Armadores de Santander Hotel

The hotel’s long, rich history is evident in its stone facade which features a beautiful, understated colonial elegance. The interior of the entire first floor continues the same vintage look with dark wood furnishings, checkered tile flooring, and glass chandeliers. It all exudes class and sophistication without feeling stuffy. The three notable common areas -- a beautiful rooftop terrace, an intimate Cuban restaurant, and a vintage smoking bar -- are small but noteworthy. They collectively offer more than enough space for 32 rooms worth of guests to unwind. The atmosphere is quiet, relaxed, and lounge-like any time of day. In general, the hotel attracts a mixed clientele of couples and business travelers.

The location across from Havana’s winding, waterfront Malecón provides an ideal walking path to connect guests with the heart of Old Havana. However, it can feel farther from the action than many comparably priced and appointed hotels. Plaza de Armas, Castillo de la Real Fuerza, and the Calle Obispo pedestrian mall (the heart of Old Havana’s tourist district) are all a 10-minute walk from the lobby. Taxis are easy enough to hail throughout the city. However, without regulated meters, fares can vary widely, so it’s often best to book ground transportation directly through the hotel. José Martí International Airport (Havana’s main airport) is 35 minutes south by car along a series of reasonably modern streets.

Many of the property’s original design elements remain, including mosaic tile flooring, high ceilings, and stained-glass window inserts. The resulting look and feel is charming and distinctly Cuban. However, some guests may find it a bit dated and some rooms don't have windows. Room categories differ mainly in size, but all offer similar amenities. All feature flat-screen TVs (with Cuban programming), minibars, and air-conditioning. Small wall safes are provided for storing passports, jewelry, and other wallet-sized valuables. As with most Cuban hotels, in-room Wi-Fi is not available. Bathrooms are bright, crisp, and adorned with floor-to-ceiling tile, ornate light fixtures, and pedestal sinks. All feature walk-in shower stalls, wall-mounted hairdryers, and generic bath amenities; some add bidets. Past guests have complained about occasional lack of hot water and problems with the air conditioners. Lower floor rooms are subject to noise from the street and port. 

As a small, modest downtown hotel, the list of amenities is short. The Cantabria restaurant is in a small, intimate dining room with a nautical-inspired decor that’s refined and elegant, but not haughty. All meals are served a la carte. Breakfast is the most Western-friendly, while lunch and dinner offer distinctly Cuban-inspired fare. The food receives mixed reviews. Just off the lobby, The Smoking Room bar includes many original design elements and some reproductions that evoke the feel of an early 20th-century smoking lounge. The atmosphere is relaxed with a whiff of upscale and a wide outdoor terrace hosts bistro sets overlooking the port. A rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of Havana Port, along with a tiny bar and occasional food service.

Wi-Fi is only available in the lobby via prepaid NAUTA internet cards. Limited, free self-parking is provided in a small lot in front of the hotel.