The boutique Hotel Beltran de Santa Cruz – the former mansion of a marquis – would make the perfect setting for a film set in the 18th or 19th century. But rather than black and white or sepia-toned, this movie would be in full Technicolor: the Beltran is one of Old Havana’s most colorful hotels.

Yellow, green and Caribbean blue walls, window shutters and hand-turned wooden balustrades fill this hotel with bursts of color. Natural light, filtered through beautiful dark blue, red and orange ¨vitrales¨ – arched, stained-glass windows – add another layer of color and hue to the intimate interiors here.

With only 11 rooms, this intimacy translates to guest accommodations and service. The Beltran de Santa Cruz also has a meeting room worthy of a former palace.

The open air patio, once the scene of the marquis’ domestic activities (or children’s play area), has been transformed into a welcoming terrace with bar. This is common in many of Havana’s historic hotels and is a good spot to enjoy some liquid refreshment combined with a touch of history.

The Hotel Beltran also has a convenient Old Havana location, set on quiet San Ignacio street. From here it’s just steps to Plaza Vieja, one of Havana's most beautiful squares.

Address: Calle San Ignacio No.411 entre Muralla y Sol. Habana Vieja. Ciudad de la Habana. Cuba

Total Rooms: 11