Hotel in Old Havana, Havana, Havana
Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana
Cuba's first true five-star luxury hotel, occupying the restored Manzana de Gomez shopping gallery built in 1890. Features 246 contemporary rooms, a rooftop pool with panoramic views, a world-class spa, and three restaurants.
Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana occupies the fully restored Manzana de Gómez building, a neoclassical shopping arcade constructed in 1890 and considered Cuba's first American-style commercial gallery. Situated in the heart of Old Havana, the hotel faces Parque Central and places guests within a short walk of the Gran Teatro de La Habana Alicia Alonso, the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, and the El Capitolio dome. Opened in 2017, it was the first internationally branded five-star hotel to operate in Cuba and remains the flagship luxury property in Havana.
The hotel's 246 rooms and suites are spread across five floors beneath the arcade's restored cupolas, combining contemporary furnishings with original Beaux-Arts detailing. Room categories range from Superior Rooms to the Grand Penthouse Suite, with several units offering views over Parque Central or the Old Havana skyline. Marble bathrooms, premium toiletries, and pillow menus are standard across all room types.
Dining centers on three distinct venues. El Asador offers Cuban and international grills; the Kempinski Café serves breakfast, afternoon tea, and light meals throughout the day; and La Manzana Bar anchors the ground-floor arcade with cocktails and tapas. The rooftop terrace, reached by a glass-enclosed elevator, houses an infinity pool with panoramic views over Old Havana, a poolside bar, and a sun-deck area reserved exclusively for hotel guests.
The Kempinski Spa on the upper floors offers a full menu of treatments including massages, facials, and body wraps, alongside a steam room, sauna, and indoor hydrotherapy pool. A well-equipped fitness center adjoins the spa.
Service is distinguished by a multilingual concierge team that coordinates classic-car tours, cigar experiences at nearby Casa del Habano, and reservations at Havana's best private restaurants. Butler service is available for suite guests. A dedicated business center with meeting rooms accommodates small delegations and corporate visitors requiring workspace in central Havana.
Amenities
- Pool
- Spa
- Gym
- WiFi
- Multiple restaurants
- Bar
- Concierge
Location
Manzana de Gomez, Neptuno, Old Havana
Highlights
- Rooftop infinity pool
- Kempinski spa
- Prime location on Parque Central
- Restored Art Nouveau architecture
Tips
- Reserve rooftop pool terrace seating in advance through the concierge, particularly during the November–April high season when demand peaks significantly.
- Classic American cars for city tours can be arranged through the hotel concierge at negotiated rates, typically more affordable than street-side bookings.
- The Kempinski Café breakfast buffet is one of the most reliable in Havana; hotel guests receive it included, while non-guests may dine for a fee.
- Ask the concierge for a curated list of nearby paladares (private restaurants); the hotel maintains an updated selection beyond the standard tourist circuit.
- The fitness center and spa are quietest before 9 a.m., making early-morning sessions preferable for avoiding peak-hour crowds.
FAQ
Is WiFi reliable at Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski?
Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski offers the most consistently reliable WiFi available in Havana, a significant advantage in a city where internet connectivity is generally limited. Speeds are sufficient for video calls and remote work.
Can non-guests visit the rooftop pool?
The rooftop infinity pool is reserved exclusively for hotel guests. Non-guests may access the rooftop bar area but pool use requires a hotel room booking.
Is the hotel suitable for business travelers?
The hotel provides business-class amenities including a dedicated business center, meeting rooms, high-speed internet, and multilingual concierge support, making it among the best-equipped properties in Havana for corporate stays.
How far is the hotel from José Martí International Airport?
José Martí International Airport is approximately 20–25 km from Old Havana. Transfers take 30–45 minutes by taxi depending on traffic; the concierge can arrange pre-booked airport transfers at confirmed rates.
What room types are available at Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski?
The hotel offers Superior Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, Junior Suites, Suites, and the Grand Penthouse Suite. Higher categories include terrace access, butler service, and premium views over Parque Central or the Old Havana rooftops.
Accessibility
Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski features step-free access at the main entrance, elevator access to all floors, and accessible bathrooms in designated rooms available upon request. Guests with mobility requirements should contact the hotel in advance to confirm room availability and arrange any specific assistance needed during their stay.