If you like to marvel over olde-worlde architecture, this historic city is peppered with some of the most spectacular colonial buildings in Cuba – many of which you’ll have the pleasure of admiring from the inside out, since we’ve rounded up a host of Havana hotels that ooze classical style ready for your next stay in the capital…
5* Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana
Ideally located in the heart of Old Havana, the luxury Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski is a sight to behold. Adorned by a generous amount of intricately decorated pillars, its exterior oozes a style and sophistication that equals its contemporary interior design and opulent furnishings.
This 5* hotel boasts 246 beautiful guest rooms, including 50 suites, an extensive selection of gastronomic outlets such as the panoramic restaurant San Cristobal (perfect for dinner with a view over the cityscape), plus an on-site spa and elegant rooftop to relax on with a cocktail, or two.
When you’re not busy appreciating the buildings interiors, step outside and you’ll be met by a cluster of the capitals most iconic UNESO World Heritage buildings – now we’re just spoiling you!
5* Hotel Nacional De Cuba
Nacional De Cuba
History buffs will be in their element, since this iconic hotel is actually considered a symbol of history, culture, and Cuban identity. The Hotel Nacional De Cuba is located atop the Taganana Hill on the seafront of Vedado district, boasting pleasant views across the harbour, sea wall and city. Open since 1930, this famous 5* hotel is a perfect example of original Art Deco architecture and has welcomed a host of celebrity icons and personalities including Frank Sinatra, Ernest Hemingway, Ava Gardener, Winston Churchill, and Alexander Fleming.
The Hotel Nacional De Cuba was declared a National Monument and inscribed in the World Memory Register thanks to its fascinating exhibition of old Santa Clara Battery coastal guns displayed within the grounds – which were included as part of the World Heritage Site together with Old Havana in 1982. With a reputation like this, the hotel’s refined elegance doesn’t have to necessarily be seen to be believed – but we recommend you make the trip to experience its beauty in real life, regardless.
When you’re not wandering the gardens, propped up with a mojito at the pool bar, or dining in one of the hotel’s many restaurants, just a 5-minute car journey will whisk you into the heart of Old Havana, where you can explore all the cobbled streets have to offer.
5* Saratoga Boutique
Saratoga
Originally constructed in 1879, the Saratoga Hotel has made its name as one of the most high-end haunts in Havana. A stone’s throw from a handful of iconic landmarks such as the city’s Rococo Opera House, Friendship Park, and Cárdenas – the city’s most architecturally interesting street – this boutique is perfectly positioned for those eager to explore the capital.
The hotel’s neoclassical façade stands out against the cobbles with its cool mint colour, broken up by a string of wrought iron balconies offering views over the courtyard. Inside, you’ll experience the buildings grandeur with its high ceilings and dark furnishings, while the first-class facilities include two bars, two restaurants, an inviting spa, a state-of-the-art gym area, plus an elegant rooftop pool where you can soak up panoramic views of city life below. The hotel has 96 standard rooms including 7 luxurious suites, each offering a refuge of calm and sophistication for guests to relax in.
One of the hotel’s highlights is the Anacona restaurant, where guests can sample some of the best cuisine in the city and excellent service to match – you simply must try the tostones (that’s fried plantain, for those not yet in the know). If you’re looking for somewhere where you can experience Havana’s authenticity, the Saragota is it.
5* Hotel Santa Isabel
Santa Isabel
It may not look like much from the outside, but this former Palace of the Santovenia Counts is where you’ll find much of the city’s (and the people of the city’s) history. The Habaguanex Santa Isabel first became a hotel in 1867 and re-opened after refurbishment in 1997, where it swiftly – and unsurprisingly – entered the Deluxe Category; yet the building maintains many of the original architectonic elements it originated with, today. Set overlooking the cobbled Plaza De Armas, Havana’s oldest square, it’s nicely positioned closed to all the main sights.
The spacious guest rooms are decorated in a nineteenth-century style, while the on-site restaurant, pretty central patio, and spectacular rooftop garden make for a romantic evening under the twinkling night sky. If you want to lap up the local history and culture, a short walk will lead you to the National Museum of Fine Arts or the Museo del Chocolate.
4* Hotel Ambos Mundos
Ambos Mundos
One of Hemingway’s favourites, situated near Old Public Square in the Historic Center of Havana is the 4* Hotel Ambos Mundos; a bustling parador featuring an eclectic set of characteristics inspired by 20th century style architecture. The hotel’s spacious lobby is a popular spot for visitors and passers-by alike to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for an hour or two, while it’s close connections to places of interest – including the Plaza Vieja – means it’s ideally positioned for tourists.
Ernest Hemingway had many reasons when he said the hotel was a good place for writing, and it was here that he finished his novel “Death in the Afternoon” (1932) and started another “New Green Hills of Africa” (1935). In fact, room number 511 housed the Nobel Prize in Literature during the thirties, and today, is preserved as a tiny museum treasuring a selection of the American Novelist’s belongings.
If you’re a foodie then you’re in for a treat, since Hotel Ambos Mundos serves up some of the most delicious dishes in the city (including a handful of Hemingway’s favourites) at the Plaza de Armas restaurant. For a more casual setting, the Roof Garden located on the top floor offers mouth-watering barbecue food paired with panoramic views of Old Havana.
4* Sevilla Hotel
Sevilla hotel
Perfectly positioned near the elegant Prado Street, famous Malecon seafront promenade, plus a handful of authentic restaurants, cafes, and theatres, the 4* Sevilla Hotel certainly occupies the heart of Havana’s social and cultural scene.
Its stunning façade is inspired by Moorish style architecture, while its interiors ooze colonial charm in a no-frills type of way. It’s even rumoured that there lies a secret tunnel that connects to the former Presidential Palace from the hotel. Since it’s appointment in 1908, the hotel has been a popular haunt for locals and famous faces alike, including notorious mobster Al Capone – in fact, he liked it so much, he occupied the entire 6th floor whilst on business in the capital!
Sevilla’s large outdoor swimming pool, palatial rooftop restaurant and wellness facilities contribute to its popularity, alongside its proximity to several tourist sights, including The Revolution Museum and Belles Artes Gallery – making it a great option for those eager to explore Old Havana.
4* Hotel Inglaterra
Inglaterra
Crowned as the oldest hotel in Havana, you’re sure to find your fair share of colonial architecture at Hotel Inglaterra. Since 1875, this property has been one of the most sought-after places to stay in the heart of downtown Havana and was often engaged by famous guests such as Jose Marti and Anna Pavlova. It has since been declared a National Monument (1981) and has served as a base for actions related to the struggles for Cuban Independence.
The animated Gran Café el Louvre is one of the hotel’s highlights, a quirky sidewalk establishment that’s played host to all walks of life, including travellers, musicians, poets, professors and beyond, for over a century. Head inside and you’ll discover interiors that feature ornate ceramic tiles from Seville and ornamentally carved archways, plus more equally inviting spots to unwind, including the neoclassical El Colonial restaurant and La Sevillana bar – not to mention the spectacular rooftop terrace, which is often ranked as Havana’s top experience.
4* Hotel Raquel
Raquel hotel
Hotel Raquel is without doubt a sight for sore eyes. Located in the heart of Old Havana, its ornate exterior is sure to catch the eye of those with an appreciation for colonial architecture (and even those without one). Originally built in 1905 for offices and storage purposes, this small and personable boutique hotel now serves up 25 guest rooms and suites, beautifully decorated with the works of famous Cuban painters.
The buildings detailing is spectacular, complete with Art Nouveau-style stained glass ceilings, historical columns, marble statues, plus poignant references to Jewish culture via authentic paintings and biblical touches throughout. Besides the impressive lobby, Raquel’s rooftop bar is an oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city below, whilst the speciality Jewish restaurant serves up delicious cuisine. If you’re looking to woo your loved one, head over to the hotel’s very own bell tower where you can pre-organise a romantic dinner for two.
If you’re looking to stay at one of the few genuine Art Nouveau structures in the capital, Hotel Raquel is it.
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