Hotel Nacional de Cuba
Iconic 1930s hotel on a cliff, offering stunning Caribbean views, historical charm, and a legendary cigar humidor.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views
Hotel Nacional de Cuba
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 1930s hotel on a cliff, offering stunning Caribbean views, historical charm, and a legendary cigar humidor.
"At least you should try to drink a piña colada or a daiquiri at the beautiful garden of the hotel with the astonishing Caribbean sea view!!!"
🍹 Garden Drinks
Don't miss a drink in the garden, even if you're not a guest! Enjoy the views.
🕰️ Embrace the Era
Rooms are vintage; enjoy the 60s vibe! It's part of the charm.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Garden Bar with Sea Views
Garden Courtyard
Sip a classic cocktail amidst peacocks and ocean breezes. A truly iconic Havana experience.

Historical Rooms
Guest Rooms
Step back in time in rooms that echo the hotel's glamorous past.

The Humidor
Cigar Shop
Explore a treasure trove of premium Cuban cigars, akin to a jewelry store for aficionados.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Retro Charm
Beyond the Stay: Drinks & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Havana Recommendations
🍹 Garden Drinks
Don't miss a drink in the garden, even if you're not a guest! Enjoy the views.
🕰️ Embrace the Era
Rooms are vintage; enjoy the 60s vibe! It's part of the charm.
I need information for my trip to Cuba Havana
💰 Currency Matters
Be aware some staff prefer USD/EUR over CUP for drinks.
💨 Cigar Aficionado's Dream
The humidor is exceptionally well-stocked. A must-visit for cigar lovers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍹 Garden Drinks
Don't miss a drink in the garden, even if you're not a guest! Enjoy the views.
🕰️ Embrace the Era
Rooms are vintage; enjoy the 60s vibe! It's part of the charm.
💰 Currency Matters
Be aware some staff prefer USD/EUR over CUP for drinks.
💨 Cigar Aficionado's Dream
The humidor is exceptionally well-stocked. A must-visit for cigar lovers.
🦚 Roaming Wildlife
Keep an eye out for peacocks strutting around the grounds!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hotel Nacional de Cuba is celebrated for its iconic status, stunning Caribbean sea views from its garden bar, and a nostalgic journey into Havana's glamorous past. Guests appreciate the historical ambiance and the well-stocked humidor. However, some find the rooms dated and note that service can be casual, with occasional currency preferences from staff.
"Rooms are a bit old fashioned but they travelled you back at the revolution's era of 60's. Is the most iconic hotel in Havana and if you don't have the opportunity to stay there, at least you should try to drink a piña colada or a daiquiri at the beautiful garden of the hotel with the astonishing Carribbean sea view!!!"
Παναγιώτης Χατζηπαναγιωτίδης
"It is a historical hotel with excellent high end service. The only drawback is the location is a bit far away from the old town and touristy areas.The humidor is definitely well stocked and worthwhile walking into to check out the cigar selection especially the Cohibas. Its like walking into a jewellery store for cigars ."
Alan Tan
"It sits on the edge of a cliff with a large courtyard in the back, it's beautiful. There's random peacocks just roaming around.
It's a great place to come get drinks at the end of the day, you don't need to be staying there. Go grab a seat and the wait staff will come around to you eventually!"
safi khan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Taxis are the most common way to reach Hotel Nacional de Cuba from José Martí International Airport (HAV). The journey typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. You can arrange a taxi at the airport or through your accommodation. Some visitors also opt for pre-booked transfers for convenience.
Hotel Nacional de Cuba is located in the Vedado district, which is a bit of a distance from the heart of Old Havana. While walkable for some, it's generally recommended to take a taxi or a classic car tour to reach Old Havana, which is about a 15-20 minute ride away.
Taxis, including classic American cars, are readily available for exploring Havana from Hotel Nacional. You can hail them on the street or ask the hotel concierge to arrange one. Local buses also operate in the area, but taxis offer more comfort and direct routes to tourist attractions.
Yes, taxis are very accessible from Hotel Nacional de Cuba. The hotel can arrange them for you, or you can find them frequently along the Malecón or nearby streets. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Absolutely! Taking a classic car tour from Hotel Nacional de Cuba is a quintessential Havana experience. It's a fantastic way to see the city's landmarks in style and get a feel for its history.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need to be a guest to enjoy the beautiful gardens and bars at Hotel Nacional de Cuba. It's a popular spot for both tourists and locals to have a drink and soak in the atmosphere.
The garden bar typically opens in the late morning and stays open into the evening, often until around 11 PM or later. It's a great place to visit for a late afternoon cocktail or an evening drink.
There are no entrance fees to access the grounds, gardens, or public areas like the bars and restaurants of Hotel Nacional de Cuba. You only pay for what you consume.
While some third-party sites might list rooms, booking directly through the official Hotel Nacional de Cuba website or through reputable Cuban travel agencies is often recommended to ensure authenticity and avoid issues.
While Cuba is generally casual, it's advisable to dress smart-casual for the bars and restaurants at Hotel Nacional de Cuba, especially in the evening. Avoid beachwear.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Opened in 1930, Hotel Nacional de Cuba is a legendary landmark that has hosted countless celebrities, politicians, and artists. It played a significant role during the Cuban Revolution and is a symbol of Havana's glamorous past.
Hotel Nacional de Cuba often features live music, particularly in its bars and restaurants. You might catch traditional Cuban bands playing son, bolero, and other popular genres, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Yes, Hotel Nacional de Cuba boasts two outdoor swimming pools, offering guests a refreshing escape with views of the Caribbean Sea.
The hotel features three restaurants offering a range of Cuban and international cuisine. For a more casual experience, the garden bar is popular for drinks and light snacks.
The best way is to visit the garden bar for a drink and enjoy the stunning sea views and the unique ambiance. You can also explore the hotel's historic common areas and perhaps visit the humidor.
🎫 💨 Cigars & Drinks
The hotel's humidor is renowned for its extensive selection of premium Cuban cigars, including rare Cohibas. It's often described as a 'jewelry store for cigars' and is a must-visit for enthusiasts.
The piña colada and daiquiri are famously recommended cocktails to try at the garden bar, offering a taste of classic Cuban libations with a spectacular view.
Yes, you can purchase a wide variety of authentic Cuban cigars from the hotel's well-stocked humidor.
Prices can vary, but expect to pay around 440 CUP for a cappuccino, or its equivalent in USD/EUR. It's advisable to confirm prices and currency acceptance upon ordering.
While there's a dedicated humidor for purchasing, smoking areas are typically designated. It's best to inquire about specific smoking policies within the hotel premises.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the rooms are historically styled, they can offer a sense of adventure for older children interested in history. The hotel's location, while not directly in Old Havana, is accessible via taxi, allowing for easy day trips to explore the city's attractions. Consider visiting during the day to enjoy the pools and gardens in a more relaxed atmosphere.
🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider booking one of the historical rooms for an added layer of charm and nostalgia. The hotel's iconic status and beautiful surroundings provide a memorable setting for anniversaries or special occasions. Even a visit for drinks and a stroll through the grounds can feel like a romantic interlude.
💨 Cigar Enthusiasts
Take your time exploring the selection, and consider purchasing a cigar to enjoy later, perhaps with a rum or daiquiri from the garden bar. The hotel provides an authentic Cuban setting to savor this iconic product.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Havana's Glamorous Past
Walking through its halls feels like stepping back in time. The historical rooms are preserved to reflect the era, offering guests an immersive experience. Even if you're not staying, visiting the beautiful garden is a must. Here, you can sip on a classic piña colada or daiquiri while peacocks roam freely, all against the backdrop of the breathtaking ocean view. It’s a quintessential Havana experience that captures the essence of the city’s enduring charm.
The hotel also boasts a legendary humidor, often described as a 'jewelry store for cigars.' It's a paradise for cigar aficionados, offering an exceptional selection of premium Cuban cigars. Beyond its historical allure and luxurious amenities, Hotel Nacional de Cuba remains a vibrant hub, often featuring live music that adds to its captivating atmosphere. It’s a place where history, culture, and stunning views converge.
Navigating Service and Currency
Currency can also be a point of consideration. While the official currency is the Cuban Peso (CUP), some establishments, including potentially the bars at Hotel Nacional, may express a preference for US Dollars (USD) or Euros (EUR). One visitor reported a waitress wanting not to accept CUP, quoting prices in USD instead. It's always wise to clarify accepted currencies and confirm prices before ordering to avoid any misunderstandings.
Despite these nuances, the overall experience at Hotel Nacional de Cuba is often described as positive, especially when visitors embrace the unique Cuban context. The stunning location, historical ambiance, and the sheer iconic status of the hotel tend to outweigh any minor service or currency quirks for most travelers.
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