Gran Teatro de La Habana Alicia Alonso
A palatial 19th-century theater, home to the Cuban National Ballet, offering stunning architecture and rooftop views of Havana.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Gran Teatro de La Habana Alicia Alonso
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A palatial 19th-century theater, home to the Cuban National Ballet, offering stunning architecture and rooftop views of Havana.
"The highlight of our visit to Cuba! A guided tour reveals history and grants access to amazing rooftop views."
Guided Tour is Key
Don't miss the guided tour! It's the best way to learn history & access special areas like the roof. :book:
Rooftop Access
The rooftop offers amazing views of Havana, especially the Capitol Building. A must-see! :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rooftop Views
Rooftop access
Ascend to the rooftop for breathtaking panoramic views of Havana, especially of the Capitol Building.
Grand Main Hall
Main Auditorium
Marvel at the opulent main hall, a stunning testament to 19th-century architecture and the home of the Cuban National Ballet.
Alicia Alonso Statue
Interior lobby
Pay homage to the legendary Cuban ballerina Alicia Alonso with a visit to her dedicated statue.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Guided Tour
Check for Renovations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Habana-Cuba😍🇨🇺
Guided Tour is Key
Don't miss the guided tour! It's the best way to learn history & access special areas like the roof. :book:
Rooftop Access
The rooftop offers amazing views of Havana, especially the Capitol Building. A must-see! :camerawithflash:
Step Back in Time
Experience the golden age of performance and architecture. It feels like a time machine! :clock1:
Check Renovation Status
The theater is often undergoing refurbishment, which can affect access but sometimes grants unique views. :construction:
Tips
from all over the internet
Guided Tour is Key
Don't miss the guided tour! It's the best way to learn history & access special areas like the roof. :book:
Rooftop Access
The rooftop offers amazing views of Havana, especially the Capitol Building. A must-see! :camerawithflash:
Step Back in Time
Experience the golden age of performance and architecture. It feels like a time machine! :clock1:
Check Renovation Status
The theater is often undergoing refurbishment, which can affect access but sometimes grants unique views. :construction:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Gran Teatro de La Habana for its stunning architecture and the insightful guided tours that bring its history to life. The rooftop access, offering panoramic city views, is a frequently cited highlight. While some mention ongoing renovations, these are often seen as a positive sign of preservation, and can even lead to unique access opportunities.
"We were pleasantly surprised with the tour and my wife and I both agreed this was the highlight of our visit to Cuba!
600 peso each for a guided tour. Michael was a pleasure to listen to and we learned so much about the history of this beautiful Grand Theatre and its role in Cuban history.
The highlight for me was accessing the rooftop of this impressive building and the amazing views this offered of the Capitol Building.
Bittersweet though since it’s a reminder of the heights Cuban society and culture attained back in the day. Halcyon days."
Allan “AllanLovesMusic” Wan
"Grand Theatre of Havana is one of the most majestic buildings in the city and the tour inside will definitely impress you. It was built in the first half of the 19th-century and has been a building where lots of world renowned performers have had shows throughout years.
For 600 pesos, you enter the building and you have to go with a guide. Our guide was a fantastic presenter with amazing knowledge of the history of the building and the characters involved with it. (Unfortunately, I did not get his name). In August 2025, the place was undergoing renovation and not all places could be visited. But there were areas, like the roof, which could be visited. These areas on normal days are off limits. Overall, I had a great time and would recommend this place to visit in downtown Havana."
Reza Sattarzadeh Nowbari
"i did a lovely tour at the theatre, where you can visit the statue of alicia alonso, the rooftop with its magnificent view and get extra information about the good old times, where the orchestra still played in an flying elevated stage... my imagination was everywhere."
Gabriela Kappeler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Gran Teatro de La Habana Alicia Alonso is located in the heart of Old Havana, easily accessible by taxi or a pleasant walk from many central accommodations. It's a prominent landmark, so asking locals for directions to 'el teatro' will usually get you there.
Parking in Old Havana can be challenging. It's generally recommended to use taxis or public transport, or to be prepared for a short walk if you drive and find a designated parking area.
Absolutely! If you're staying in Old Havana, walking to the Gran Teatro is a fantastic way to soak in the city's atmosphere and admire the colonial architecture along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A guided tour typically costs around 600 Cuban pesos per person. This price includes access to various parts of the theater, including areas that might be off-limits on regular days.
While not always strictly necessary, booking your tour in advance, especially during peak season, is advisable to secure your spot and ensure a guide is available.
Tour times can vary, and it's best to check on-site or with local tourist information for the most up-to-date schedule. Tours are generally available during daylight hours.
Yes, the Gran Teatro is an active venue for performances, most notably by the Cuban National Ballet. Check the theater's schedule for upcoming shows and ticket information.
Information on specific discounts can be limited. It's recommended to inquire directly at the ticket office upon arrival for any available concessions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Many visitors highlight the rooftop access for its stunning views of Havana and the Capitol Building as a major highlight. The detailed historical information provided by guides is also frequently praised.
While the main halls are grand, accessibility can be a concern in older buildings. Some areas, like the rooftop, may involve stairs. It's best to inquire about specific accessibility options when booking your tour.
A guided tour usually lasts about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on the group size and the extent of the areas accessible during your visit.
Photography is generally permitted inside the Gran Teatro during tours, but it's always a good idea to confirm with your guide. Be mindful of any restrictions, especially during performances.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore the rooftop. Dress respectfully, as it is a cultural landmark.
📸 📸 Photography
The rooftop offers iconic shots of Havana and the Capitol Building. The ornate interiors, grand staircase, and main auditorium are also incredibly photogenic.
Photography, especially with flash, is usually prohibited during performances to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. Always check the venue's policy.
Tripods might be restricted, especially during tours or performances. It's best to use a monopod or rely on stable hand-held shots to avoid issues.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the length of the tour and the potential for crowds when planning with younger children. Comfortable shoes are a must, as there might be walking and stairs involved, particularly for rooftop access. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to the arts and the historical significance of Cuban culture in a visually stimulating environment.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the details of the Neobaroque and Art Nouveau architecture, and imagine the performances and events that have taken place within its walls. The rooftop view also offers a historical context, allowing you to see how Havana has developed over time. This visit is a deep dive into Cuba's artistic and social heritage.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The rooftop access is a major draw, offering unique perspectives of Havana, especially the Capitol Building. The best light for photography is typically during morning or late afternoon tours. Be sure to check photography policies, especially if you plan to use a tripod, though handheld shots are usually permitted.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
During a guided tour, you'll delve into the stories of its construction, its role in Cuban society, and the legendary figures who graced its stage. The tour often includes access to areas like the opulent main hall, where the Cuban National Ballet performs, and the statue dedicated to the iconic ballerina Alicia Alonso. These insights offer a profound appreciation for the theater's enduring legacy and its significance in Cuban history.
The Rooftop Experience
Access to the rooftop is typically part of the guided tour, making the tour an even more valuable experience. Visitors often describe the view as a highlight, offering a moment of reflection on the city's past and present. The rooftop can also be a fantastic spot for photography, capturing the essence of Havana under the Caribbean sun.
Architectural Marvel
The main hall, in particular, is a sight to behold. Designed for acoustics and visual splendor, it serves as the primary stage for the Cuban National Ballet and other significant performances. Even if you don't attend a show, the guided tour allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship and artistic vision that went into creating this iconic building. The theater's ongoing refurbishment ensures that its beauty is preserved for future generations.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit