Castles & palaces
Palacio de los Capitanes Generales
Palacio de los Capitanes Generales
Located on the east side of Plaza de Armas in Old Havana, this building served as the official residence of the Spanish colonial governors. It currently houses the Havana City Museum. Visitors go here to see colonial-era architecture and view historic artifacts and preserved rooms that reflect the city's administrative history during the Spanish period.
Getting There and Back
The palace is situated within the historic center of Havana. If you are staying in the Old Havana district, it is accessible via a short walk. From other central areas, you can reach it by taxi or public transport, typically taking 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic.
Planning Your Visit
Allow approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to walk through the museum and explore the interior courtyards and galleries.
Timing
To avoid the largest crowds, visit during weekday mornings. The Caribbean climate means temperatures are high year-round, so midday heat can be intense. The building's thick walls provide some relief, but early visits are generally more comfortable.
Nearby Attractions
Because of its central location, the palace can be combined with several other sites within walking distance:
- Plaza de Armas (0.1km): The square immediately outside the palace.
- Abdallah Mosque (0.1km): A local religious site nearby.
- El Templete (0.1km): A historic marker of the city's founding.
- Plaza de la Catedral (0.2km): A short walk to one of the city's most famous squares.
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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