Located in the heart of Havana, the Iberostar Parque Central hotel offers an unparalleled experience for those looking to visit Cuba’s vibrant capital city. From its luxurious accommodations to its central location, this hotel has become a top destination for tourists and locals alike.
As a popular tourist destination, Cuba has seen a rise in the number of hotels and resorts popping up in recent years. However, the Iberostar Parque Central stands out among the rest with its unique blend of modern amenities and traditional Cuban charm. In this article, we will take a closer look at what makes this hotel so special and why it should be at the top of your list when visiting Havana.
The History of Iberostar Parque Central
Before diving into the details of the hotel itself, it is important to understand the history behind this iconic building. The Iberostar Parque Central hotel is situated in two historic buildings that have been carefully restored to preserve their original architecture and charm.
The first building, known as the “Colonial” building, dates back to the 19th century and was originally built as a trading house. It has since been converted into part of the hotel, offering guests a taste of Cuba’s colonial past. The second building, the “Modern” building, was constructed in the early 20th century and served as Havana’s first shopping mall before being transformed into a luxury hotel.
The Rooms
With a total of 278 rooms, the Iberostar Parque Central offers a variety of options for guests to choose from. Each room is elegantly decorated with a mix of modern furnishings and traditional Cuban elements, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Room Types
- Standard Room: These spacious rooms offer all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay, including a king or queen-sized bed, flat-screen TV, and a private balcony with views of the city.
- Junior Suite: For those looking for a little extra space, the junior suites offer a separate living area, as well as a king-sized bed and large marble bathroom.
- Colonial Suite: These suites are located in the historic Colonial building and feature traditional Cuban décor, a separate living area, and a luxurious Jacuzzi tub.
- Presidential Suite: The ultimate in luxury, the Presidential Suite offers a spacious living and dining area, a private terrace, and stunning views of Havana.
No matter which room you choose, you can expect to find modern amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a mini-fridge stocked with complimentary drinks.
Dining Options
The Iberostar Parque Central boasts three restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience. From traditional Cuban dishes to international cuisine, there is something to satisfy every palate.
Habana Elegante Restaurant
Located in the Modern building, this elegant restaurant offers a fusion of Cuban and international flavors. With an à la carte menu and live music, it is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
El Paseo Buffet Restaurant
For a more casual dining experience, head to the El Paseo buffet restaurant. Here, guests can enjoy a variety of local and international dishes while taking in views of the city from the outdoor terrace.
Mirabana Rooftop Restaurant
One of the highlights of the Iberostar Parque Central is its rooftop restaurant, Mirabana. Here, guests can dine on delicious seafood while enjoying panoramic views of Havana’s skyline.
Amenities and Activities
Aside from its prime location and luxurious accommodations, the Iberostar Parque Central also offers an array of amenities and activities to keep guests entertained during their stay.
Hotel Facilities
- Swimming Pool: Take a dip in the hotel’s rooftop pool and enjoy views of Havana’s bustling city streets.
- Spa and Fitness Center: Indulge in a relaxing massage or workout at the fully-equipped fitness center.
- Business Center: For those traveling for work, the hotel offers a business center with meeting rooms and technology services.
- Concierge Services: The concierge is available 24/7 to assist guests with any requests or arrangements they may need.
Activities
- City Tours: The hotel offers guided tours of Havana, allowing guests to explore all the city has to offer.
- Cuban Cooking Classes: Learn how to make traditional Cuban dishes with a hands-on cooking class.
- Live Music: Enjoy live music performances in the hotel’s lobby bar or rooftop restaurant.
Exploring Havana
One of the biggest draws of staying at the Iberostar Parque Central is its central location, making it the perfect base for exploring Havana. From the hotel, guests can easily walk to many of the city’s top attractions, including:
Old Havana
One of the most charming areas of Havana, Old Havana is a must-visit for anyone staying at the Iberostar Parque Central. Here, you can wander the cobblestone streets and admire the stunning colonial architecture, as well as visit museums, art galleries, and historic landmarks.
El Capitolio
Just a few minutes’ walk from the hotel is El Capitolio, a magnificent building that was once the seat of the Cuban government. Visitors can take guided tours and learn about the history and architecture of this iconic landmark.
Plaza de la Revolución
Located just a short taxi ride away from the hotel is Plaza de la Revolución, one of the largest squares in the world. This historic square is home to many important monuments and political buildings, including the famous image of Che Guevara on the side of a government building.
Excursions and Day Trips
For guests looking to venture outside of Havana, the hotel also offers a variety of excursions and day trips to nearby destinations.
Viñales Valley
Nature lovers will enjoy a day trip to Viñales Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning landscapes and tobacco plantations. Here, visitors can take a tour of a tobacco farm, go horseback riding, or simply take in the picturesque scenery.
Varadero Beach
For a day of relaxation and sun, guests can take a trip to Varadero Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Cuba. With its white sand and crystal clear waters, it is the perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun.
Soroa Waterfall and Orchid Garden
Located just a short drive from the hotel is Soroa, a serene oasis with a stunning waterfall and beautiful orchid garden. Visitors can take a dip in the natural pools or simply admire the flora and fauna of this tranquil setting.
Sustainability Efforts
Iberostar Parque Central is committed to promoting sustainable tourism practices in Cuba. The hotel has implemented various initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, such as using renewable energy sources, reducing water consumption, and recycling waste.
Their responsible tourism program, Wave of Change, focuses on three main areas: plastic reduction, seafood sustainability, and coastal health. By implementing these measures, the hotel hopes to protect and preserve the natural beauty of Cuba for future generations to enjoy.
Conclusion
With its rich history, luxurious accommodations, and prime location, the Iberostar Parque Central is the perfect choice for anyone looking to experience the best of Havana. From its elegant restaurants to its wide range of amenities and activities, there is something for everyone at this iconic hotel. So if you’re planning a trip to Cuba’s vibrant capital city, make sure to put the Iberostar Parque Central at the top of your list.
