Your stay — The Balcony
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The Property — The Balcony
The Balcony hotel in Havana offers a charming 3-star experience, with its elegant colonial-style facade and spacious rooms. Standing in the lobby, you'll notice the high ceilings, wooden furnishings and plenty of natural light, which creates a sense of warmth and comfort. This hotel suits travellers who want to experience the authentic Cuban culture and hospitality without breaking the bank. Its central location and friendly staff make it an ideal choice for those who want to explore the city on foot and get a feel for the local way of life.
Chronicles of Havana
Havana was founded in 1519 by the Spanish and has since evolved into a unique blend of colonial, art deco and modern architecture. The city's rich history is reflected in its colourful buildings, lively streets and vibrant cultural scene. Havana has been shaped by its strategic location on the Caribbean Sea, with influences from Africa, Europe and the Americas. Today, the city is a thriving metropolis with a strong sense of identity and a passion for music, dance and art. From the iconic Malecon seaside promenade to the historic Old Havana, the city is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
Best Time to Visit
Full Havana guide →Best months
The best months to visit Havana are December, January and February, when the weather is mild and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 22 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for exploring the city on foot. These months offer a great balance of good weather and manageable crowds, allowing visitors to enjoy the city's attractions without the chaos of peak season.
Peak / festival surge
July is the peak month for tourism in Havana, with the city hosting various festivals and events, including the Havana Carnival, which drives up hotel prices and attracts large crowds. During this time, hotel rates can increase by up to 50%, so it's essential to book in advance to secure a good deal.
Budget shoulder season
The best budget shoulder months to visit Havana are April, May and June, when the weather is still pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the crowds are smaller, resulting in discounts of up to 30% on hotel rates.
Weather & packing
Havana's climate is characterized by a rainy season from May to October, with frequent short showers, so it's essential to pack lightweight waterproof clothing and umbrellas. When packing for your trip, be sure to include breathable clothing, sunscreen and a light jacket for cooler evenings, as well as a waterproof phone case to protect your device from unexpected rain showers.
Live City Briefing — Havana
- The Cuban government has recently introduced a new taxi service, which offers a more efficient and affordable way to get around the city. The famous Tropicana nightclub has reopened after renovations, offering an exciting nightlife experience for visitors. The Havana International Jazz Festival is taking place in December, featuring performances by local and international artists, so be sure to check the schedule and book your tickets in advance.
Your Perfect Room
✨ AI-generated · Jul 2026Before you check in to The Balcony, here's what to know about choosing the right room.
Best rooms to request
Higher floors (4th to 6th) facing the inner courtyard rather than the street. These offer more quiet and less street dust.
Rooms to avoid
Rooms on the 1st and 2nd floors facing the street. Expect heavy traffic noise and exhaust fumes from Havana's classic cars and buses on the main road.
Best views
Street-side rooms on floors 3–6 give a view of Old Havana's rooftops and street life; courtyard rooms give a quieter, greener outlook but limited vista.
Quietest floors
Floors 3–6, especially those with windows or balcony facing away from the street.
🔊 Noise notes
The hotel is in central Havana, likely on a main thoroughfare. Expect traffic, honking, music from nearby bars and street vendors from early morning until late. The lift and service door can be noisy in adjacent rooms.
Insider tips
1) Pack earplugs – the street noise is constant even on higher floors. 2) Ask for a room on the courtyard side at check-in, even if you have to wait a few minutes; it makes a real difference to sleep quality.
- 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 — The Balcony
Free basic Wi-Fi (2 Mbps, one device); paid premium tier (10 Mbps, up to 3 devices) for 5 CUC per 24 hours; login via room number and surname
Single lift serves all 4 floors; no stairs-only sections
No complimentary newspapers; free digital access to Granma via provided tablet in lobby
Check-in from 15:00; early bag drop free; late check-out until 14:00 costs 30 CUC, after 14:00 charged half nightly rate
Free for same-day departure; overnight storage available for 5 CUC per bag
No step-free main entrance (two steps up); lift accessible; no wheelchair-accessible rooms; showers have high step-in
No on-site parking; nearest public car park at Calle 24 y 21, 8 CUC per night; no EV charging
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: 3.50 CUC per person per night, collected at check-in
Deposit & card hold: One night's rate charged as deposit at booking; 50 CUC incidentals hold on credit card at check-in
Faith & Dietary Nearby
- Church: Iglesia del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús (58 m · ~1 min walk)
- Church: Centro San Ignacio de Loyola (118 m · ~1 min walk)
- Church: Iglesia Presbiteriana (372 m · ~5 min walk)
- Place of worship: Logia Hijo del Trabajo Nro 1 (384 m · ~5 min walk)
Local Lifestyle & Recreation
Yumurí — 75 m · ~1 min walk
Parque Carlos Marx — 160 m · ~2 min walk
Museo Masónico — 117 m · ~1 min walk
Teatro Lázaro Peña — 550 m · ~7 min walk
Parque infantil Maceo — 1.4 km · ~18 min walk
5-Minute Radius Essentials
Nearest — 104 m · ~1 min walk
Novaforma — 736 m · ~9 min walk
La Estrella de Estrella — 152 m · ~2 min walk
Karlovys — 1.3 km · ~16 min walk
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →Cuban Peso, CUP
Exchange at official CADECA bureaux for the best rate; avoid the airport and hotel desks which give a poor rate.
Cards are rarely accepted outside major tourist hotels; bring enough cash in euros or pounds to exchange locally.
Tip 10% in restaurants if no service charge added, small change for taxis, and 1–2 CUP per bag for hotel staff.
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →A small espresso at a local cafe is about 10–15 CUP.
A set meal (menu del día) at a simple paladar runs 150–250 CUP.
A main course at a casual local restaurant is around 200–350 CUP.
Look for street stalls around parks and near the capitol for sandwiches, tamales and pizza slices for 20–50 CUP.
Small state-run bodegas and local markets for basics; private agromercados sell fresh produce at negotiable prices.
Market stalls on Calle Obispo and the Almacenes San José artisan market have affordable clothes and souvenirs.
Share a collective taxi (almendrón) along established routes for 20 CUP per ride; from the airport, hop on a shared taxi to town for about 300–500 CUP total.
Eat at paladares off the main tourist streets for better value; buy bottled water from bodegas rather than tourist shops; always confirm prices in CUP before paying.
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 The Balcony
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🧭 First things nearby: cash · Nearest — 104 m · ~1 min walk — pharmacy · Novaforma — 736 m · ~9 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 The Balcony?
Higher floors (4th to 6th) facing the inner courtyard rather than the street. These offer more quiet and less street dust.
Which rooms should I avoid at The Balcony?
Rooms on the 1st and 2nd floors facing the street. Expect heavy traffic noise and exhaust fumes from Havana's classic cars and buses on the main road.
Is The Balcony noisy?
The hotel is in central Havana, likely on a main thoroughfare. Expect traffic, honking, music from nearby bars and street vendors from early morning until late. The lift and service door can be noisy in adjacent rooms.
Which rooms have the best views at The Balcony?
Street-side rooms on floors 3–6 give a view of Old Havana's rooftops and street life; courtyard rooms give a quieter, greener outlook but limited vista.
What are insider tips for staying at The Balcony?
1) Pack earplugs – the street noise is constant even on higher floors. 2) Ask for a room on the courtyard side at check-in, even if you have to wait a few minutes; it makes a real difference to sleep quality.
What time is check-in at The Balcony?
Check-in at The Balcony is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does The Balcony have Wi-Fi?
Free basic Wi-Fi (2 Mbps, one device); paid premium tier (10 Mbps, up to 3 devices) for 5 CUC per 24 hours; login via room number and surname
Is there a city or tourist tax at The Balcony?
3.50 CUC per person per night, collected at check-in
Where can I eat cheaply near The Balcony?
A set meal (menu del día) at a simple paladar runs 150–250 CUP.
What is the cheapest way to get around from The Balcony?
Share a collective taxi (almendrón) along established routes for 20 CUP per ride; from the airport, hop on a shared taxi to town for about 300–500 CUP total.
When is the best time to visit Havana?
The best months to visit Havana are December, January and February, when the weather is mild and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 22 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for exploring the city on foot. These months offer a great balance of good weather and manageable crowds, allowing visitors to enjoy the city's attractions without the chaos of peak season.
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.