Roomer

Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana

Havana, Cuba
$425-680/ night

Book this if You want the only true luxury safety net in Havana where the AC works, the wifi connects, and the infinity pool is actually heated.

Why People Love It

  • Rooftop infinity pool with a direct sightline to El Capitolio
  • Evocación Tobacco Lounge with a world-class cigar sommelier
  • Reliable wifi and power generators (a rarity in Cuba)

Quick Take: It is the best hotel in Cuba, which means it offers European 4-star hardware with 5-star pricing and island-time service speed.

Reviewed by @ettevi_wanderlust: I’ve never stayed anywhere quite like this. Waking up, throwing open the balcony doors, and seeing the Capitolio right there was a core memory unlocked. The rooftop pool is the perfect escape from the city heat. It feels like stepping back in time, but with better AC.

Guest Who Stayed Here Said

The hype

A stunning oasis in a crumbling city, praised for its rooftop views and comfort but criticized for inconsistent service.

Reality check

You are paying for the infrastructure (power, water, internet) more than the white-glove service.

  • You need a 'soft landing' in Havana with modern comforts
  • You are a cigar aficionado wanting a premium lounge experience
  • Instagrammable rooftop views are a priority

Cleanliness & Maintenance

8.5
  • Housekeeping: Generally thorough daily service, though occasional lapses in restocking towels or toiletries occur.
  • Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. Modern fixtures, rain showers, and separate tubs. No reports of the 'mold' issues common in other Havana hotels.
  • Maintenance: Excellent condition for Cuba. You won't find peeling paint or broken AC here, unlike most competitors.
  • Linens & towels: High-quality Egyptian cotton, though some guests note they could be fluffier.
  • Odors & scents: Lobby is heavily scented (signature fragrance). Rooms are fresh, no musty 'old building' smell.

Sleepability™

7.5SILENT
SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
  • Street noise from Parque Central (honking, music)
  • Rooftop DJ bass bleeding into upper-floor patio rooms
  • Internal hallway echoes

Before you book

Good to know

  • Download an offline map (Maps.me) and a VPN (like Windscribe or NordVPN) *before* you arrive; many sites are blocked.
  • Bring cash (USD/EUR) in small bills; credit cards (especially US-issued) are virtually useless outside the hotel.
  • The 'Patio' rooms have no external view, looking only into the white internal courtyard.

What to pack

  • Cash (USD/EUR) - ATMs are unreliable for tourists
  • Personal pharmacy (Advil, Imodium, etc.) - you cannot buy these locally
  • Sriracha or hot sauce - Cuban food is notoriously mild/bland
  • Power bank - for when you are out of the hotel's generator zone

Room Genie

Best picks

  • Gran Deluxe Room (4th or 5th floor) for the iconic Capitolio views
  • Patio Room if you prioritize silence over a view (faces internal courtyard)

Rooms to avoid

  • Low-floor rooms facing the street (noisy)
  • Rooms directly under the rooftop bar (vibration/music noise at night)

Room Request Genie – copy & paste

“I am requesting a Gran Deluxe Room on the 4th or 5th floor, specifically facing Parque Central for the view. If that is unavailable, I would prefer a quiet Patio Room away from the rooftop bar vibrations.”

FAQ & Hidden tips

Everything you actually want to know before you book.

Is the pool actually heated?

Yes, the rooftop infinity pool is heated, which is a rare luxury in Havana during cooler winter months.

Does the wifi work?

Yes, it is free and generally fast enough for video calls, but you may need to re-login frequently.

Can I use my US credit card?

No. US-issued cards do not work in Cuba. Bring more cash than you think you need.

Is the area safe?

Yes, Old Havana is generally very safe for tourists, even at night, though standard street smarts apply.

Do they have a generator?

Yes, the hotel has backup generators that keep the lights and AC on during Havana's frequent blackouts.

Is breakfast included?

Usually not. It costs ~$30-33 USD per person. It's decent but many guests prefer local cafes for a fraction of the price.

Insider Tips

  • ✨

    The 'Evocación' cigar lounge has a locker system for regulars; ask the sommelier for a pairing recommendation with Santiago de Cuba 11-year rum.

  • ✨

    Skip the hotel taxi and walk across the street to hire a classic vintage car for a tour; negotiate the price upfront (aim for $30-40/hr).

  • ✨

    The rooftop bar is open to non-guests, so it gets crowded at sunset. Go for a swim in the morning to have the view to yourself.

5 things to know before you go

  • 💡The 'Patio' rooms can feel a bit like a bunker due to the lack of natural light/view.

  • 💡You might find the spa prices (plus 10% service charge) shocking compared to local prices.

  • 💡Housekeeping can be hit-or-miss with restocking towels; you might have to call and ask.

  • 💡The lobby scent is a distinct, expensive perfume that you will either love or find overpowering.

  • 💡You can hear the 'cannon blast' ceremony from the fortress at 9 PM if you are on the rooftop.

Local Playbook

Map

See where Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana is located and what's nearby.

Key amenities & services