Castles & palaces
San Lázaro Tower
San Lázaro Tower
The San Lázaro Tower is a round stone structure located on the Havana waterfront. It serves as a remnant of the city's former fortifications. Visitors go here to view the historic masonry and walk through the surrounding park area along the coast.
Getting There
The tower is located near the harbor area. From the city center, it is accessible via taxi or public transport. The trip typically takes 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Duration of Visit
Because the site consists of the tower and its immediate park surroundings, most visitors spend between 30 and 60 minutes here.
When to Visit
Visiting during the early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the midday heat. The site is outdoors and exposed to the sun. It generally does not experience the same level of crowding as the main plazas in Old Havana.
Nearby Attractions
The tower's location allows for easy combination with other nearby landmarks on foot:
- Antonio Maceo monument: 0.2km
- Monument to the Victims of the USS Maine: 0.9km
- Napoleon Museum: 0.9km
- José Martí Anti-Imperialist Platform: 1.4km
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors