There's a reason why Cuba is called the Caribbean's hippest and must-visit destination, and why every hotel in the country is unusual.
With its hypnotic music, sumptuous food and world-class beaches, it's a place that offers endless opportunities for entertainment and adventure.
What's more, it offers a plethora of exceptional hotels to ensure you have an unforgettable trip to the Caribbean.
To help you plan your trip, we've rounded up the best hotels on this magical island.
Top 12 best hotels in Cuba
Grand Muthu Rainbow Hotel*****
Ideally located in Playa Playuelas, this LGBTQ-friendly 5-star property offers an unforgettable luxury retreat.
Why do we recommend this hotel?
With a pristine beach and exciting activities, this adults-only resort guarantees couples a sunny and fun-filled weekend in Cuba.
From a bowling alley to trendy nightlife spots nearby, this resort offers guests plenty of entertainment.
What's more, it boasts spacious, comfortable suites with a host of luxury amenities.
And although the resort is relatively new, it is fast becoming one of the best hotels to stay at in Cuba.
Melia Cayo Coco*****
Located on Cayo Coco, this relaxed and serene adults-only property is home to 250 spacious and clean rooms.
Why do we recommend this hotel?
The Melia Cayo Coco has all the ingredients for a romantic getaway in Cuba.
Not only does it exude a serene and romantic atmosphere, but it is also home to some of the most sumptuous hotel suites in Cuba.
And, like most of Cuba's top-rated hotels, this hideaway is brimming with luxury amenities.
It has an attractive swimming pool, beach, games room and several dining options.
The hotel also has bars suitable for hen and stag parties.
Royalton Hicacos Varadero Resort & Spa *****
Varadero, province of Matanzas
Why do we recommend this hotel?
This adults-only, all-inclusive resort is undoubtedly one of the best in Varadero. The emphasis is on personalised service, there are plenty of activities, from yoga to the weekly foam party, and the beach is perhaps the biggest and best in Varadero.
Almost everything is covered in the all-inclusive package, from butler service to premium spirits, access to spa facilities and lobster in the à la carte seafood restaurant.
The classic colonial style found in the 404 rooms is attractive enough, but it doesn't reach the level of luxury found in other five-star resorts advertised in the Caribbean.
And while all rooms have balconies or terraces with views of the pool or trees, none have ocean views (some rooms at Paradisus Princesa do).
Paradisus Princesa Del Mar Resort & Spa *****
Varadero, province of Matanzas
Why do we recommend this hotel?
The Paradisus Princesa del Mar is a rarity in Cuba, a true all-inclusive luxury resort in Varadero, known for its picturesque beaches. The resort is divided between its standard accommodation and its superior Royal Service wing. Its 798 rooms are elegantly and discreetly furnished.
All rooms have balconies or terraces with sea or pool views. Royal Service rooms include additional benefits such as whirlpool baths, butler service and some offer direct access to the pool.
The action here is all about the beach and the resort's three pools, two of which have pool bars. There are also seven restaurants, although some guests find the food disappointing.
Tennis courts, live entertainment and a cigar bar add to the resort's appeal. Note that this is an adults-only property; families can opt for the Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa.
Iberostar Heritage Grand Trinidad *****
Located in the heart of Trinidad, this 5-star hotel exudes historic charm and beauty.
Why do we recommend this hotel?
The Iberostar Heritage is an excellent option for luxury tourists and history lovers looking for great city centre hotels.
Located in an interesting area, this hotel places you in the heart of a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is also surrounded by historical and cultural attractions such as the Casa de la Trova and the Trinidad Museum of Architecture.
Finally, it has all the benefits you would expect from a 5-star establishment, including a bar and high-speed Wi-Fi.
Melia Internacional Varadero All Inclusive*****
Open since 1991, this 490-room hotel caters for a wide range of travellers, from solo travellers to couples and families.
Why do we recommend this hotel?
There's more to this hotel than its fantastic seafront location.
When you stay at this property, you'll have access to a paddling pool, two swimming pools and a ton of sun loungers.
It is also home to 5 restaurants serving a smorgasbord of mouth-watering dishes.
Rooms are also comfortable and spacious, equipped with flat-screen TVs, balconies, complimentary bottled water and minibars.
And, did we mention that this is one of Cuba's best hotels with a view?
Melia Havana *****
Why do we recommend this hotel?
Although the 397-room Meliá Habana doesn't live up to its advertised five-star status, it's still one of the best hotels in Cuba and one of the best in Cuba.
In fact, the luxury hotel, which is not an all-inclusive beachfront hotel like the Paradisus Princesa or the Royalton, has had its fair share of high-profile guests, such as Mick Jagger and Katy Perry.
Its huge outdoor pool is the largest of any hotel in the city, the 24-hour lobby bar is spacious and stylish, and there are several restaurants, from a 24-hour café to a buffet and a formal Asian a la carte menu. The spacious rooms are some of the best in Havana.
All have wicker seating, flat-screen TVs, minibars stocked with soft drinks and beer (upgraded guests are also entitled to bottles of alcohol), safes and coffee makers.
The terrace is the most important amenity, and one that more competitive hotel rooms lack; some rooms have excellent ocean views.
Wi-Fi is available in all rooms (not a given for Havana hotels), but it is expensive (Level guests enjoy free, unlimited Wi-Fi).
Hotel Saratoga*****
Havana
Why do we recommend this hotel?
Most of Havana's luxury hotels proclaim their celebrity status with walls of fame and staff members who are only too happy to regale you with stories of their remarkable past guests.
Not so at Hotel Saratoga, an elegant boutique hotel that prides itself on discretion. There's a wall charting the hotel's history, but there's no hall of fame here, and uninvited guests aren't allowed access to the elegant rooftop pool that offers excellent views of the city.
It all adds up to Hotel Saratoga being a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the street.
This historic hotel is not on the scale of Cuba's Hotel Nacional, which has extensive gardens overlooking the sea in Vedado, but the concessions are significant: guests here enjoy nicer rooms and a location close to Old Havana attractions (the Nacional is not well located in Old Havana).
Guests should expect to pay a premium for this experience, but in return they will enjoy extras unknown in Havana, such as free Wi-Fi. Overall, the Saratoga is the best luxury option in Old Havana and perhaps in all of Havana.
National Hotel of Cuba *****
Havana
Why do we recommend this hotel?
The exclusive 457-room Hotel Nacional de Cuba is generally more affordable than the Saratoga and has larger common areas, but it's not located in Old Havana and its rooms aren't as nice.
However, it is the grande dame of the country, with magnificent communal areas, including the lobby and gardens overlooking the sea, and a truly fascinating history.
The rooms are charming and traditional, if a little old-fashioned in some ways (and sometimes musty), but still among the best in Havana.
Just be aware that Old Havana is not within walking distance and the large communal areas are often crowded with tourists, as you would expect from a hotel that is also a national monument.
Those willing to sacrifice the historic ambience for a modern look should consider the nearby NH Capri Havana.
Ocean Varadero El Patriarca *****
Varadero, province of Matanzas
Why do we recommend this hotel?
The 420-room Ocean Varadero El Patriarca is also ideal for families and grown-ups, but easier to manage as it's walkable everywhere (although trolleys are available for those who want a lift).
And unlike most resorts in Varadero, the rooms at Hotel El Patriarca are a highlight.
They're modern and stylish, with flat-screen TVs, minibars with free drinks, and bathrooms with separate shower and bath, even in the standard category (which isn't the case at Paradisus Varadero).
There are 72 Privilege rooms located around the Privilege pool, close to the beach. These rooms are for adults only and are worth the upgrade, mainly because of the in-room Wi-Fi (extremely rare in Varadero).
But while some rooms at the Paradisus Varadero have ocean views, none at the Ocean Varadero El Patriarca do. Other benefits include a large pool with bar, a beautiful beach, à la carte restaurants that don't require reservations and great music in the evenings in the elegant piano bar.
Iberostar Selection Varadero
Overlooking a beautiful stretch of sand in Varadero, this all-inclusive retreat really is a cool holiday destination for families.
Why do we recommend this hotel?
Families will have the time of their lives at this 5-star beachfront getaway. As well as its exquisite beach, this resort wows guests with its culinary experiences, entertainment and water sports.
Children will love the water park, Star Camp and children's playground.
Adults can enjoy night-time entertainment, 5 bars, 5 restaurants and the Cigar Lounge.
For future brides and grooms, the resort also has spectacular, scenic wedding venues.
Sanctuary at Grand Memories Varadero ****
Set on the sugar-white shores of Varadero Beach, this adults-only hotel offers a host of delightful features.
Why do we recommend this hotel?
Very few 4-star hotels in Cuba are as seductive and luxurious as this adults-only establishment.
Ideal for couples and singles seeking independence, this child-free oasis boasts a beautiful white sandy beach and unrivalled service.
Here you can lounge by the dazzling pools, enjoy exciting water sports and relax in the luxurious spa.
Prices are reasonable and the wallet is well stocked.
While it's not a cheap place to stay, it's cheaper than the popular expensive hotels near you.
Favourite
Our favourite is the est Paradisus Princesa Del Mar Resort & Spa, this hotel is known for its beachfront location in Varadero, this 5 star property exudes romance and sophistication.
Royal Service appeals to couples with its romantic ambience and elegant surroundings. As well as its romantic touches, the resort also boasts a range of exceptional facilities.
FAQ / Hotel Cuba
Which hotel did the Kardashians stay at in Cuba?
The Kardashians stayed at Iberostar Parque Central, Havana, Cuba.
What's the most famous hotel in Havana?
Hotel Nacional de Cuba
Which hotel did Beyonce stay at in Cuba?
The Hotel Saratoga, where Jay Z and Beyonce stayed during their trip to Cuba in 2013, is located opposite El Capitolio, on the edge of Havana's old town, a central location within walking distance of many major tourist sites.
