Central Havana Neighborhood
Central Havana’s real estate is mostly residential – streets are lined with apartment buildings. Some have fallen into disrepair, but they still reflect Havana's eclectic architecture. This neighborhood has one of the densest populations in all of Havana.
Central Havana was a shopping destination before Castro’s revolution. The streets of San Rafael and Galiano (also called Avenida Italia) had popular department stores in the 1950s. You can still see these stores, and there is some revitalization happening in these retail centers.
Between San Martín and Simón Bolivar, you can find Barrio Chino, Havana’s Chinatown. This neighborhood borders Havana’s famous oceanfront Malecón Avenue. It is 5 miles (8 km) long and has cafes and restaurants that host live music performances. Take a lovely stroll along the Malecón at sunset.
