Basílica de San Francisco de Asís
A 16th-century church and monastery in Havana, now a sacred art museum and renowned concert hall with stunning architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy concerts and illuminated plaza
Basílica de San Francisco de Asís
Best Time
Enjoy concerts and illuminated plaza
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 16th-century church and monastery in Havana, now a sacred art museum and renowned concert hall with stunning architecture.
"A beautiful building with history and culture around every corner, offering great views and a low admission price."
🎟️ Low Admission Price
Enjoy full access to the church and museum for a minimal fee. A great value for history and art lovers!
⬆️ Explore Upstairs
Don't miss the upstairs views of the nave and the plaza outside. It offers a unique perspective!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sacred Art Museum
Discover a collection of sacred art within the historic walls, offering a glimpse into the site's religious past.
Concert Hall Acoustics
Experience world-class music in a venue renowned for its exceptional sound quality and stunning ambiance.
Architectural Grandeur
Marvel at the 16th-century architecture, from the nave views to the exterior plaza, a true testament to Havana's heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Concert Hall Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Low Admission Price
Enjoy full access to the church and museum for a minimal fee. A great value for history and art lovers!
⬆️ Explore Upstairs
Don't miss the upstairs views of the nave and the plaza outside. It offers a unique perspective!
🎶 Check Concert Schedule
The church is a renowned concert hall. Check for performances to experience its incredible acoustics.
🚶♀️ Wander the Plaza
The surrounding Plaza de San Francisco de Asís is beautifully lit and safe for evening strolls with live music nearby.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Low Admission Price
Enjoy full access to the church and museum for a minimal fee. A great value for history and art lovers!
⬆️ Explore Upstairs
Don't miss the upstairs views of the nave and the plaza outside. It offers a unique perspective!
🎶 Check Concert Schedule
The church is a renowned concert hall. Check for performances to experience its incredible acoustics.
🚶♀️ Wander the Plaza
The surrounding Plaza de San Francisco de Asís is beautifully lit and safe for evening strolls with live music nearby.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Basílica de San Francisco de Asís for its historical significance, stunning architecture, and excellent acoustics as a concert venue. The low admission price and the charm of the surrounding plaza are also frequently highlighted as positive aspects of the experience. Some visitors noted that the former convent sections are off-limits.
"Is part of the most beautiful place of Habana Vieja! Central to all most popular place this Convento will give you a good view to all small streets and places. Walking also around this great architecture unveils some nice surprises than only the front and lateral structures, don't miss it!"
Alex Wyns
"Its is no longer a place of worship. Today the church, with its excellent acoustics, is one of Havana's finest concert hall and the venue of a regular series of classical, choral, and contemporary concerts. Although no.longer is use by monk, the former convent with its exquisite cloister and serene courtyard is off limits to visitors."
Russ Lacuata
"The church was one of my favorite buildings in Havana, with history and culture around every corner. Another stop that was low in admission price, we had full reign of the church both upstairs and down. Take your time because there is plenty to see, make sure to go upstairs and see both the view of the nave and plaza outside."
Nathan Ramirez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Basílica is located in Habana Vieja on the Plaza de San Francisco de Asís. It's easily accessible by walking from other popular spots in Old Havana. Taxis are also readily available throughout the city.
Parking in Habana Vieja can be challenging due to narrow streets. It's generally recommended to arrive by taxi or on foot if you're already exploring Old Havana.
The Basílica is a central point in Habana Vieja, close to many popular streets and plazas. It's a great starting point for exploring the historic district.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission price is quite low, offering excellent value for exploring the church and its museum. Visitors have reported having full reign of the church.
While specific hours can vary, the Basílica is generally open during the day for museum visits and in the evenings for concerts. It's advisable to check for current operating times.
Unfortunately, the former convent, including its cloister and courtyard, is generally off-limits to visitors. The focus is on the church and its museum.
For concerts, it's highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for popular performances, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you can explore the sacred art museum and admire the church's architecture. Going upstairs offers great views of the nave and the plaza.
No, it is no longer a place of worship. It now functions as a concert hall and a museum.
The plaza is a beautiful public space, enhanced with improved lighting and spotlights. It's a great spot for evening strolls and often features live music from nearby establishments.
While not explicitly mentioned, the low admission and open access suggest you can explore at your own pace. Consider hiring a local guide in Old Havana for deeper historical context.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the surrounding area in Habana Vieja has many restobars and restaurants. You can find cozy places with good food and live music nearby.
You'll find a variety of Cuban cuisine and international options. Many places offer a pleasant dining experience with live music.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning 16th-century architecture from the Plaza de San Francisco de Asís, especially with the improved lighting. The interior views from upstairs are also highly recommended.
Photography is generally allowed inside, but it's always good practice to check for any specific restrictions, especially during concerts.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider timing your visit to avoid peak concert times if you're looking for a quieter exploration. The surrounding plaza is also a pleasant area for a brief stroll, and the nearby restobars offer family-friendly dining options.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a walk around the beautifully lit Plaza de San Francisco de Asís, which is free to enjoy. Many of the surrounding restaurants also offer affordable dining options, making it possible to have a rich cultural experience on a tight budget.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The church's transformation into a concert hall highlights its enduring cultural value. The excellent acoustics make it a premier venue for various musical genres, from classical to contemporary. This dual role as a historical monument and a vibrant cultural hub makes the Basílica a unique destination. Visitors can appreciate the intricate details of its architecture, imagining its past while enjoying its present-day cultural offerings.
Experiencing the Music
To make the most of a musical experience, it's advisable to check the performance schedule in advance and book tickets accordingly. This ensures you don't miss out on any special events. The intimate setting of the church, coupled with the quality of the performances, provides a deeply engaging cultural experience that many visitors cherish.
Social
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