The Best Hotels in 5 Cuban Cities

A holiday in Cuba presents a beguiling mixture of colonial cities, Caribbean coastline, unique cultural mix and a vibrant island atmosphere. While the beach resorts on the island (such as Varadero and Guardalavaca) are hugely popular, those who want to get a real taste of Cuban culture would be well advised to spend time in the cities. From the colonial splendour of Trinidad to the old fashioned vibrancy of Havana, the large towns and cities of Cuba are one of the country's best holiday highlights.

When it comes to choosing your accommodation, you'll be spoilt for choice. Converted colonial buildings, boutique hotels and grand resorts are amongst the options for a hotel in Cuba. But if money is no object, then there are a few hotels that really stand out from the crowd...

Havana - Saratoga

Havana is, perhaps unsurprisingly, home to the very best hotels in Cuba. There are plenty to choose from, but the Saratoga is perhaps the pick of the bunch. The hotel of choice for artists and writers since the 1930's, the Saratoga is a stunning colonial hotel in the heart of Havana. Recently refurbished in a neo-classical style, amongst the many highlights of this Cuban hotel are the chic mezzanine bar and a rooftop pool with views out across the port and old town.

Santiago de Cuba - Melia Santiago

There are plenty of hotels in Cuba's second city, but none better than the Melia Santiago. Combining a central city location with resort style facilities, the Melia offers the best of both worlds. Its "unique" architecture isn't to everyone's taste, but the comprehensive facilities, excellent rooms and superb location make it a firm favourite for visitors to Santiago.

Cienfuegos - Jagua

Cienfuegos, known as the "Pearl of the South" is justly named. The towering fort palace, erected to discourage pirates in the 18th, is the must-see sight here, the distinctive French architecture and the splendid bay give it a very different feel to the other cities in Cuba. The best hotel is hard to choose, with La Union (a beautiful colonial hotel at the heart of the city) being a very strong contender, but the Jagua, with its simply stunning views and excellent rooms, is the place to stay in Cienfuegos.

Trinidad - Iberostar Grand Hotel Trinidad

Trinidad is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a spectacularly preserved colonial town that is without a doubt the most beautiful in Cuba. The hotels in Trinidad, naturally, are renowned for their elegant design and traditional architecture, and the best hotel in town is undoubtedly the Iberostar Grand Hotel. This boutique hotel is immaculately designed and laid out, and is the perfect base from which to explore the many sights of Trinidad.

Camaguey - Gran Hotel

The winding streets of Camaguey were designed as a maze to trap pirates and raiders, and getting lost in the streets of this city is one of real pleasures of a holiday here. Located at the very heart of this maze of a city is the Gran Hotel, a delightful colonial-style hotel that is the best in the city and is located close to all the major sights and attractions.