Your stay — Isa Carmendy
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The Property — Isa Carmendy
Isa Carmendy is a low-key, family-run 3-star hotel in a quiet, tree-lined street in Vedado, Havana's intellectual and artistic hub. The lobby's dark wood paneling, vintage furniture, and Miami Art Deco flair evoke the city's sensual 1950s heyday. This is a place for those who crave a more authentic Cuban experience, away from the tourist throngs. Expect laid-back, old-school hospitality and a spot of history in every corner of the hotel.
Chronicles of Havana
Founded in 1519 by Spanish settlers, Havana grew as a strategic port city, blending African, European, and Caribbean influences. Its colonial past is evident in the Baroque architecture, while the Revolution of 1959 left an indelible mark on its streets and cultural identity. Today, Havana's old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a unique blend of Art Deco, Moorish, and neoclassical styles. The city's current cultural landscape is shaped by its rich history, with a thriving music scene, world-class museums, and a strong sense of community.
Best Time to Visit
Full Havana guide →Best months
The best months to visit Havana are February, March, and April, when the subtropical climate is mild, with average highs of 77°F (25°C), and the crowds are manageable. These months offer perfect weather for strolling through the city's historic streets, visiting the Malecón seafront, and enjoying the city's vibrant cultural scene.
Peak / festival surge
June is the peak month in Havana, with the Havana Carnival and the Havana Jazz Festival drawing huge crowds. Expect higher hotel prices, but also a lively atmosphere, with many events and festivals taking place throughout the city. The hotel prices tend to rise by 20-30% during this time, but it's a great time to experience the city's energy.
Budget shoulder season
The shoulder season for Havana is September to November, when the weather is still warm, and the crowds are smaller. You can expect discounts of up to 20% on hotel prices, making it an ideal time to visit if you're on a budget. The humidity starts to rise in September, but it's a great time to explore the city's many museums and cultural attractions.
Weather & packing
Havana's climate is characterized by a rainy season from May to October, so it's essential to pack an umbrella and waterproof gear. Be sure to bring sunscreen and light, breathable clothing, as the sun can be intense, especially during the dry season from November to April.
Live City Briefing — Havana
- The Cuban government has announced plans to increase the frequency of tourist buses connecting Havana to nearby cities, making it easier to explore the surrounding region.
- The new Malecón 31 nightclub has opened in the Vedado neighborhood, offering live music and cocktails in a stunning Art Deco setting.
- The city is preparing for the annual Havana Film Festival, which will take place in December, attracting film enthusiasts from around the world.
Your Perfect Room
✨ AI-generated · Jul 2026Before you check in to Isa Carmendy, here's what to know about choosing the right room.
Best rooms to request
Request rooms on higher floors (4th floor and above) for a quieter stay. These rooms are less likely to be disturbed by street noise from H. Upmann street.
Rooms to avoid
Be cautious of rooms near the lift (elevador) as it may be noisy, especially if you're a light sleeper. Rooms near the service entrance may also experience occasional noise from staff and deliveries.
Best views
Unfortunately, the hotel's address on H. Upmann does not offer a clear view of the surrounding cityscape. However, rooms on higher floors may have a partial view of the surrounding buildings.
Quietest floors
3rd floor and above are likely to be quieter due to fewer rooms being located on these floors.
🔊 Noise notes
Street noise from H. Upmann can be a concern, especially during peak tourist season. Additionally, the hotel's location is close to the Malecón, which may generate some background noise.
Insider tips
Arrive during the designated check-in time to avoid waiting in line, especially during peak season. Be sure to bring your hotel reservation and a valid government-issued ID. Request a room with a balcony for a slightly better view and a chance to enjoy the Havana air.
- Call the hotel directly 24–48 hours before arrival and ask for a specific room type
- Add a note in your booking comments field
- Ask at check-in — front desk staff can often accommodate if a room is available
Hotel Facilities — Isa Carmendy
free tier with speeds up to 5 Mbps; paid tier available for CUC 5.00 per day with speeds up to 20 Mbps; login via hotel app
serves all floors; historic section on the second floor has stairs-only access
complimentary digital newsstand (PressReader) available on hotel app; physical papers available in lobby, Monday to Saturday
14:00 - 23:00, early bag-drop available from 10:00; late check-out until 15:00, CUC 10.00 fee after
available for guests, CUC 2.00 per bag per day
step-free access, wheelchair entries with ramp at main entrance; no structural limitations
on-site parking available for CUC 10.00 per night; nearest public car park is 5-minute walk away (CUC 5.00 per day); no EV charging available
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: CUC 5.00 per person per night
Deposit & card hold: CUC 50.00 advance deposit + CUC 20.00 incidental card hold at check-in
Faith & Dietary Nearby
- Place of worship: Logia Hijo del Trabajo Nro 1 (724 m · ~9 min walk)
- Church: Iglesia del Carmen (765 m · ~10 min walk)
- Place of worship: Convento de Carmelitas Descalzos (790 m · ~10 min walk)
- Place of worship: Sede Baha’i (838 m · ~10 min walk)
Local Lifestyle & Recreation
Centro Comercial Carlos III — 427 m · ~5 min walk
Quinta de los Molinos — 337 m · ~4 min walk
Museo Municipal de Plaza de la Revolución Máximo Gómez — 540 m · ~7 min walk
Escuela Nacional de Teatro — 414 m · ~5 min walk
Parque infantil Maceo — 1.4 km · ~17 min walk
5-Minute Radius Essentials
Cajero de Infanta y Estrella — 325 m · ~4 min walk
Novaforma — 437 m · ~5 min walk
Manzanares 🍏🍎 — 126 m · ~2 min walk
Karlovys — 423 m · ~5 min walk
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →Cuban Peso, CUC
Change money at banks or Cadeca exchange offices, avoiding airport or tourist bureau rates for better exchange rates.
Credit cards are accepted at most tourist-oriented businesses, but cash is preferred; contactless payments are uncommon.
Tip 5-10% at restaurants, 1-2 CUC for taxi drivers, and 1 CUC per bag for hotel staff.
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →Try a café or bakery on the Malecón, around 1-2 CUC per cup.
Street food vendors or a local eatery near the 9B, H. Upmann, Havana area serve meals for around 3-5 CUC.
A local restaurant near the area offers meals for around 10-15 CUC per main course.
The Malecón and surrounding streets are popular for street food, especially near the 9B, H. Upmann, Havana area.
Local markets like Mercado de San José or markets in the nearby Vedado neighborhood offer affordable groceries.
Local markets or street vendors in the area sell affordable clothing and souvenirs.
The cheapest way to get around is by taxi (3-5 CUC for short trips) or by bus (0.40 CUC per ride); a day pass is not available, but a 10-trip ticket can be purchased for 3 CUC.
Use local buses or walk whenever possible, avoid exchanging money at airports or tourist areas, and take advantage of free Wi-Fi at hotels or parks.
Emergency Contacts
HavanaCall 106 for police, 104 for ambulance, 105 for fire. For tourist assistance, dial 103 (Cuban tourist police). Mobile networks work; local SIMs (ETECSA) are reliable. Save these offline.
💡 Save these numbers in your phone. In life-threatening emergencies, call immediately.
Where to Eat
💡 Booking tip: For popular restaurants in Havana, book at least a week ahead — especially for weekend evenings and during festival season.
Your arrival at Isa Carmendy
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🧭 First things nearby: cash · Cajero de Infanta y Estrella — 325 m · ~4 min walk — pharmacy · Novaforma — 437 m · ~5 min walk
🚐 Pre-book an airport transfer →Getting Around
Central Park bus stop → Alamar (via 5ta Avenida)
💡 Hop on the Malecón route—bus P5 or P7 pass through Old Havana. Payment is by coin or phone card only; exact change essential. Expect the bus to be packed and hot during peak hours.
Terminal 3, José Martí International Airport → Old Havana (Central Park stop)
💡 Cheapest official airport transfer, but only runs from Terminal 3. If you arrive at Terminals 1 or 2, walk 15 minutes or take a 2 CUC taxi to Terminal 3 first. Space is first-come, first-served.
Old Havana taxi rank (e.g., Parque Central) → Vedado or Miramar
💡 Hail private yellow-tagged cars—not official taxis—for the true local fare of 10–20 CUP per person. Tell the driver 'Vedado' or your intersection. These run fixed routes but will drop you close to your destination for a small extra fee.
José Martí International Airport (HAV) → Casa Allegro, Old Havana
💡 Pre-book through your casa host for a reliable 25 CUC fixed rate. Avoid touts in the arrivals hall; look for drivers with yellow licence plates and a taxi cooperative badge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rooms at Isa Carmendy?
Request rooms on higher floors (4th floor and above) for a quieter stay. These rooms are less likely to be disturbed by street noise from H. Upmann street.
Which rooms should I avoid at Isa Carmendy?
Be cautious of rooms near the lift (elevador) as it may be noisy, especially if you're a light sleeper. Rooms near the service entrance may also experience occasional noise from staff and deliveries.
Is Isa Carmendy noisy?
Street noise from H. Upmann can be a concern, especially during peak tourist season. Additionally, the hotel's location is close to the Malecón, which may generate some background noise.
Which rooms have the best views at Isa Carmendy?
Unfortunately, the hotel's address on H. Upmann does not offer a clear view of the surrounding cityscape. However, rooms on higher floors may have a partial view of the surrounding buildings.
What are insider tips for staying at Isa Carmendy?
Arrive during the designated check-in time to avoid waiting in line, especially during peak season. Be sure to bring your hotel reservation and a valid government-issued ID. Request a room with a balcony for a slightly better view and a chance to enjoy the Havana air.
What time is check-in at Isa Carmendy?
Check-in at Isa Carmendy is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does Isa Carmendy have Wi-Fi?
free tier with speeds up to 5 Mbps; paid tier available for CUC 5.00 per day with speeds up to 20 Mbps; login via hotel app
Is there a city or tourist tax at Isa Carmendy?
CUC 5.00 per person per night
Where can I eat cheaply near Isa Carmendy?
Street food vendors or a local eatery near the 9B, H. Upmann, Havana area serve meals for around 3-5 CUC.
What is the cheapest way to get around from Isa Carmendy?
The cheapest way to get around is by taxi (3-5 CUC for short trips) or by bus (0.40 CUC per ride); a day pass is not available, but a 10-trip ticket can be purchased for 3 CUC.
When is the best time to visit Havana?
The best months to visit Havana are February, March, and April, when the subtropical climate is mild, with average highs of 77°F (25°C), and the crowds are manageable. These months offer perfect weather for strolling through the city's historic streets, visiting the Malecón seafront, and enjoying the city's vibrant cultural scene.
Top Attractions in Havana
💡 Go early (8-9am) before tour groups arrive. The adjacent Museo de Arte Colonial costs a couple of CUP but gives rooftop views of the plaza for free once you're inside.
💡 Start at the Hotel Nacional end, walk east towards Havana Vieja during late afternoon when the breeze picks up. Watch for crumbling seawall sections after storms.
💡 Take a bus or taxi from central Havana (about 15 mins). No security or fences around it; it's a regular neighbourhood park. Best visited late afternoon when it's cooler and the sun makes the bronze glow. The nearest cafe sells decent iced coffee.
💡 Skip the overpriced audio guide. Bring small CUP notes for the locked donation boxes in some rooms. The Granma Memorial outside (the yacht used in the 1956 landing) is free to view through the fence; you can see it from outside the museum grounds.
💡 Arrive by 8pm on Thursday or Friday to avoid huge queues. Pay in CUP at the door if you have it; the card machine sometimes fails. Check their Facebook page for schedule changes.