One of Havana's oldest and most famous cigar factories, the landmark neoclassical Real Fábrica de Tabacos Partagás was founded in 1845 by Spaniard Jaime Partagás. Today some 400 workers toil for up to 12 hours a day rolling such famous cigars as Montecristos and Cohibas. As far as tours go, Partagás is the most popular and reliable factory to visit, though many people find them rushed, robotic and a tad contrived.
The factory was being renovated at the time of writing, but you can visit it at its temporary location on the corner of Calles San Carlos and Penalver in Centro Habana. Tickets must be booked in advance in the lobby of the Hotel Saratoga .
