Hotel in Vedado, Havana, Havana
Hotel St John's
A solid mid-range option in Vedado close to the Hotel Nacional and the Malecon. Offers clean comfortable rooms, a reliable restaurant, and the convenience of Vedado's restaurants and nightlife on your doorstep.
Hotel St John's occupies a mid-rise building on Calle O in the Vedado district, placing it within one of Havana's most desirable residential and commercial neighborhoods. Calle O runs roughly parallel to the Malecón a short distance inland, and the hotel's position on this street puts guests within easy walking distance of the Malecón seafront, the iconic Hotel Nacional de Cuba, and the broader sweep of Vedado's restaurants, bars, and cultural institutions. The property is managed by the Islazul hotel chain and operates as a dependable three-star option with a loyal following among repeat visitors to Havana who appreciate the neighborhood's everyday character over the more tourist-concentrated historic center.
Rooms at Hotel St John's range from standard doubles to superior rooms on upper floors, which in some cases offer partial sea views toward the Malecón. All rooms include air conditioning, private bathrooms, and television. WiFi is available through Cuba's ETECSA national network.
The property's restaurant is one of its stronger attributes, serving Cuban staples and a reliable breakfast service that suits full days of exploration in Havana. The bar area serves as a popular evening gathering point, and the hotel occasionally hosts live music that draws both guests and local residents. The swimming pool — a notable amenity in Havana's tropical climate — provides a cooling retreat during the afternoon heat that defines the city from May through October. The pool area is compact but well maintained.
Vedado's range of attractions places Hotel St John's in a practical position for travelers interested in Havana beyond the colonial center. La Rampa on Calle 23, with its concentration of paladares and entertainment venues, is within easy walking distance. The Coppelia ice cream park, a Havana institution frequented by Habaneros rather than tourists, is a 10-minute walk. The Cementerio de Cristóbal Colón — one of Latin America's most architecturally significant cemeteries — and the Fábrica de Arte Cubano arts complex are both reachable within 20 minutes. Old Havana is a 10 to 15-minute drive.
Amenities
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Pool
- WiFi
Location
Calle O 206, Vedado
Highlights
- Vedado neighborhood location
- Walking distance to Hotel Nacional
- Reliable facilities
- Good restaurant
Tips
- Upper floor rooms on the Malecón side offer partial sea views — request these at check-in if available.
- The Coppelia ice cream park is a 10-minute walk; join the local queue rather than the separate tourist line for a more authentic experience.
- Vedado's paladares on and around Calle 23 include some of Havana's best private restaurant dining — ask the front desk for current recommendations.
- Classic American car taxis queue outside the hotel; negotiate the fare before getting in for any journey beyond the immediate area.
- The Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC) arts and entertainment complex is nearby and open evenings; check current programming on arrival.
FAQ
Is Hotel St John's close to the Hotel Nacional?
Yes — the Hotel Nacional de Cuba is approximately a 10-minute walk from Hotel St John's along Calle O toward the Malecón. The Nacional's gardens and terrace bar are open to non-guests and are worth a visit for their historic atmosphere and seafront views.
Does Hotel St John's have a pool?
The hotel has a swimming pool within the property grounds, available to all guests. It is particularly welcome during Havana's hot and humid summer months from May through October when afternoon temperatures regularly exceed 30°C.
Is Vedado a better base than Old Havana?
Vedado and Old Havana serve different travel styles. Vedado offers a more residential, lived-in neighborhood with local restaurants and bars, while Old Havana is closer to the colonial landmarks. Hotel St John's suits travelers who want to explore the full city rather than focusing exclusively on the historic center.
Are there good restaurants near Hotel St John's?
Vedado has some of Havana's most respected paladares. Calle 23 and the side streets around La Rampa host a range of private restaurants serving Cuban cuisine and international dishes at reasonable prices. The hotel concierge can suggest current options.
Accessibility
Hotel St John's has elevator access between floors from the main lobby. The entrance is at street level with minimal steps. Travelers with mobility requirements are advised to request lower floor rooms when booking, as corridor widths and bathroom configurations vary in this older mid-century building. The surrounding Vedado streets are generally well-maintained with standard pavements.