Havana's favorite green expanse – el Bosque – is frequented by locals seeking natural respite in the shade of century-old trees with veil-like canopy reaching all the way to the ground, which gives the area a primeval forest appearance. The Almendares Park, just to the north along Almendares River, offers family-friendly activities such as mini golf and bike paths.

Perched high in the Serra de Rodes mountains, the Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes is a masterpiece of Catalan Romanesque architecture. Founded in the 10th century, this former Benedictine complex features a sophisticated church, a majestic bell tower, and cloisters arranged on terraces with sweeping views of the Cap de Creus peninsula. Notable for its classical-inspired sculptures and the remnants of a finely carved portal, the monastery was a major spiritual centre until the 14th century. Nearby, the ruins of Santa Creu de Rodes medieval village and its pre-Romanesque church complete this historic landscape.

The Vietnam Unit Memorial Monument, located on the Naval Amphibious Base, honors the brave Navy and Coast Guard personnel who lost their lives during the Vietnam War while supporting naval operations. This solemn memorial offers a moment of reflection and respect for those who served. Keep in mind that access to the base is restricted—visitors without a Department of Defense ID or base sticker must be escorted by someone with the proper credentials. Arrangements can be made in advance by contacting the listed phone number.

Take a 1-hour journey to Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí, and step into his surreal masterpiece — the Dalí Theatre-Museum, designed by the artist himself. Constructed to replace an old theatre that burnt down during the Spanish Civil War, the building is a work of surrealist art, topped with giant eggs and crowned by a geodesic dome. Inside, it holds the world’s largest collection of Dalí’s works, from early impressionist pieces like Port Alguer (1924) to later marvels like Galatea of the Spheres (1952). Don’t miss the Mae West room, an upside-down bathtub fixed to the ceiling, or the glittering jewellery collection. The artist himself is buried in a crypt below the stage, adding a layer of solemnity to the whimsy. Book tickets online to avoid long queues, and allow at least half a day to fully absorb the labyrinthine galleries, optical illusions, and the sheer audacity of Dalí’s vision.