Where most other hotels of the Habaguanex chain are deeply nestled in the narrow alleys of Old Havana, San Miguel is a wonderful outlier. Freestanding, with a boundless view over the Bay and the El Morro and La Cabaña fortresses, the San Miguel’s 10 rooms offer a home-away-from-home.

The stately, urban architecture of this hotel wouldn’t be out of place in London, Paris, or Madrid, perhaps even Milan. But with iconic views of some of the capital’s most emblematic sites, there’s no mistaking you’re in inimitable Havana.

The former residence of the art-loving publisher of the newspaper ¨La Lucha¨ who settled in Havana at the beginning of the 20th century, the San Miguel retains an air of high culture. Photo reproductions from that era pepper the hotel, heightening the sense of history here.

The wide staircase with wrought iron banisters is a major architectural feature, contributing a grandiose air. Providing even more context is room décor, which relies heavily on the bourgeoisie style favored by the Cuban middle class at the time. As proof, photos of the original owners – the San Miguel y Segalá family – adorn the walls. So powerful is the historical effect, it’s easy to imagine long skirts, lace-up corsets, and ankle boots stuffing the closets, the privileged daughters combing their tresses at the dressing table.

Dirección: Calle Cuba No 2, esquina Pena Pobre. La Habana Vieja. Ciudad de la Habana. Cuba

Total de Habitaciones: 10