Hotel Santa Isabel

This baroque, three-story hotel has the longest history of any in Cuba. Situated on the site of Palacio de los Condes de Santovenia, it has served as the home of the counts of Santovenia and other regal residents throughout its 150 year history. Many original historical details remain, including arched stone columns, hundred-year-old wood furniture, and beautiful crystal chandeliers. Subtle bits of glass and artwork by contemporary Cuban artists are presented throughout. While some areas feel dated, there’s an undeniable charm and romance in its history that overshadows what might otherwise feel drab in any other hotel. The location adjacent the popular Plaza de Armas means the restaurant and tiny open-air bar have become convenient destinations in their own right. Both spaces hum with guests and foot traffic tourists day and night. But, even at capacity, the vibe is quiet, sophisticated, and elegant.

The location on the east side of historical Plaza de Armas (the city’s oldest and most beautiful plaza) is ideal for those looking to explore the city on foot. Havana’s best tourist attractions -- Castillo de la Real Fuerza, Cuba’s Natural History Museum, and the waterfront Malecón boardwalk -- are all within a short walk. A stroll down the adjacent Calle Obispo pedestrian mall takes guests past dozens of shops, restaurants, and galleries. Travelers looking to get farther afield will find taxis to be the best option. Fares can vary widely, to the point of complete unpredictability, so it’s often wise to book transportation directly through the hotel. Havana’s José Martí International (HAV) Airport is 40 minutes south through the city and along reasonably modern roadways.

Room decor is decidedly more modest than what's found in most of the common areas. The vintage appointments -- curved wood vanities, checkered tile flooring, and wrought iron beds -- recall the hotel's historical past. However, with dark wood furniture and minimal lighting and artwork, many rooms feel more drab and dated than classic and charming. Both room categories -- Standard Rooms and Junior Suites -- offer slightly different square footage options and similar amenities. The list of features is thin for an upscale property -- air-conditioning, lightly stocked minibars, and small flat-screen TVs. Some rooms upgrade to small sitting areas plus shared, unfurnished balconies overlooking Plaza de Armas. As is typical at many area hotels, in-room Wi-Fi is unavailable in any category. Bathrooms are likewise historical with floor-to-ceiling tile, marble vanities, and ornate lighting fixtures all adding hints of sophistication. Generic bath amenities and shower/tub combinations are standard.

While the hotel offers plenty of history, the list of common amenities is brief for a four-pearl property. Restaurante El Condado is elegant and refined with free hot breakfast and gourmet a la carte menus for lunch and dinner. The dining room spans an intimate, lavishly adorned indoor seating area and a wide outdoor terrace. Room service is available for a fee. The latter overlooks Plaza de Armas and is typically packed with tourists enjoying a cocktail while people watching. To one side of the hotel’s central outdoor courtyard sits the tiny Bar Santovenia with a full liquor menu. Located adjacent to the lobby, the surrounding patio features a stone fountain, alfresco seating, and a towering open-air atrium. It’s the best place on-site to relax with Wi-Fi (fee) and a cocktail. Like in most hotels in Cuba, internet service is only available with the purchase of a prepaid NAUTA card. Due to its location on a pedestrian mall near the center of a public square, the hotel offers no parking facilities.