Vedado

Safer than Old Havana with actual Cuban neighborhood life instead of just tourists. Better lighting and security, though catcalling still happens and you'll want basic Spanish.

Tree-lined streets, 1950s buildings, universities, and embassies give Vedado a safer feel than other parts of Havana. La Rampa (Calle 23) is the main drag - it stays busy late with students, young professionals, and locals hanging out at cafes and bars. You'll see more Cuban daily life here than in Old Havana, but there's enough international presence that eating alone doesn't draw attention. Many restaurant and cafe staff speak workable English since they deal with embassy workers. Main avenues like Calle 23 and the Malecón have decent lighting, though stick to those areas after 11pm. The western edge toward Miramar gets quieter and sketchier at night. Police are around because of the embassies. The atmosphere is more local professional and student than backpacker party zone.