wanted to take for a very long due to many reasons. However, I love to take pictures when I go places but I know I have to be very selective in…
Enjoy the Rooftop
Don't rush after the camera show; linger on the rooftop for the best city views. :camerawithflash:
Cocktails Available
Grab a refreshing cocktail on the rooftop while enjoying the scenery. 🍸
Tips
from all over the internet
Worth the Small Fee
Only 2 CUC per person, it's a budget-friendly and unique experience. :moneybag:
Stairs are a Workout
Be prepared for a long climb up the stairs to reach the camera and rooftop. :athletic_shoe:
Enjoy the Rooftop
Don't rush after the camera show; linger on the rooftop for the best city views. :camerawithflash:
Cocktails Available
Grab a refreshing cocktail on the rooftop while enjoying the scenery. 🍸
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Camera Obscura Plaza Vieja for its unique historical demonstration and the spectacular panoramic views from its rooftop. It's considered a highly worthwhile experience, especially given its very affordable price. Some note the significant climb up the stairs as a minor drawback.
"A great place to visit! Worth the 2 cuc, a short and cool experience with an amazing view"
pavel krigman
"Interesting. And a professional gives guide gives a nice talk. Ymmv. An anachronism but hey only 5 such cameras left in the world. A plus is the nice view from the rooftop after your tour. Take your time. Stay a while for the view. Long walk up the stairs though."
Rose and Mike Farmer
"Go to the top to see Havana for 2 CUC and see a cool show of area through a projected telescope."
Nick Campion
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Camera Obscura Plaza Vieja is located in the heart of Old Havana. You can easily walk there if you're staying in the historic center. Taxis are also readily available to take you to Plaza Vieja.
Yes, it's situated in the vibrant Plaza Vieja, a well-known square. Look for signs pointing towards the Camera Obscura or ask locals for directions to Plaza Vieja.
Many visitors enjoy walking tours of Old Havana to get acquainted with the area. This also helps you get your bearings before heading to the Camera Obscura.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee is very affordable, typically around 2 CUC per person. This includes the guided explanation of the camera and access to the rooftop.
No, advance booking is generally not required. You can purchase tickets upon arrival. It's recommended to go during operating hours.
Opening hours can vary, but it's usually open daily. It's best to check locally or ask your accommodation for the most up-to-date times, especially if visiting on a holiday.
Information on group or child discounts is not widely advertised. However, given the low individual price, it's usually not a significant concern for most visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll be guided into a dark room where a professional explains how the Camera Obscura works, projecting real-time images of the city onto a concave screen. It's a unique, historical demonstration.
The rooftop offers spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of Old Havana, including iconic landmarks, colorful buildings, and the bustling streets below. It's a prime spot for photography.
Yes, there are many stairs to climb to reach both the Camera Obscura room and the rooftop. It can be tiring, so wear comfortable shoes and take your time.
Allocate at least 30-60 minutes. This allows time for the camera explanation, enjoying the rooftop views, and perhaps having a drink.
Photography is typically not allowed inside the dark Camera Obscura room during the demonstration to preserve the experience. However, you can take photos freely on the rooftop.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the main attraction is the camera and views, there is a bar on the rooftop where you can purchase cocktails and refreshments to enjoy while taking in the scenery.
Plaza Vieja itself is surrounded by numerous restaurants and cafes offering a variety of Cuban and international cuisine. You'll find plenty of choices for lunch or dinner.
Absolutely! The rooftop bar is a popular spot to relax with a drink and soak in the incredible views of Havana.
📸 📸 Photography
The rooftop offers unparalleled panoramic shots of Old Havana's architecture and street life. The unique projected images inside the camera room are also a visual treat, though photography might be restricted during the show.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful warm light for photography. Early mornings can also be good for fewer people and softer light.
Focus on capturing the expansive cityscapes from the rooftop. If photography is allowed inside, experiment with low-light settings. Be mindful of the guide's instructions.
Yes, visitors have mentioned taking photos of the host, who is often described as friendly. It's a nice personal touch to your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit