The Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana is Cuba’s first European five-star luxury hotel. Located within the historic Manzana de Gómez building on the Paseo Marti in the centre of Old Havana, a designated UNESCO world heritage site, the hotel is close to many of Havana’s main tourist attractions, including El Capitolio, the Great Theatre of Havana and Central Park.

This iconic Manzana de Gómez building, with its beautiful corridors fringed by colonnades inspired by the arches of the nearby Palacio del Segundo Cabo, considered a hub of high fashion and culture in its heyday, has been restored to its former glory. Hotel elements are designed to honour the building’s pedigree and showcase its history. Artwork and photographs from contemporary Cuban artists are also an integral part of the hotel’s décor.

There are 246 luxury rooms and suites with high ceilings and French windows opening out onto the old city to create a sense of old-world luxury. Discerning travelers will want to stay in one of the ten stunning Suite Esquinas, spacious and chic corner suites overlooking the old city of Havana. Each comes with a large living area with large French doors, and a separate bedroom and bathroom with a rain shower cabin and Jacuzzi. But for a truly indulgent stay, the extraordinary Suite Presidential Lorca, an opulent suite overlooking the Central Square and Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, is our pick.

The hotel’s three restaurants offer dishes inspired by the Caribbean’s culinary culture, though with a distinctly European twist. There is also a choice of three bars and lounges, including a cigar lounge and Constante Bar, which overlooks the world-famous El Floridita Bar that Ernest Hemmingway was said to frequent.

After a day of exploring this thriving city, perhaps in one of the hotel’s collection of classic American rental cars, guests can relax on the rooftop terrace, with its infinity swimming pool, and enjoy spectacular views over Old Havana. Or head to Spa Albear by Resense to rejuvenate and relax with one of their tailor-made spa experiences.