Hotel Santa Isabel is a historic hotel in Old Havana, set in a former palace beside Plaza de Armas. Its period furnishings, tiled floors and courtyard give the stay a colonial character, while rooms with balconies look out over the square or harbour. The location puts you among Old Havana’s popular sights, and a balcony cocktail is a particular draw. Room layouts and lighting can vary, so check your room preferences when booking. For breakfast, nearby cafés may suit you better if the hotel’s offering does not.
A former palace on Plaza de Armas
Hotel Santa Isabel occupies a former 18th-century palace on the eastern side of Plaza de Armas, one of Old Havana’s oldest colonial squares. The address is Baratillo number 9, between Obispo and Narciso López streets. The hotel began operating in 1867, and its setting places it close to many of the capital’s popular historic sights.
The building’s period character is part of the appeal. Spanish-colonial details include tiled floors, blue shutters, iron bedsteads and Cuban art. Antique-style furnishings carry the historic atmosphere into the rooms and shared spaces. The hotel has 27 rooms, and accounts describe them as spacious. Some room balconies face the square; others look toward the harbour.
Courtyard, lobby and balconies
The central courtyard has palms, a fountain and mahogany-and-leather armchairs. Fresh tuberoses have been noted in the fountain. A patio bar gives you a place to sit without leaving the hotel, and cocktails are a recurring highlight. The lobby is described as secluded, adding to the quieter feel of the shared interior.
From a balcony facing Plaza de Armas, you can watch the square and its historic surroundings from above. The view links the hotel’s colonial furnishings with the public life outside. If a balcony matters to your stay, ask which outlook is available for the room you are booking; not every room faces the square.
Choosing a room and planning breakfast
Room conditions can differ. Some are dark or awkwardly arranged, and noise from narrow alleys can be an issue in certain locations. Ask about lighting and room position when booking so you can make an informed choice. Reports also describe slow responses to minor maintenance problems, so raise any issue promptly with staff. Bellhops have been noted as helpful, though front desk service has been mixed.
Breakfast has been served outside on the plaza, but the hotel’s breakfast experience is not a consistent reason to choose the stay. If it does not appeal, plan to eat at a nearby café instead. The hotel is a better fit for travellers who value a historic building and a central square-side location over uniform room layouts or a dependable breakfast experience.
FAQ
Where is Hotel Santa Isabel in Havana?
It is at Baratillo number 9, between Obispo and Narciso López streets, beside Plaza de Armas in Old Havana.
Do rooms at Hotel Santa Isabel have balconies?
Room descriptions mention balconies overlooking either Plaza de Armas or the harbour. Ask about the view when booking.
What is Hotel Santa Isabel like inside?
The former palace has period furnishings, tiled floors, iron bedsteads, Cuban art and a courtyard with a fountain and patio bar.
Is breakfast at Hotel Santa Isabel a good choice?
Breakfast has been served outside on Plaza de Armas, but the experience has been mixed. Nearby cafés are an alternative.
