Hotel in Parque Central, Havana, Havana
Hotel Telegrafo
Originally built in 1911, the Telegrafo occupies a prime position on Parque Central. Features 63 rooms with colonial-era architectural details and the Restaurant Telegrafo serving local and international dishes.
Hotel Telegrafo occupies a landmark position on Paseo del Prado at the edge of Parque Central in Centro Habana, one of the most historically significant intersections in the Cuban capital. Parque Central serves as the social heart of Havana, flanked by the Gran Teatro de La Habana Alicia Alonso, the Hotel Inglaterra, the Capitolio Nacional, and the Manzana de Gómez shopping arcade — placing the Telegrafo within easy walking distance of the city's principal cultural monuments. The Malecón seafront promenade lies approximately five minutes on foot to the north, and the cobblestone streets of Old Havana (La Habana Vieja) begin less than 300 metres to the east.
The building dates to the late nineteenth century, though its present neoclassical appearance reflects early twentieth-century renovations that transformed it into one of Havana's first purpose-built hotels. It was among the most fashionable addresses in the city during the early republican era. Following a period of closure during the latter decades of the twentieth century, the property was restored and reopened under the Gran Caribe hotel management group, preserving decorative plasterwork, high ceilings, and wrought-iron details characteristic of the era. The overall atmosphere blends colonial heritage with functional contemporary amenities suited to mid-range international travellers.
The hotel offers 63 rooms across several categories, including standard doubles and superior rooms. Furnishings are modest but well-maintained, and rooms on the upper floors facing Parque Central are among the most sought-after in this price range in Havana, offering views over the royal palms and the ornate roofline of the Gran Teatro. Air conditioning and en suite bathrooms are standard throughout the property.
Restaurant Telegrafo operates on the ground floor, serving Cuban and international dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The kitchen draws on local staples — rice, black beans, roast pork, and fresh fish — prepared in a setting that reflects the building's period character. A lobby bar provides drinks and light refreshments throughout the day. Neither the restaurant nor the bar ranks among Havana's destination dining options, but both offer convenient and reasonably priced meals without the need to venture far.
No pool or fitness centre is available on site. Service is consistent with Gran Caribe's portfolio — professional and reliable, with front-desk staff able to assist with taxi bookings, excursion recommendations, and currency exchange. The hotel accommodates independent travellers, group tours, and business visitors attending events in Centro Habana. Families with children are welcome, though the property has no dedicated children's facilities.
Amenities
- Restaurant
- Bar
- WiFi
Location
Paseo del Prado 408, Parque Central
Highlights
- Parque Central location
- Colonial architecture
- 1911 heritage building
- Restaurant Telegrafo
Tips
- Request an upper-floor room facing Parque Central when booking — views of the Gran Teatro and royal palms are the property's standout feature and are not guaranteed on a standard reservation.
- The Floridita bar, renowned for its daiquiris and Hemingway associations, is a 5-minute walk east along Obispo street — visit early evening to avoid the largest tour groups.
- Currency exchange is available at the front desk, but rates may be slightly less favourable than the official CADECA bureaux de change nearby — compare both before exchanging large amounts.
- Parque Central's nightly 'Hot Corner' (Esquina Caliente) baseball debate gathering directly outside the hotel is a free and authentic local spectacle worth watching.
- Breakfast is included in most published rates; confirm inclusion when booking as package terms can vary, and arriving early at the restaurant avoids peak tour-group crowds.
FAQ
Is Hotel Telegrafo part of a Cuban state hotel chain?
Yes. Hotel Telegrafo is managed by Gran Caribe, a state-run hotel group operating properties across Cuba. Gran Caribe properties are typically booked through international travel agencies or online travel agents, as direct booking infrastructure for foreign visitors remains limited.
How far is Hotel Telegrafo from José Martí International Airport?
José Martí International Airport is approximately 25 kilometres southwest of Parque Central. The taxi journey takes 30–45 minutes depending on traffic and typically costs 25–35 USD. No public bus route directly serves the airport from this area.
Does Hotel Telegrafo have parking?
The hotel does not have its own car park. Street parking and privately operated guarded lots are available within a short walk of Parque Central at a cost of a few USD per hour. Travellers arriving by rental car should confirm arrangements in advance with the front desk.
Are there rooms suitable for families?
The hotel offers standard double and superior rooms; there are no dedicated family suites. Families travelling with children can request interconnecting rooms at the front desk, subject to availability. There is no pool or children's play area on site.
Accessibility
Hotel Telegrafo is housed in a multi-storey heritage building with elevator access to upper floors. Guests with limited mobility should note that the historic structure includes step access at the entrance and some areas that are not fully adapted for wheelchair users. Travellers with specific accessibility requirements are advised to contact the hotel directly before booking.
When to visit
November through April is Havana's dry season and the most popular period for visiting, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. High demand during this window means booking several months in advance is advisable to secure Parque Central-facing rooms.