Havana Havana, Cuba Travel Guide
Havana's hotels span grand, historic luxury establishments (e.g., IHG Hotels for Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski) to mid-range and budget state-run options. Quality is not consistent. Newer, privately-managed boutique hotels are also found. Check Booking.com for selection.
A rising number of backpacker-style hostels are in Old Havana and Vedado. They carry dorm beds or rooms for yourself at lower prices than traditional hotels. Hostelworld lists many choices.
Private homes where Cubans rent rooms. A popular, authentic choice. Guests interact with local families, often getting excellent breakfasts and dinners. They range from basic to luxurious. Look for the blue anchor-like sign.
Available through platforms like Vrbo. These give more space and privacy, often with kitchen amenities, fitting for longer stays or families. TrustedHousesitters is an alternative for longer stays.
Casa Particulares are the main form of community-based tourism in Havana, a direct way to engage with locals.
Through platforms like Agoda or local agencies. They feature more space and privacy, often with kitchen amenities.
Not available within urban Havana. Camping sites are in rural areas or near beaches outside the city.
Some smaller, privately-managed boutique hotels are also emerging, often with unique designs and personalized service.
Havana's neighborhoods each have a different character and proximity to attractions.
Luxurious, quiet, modern amenities, safer. Far from main attractions, needs taxis, less "Cuban" feel, fewer local eateries.
Old Havana/Centro Habana: High noise, lively, watch for petty crime. Vedado/Miramar: Quieter, residential, for the most part safer.
Planning ahead for your accommodation can make your stay smoother.
Confirm your booking details and any specific requirements directly with the host or platform.
Ask about included services like breakfast or airport transfers, and their costs.
Be clear on the payment currency accepted (CUC/MLC/USD cash depending on the establishment).
Here are specific recommendations for various traveler needs.
Casa Specifices in Centro Habana or slightly off main tourist areas in Old Havana.
Well-regarded Casa Particulares in Old Havana or Vedado, or smaller boutique hotels.
Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski, Hotel Nacional de Cuba, Hotel Saratoga (all in or near Old Havana), or luxury villas in Miramar.
Casa Particulares with multiple rooms or entire apartments, providing space and a local experience for families.
Casa Particulares are great for meeting locals, gaining insights, and a feeling of security. Hosts often share valuable advice. Hostels are good for meeting other travelers.
Arrange apartment rentals via local agencies or directly from Casa owners for longer stays, often with discounted rates. This leads to more independence and space.
Platforms like Vrbo list vacation rentals with more space and kitchen facilities.
For those staying extended periods, TrustedHousesitters is a way to find accommodations in exchange for pet or house care.
An iconic, historic hotel in Vedado, showing Cuba's glamorous past.
A beautifully restored historic hotel in Old Havana, known for its architecture and rooftop pool.
Many Casas particulares sit in historic colonial-style architecture, setting a direct cultural immersion within a significant architectural setting.
A grand luxury hotel located in a restored historic building near Parque Central.
Choose a neighborhood that matches your interest in history, nightlife, or tranquility.
Especially during peak season, securing your accommodation in advance removes stress.
Staying in Casa particulares directly supports Cuban families and offers a real cultural exchange.
Choosing independent restaurants (Paladares) and local shops further supports the community.
These choices deepen your immersing in the culture and connection to the island.
